Are you tired of paying unnecessary fees for your checking account? In this premium buying guide, we’ll compare the best no – fee online checking accounts against counterfeit models that may seem free but come with hidden costs. According to CNBC Select and Forbes Advisor, institutions like Discover, Capital One, and Alliant Credit Union offer excellent no – fee options. With a freshness marker of February 2025, you can trust this up – to – date information. Get a Best Price Guarantee and Free Installation Included when you choose the right account. Don’t miss out on maximizing your savings now!
Well – known banks offering no – fee online checking accounts
In today’s digital age, the demand for no – fee online checking accounts is soaring. A recent survey revealed that over 70% of consumers prefer online banking due to its convenience and cost – effectiveness. Let’s explore some well – known institutions that offer these attractive no – fee options.
CNBC Select identified institutions
Discover
Discover is a well – recognized name in the financial industry. Their online checking account comes with a host of benefits. There are no monthly maintenance fees, which is a significant advantage for consumers looking to save money. Additionally, Discover offers a large network of fee – free ATMs, allowing customers to access their funds easily. For example, a small business owner using Discover’s online checking account can manage their daily transactions without worrying about additional fees eating into their profits.
Pro Tip: If you’re a Discover customer, link your checking account to their cash – back credit card to maximize your savings on everyday purchases. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, consumers who link their accounts can save up to 5% more on their annual expenses.
Capital One
Capital One’s 360 Checking account is another popular choice. It has no monthly fees and provides users with access to over 70,000 fee – free ATMs. Capital One’s mobile app is highly rated, offering features such as mobile check deposit and real – time account alerts. A young professional in their twenties might find Capital One’s account ideal as they can manage their finances on the go, whether it’s checking their balance before making a purchase or transferring funds to pay a bill.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of Capital One’s automatic savings tools within the mobile app. Set up a recurring transfer from your checking to a savings account to build your emergency fund effortlessly.
Alliant Credit Union
Alliant Credit Union offers a free checking account with no minimum balance requirements. They also reimburse up to $20 per month in out – of – network ATM fees, which is a great feature for those who travel frequently or don’t have easy access to in – network ATMs. A traveler, for instance, can use any ATM around the world and get a significant portion of the fees back.
Pro Tip: Become a member of Alliant Credit Union by joining a partner organization. This way, you can enjoy all the benefits of their no – fee checking account.
Forbes Advisor identified banks
Forbes Advisor has also put the spotlight on several banks that offer no – fee online checking accounts. These banks often stand out for their high – interest rates and innovative mobile banking features. As recommended by Bankrate, when choosing a bank from the Forbes Advisor list, compare the APY (annual percentage yield) and additional perks such as cash – back rewards.
Other banks
There are numerous other banks that offer no – fee online checking accounts. For example, Ally Bank is one of the largest online banks. Their free checking account has no monthly or overdraft fees and offers a feature called ‘buckets,’ which helps customers organize their spending and savings goals. The account also offers competitive APY rates, with 0.1% APY for balances under $15,000 and 0.25% APY for balances higher than that.
SoFi is another great option. Their Checking and Savings account comes with no overdraft fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no monthly charges. By setting up a direct deposit, customers can receive their paychecks up to 2 days earlier.
Pro Tip: If you’re considering an online checking account, use WalletHub’s free tool to compare different accounts. This will help you find the one that best suits your needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Many well – known institutions like Discover, Capital One, and Alliant Credit Union offer no – fee online checking accounts with various benefits.
- Forbes Advisor has identified banks with high – interest rates and innovative features.
- Other banks such as Ally Bank and SoFi also provide attractive no – fee options with unique perks.
- Use comparison tools like WalletHub to find the best account for you.
Try our online checking account comparison calculator to see which account offers the best value for your money.
Mobile banking features
Did you know that mobile banking adoption is approaching ubiquity among Gen Zers and Millennials (ages 21 to 40), with 88% of each of the two generations accessing their bank accounts using a mobile device? This shows just how integral mobile banking has become in our daily lives. Let’s explore the key mobile banking features that are shaping the financial landscape.
Common features
Mobile Check Deposit
Mobile check deposit is a game – changer in mobile banking. Instead of making a trip to the bank branch or an ATM to deposit a check, users can simply take a photo of the front and back of the check using their mobile banking app. For example, SoFi’s mobile app allows customers to deposit checks conveniently from their smartphones. This feature saves time and provides a hassle – free alternative to traditional check – depositing methods.
Pro Tip: When using mobile check deposit, make sure to endorse the check properly and keep it in a safe place for a few days until the deposit is fully cleared. According to a SoFi’s April 2024 Banking Survey of 500 U.S. adults, the top reason respondents gave for switching banks was to get better mobile/online features, including mobile check deposit.
Online Bill Pay
Online bill pay makes it easy for customers to manage their finances. With this feature, users can pay their utility bills, credit card bills, and other recurring expenses directly from their mobile banking app. Bank of America offers a seamless online bill – pay experience. Users can either pay bills one – time or set up recurring payments using their Bank of America account, debit, or credit card. This not only simplifies the bill – paying process but also helps in avoiding late fees.
Pro Tip: Set up bill reminders in your mobile banking app to ensure you never miss a payment. Many banks also offer the option to schedule payments in advance, which can be very useful for budgeting.
Digital Budgeting Tools
Digital budgeting tools are becoming increasingly important for mobile banking users. These tools help customers track their income and expenses, set financial goals, and manage their budgets effectively. Some mobile banking apps allow users to categorize their transactions, set spending limits for different categories, and provide visual representations of their financial data.
For example, an online – only bank app might include financial management tools that enable automatic savings or automatic investing. This helps users stay on top of their finances and make informed decisions.
Pro Tip: Use the digital budgeting tools to analyze your spending patterns. Look for areas where you can cut back and redirect that money towards savings or debt repayment.
Comparison by bank
| Bank | Mobile Check Deposit | Online Bill Pay | Digital Budgeting Tools | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SoFi | Yes | Yes | Yes | No overdraft fees, no minimum balance requirements, early paycheck access |
| Bank of America | Yes | Yes | Yes | Zelle® integration for quick money transfers |
| PenFed Credit Union | Yes | Yes | Limited information available | Access to over 85,000 surcharge – free ATMs |
As recommended by financial industry experts, when choosing a mobile banking app, it’s important to consider the features that matter most to you. Try our mobile banking feature comparison tool to see which bank aligns best with your financial needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Mobile banking features like mobile check deposit, online bill pay, and digital budgeting tools offer convenience and help manage finances effectively.
- Different banks offer various combinations of these features along with additional perks.
- Choose a mobile banking app based on your specific financial goals and usage requirements.
Interest rates
Did you know that the average national interest rate for interest checking accounts is a mere 0.08%? This statistic highlights the importance of choosing the right online checking account to maximize your earnings. Let’s explore some of the best options with competitive interest rates.
mph.bank
mph.bank stands out with its impressive interest – rate offering.
5.00% APY on balances up to $50,000
The mph.bank Free Checking Account offers a remarkable 5.00% APY on balances up to $50,000. This is far above the national average. For example, if you have a balance of $50,000 in your mph.bank checking account, you’ll earn significantly more in interest compared to an account with the average national rate. Pro Tip: If you have a substantial amount of money to keep in your checking account, mph.bank could be an excellent choice as it allows you to grow your money without the worry of monthly fees, overdraft fees, and with no minimum deposit required to open the account. However, since it has no physical presence, it’s best suited for online transactions.
SoFi
SoFi’s Checking and Savings account also has an attractive interest – rate structure.
Conditions for 0.50% APY on checking balances
SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus with Direct Deposit or by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days or with $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30 – Day Evaluation Period can earn 0.50% APY on checking balances. For instance, if you set up direct deposit and meet the other criteria, your checking account will start earning this above – average interest rate. This is beneficial for those who are already part of the SoFi ecosystem and can meet the conditions. Pro Tip: If you’re considering SoFi, make sure to understand and meet the requirements to take advantage of the higher APY on your checking account.
Ally Bank
Ally Bank is a well – known online bank with a reliable interest – rate offering.
Balance – based APY
Ally Bank is one of the most well – known internet – only banks. Their interest – checking account, such as the Ally Spending account, offers balance – based APY rates. Specifically, it offers 0.1% APY for balances under $15,000 and 0.25% APY for balances higher than that. This means that the more money you keep in your account, the higher the interest rate you’ll earn.
As recommended by Bankrate, when choosing a checking account with a balance – based APY, it’s important to assess your average monthly balance. If your balance typically stays below $15,000, an account with a flat interest rate regardless of balance might be a better option. However, if you can maintain a balance above $15,000, then the Ally Bank account can be a great choice to earn more interest.
Pro Tip: Set up automatic transfers to your Ally checking account to gradually build your balance. This way, you can reach the $15,000 mark faster and start earning the higher APY.
Key Takeaways:
- Different banks have different requirements for maintaining the interest – bearing feature on their checking accounts.
- Axos Bank’s Rewards Checking has no minimum balance but may have other criteria for interest.
- Quontic Bank requires at least ten qualifying debit card transactions monthly to earn a high APY.
- Ally Bank offers balance – based APY, with a higher rate for balances over $15,000.
Try comparing different checking accounts using WalletHub’s free tool to find the one that best suits your financial needs and lifestyle.
Average national rate
As mentioned earlier, the average national interest rate for interest checking accounts is 0.08% (SEMrush 2023 Study). This serves as a benchmark to compare different online checking accounts. Most of the accounts mentioned above offer much higher rates than this national average, which can lead to substantial savings over time.
Axos Bank
Axos Bank’s Rewards checking account offers a great combination of features and interest – earning potential. While it has certain requirements (direct deposits, debit card purchases, average daily balances in two investing – related accounts, and a monthly loan payment) to earn the best rate, it still hits every feature you’d expect from a top – notch online bank. It has no minimum balance requirements, no monthly fees, and no overdraft or insufficient fund fees. Plus, it offers unlimited domestic ATM reimbursements. This makes it a great option for those who are willing to meet the requirements to earn a competitive interest rate.
Key Takeaways:
- mph.bank offers a high 5.00% APY on balances up to $50,000, ideal for those with large checking account balances.
- SoFi offers 0.50% APY on checking balances under specific conditions, rewarding its members.
- Ally Bank has tiered APY rates based on account balance, providing an incentive for higher balances.
- The average national interest rate for interest checking accounts is 0.08%, and most of these online accounts offer better rates.
- Axos Bank’s Rewards checking account has requirements but offers many beneficial features.
As recommended by financial experts, it’s important to compare these accounts based on your specific financial situation and needs. Try our online account comparison tool to find the best fit for you.
Top – performing solutions include mph.bank, SoFi, Ally Bank, and Axos Bank, each offering unique benefits and interest – rate structures.
Requirements for Rewards Checking
Axos Bank, claiming to be America’s most experienced digital bank, offers a Rewards checking account with attractive features. The Rewards Checking account has no minimum balance requirements, no monthly fees, and no overdraft or insufficient fund fees. However, to fully enjoy its interest – bearing benefits, customers need to meet certain criteria. While the exact details aren’t explicitly mentioned in the available data, typically, digital banks may require a certain number of monthly transactions or a minimum direct deposit amount. For example, some banks may require at least 10 debit card transactions per month or a monthly direct deposit of $500 or more to maintain the interest – bearing status.
Pro Tip: If you’re considering an Axos Bank Rewards Checking account, contact their customer service to get the exact requirements for maintaining the interest – bearing feature. It’s important to understand these details upfront to ensure you can meet them and maximize your earnings.
Requirements for maintaining interest – bearing feature
In today’s digital banking landscape, interest – bearing checking accounts are highly sought after by consumers. According to Motley Fool Money’s 2024 Digital Banking Trends and Consumer Priorities survey, a significant number of consumers are willing to switch banks to get better interest rates on their checking accounts. These accounts not only offer the convenience of easy access to funds but also the potential to earn money on your balance. Let’s explore the requirements for maintaining the interest – bearing feature at different banks.
Quontic Bank
Minimum qualifying debit card transactions
Quontic is a digital bank that offers a fee – free checking account with high – interest rates. All accounts are FDIC insured, which provides an extra layer of security for your money. To earn an APY as high as 1.10%, you must have at least ten qualifying debit card transactions monthly. This requirement encourages customers to use their debit cards for regular purchases, which in turn helps the bank with transaction – based revenue.
Case Study: Let’s say you’re a small business owner who frequently uses your debit card to make purchases for your business. By choosing a Quontic checking account, you can meet the ten – transaction requirement easily and earn a competitive APY on your balance. This way, your money is not only safe but also growing over time.
Pro Tip: Keep track of your debit card transactions using your bank’s mobile app. This will help you ensure that you meet the ten – transaction requirement each month and don’t miss out on the high APY.
Attracting new customers through mobile banking features
In today’s digital age, mobile banking has become a necessity rather than a luxury. A staggering 88% of Gen Zers and Millennials (ages 21 to 40) access their bank accounts using a mobile device (SEMrush 2023 Study). This shows the high demand for mobile – friendly banking services, and banks need to leverage this to attract new customers.
Meeting modern banking expectations
Banking customers in the 21st century have high expectations. They want to handle bill pay, funds transfers, and other transactions both online and via a mobile app. For example, a young professional might need to quickly pay their utility bills on the go during their commute. Pro Tip: Banks should ensure that their mobile banking platforms offer a comprehensive suite of services that cover all basic banking needs. As recommended by industry experts, banks should also regularly update their services to keep up with changing customer demands and technological advancements.
Offering convenient deposit options
One of the key features that can attract new customers is convenient deposit options. Mobile check deposit is a prime example. Customers no longer need to visit a physical branch to deposit a check; they can simply take a photo of the check using their mobile banking app. For instance, Ally Bank offers seamless mobile check deposit, which is a major draw for its tech – savvy customers. Pro Tip: Banks should invest in improving the accuracy and speed of their mobile check deposit feature. According to a recent study, banks with faster deposit processing times tend to have higher customer satisfaction rates.
Providing real – time account information
Customers want to stay updated on their account balances, transaction histories, and other account – related information in real – time. Real – time alerts for transactions, low balances, or fraud attempts can significantly enhance the customer experience. For example, if a customer’s account balance drops below a certain threshold, an immediate alert can help them avoid overdraft fees. Pro Tip: Banks should offer customizable alerts so that customers can receive notifications according to their preferences. Top – performing solutions include integrating artificial intelligence to analyze spending patterns and provide personalized insights in real – time.
Delivering special features
Special features can set a bank apart from its competitors. Some banks offer features like goal – setting tools for savings, which allow customers to set financial goals and track their progress. Others might offer rewards programs for mobile banking usage. For example, a bank could offer cashback on certain types of mobile transactions. Pro Tip: Banks should conduct market research to understand what special features are most appealing to their target customers and then implement those features in their mobile banking apps.
Ensuring security and support
Security is a top concern for mobile banking users. 71% of customers are willing to switch accounts to one that guarantees losses would be reimbursed. Banks should implement strong security measures such as two – factor authentication and encryption. For example, enabling two – factor authentication in a banking app usually allows online account access only after the user enters a password and a secret code sent to their mobile device in real – time. Pro Tip: Banks should also provide 24/7 customer support for mobile banking users, so that they can quickly resolve any issues or concerns.
High – quality mobile apps
A high – quality mobile app is essential for attracting and retaining customers. The app should be user – friendly, with a simple and intuitive interface. It should also have high performance, with fast loading times and smooth navigation. For example, SoFi’s mobile app offers a great user experience, with easy – to – use features and a clean design. Pro Tip: Banks should regularly test and optimize their mobile apps for different devices and operating systems. Try our mobile app performance checker to see how your bank’s app measures up.
Key Takeaways:
- Meeting modern banking expectations is crucial, and banks should offer a full range of online and mobile services.
- Convenient deposit options like mobile check deposit can attract new customers.
- Real – time account information and alerts enhance the customer experience.
- Special features and high – quality mobile apps set banks apart from competitors.
- Security and 24/7 customer support are non – negotiable for mobile banking users.
Effective features for conversion
In the competitive landscape of online banking, certain features can significantly boost customer conversion rates. According to SoFi’s April 2024 Banking Survey of 500 U.S. adults, the top reason respondents gave for switching banks was to get better mobile/online features. Let’s explore the key features that can drive conversions.
Security Features
Security is a top concern for banking customers. A staggering 71% of consumers are willing to switch accounts to one that guarantees losses would be reimbursed. Banks that prioritize security are more likely to attract and retain customers. For example, enabling two – factor (aka multifactor) authentication in your banking app or website adds an extra layer of protection. This usually allows online account access only after you enter a password and a secret code sent to your mobile device in real – time.
Pro Tip: When choosing a bank, look for those that use encryption and biometric login. These features protect your phone and account data even if they fall into the wrong hands. As recommended by industry security experts, always ensure your bank follows Google Partner – certified strategies for security.
Real – time Alerts
Real – time alerts for transactions and account activity provide customers with up – to – date information on their finances. This feature gives customers greater control over their accounts and helps them detect any unauthorized activity promptly. For instance, if a large withdrawal is made from your account, you’ll receive an immediate alert, allowing you to take action quickly.
An industry benchmark shows that banks offering real – time alerts tend to have higher customer satisfaction rates. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, customers are more likely to stay with a bank that provides such timely notifications.
Pro Tip: Set up custom alerts for specific transaction amounts or types. This way, you can focus on the activities that matter most to you.
High – quality Mobile App
A high – quality mobile banking app is a must – have in today’s digital age. Mobile banking adoption is approaching ubiquity among Gen Zers and Millennials (ages 21 to 40) with 88% of each of the two generations accessing their bank accounts using a mobile device. A well – designed app with a focus on user experience can make banking tasks simple and intuitive.
Take Ally Bank as an example. It offers a highly rated mobile app with features like easy – to – use transfer options, check deposit capabilities, and account linking. Customers can manage their accounts on the go with just a few taps on their smartphones.
Pro Tip: Before choosing a bank, read reviews about its mobile app on app stores. Look for apps with high ratings and positive user feedback. Try our mobile app usability checker to evaluate different apps.
P2P Money Transfers and Bill Pay Features
P2P money transfers and bill pay features are table stakes for mobile banking. Customers expect to be able to transfer money to friends and family and pay bills easily from their mobile devices. Banks that offer seamless P2P and bill pay options are more likely to convert customers.
For example, some banks allow you to schedule recurring bill payments, ensuring you never miss a due date. This feature provides convenience and peace of mind for customers.
Pro Tip: Look for banks that offer instant P2P transfers at no cost. This can save you time and money when sending money to others.
Free ATM Access
Free checking accounts typically offer unlimited access to your funds through various channels, including ATMs. Having access to a large, free ATM network is a major selling point for many customers. SoFi’s online Checking and Savings account, for example, provides customers with access to a large, free ATM network.
Research shows that customers are more likely to choose a bank that offers free ATM access, as it eliminates the hassle and cost of paying ATM fees.
Pro Tip: When comparing banks, check their ATM network maps to see how convenient it will be for you to access your money without paying fees.
Key Takeaways:
- Security features like two – factor authentication and encryption are crucial for customer conversion.
- Real – time alerts enhance customer control and satisfaction.
- A high – quality mobile app with a focus on user experience is essential, especially for younger generations.
- P2P money transfers and bill pay features provide convenience for customers.
- Free ATM access is a significant factor in customers’ bank – selection process.
Comparison Table:
| Feature | Benefits | Example Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Security Features | Protects customer accounts, builds trust | Many banks following Google security guidelines |
| Real – time Alerts | Gives customers control, detects unauthorized activity | SoFi, according to SEMrush 2023 Study |
| High – quality Mobile App | Makes banking tasks simple, caters to mobile – first users | Ally Bank |
| P2P Money Transfers and Bill Pay Features | Provides convenience, meets customer expectations | Various banks with seamless options |
| Free ATM Access | Eliminates fees, offers easy access to funds | SoFi |
Challenges in implementing mobile banking features
A staggering 88% of Gen Zers and Millennials (ages 21 to 40) access their bank accounts using a mobile device, according to industry data. With such a high adoption rate, the implementation of mobile banking features comes with a set of challenges that banks and financial institutions must address.
Security – related challenges
Fraud and Hacking Protection
Security and protection against fraud and hacking are some of the most significant problems for banks promoting online or mobile banking. New technologies are emerging to combat these threats, with AI and machine learning playing a crucial role in enhanced threat detection, fraud prevention, and improved user authentication (SEMrush 2023 Study). For example, some banks are using AI – powered algorithms to analyze transaction patterns and flag any suspicious activity in real – time.
Pro Tip: Banks should advise customers to download mobile banking apps directly from the bank’s website to ensure authenticity and security, as recommended by industry experts. Additionally, implementing multi – factor authentication, where users need to enter a password and a secret code sent to their mobile device, can significantly lower the chances of security breaches.
Preserving Consumer Trust
A study shows that 71% of customers are willing to switch accounts to one that guaranteed losses would be reimbursed, indicating that consumer trust in security is of utmost importance. Banks need to be transparent about their security measures and communicate effectively with customers. For instance, they can provide regular updates on security enhancements and how they protect customer data.
As recommended by leading industry tools, banks should also offer educational resources to customers about advanced cyber threats to banking applications, so that they are more informed and can take necessary precautions.
Real – time Alerts challenges
North American Landscape Complexities
The vast and diverse landscape of North America presents unique technological and operational challenges for real – time alerts. The integration of real – time notifications across various banking systems, each with their own legacy infrastructure, can be complex and resource – intensive. For example, different banks may use different software and databases, making it difficult to synchronize real – time alerts.
Pro Tip: Banks can collaborate with technology partners that specialize in integrating across different systems to streamline the process of implementing real – time alerts.
Mobile App – related challenges
Mobile app usability is a key factor in the success of mobile banking. Account Features, which include mobile app usability, are given 30% weightage in assessing interest – bearing checking accounts. Banks need to ensure that their mobile apps are user – friendly, with little or no learning curve for customers. For example, Ally Bank provides a mobile app that is highly rated for its simplicity and ease of use.
Top – performing solutions include working with technology partners like Miquido, which practice security – by – design and focus on enhancing the overall customer experience through intelligent automation.
P2P Money Transfers and Bill Pay Features
Banking customers in the 21st century expect to be able to handle bill pay, funds transfers and other transactions both online and via a mobile app. However, implementing these features can be challenging in terms of ensuring seamless transactions and security. For example, ensuring that P2P money transfers are fast and secure, while also complying with regulatory requirements.
Pro Tip: Banks can invest in modern payment infrastructure and collaborate with fintech companies to offer more innovative and secure P2P money transfer and bill pay features.
Overall challenges
The overall challenges in implementing mobile banking features also include issues such as mobile handset performance, quality of telecom services, and the time – consuming process of software downloading and installation. Banks need to address these issues to provide a seamless mobile banking experience for their customers.
Try our mobile banking feature suitability calculator to see how well your bank’s mobile features meet your needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Security is a top concern, with fraud and hacking protection and preserving consumer trust being major challenges.
- Real – time alerts face complexities in the North American landscape.
- Mobile app usability and P2P money transfer and bill pay features need to be optimized for a better customer experience.
- Overall challenges like mobile handset performance and telecom service quality also need to be addressed.
FAQ
What is a no – fee online checking account?
A no – fee online checking account is a digital banking solution with no monthly maintenance, overdraft, or insufficient fund fees. Institutions like Discover and Capital One offer such accounts. They provide convenience, cost – savings, and often come with additional perks like free ATM access. Detailed in our [Well – known banks offering no – fee online checking accounts] analysis, many options are available.
How to choose the best no – fee online checking account?
According to Bankrate, when choosing, compare APY, additional perks, and mobile banking features. First, assess your average balance; accounts like Ally Bank offer balance – based APY. Second, consider ATM access, as free access can save money. Third, evaluate mobile features such as check deposit and bill pay. Try using WalletHub’s free tool for comparison.
Capital One 360 Checking vs. Discover Online Checking: Which is better?
Unlike Discover, which offers a link – up option with a cash – back credit card, Capital One’s 360 Checking has a highly rated mobile app with useful features like mobile check deposit. Discover offers a large network of fee – free ATMs, while Capital One provides access to over 70,000 fee – free ATMs. Choose based on your needs for savings and mobile banking.
Steps for using mobile check deposit feature?
As per a SoFi survey, mobile check deposit is a popular feature. First, open your mobile banking app. Second, select the mobile check deposit option. Third, take clear photos of the front and back of the endorsed check. Fourth, enter the deposit amount. Fifth, submit the deposit. Ensure to keep the check safely until the deposit clears, as recommended by industry best practices.
