INDEPENDENT BANKING GUIDE

BMO Bank Accounts:
A Complete Overview

A closer look at BMO checking accounts, savings options, money market accounts and certificates of deposit — including features, fees and important considerations.

United States Banking Guide  •  Updated October 2026  •  6-minute read
Bank Overview

Understanding BMO Banking

BMO is an established financial institution offering personal banking services in the United States. Its deposit account lineup includes everyday checking, traditional savings, money market accounts and CDs.

Everyday Banking

Checking Accounts

Accounts designed for managing purchases, direct deposits, bill payments and other everyday transactions.

Saving Money

Savings Accounts

Deposit accounts intended to help customers build savings and set aside money for future needs.

Interest-Bearing

Money Market Accounts

Savings-oriented accounts with variable interest rates, balance requirements and account-specific conditions.

Fixed-Term Savings

Certificates of Deposit

Accounts that generally provide a fixed interest rate for a selected term, subject to withdrawal conditions.

Account Details

A Closer Look at BMO Accounts

Different account types serve different financial needs. The following overview focuses on publicly described BMO deposit products.

Checking

BMO Smart Advantage Checking

An everyday checking account with no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement under its standard terms.

  • Designed for regular transactions
  • Access to digital banking tools
  • Debit card and ATM services
  • Other account fees may apply
Checking

BMO Relationship Checking

An interest-bearing checking option with relationship benefits and additional account features.

  • Interest on eligible balances
  • Relationship-based benefits
  • $25 monthly maintenance fee
  • Fee may be waived under qualifying conditions
Savings

BMO Savings Builder

A savings account designed to encourage customers to grow their balances over time.

  • No monthly maintenance fee
  • Access to savings funds
  • Eligible balance-growth rewards
  • Interest rates may change
Money Market

BMO Growth Money Market

An interest-bearing deposit account with tiered rates and access to funds, subject to account terms and transaction limits.

  • Variable interest rates
  • $25 minimum opening deposit
  • $10 monthly maintenance fee
  • Fee waiver with qualifying $5,000 balance
  • Potential relationship-based rate benefits
Fixed-Term

BMO Certificates of Deposit

CDs are intended for money that can remain deposited for a specified period.

  • Fixed interest rate during the term
  • Different maturity options
  • No monthly maintenance fee
  • Early withdrawal penalties may apply
Digital Services

BMO Digital Banking

BMO provides online and mobile banking services to help customers manage eligible accounts.

  • View balances and transactions
  • Transfer funds
  • Manage eligible bill payments
  • Access account information remotely
Account Comparison

Comparing Banking Options

Account structure, access to funds and interest-rate conditions can influence which banking product suits a particular goal.

Account Type Primary Purpose Interest Access to Funds
Checking Daily transactions Depends on product Everyday access
Savings Builder Building savings Variable Subject to terms
Growth Money Market Interest-bearing savings Variable, tiered Subject to limits
CD Fixed-term saving Generally fixed Term restrictions

Important: Interest rates, APYs, fees and account requirements may change. Always consult current BMO product disclosures for the most accurate information.

Financial Education

What to Consider Before Choosing an Account

1. Monthly Maintenance Fees

Some deposit accounts charge recurring fees. Fee waivers may depend on maintaining a minimum balance or meeting other account requirements.

2. Annual Percentage Yield

APY represents the annualized return on deposits including the effect of compounding. Variable rates can change after an account is opened.

3. Access to Savings

Checking accounts generally support frequent transactions. Savings and money market accounts may have restrictions, while CDs generally require funds to remain deposited for a term.

4. Deposit Insurance

Eligible BMO Bank N.A. deposits are insured by the FDIC, subject to applicable limits and ownership categories. Deposit insurance does not mean that all financial products are protected.

Balanced Assessment

Potential Advantages and Considerations

Potential Advantages

  • Multiple deposit account categories
  • Online and mobile banking tools
  • Access to physical banking locations
  • Options for different savings goals
  • FDIC insurance for eligible deposits

Points to Consider

  • Some products have monthly fees
  • Rates may vary by product and location
  • Some benefits require qualifying activity
  • Transaction restrictions may apply
  • CD withdrawals may incur penalties
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does BMO offer money market accounts?

Yes. BMO offers a Growth Money Market account with variable interest rates and account-specific balance and fee requirements.

Are BMO savings accounts FDIC-insured?

Eligible deposits at BMO Bank N.A. are covered by FDIC insurance, subject to applicable limits.

Are BMO money market rates fixed?

No. Growth Money Market rates are variable and can change after the account is opened.

What is the difference between a CD and a money market account?

A CD generally locks in an interest rate for a selected term. A money market account typically offers variable interest rates and more flexible access to deposits.

Does every BMO checking account charge a monthly fee?

No. BMO Smart Advantage Checking has no monthly maintenance fee. Other checking products may have fees or waiver requirements.

Research & Sources

Official Product Information

This independent guide uses publicly available product information. Current terms should always be verified with the bank.