Big changes are on the horizon for Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account holders. Get ready for a new monthly fee, but don't worry, there are ways to avoid it! This is your guide to understanding the upcoming changes and making sure you're prepared.

Starting November 29, 2025, Wells Fargo will implement a $15 monthly service fee for its Everyday Checking accounts. This represents a $5 increase from the current $10 fee. While this may seem like an unwelcome change, the bank is also introducing new and modified ways for customers to waive the fee, giving you more control over your banking costs.

The good news is that these new waiver options will be available starting October 25, 2025, giving you a month to prepare and adjust your banking habits. Wells Fargo emphasizes that these changes are designed to provide greater flexibility and choice for its customers.

Currently, there are four ways to avoid the $10 monthly fee associated with the Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account. Let's take a look at the existing options and how they're evolving.

The first method involves making $500 or more in total qualifying electronic deposits each month. This could include direct deposits from your employer, government benefits, or other electronic transfers.

Another option is to maintain a $500 minimum daily balance consistently throughout the month. This ensures you always have a buffer in your account.

Wells Fargo also waives the fee for primary account holders between the ages of 17 and 24. This is an automatic benefit for young adults managing their finances.

Finally, account holders with a non-civilian military direct deposit through the Wells Fargo Worldwide Military Banking program are also exempt from the monthly fee. This is a thank you to those serving our country.

So, what's changing with the new $15 fee? Let's break down the five ways you can waive it, starting on or after November 29, 2025.

The first option remains the same: make $500 or more in total qualifying electronic deposits each month. If you're already doing this, you're all set!

The age-based waiver for primary account holders between 17 and 24 years of age also continues to apply. Young adults can continue to enjoy this benefit.

Similarly, the non-civilian military direct deposit waiver as part of the Wells Fargo Worldwide Military Banking Program remains in place, honoring the bank's commitment to military personnel.

Now, here's where things change. The minimum daily balance requirement is increasing significantly. To waive the $15 fee, you'll need to maintain a $1,500 minimum daily balance, up from the previous $500.

Wells Fargo is also introducing a new option: you can waive the $15 fee by maintaining $5,000 or more in qualifying deposit balances, investment balances, or a combination of both.

According to Wells Fargo, to qualify for the $5,000 balance waiver, "on the last day of each fee period, balances in eligible accounts" must total that amount or more. This means your combined balances across eligible accounts will be assessed at the end of each statement cycle.

For the $1,500 daily balance option, remember that you must have at least that amount in your Everyday Checking account every day of the fee period. Consistency is key!

If you're unsure about your fee period details, you can find them in the Monthly Service Fee Summary section of your account statement. This section will provide clarity on the specific dates used to calculate your fees.

In addition to these changes, Wells Fargo is also offering opportunities to earn bonuses through new credit card sign-ups. For example, new cardholders can often earn a significant bonus by meeting a specific spending requirement within a certain timeframe. This can be a great way to earn rewards while managing your finances.

Currently, Wells Fargo is offering a promotion on their Wells Fargo Active Cash Card, where new cardholders can earn a $200 cash back bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first 3 months.

Compared to other credit card sign-up offers, this spending threshold is quite achievable. Many competitor cards require spending $3,000 or more to earn a bonus, making the Wells Fargo offer more accessible.

One smart strategy for earning this bonus is to use the card for a planned purchase of $500 or more that you've already budgeted for. Simply use the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card for the purchase, then immediately pay off the balance with the funds you've already saved.

By using this approach, you can earn the $200 bonus without accumulating debt or spending beyond your means. It's a financially responsible way to take advantage of a valuable offer.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card also offers 2% cash rewards on purchases, making it a good choice for everyday spending. It's worth exploring if you're looking for a rewarding credit card.