What’s new for drivers and dispatchers

Premier America Credit Union is promoting three consumer checking options under a “JOIN2026” push that could help owner-operators and small fleets trim banking costs. Highlights include: a $200 new-account bonus for Premier Plus Checking; a $100 bonus for Smart Spending Checking; “Every ATM Is Free Everywhere” via nightly reimbursements for domestic ATM fees up to $20 per month; early direct deposit availability; and no monthly maintenance fees on all tiers. Premier Plus also advertises up to 3.50% APY on balances to $30,000 when monthly activity requirements are met. Smart Spending includes overdraft protection up to $100. Bonuses require an ACH direct deposit of at least $250, eStatements, and 10 debit/credit card point-of-sale transactions within 60 days. Offers are subject to change and are taxable; members receive a 1099.

Why it matters on the road

Cash access is still a reality at truck stops, repair shops, and small vendors. Out-of-network ATM withdrawals now cost Americans an average of $4.86 per transaction (ATM owner surcharge plus your bank’s fee), a record high. If you’re routinely grabbing cash between loads, a plan that reimburses fees—up to a cap—can put real dollars back in your pocket. At Premier America’s $20 monthly reimbursement limit, that’s roughly four to five typical out-of-network withdrawals offset each month, depending on local fees.

Convenience is also expanding where drivers fuel and park. Velera—the credit union service organization behind the Co-op ATM Network—began adding more than 2,500 surcharge-free ATMs at Speedway stores nationwide in December 2025, bringing the network above 37,000 machines. That footprint, layered over existing locations at 7‑Eleven and other retailers, makes it easier for credit union members to find fee-free access along major corridors.

Account choices at a glance

Premier Plus Checking: Targeted to members with direct deposit and higher balances. Up to 3.50% APY on the first $30,000 if you complete 15 card transactions per month and opt into eStatements; otherwise 0.10% APY. $200 bonus with required activities; ATM fee rebates up to $20/month.
Primary Checking: Simple everyday account with no monthly or minimum-balance fees and 24/7 access.
Smart Spending Checking: Digital-first checking with no monthly fee, overdraft protection up to $100, and a $100 bonus for meeting activity requirements.

Fine print that matters for trucking businesses

ATM reimbursements: Premier America won’t charge you for using non-network ATMs and will reimburse domestic ATM fees from the owner/operator up to $20 per month; credits post nightly when fees hit. Reimbursements apply to consumer checking only. Heavy ATM users can still exceed the cap.
Early direct deposit: Availability depends on when your payer submits files; funds can arrive up to two days early but timing isn’t guaranteed—important if you rely on settlement cycles.
Bonus eligibility and taxes: Existing or recently closed memberships may be ineligible. Bonuses are subject to IRS reporting; expect a 1099 and plan for taxes.
APY conditions: The 3.50% APY is variable and subject to change. Activity requirements (15 card transactions plus eStatements) apply to earn the top rate on up to $30,000; balances above that earn 0.10% APY. Fees can reduce earnings.

Practical takeaways for owner-operators and fleet managers

Map fuel and rest stops against surcharge-free ATMs. The expanding Co-op footprint at Speedway and other retailers can reduce or eliminate cash-access costs on long hauls.
Set up direct deposit and automate eStatements as part of onboarding so you don’t miss out on new-account bonuses or premium APY.
Coach drivers who receive per diem or cash advances to keep ATM usage within the $20 monthly reimbursement cap—and to favor in-network machines when possible. With average fees near $4.86, a few missteps can add up quickly.
If you consistently hold operating cash, consider the Premier Plus tier for its higher yield on the first $30,000—just ensure you can meet the monthly transaction threshold.
Remember these are consumer accounts; confirm whether business-use needs (e.g., multi-user access, ACH origination) are better served by a dedicated business checking solution.

Bottom line

Between cash bonuses, capped ATM fee reimbursements, and a competitive top-tier APY, Premier America’s checking lineup can help drivers and small fleets squeeze more value from day-to-day banking. Just mind the activity requirements, the $20 monthly ATM reimbursement ceiling, and tax reporting on incentives—and use the growing surcharge-free ATM network to keep more of each mile’s earnings.

Sources Consulted: Premier America Credit Union; Bankrate; ATM Industry Association/Velera press materials.

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This article was prepared exclusively for truckstopinsider.com. For professional tax advice, consult a qualified professional.