Checking Accounts from Morgan Stanley
Private Bank, National Association
Choose the best checking account for you
Whether you want simple, no-fee everyday banking or a high-yield checking account that grows your cash, you can find a solution that helps meet your goals.
Get $300 for a limited time
Open a Checking or Max-Rate Checking Account by December 31, 2025 with qualifying deposits.* Learn how
Terms apply. Use promo code: CHECKING25
Compare our checking accounts
Max-Rate Checking
High-yield checking with even more value
- APY1, 28X the national average2
- No transaction fees
- ATM and foreign transaction fee refunds worldwide3,4
- Maintain an average monthly account balance of $5,000 to waive the $15 monthly account fee.5
Checking
Everyday banking with no monthly fees and no minimums
- 0.05% APY6
- No transaction fees for online wire transfers, stop payments, and more. See rates and fees
- Access cash from ATMs nationwide
- No minimum deposit7
Rated Best Checking Account 2025
For a second year in a row, our Max-Rate Checking Account from Morgan Stanley Private Bank is rated “Best Checking Account” by U.S. News and World Report.8
Benefits offered with every checking account
Safe and secure
Your money is FDIC-insured, up to applicable limits.9
Worry-free banking
Enjoy peace of mind when enrolled in free Coverdraft Protection.
Easy money movement
Enjoy unlimited online wires, money transfers and mobile check deposits.
Integrated account view
View your checking, savings and investing in one place.
24/7 banking access
Manage your money, pay bills and more with our best-in-class mobile app or online.10
Debit card
Add to your mobile wallets and use your debit card wherever Mastercard® is accepted.4 Learn more
Essential tips for smart banking
Three ways to manage your cash more strategically
Learn how to balance your short-term cash needs and long-term financial goals with cash solutions.
What is compounding interest?
Whether you’re saving for the down payment on a vacation home or to pay for your children’s college tuition (one day), compound interest can help your savings move closer toward your goals.
Frequently asked questions about checking accounts
How do I fund an account?
Choose the method that works best for you:
- Transfer money electronically: Use our Transfer Money service to transfer within 3 business days.
- By check: You can easily deposit many types of checks.
- By wire transfer: Wire transfers are fast and secure.
- Transfer an account: Move an account from another firm.
- Direct deposit: Automatically deposit your paycheck and other recurring income to your Morgan Stanley Private Bank checking or savings accounts or your E*TRADE brokerage account.
Go now to fund your account.
What interest rate can I earn with a Checking or Max-Rate Checking account?
As of , the Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of the Max-Rate Checking Account is 1 and 2 APY for Checking.
Please visit etrade.com/ratesheet for information regarding this account's current interest rate and corresponding APY.
Is my Morgan Stanley Private Bank account FDIC-insured?
Yes, all Morgan Stanley Private Bank accounts are insured. See below for details.
| Bank Yields | Premium Savings Account | Certificates of Deposit | Max-Rate Checking | Checking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FDIC Insurance | At least $500,000* |
At least $250,000 | At least $250,000 |
At least $250,000 |
*Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association ("MSPBNA”)’s Premium Savings Account offers an enhanced Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") coverage feature (“Enhanced FDIC Coverage Feature”, or, the “Feature”) which gives MSPBNA the ability to transfer any amount held on deposit in your Premium Savings Account (“PSA Deposits”) to other depository accounts at FDIC member banks (“Program Banks”) with the purpose of providing you additional FDIC insurance coverage. The Feature is designed to offer up to $500,000 in FDIC coverage for individual accounts and up to $1,000,000 for joint accounts. Learn more.
How do I set up direct deposit?
You will need to set up a direct deposit directly with your employer or payment provider (e.g., Social Security Administration, U.S. Department of Treasury). They will need your Checking account number and routing number and may also ask for your account type, which is Checking, and the name of the financial institution.
If your employer will accept a direct deposit form, you can also download one from our website. If you need more information or want to download the direct deposit form, visit www.etrade.com/directdeposit or contact our customer service team at 800-387-233.
How can I deposit a check?
The most convenient way to deposit a check is through the E*TRADE Mobile check deposit feature. Make sure the check is payable to you (in the same name that appears on your account), or to Morgan Stanley Private Bank. Note: The E*TRADE Mobile check deposit maximum is $250,000 per day.
Have additional questions on depositing a check? Learn more.
Get $300 for a limited time
Open a Checking or Max-Rate Checking Account by December 31, 2025 with qualifying deposits.* Learn how
Terms apply. Use promo code: CHECKING25