Motusbank is Meridian Credit Union's digital banking arm. Here's what it offers Canadians seeking no-fee banking with full financial services.
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Try KOHO Free — Code 45ET55JSYAMotusbank is a federally chartered digital bank launched in 2019 by Meridian Credit Union, Ontario's largest credit union. Unlike most digital banks that focus purely on spending accounts, Motusbank offers a full suite of financial products including mortgages, HELOCs, personal lines of credit, and GICs — all without monthly fees on core accounts.
Motusbank is a Schedule I federal bank, meaning deposits are directly CDIC-insured without needing a banking partner.
| Product | Fee | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| No-Fee Chequing Account | $0/month | Unlimited transactions, free e-Transfers |
| High Interest Savings | $0 | Competitive rate, no minimum |
| GICs | $0 | CDIC-insured, competitive rates |
| Mortgages | N/A | Competitive rates, online approval |
| HELOC | N/A | Home equity line of credit |
| Personal Line of Credit | N/A | Online application |
The Motusbank chequing account has no monthly fees, no minimum balance, and unlimited transactions. It includes a Visa debit card, free Interac e-Transfers, and access to THE EXCHANGE Network ATMs (surcharge-free). The account earns a small amount of interest — a rarity for chequing accounts in Canada.
Motusbank's savings rates are competitive compared to big banks but typically slightly below EQ Bank. GIC rates are strong and worth comparing if you're investing a lump sum for a fixed term. All GICs and savings accounts are directly CDIC-insured through Motusbank's federal charter.
One of Motusbank's key differentiators is mortgage lending. Digital banks rarely offer full mortgage products, but Motusbank does — with competitive rates and an entirely online process. This makes Motusbank attractive for homebuyers who want to manage their entire financial life digitally, from daily banking to their mortgage.
| Feature | Motusbank | KOHO (Free) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Institution Type | Federal bank (CDIC direct) | Fintech (via Peoples Bank) |
| Cash Back on Spending | No | Yes (1% groceries/transit) |
| Mortgages | Yes | No |
| Savings Rate | Competitive | Up to 5% |
| ATM Access | THE EXCHANGE Network | Limited |
Motusbank is best for Canadians who want a complete digital banking relationship that includes a mortgage or HELOC. It bridges the gap between fintech apps and full-service banks. If you're a homeowner or planning to buy property and want everything managed digitally, Motusbank is worth serious consideration.
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