What Truist offers and who it works best for

Truist is a regional bank operating primarily in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, formed in 2019 when BB&T and SunTrust merged. Whether it's a good fit depends on what you need from a bank — not whether it's objectively "good." Truist offers standard checking and savings accounts, credit cards, home loans, and investment services. If you live in or near their service area and want a physical branch, it may work. If you need online-only banking with the lowest fees, or you live somewhere Truist doesn't operate, it won't.

The bank has roughly 3,000 branches across 17 states, concentrated in North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, and Maryland. Before deciding, check whether Truist has a branch near your home or workplace — that matters more than the bank's reputation if you ever need to deposit cash or speak to someone in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Truist operates branches mainly in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic; if you don't live in those regions, you won't have convenient access to physical locations.
  • Monthly maintenance fees on checking accounts range from $0 to $15 depending on the account type and whether you meet balance or deposit requirements.
  • ATM access is free at Truist machines and through the Allpoint network, but out-of-network ATM fees apply if you use other banks' ATMs.
  • Truist's savings account rates are typically lower than online-only banks, so if you're saving money, you may earn more elsewhere.
  • The bank's mortgage and investment services are available, but comparing rates and fees with other lenders is necessary before committing.

Checking account fees and requirements

Truist offers several checking account tiers, each with different monthly fees and requirements. The Truist One Checking account charges $15 per month unless you maintain a $1,500 minimum balance or have at least $500 in monthly direct deposits. The Truist One Interest Checking account has the same $15 fee but requires a $2,500 minimum balance instead. If you don't meet these thresholds, the fee applies every month.

The Truist Confidence Checking account has no monthly maintenance fee, making it the lowest-cost option if you may have access to. However, it's designed for customers who meet specific criteria — check with Truist directly about whether you're may be able to access. Some regional banks also offer checking accounts with no fees and no minimum balance, so compare before opening an account.

Savings account rates and features

Truist's savings accounts earn interest, but the rates are typically lower than what online-only banks offer. As of recent years, Truist's regular savings account rates have been well below 1% annual percentage yield (APY), while online banks frequently offer rates above 4% or 5%. If building savings is your priority, the difference compounds over time — a $10,000 balance earning 0.01% at Truist versus 4.5% elsewhere means you'd earn roughly $450 less per year at Truist.

Truist does offer a Money Market account with slightly higher rates, but it typically requires a higher minimum balance and may have withdrawal limits. If you're comparing banks primarily to save money, research current rates at online banks like Marcus, Ally, or American Express before deciding.

ATM access and out-of-network fees

Truist customers can withdraw cash free at any Truist ATM and through the Allpoint network, which includes thousands of ATMs at retailers like CVS, Walgreens, and grocery stores. This is useful if you need cash regularly and live in a Truist service area. However, if you use an ATM that's not Truist or Allpoint, you'll pay an out-of-network fee — typically $2 to $3 per transaction, depending on the ATM operator's fee.

Some online banks reimburse out-of-network ATM fees entirely, which can save money if you travel frequently or live in an area without Allpoint coverage. If ATM access is important to you, confirm that Allpoint machines are available where you live and work before opening an account.

Online and mobile banking tools

Truist's mobile app and online banking platform offer standard features: bill pay, money transfers, account monitoring, and mobile check deposit. The app is functional and regularly updated, but it doesn't stand out from competitors. If you do most of your banking on your phone or computer, the experience will be adequate but not exceptional.

Customer service is available through phone, email, and in-branch visits. Response times vary, and some customers report longer wait times during busy periods. If you prefer chat support or 24/7 phone service, some online banks offer faster response times.

Mortgage and lending options

Truist offers mortgages, home equity lines of credit, and personal loans. Like any bank, their rates and terms depend on your credit score, income, and the current market. Before choosing Truist for a mortgage, get quotes from at least two other lenders — rates and fees vary significantly, and shopping around can save thousands over the life of a loan. Truist's rates are competitive in some markets and less so in others; there's no way to know without comparing.

The advantage of banking and borrowing at the same institution is convenience — one login, one relationship manager. The disadvantage is that you may not get the best rate. Weigh convenience against cost based on your situation.

How Truist compares to other banks

Truist is a mid-sized regional bank, so it sits between large national banks (like Chase or Bank of America) and online-only banks (like Ally or Charles Schwab). Large national banks have more branches but often charge higher fees. Online banks have lower fees and higher savings rates but no physical locations. Truist offers a middle ground: more branches than online banks, but fewer than national chains, and moderate fees.

If you value branch access in the Southeast, Truist is worth considering. If you want the lowest fees and highest savings rates, an online bank may serve you better. If you need a national bank with branches everywhere, a larger chain makes more sense. The "best" bank depends on your priorities, not on Truist's overall reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Truist have branches near me?

Truist operates primarily in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and surrounding states. Check Truist's branch locator on their website to see if there's a location near your home or workplace. If not, an online bank or a national chain with broader coverage may be more convenient.

What's the minimum balance to avoid monthly fees?

For Truist One Checking, you need a $1,500 minimum balance or $500 in monthly direct deposits to waive the $15 monthly fee. The Interest Checking account requires $2,500. The Confidence Checking account has no fee, but may be able to access varies. Contact Truist to confirm current requirements and whether you may have access to for fee-free accounts.

Can I earn a higher interest rate on savings at Truist?

Truist's savings rates are typically lower than online banks. If earning interest on savings is important, compare Truist's current rates with online options like Marcus, Ally, or American Express. The difference can add up significantly over time, especially on larger balances.

What happens if I use an ATM that's not Truist?

You'll pay an out-of-network fee, usually $2 to $3 per transaction. Truist ATMs and Allpoint machines are free. If you frequently need cash outside Truist's network, factor these fees into your decision or consider a bank that reimburses out-of-network charges.

Is Truist good for getting a mortgage?

Truist offers mortgages, but rates and terms vary by market and your credit profile. Always get quotes from at least two other lenders before deciding. Truist's rate may be competitive, or you may find better terms elsewhere. Shopping around takes time but can save thousands over the loan's life.