If a bank has multiple types of checking or savings accounts, different ones will probably come with different fees. Often, a more robust account charges a higher fee. A basic checking account may charge $5 per month, while a rewards checking account may charge $12 per month, for instance. How to avoid a monthly maintenance fee Most banks make it possible to waive monthly maintenance fees. In many cases, you'll need to maintain a certain balance. You could waive the fee if you keep a minimum daily balance or an average daily balance over the course of the month. Some checking accounts