Your Webster First accounts just got better: Meet First Rate Checking
Published October 1, 2025 by Angela Talbot | Reading Time: 4 minutes
-
Categories:
- Webster First
Great news for Webster First members! We’re making some exciting changes to your accounts that will put more money back in your pocket. Your trusted First Advantage Checking is transforming into our new and improved First Rate Checking. Plus, we’re upgrading our Primary Share Savings to the enhanced First Rate Savings.
These improvements reflect our ongoing commitment to providing you with the best possible banking experience. After 95+ years of serving our community, we continue to find new ways to help your money work harder for you.
What’s changing and why
First Rate Checking
Starting soon, your First Advantage Checking account will automatically transition to our new First Rate Checking51. This update is designed to be simple for you—there’s no paperwork required or extra steps to take. We’re taking care of everything behind the scenes for a smooth switch.
First Rate Savings
Our Primary Share Savings accounts will also become First Rate Savings accounts. This upgrade gives you a better opportunity to earn more on your entire savings balance, while you continue to enjoy the benefits you’ve come to expect from Webster First.
Teen Checking
We’re also making changes to better serve our younger members. Jump Start Checking is evolving into Teen Checking, expanding access to young teens and pre-teens ages 10–17 (previously 15–22). When a Teen Checking account holder turns 18, their account will automatically convert to First Rate Checking, helping them transition seamlessly to our new adult checking option. Additionally, any current Jump Start Checking accounts held by members 18 or older will transition to First Rate Checking as part of these improvements.
First Rate Checking: Your money works harder
The biggest change you’ll notice is the earning power of your new First Rate Checking account. Here’s what makes it special:
Competitive APY2 on your first $1,0007,21
With First Rate Checking, you’ll earn a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) on the first $1,000 in your account51. This benefit is available when you’re signed up for both eStatements and Direct Deposit – two services that many of our members already use.
This means your checking account balance isn’t just sitting there. Your first $1,000 are actively earning money for you, whether you’re saving for a weekend getaway, building an emergency fund, or just want your daily spending money to grow.
All your favorite benefits stay
If you’re already enjoying Direct Deposit, you’ll continue to get paid up to 2 days early. This popular feature helps you access your paycheck before payday, giving you more flexibility with your finances.
Every other benefit you’ve come to rely on with First Advantage Checking remains unchanged. You’ll still have access to:
- Zero monthly maintenance fees
- 30,000+ surcharge-free ATMs nationwide through our CO-OP Network
- Mobile wallet compatibility for tap-and-go payments
- Mastercard Click to Pay for faster online checkout
- Total card control through Card Management in our mobile app
- Debit card cash back rewards, earning you money back when you activate in online banking
First Rate Savings
Your Primary Share Savings is also getting an upgrade. It will now be called First Rate Savings. While the name is changing, your account will continue to work the same way, providing a simple and reliable way to save for your future. And every penny in your account is insured with NCUA and MSIC insurance. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to enhance your savings experience.
Perfect for all your savings goals
First Rate Savings works well for various purposes:
- Emergency funds that need to stay accessible
- Vacation savings that should grow while you plan
- Down payment funds for future home purchases
- General savings that deserve better returns
Why these changes make sense
In today’s economic environment, every dollar counts. Inflation has impacted the cost of rent, groceries, and other daily necessities, making it more important than ever to maximize your earning potential.
These account upgrades reflect our understanding of what our members need: checking accounts that reward everyday banking and savings accounts that offer real growth potential. We’ve listened to feedback from our community and designed these products accordingly.
Making the transition smooth
The transition to First Rate Checking and First Rate Savings will happen automatically. You don’t need to fill out new applications, visit a branch, or change your banking habits.
For Direct Deposit users
If you already have Direct Deposit set up, you’re halfway to earning the competitive APY2 on your First Rate Checking. You’ll just need to sign up for eStatements if you haven’t already. This simple step eliminates paper statements while helping you earn more on your checking balance.
For eStatement users
Members already receiving eStatements need only to set up Direct Deposit to unlock the full earning potential of First Rate Checking. Our member service team can help you get Direct Deposit established with your employer.
For everyone else
Don’t worry if you’re not currently using Direct Deposit or eStatements. You can sign up for both services easily through online banking, our mobile app, or by calling our member service center. Our team is ready to help you take full advantage of these new account benefits.
Getting started with your new accounts
Once your accounts transition to First Rate Checking and First Rate Savings, you’ll immediately start benefiting from the improved features. There’s nothing you need to do except continue banking as usual.
Your account numbers, debit cards, and online banking access remain the same. Direct deposits, automatic payments, and other services continue without interruption.
Looking ahead
The launch of First Rate Checking and First Rate Savings reflects our commitment to delivering modern banking solutions that truly benefit our members. We’re always exploring ways to enhance your banking experience while preserving the personal service and community focus that make Webster First unique.
These accounts are designed to help you make the most of your money while keeping banking simple and convenient. Whether you’re just beginning your financial journey or have spent decades building wealth, First Rate Checking and First Rate Savings offer real advantages you can rely on.
But that’s just the beginning. We’re excited to share that even more enhancements are coming to these accounts in the future, ensuring they continue to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Your money deserves to work as hard as you do. With First Rate Checking and First Rate Savings, it will—and there’s more to come!