Empower Checking

Bank On is a national certification program that ensures checking accounts meet safety and affordability standards set by the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund and verified by nonprofit financial counselors. Accounts must have no overdraft fees, reasonable monthly fees, robust transaction capability, and access to funds without punitive charges. This certification protects you from predatory second-chance accounts that trap customers with excessive fees. PSBT's Empower Checking meets all Bank On standards.

PSBT evaluates Empower Checking applications individually rather than automatically denying based on ChexSystems reports. Past checking account problems, closed accounts, or unpaid fees at other banks don't automatically disqualify you. We understand that financial setbacks happen and that past challenges don't define your future banking success.

No. Empower Checking has zero overdraft fees. Transactions that would overdraw your account (debit card purchases, ATM withdrawals, electronic payments) are simply declined at no cost to you. This prevents the overdraft fee cycle that keeps many people in financial difficulty.

Empower Checking does not include check writing privileges. This helps prevent overdraft situations and keeps account management simple during your financial recovery period. After 12 months of responsible account management, you can upgrade to a standard PSBT checking account with check writing.

After 12 months of responsible account management in good standing (no negative balance issues, regular activity, maintaining positive account status), you can qualify to upgrade to standard PSBT checking. This gives you check writing privileges, additional features, and access to all PSBT checking products. Visit any branch or get in touch to discuss your upgrade eligibility.

You have access to 55,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide through the Allpoint network. Find fee-free ATMs at major retailers, pharmacies, and convenience stores across Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and nationwide.

No. Empower Checking has $0 monthly service charges. Bank On certification requires that accounts either have no monthly fee or an easily waivable fee. PSBT chose to eliminate the monthly charge entirely so you can focus on rebuilding without worrying about fees.

Empower Checking accounts are opened at our branches or by getting in touch online. A banker will review your application, answer questions, and help you get started with just a $25 opening deposit.

Yes. Peoples Security Bank & Trust is a Member FDIC institution. Your deposits are insured up to applicable FDIC limits, currently $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each account ownership category. Bank On certified accounts meet the same safety standards as traditional checking accounts.

PSBT bankers can provide guidance on budgeting, money management, and preparing for financial success. Visit any of our 40 branches to discuss your goals and get personalized support. We want to see you succeed and are here to help you build the skills for long-term financial stability.