In addition to looking at debit card rewards programs, I wanted to give people an idea of what types of high-end checking accounts are out there. In analyzing checking options, I have noticed that “free” checking accounts (meaning no monthly fee) are often a dime-a-dozen; if you want some really special attention from your bank, you need to upgrade to a better checking account. (And if you really want special attention, earn millions of dollars and join your financial institution’s private banking club. Hey, I’m just saying.)

Northeastern-based Sovereign Bank’s Premiere Checking has a bunch of features that might make you feel special. Premiere Checking includes free online banking and bill paying, a 50% discount on a safety deposit box, and a debit card with no annual fee. Sovereign, which has branches stretching from Maryland up to Maine, includes four benefits that stand out:

• Monthly fee waiver
• Special rate on certain CDs
• No fee ATMs
• 1/2% loan discounts

The monthly fee waiver kicks in when you have more than $15,000 combined in checking and deposit accounts, but Sovereign includes investments accounts toward you total, too. (Total monthly balance below $15,000 earns a $30 fee). It is always great to get a bit better rate on a CD, especially with rates so low right now. Premiere Checking also waives fees at any ATM in the U.S., which is very generous when compared with many banks. Finally, Sovereign is the first bank that I’ve seen that gives more than the standard 1/4% discount on a loan, which is a great money-saver.

I’ll review Sovereign’s debit card rewards in a future article. Suffice it to say that Sovereign Premiere Checking would be a solid option if you want to take advantage of extra services.