Truist Bank: Your Guide to Smart Banking, Loans, and Credit Card Perks

If you’re on the hunt for a bank that blends traditional in-person service with modern digital tools, Truist Bank might just catch your eye. Born from the 2019 merger of BB&T and SunTrust, Truist has grown into one of the largest banks in the U.S., with over 1,900 branches and 2,900 ATMs across 17 states and Washington, D.C. But what really sets Truist apart in 2025? Is it the no-overdraft-fee checking accounts, the diverse loan options, or the credit cards with loyalty bonuses? I’ve dug into the details to bring you a fresh look at Truist’s offerings, from its unique features to its lending options and top credit cards. Whether you’re looking to save, borrow, or earn rewards, let’s explore how Truist can fit into your financial life.

Truist isn’t just another big bank—it’s a financial partner that aims to balance accessibility with innovation. With a focus on customer-friendly features like no overdraft fees on certain accounts and a robust mobile app, it’s a solid choice for those who value both in-person support and digital convenience. Plus, their loan and credit card options cater to a wide range of needs, from first-time homebuyers to small business owners. In this post, we’ll break down Truist’s standout features, dive into their loan offerings, highlight their top credit cards, and share tips to make the most of what they offer. Ready to see if Truist is the right bank for you? Let’s get started!

What Makes Truist Bank Stand Out in 2025?

A Blend of Traditional and Modern Banking

Truist Bank has carved out a unique space by combining the best of both worlds: the personal touch of traditional banking and the convenience of modern digital tools. With over 1,900 branches in the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest, Truist is a go-to for those who prefer face-to-face interactions—think sorting out a mortgage or getting advice on a small business loan. But they’re not stuck in the past. Their mobile app, Truist Mobile, is highly rated on both the App Store and Google Play, offering features like free credit score monitoring, budgeting tools, and seamless account management. You can even send money via Zelle, making it easy to split bills or pay a friend back for coffee.

What really makes Truist shine is its customer-first approach. For example, their Truist One Checking account comes with no overdraft fees—a rarity among big banks—and a $100 negative balance buffer for eligible clients, giving you a little wiggle room if you overspend. Plus, they offer a tiered system for checking accounts: as your balance grows (think $10,000, $25,000, $50,000, or $100,000), you unlock perks like ATM fee waivers and boosted credit card rewards. It’s a thoughtful way to reward loyal customers while keeping banking accessible for everyone.

Unique Features That Set Truist Apart

Truist isn’t just about the basics—they’ve got some standout features that make them a compelling choice in 2025. Let’s take a closer look at what makes them different from the pack:

• No Overdraft Fees on Checking: Truist One Checking eliminates overdraft fees, a huge win for anyone who’s ever been hit with a surprise charge. Plus, the $100 negative balance buffer gives you a safety net if you accidentally dip below zero.
• Loyalty Bonuses for Credit Card Rewards: If you have a Truist checking, savings, or money market account, you can earn up to a 50% bonus on your credit card rewards when you redeem them into an eligible Truist account. For example, a $100,000 balance gets you the full 50% boost, while $25,000-$99,999 earns a 25% bonus.
• Extensive Branch Network: With over 1,900 branches and 2,900 ATMs, Truist is a great pick if you live in their footprint (17 states plus D.C.) and value in-person service for things like loan applications or complex transactions.
• Community-Focused Lending: Truist’s Community Homeownership Incentive Program (CHIP) offers 0% down mortgages with no private mortgage insurance for qualifying low-to-middle-income buyers in eligible areas—a game-changer for first-time homebuyers.

These features show Truist’s commitment to balancing accessibility, rewards, and community support. But like any bank, they’re not perfect—savings account yields are low compared to online banks, and their geographic reach is limited. Still, if you’re in their service area and value a full-service banking experience, Truist has a lot to offer.

Truist Bank Loans: Options for Every Need

A Wide Range of Lending Solutions

Truist Bank is a powerhouse when it comes to loans, offering options for personal, business, and home financing needs. Whether you’re looking to consolidate debt, buy a car, or fund a small business, Truist has a loan product that might fit the bill. Their lending options are designed to be flexible, with competitive rates and terms that cater to a variety of financial situations. Plus, they offer fast funding—sometimes even same-day—for certain loans, which can be a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch.

One of Truist’s strengths is their focus on accessibility. They don’t always disclose minimum credit score requirements online, but they accept borrowers with good to excellent credit (typically 690 or higher) for most loans. For mortgages, they’ll even consider non-traditional credit—like rent payment history—for those without a credit score. Let’s break down their main loan offerings to see what might work for you.

Personal Loans: Flexible and Unsecured

Truist’s personal loans are a great option if you need a lump sum for things like debt consolidation, home improvements, or a big purchase. Here’s what you need to know:

• Loan Amounts and Terms: You can borrow between $3,500 and $50,000, with fixed terms up to 84 months. For example, a $20,000 loan at 11.49% APR over 84 months would have a monthly payment of $347.62.
• Interest Rates: Rates range from 8.45% to 17.29% APR, depending on your credit history and loan term. There’s no origination fee, which keeps costs down.
• Features: These are unsecured loans, meaning no collateral is required. You can choose your payment date and even change it later if needed. For debt consolidation, Truist can send funds directly to your creditors, simplifying the process.
• Application Process: Apply online or by phone at 844-4TRUIST. You’ll need personal info, two years of address and employment history, and financial details like income and debts. Funding can happen as soon as the same day if you apply on a business day.

Truist also offers smaller, short-term options like the Ready Now credit line ($300 to $7,500), which acts as overdraft protection or a quick cash source for unexpected expenses. It’s a handy safety net for those with a Truist checking account.

Mortgages and Home Equity: Affordable Options for Homebuyers

Truist is a standout for home financing, especially for first-time and low-income buyers. They offer a wide range of mortgage products, including:

• Types of Mortgages: Conforming, jumbo (up to $3 million), FHA, VA, USDA, doctor mortgages, and construction-to-permanent loans. They also offer home equity lines of credit (HELOCs).
• Community Homeownership Incentive Program (CHIP): In eligible areas, this program allows 0% down payments with no private mortgage insurance for qualifying buyers—a huge perk for those with limited savings.
• Low Down Payment Options: FHA loans require just 3.5% down, while VA and USDA loans can go as low as 0% for eligible borrowers (veterans, military members, or those in rural areas).
• Rates and Fees: Truist’s mortgage rates tend to be slightly higher than average, but their fees are on the low end, making them affordable overall. They require a minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans but may accept non-traditional credit for some programs.

Truist’s focus on first-time buyers and community lending makes them a strong choice for home financing, though their customer service has received mixed reviews in studies like J.D. Power’s 2024 Mortgage Origination Satisfaction Study.

Auto, Boat, and RV Loans: Financing Your Next Ride

Truist also offers vehicle loans for cars, boats, RVs, and marine vehicles, with competitive rates and flexible terms:

• Loan Rates: Rates range from 8.36% to 10.99% APR, depending on the vehicle type and your credit.
• Terms: Terms vary, but equipment and vehicle loans can go up to 6 years, with loan amounts up to $250,000 for secured loans.
• Features: Same-day funding is available for some auto loans, so you can drive off the lot quickly. There’s no mention of prepayment penalties, so you can pay off early to save on interest.

These loans are ideal if you’re looking to finance a big purchase without dipping into savings, and Truist’s branch network makes it easy to get in-person support during the process.

Small Business Loans: Support for Entrepreneurs

Truist is a top pick for small business owners, especially those seeking SBA loans. They’re an SBA-preferred lender, meaning they have years of experience guiding businesses through the process. Here’s what they offer:

• SBA Loans: Truist specializes in SBA 7(a) and 504 loans, which offer lower rates and flexible terms for things like real estate purchases or business expansion.
• Term Loans: Unsecured term loans go up to $100,000, while secured loans can reach $250,000, with terms up to 5 years (or longer with a balloon payment option).
• Lines of Credit: Business lines of credit start at $5,000, giving you flexible access to funds as needed.
• Discounts: If you have a Truist Dynamic Business Checking account, you can save up to 0.5% on your loan interest rate—a nice perk for loyal customers.

Truist’s focus on in-person support (with nearly 1,900 branches) makes them a great choice for small business owners who want hands-on guidance, though funding times can take several weeks due to their traditional banking model.

Truist Credit Cards: Top Picks and Benefits

A Card for Every Goal

Truist offers a variety of credit cards in 2025, catering to different needs—whether you’re after cash back, travel rewards, or a low APR. All Truist cards are issued by Visa, ensuring near-universal acceptance globally, and none charge foreign transaction fees, making them great for international use. Plus, their loyalty bonus program can boost your rewards by up to 50% if you have an eligible Truist account. Let’s explore their top cards and what they bring to the table.

Truist Enjoy Cash Credit Card: Best for Cash Back

The Truist Enjoy Cash Credit Card is a solid pick if you’re looking to earn cash back on everyday spending:

• Rewards: Choose between two structures: 1.5% cash back on all purchases, or 3% on gas and EV charging, 2% on utilities and groceries (up to a $1,000 monthly cap), and 1% on everything else.
• Loyalty Bonus: Earn a 10%-50% bonus on your cash back when redeemed into a Truist account, based on your balance (e.g., 50% bonus for $100,000+).
• Annual Fee: $0, keeping costs low.
• Other Perks: Customizable card controls, contactless payments, mobile wallet support, and Visa Zero Liability protection.

This card is great for those who want straightforward cash back, especially if you already bank with Truist and can take advantage of the loyalty bonus.

Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card: Best for Travelers

If you love to travel, the Truist Enjoy Travel Credit Card offers decent rewards and travel perks with no annual fee:

• Rewards: Earn 3x points per $1 on airfare, hotels, and car rentals, 2x points on dining, and 1x points on all other purchases.
• Loyalty Bonus: Up to 50% bonus on points when redeemed into a Truist account, based on your balance.
• Travel Benefits: Get up to a $120 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every 4 years (as of October 1, 2024), plus no foreign transaction fees.
• Annual Fee: $0, making it a budget-friendly travel card.

This card is a good fit for occasional travelers who want to earn points without paying an annual fee, though the rewards rates are modest compared to premium travel cards.

Truist Future Credit Card: Best for Low Interest

For those looking to save on interest, the Truist Future Credit Card offers a long intro APR period:

• Intro APR: 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, then a variable APR based on the Prime Rate (7.50% as of January 2, 2025) plus a margin of 9.99% to 18.99%.
• Annual Fee: $0, with no origination fee for balance transfers (minimum transfer of $100).
• Features: Ideal for consolidating high-interest debt or financing a big purchase without interest for over a year.

This card is perfect if you need to pay down debt or make a large purchase without the burden of immediate interest, though it doesn’t earn rewards.

Truist Enjoy Beyond Credit Card: Best for Premium Perks

The Truist Enjoy Beyond Credit Card is Truist’s premium offering, with higher rewards and travel benefits:

• Rewards: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 within 90 days, plus 3x points on airfare, hotels, and car rentals, 2x points on dining, and 1x points on other purchases.
• Travel Perks: Up to $120 TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit every 4 years, a $100 annual travel experience credit (e.g., for ground transport or streaming services), and no foreign transaction fees.
• Loyalty Bonus: Up to 50% bonus on points when redeemed into a Truist account.
• Annual Fee: $195, but the perks can offset the cost for frequent travelers.

This card is best for those who travel often and can maximize the travel credits and boosted rewards, though the annual fee might not be worth it for light spenders.

Tips to Make the Most of Truist Bank

Ready to get started with Truist? Here are some practical tips to maximize their offerings, whether you’re opening an account, applying for a loan, or using their credit cards:

• Take Advantage of the $400 Checking Bonus: Open a Truist One Checking account by April 30, 2025, using code AFL2425TR1400. Make at least one direct deposit of $500+ and 15 debit card purchases within 90 days to earn $400—a great way to kickstart your banking relationship.
• Pair a Credit Card with a Deposit Account: To maximize rewards, open a Truist checking, savings, or money market account. A balance of $100,000+ gets you a 50% loyalty bonus on credit card rewards, while $25,000-$99,999 earns 25%.
• Waive Monthly Fees on Checking: Avoid the $12 monthly fee on Truist One Checking by meeting one of these requirements: $500+ in direct deposits, $500+ across Truist accounts, a Truist credit card or loan, a linked small business account, or being under 25.
• Apply for Loans In-Person for Guidance: If you’re considering an SBA loan or mortgage, visit a branch. Truist’s extensive network and experienced staff can help navigate complex applications, especially for first-time borrowers.
• Use the Mobile App for Budgeting: Truist Mobile offers free credit score monitoring, transaction categorization, and budgeting tools. Set up alerts to track spending and stay on top of your finances.

These tips can help you get the most value out of Truist’s services while avoiding unnecessary fees and maximizing rewards.

The Pros and Cons of Banking with Truist

Why Truist Might Be Right for You

Truist has a lot going for it, especially if you value a full-service banking experience. Their no-overdraft-fee checking accounts, extensive branch network, and community-focused lending programs (like CHIP) make them a strong choice for those in their service area. The loyalty bonus on credit card rewards is a unique perk, and their wide range of loans—from personal to SBA—caters to diverse needs. Plus, their mobile app and online banking tools make managing your money a breeze, whether you’re at home or on the go.

Where Truist Falls Short

That said, Truist isn’t perfect. Their savings account yields are low compared to online banks, which might disappoint those looking to grow their money. Their geographic reach is limited to 17 states and D.C., so if you’re outside that area, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Monthly fees on most accounts can be a drawback, though they’re waivable with certain requirements. And while their credit cards offer decent perks, they don’t always compete with the best cards on the market in terms of rewards rates or sign-up bonuses.

Is Truist Bank Right for You?

Truist Bank in 2025 offers a compelling mix of traditional banking with modern conveniences, making it a solid choice for those who value in-person support alongside digital tools. Their no-overdraft-fee checking accounts, diverse loan options, and loyalty-boosted credit cards are standout features, especially if you live in their service area and can take advantage of their branch network. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer eyeing their CHIP mortgage program, a small business owner seeking an SBA loan, or someone looking to earn cash back with the Truist Enjoy Cash card, there’s something here for you.

That said, Truist isn’t for everyone. If you’re outside their 17-state footprint or prioritize high-yield savings accounts, you might find better options elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a full-service bank that balances accessibility, rewards, and community focus, Truist is worth a closer look. So, what’s your next financial move? Maybe it’s time to open that Truist One Checking account and snag that $400 bonus—or apply for a loan to tackle that big project. Whatever you choose, Truist is ready to help you build a better financial future.

Sam Smith