ZKB Private Account

Zurich's cantonal bank gives you a free private account. The optional packages are where it gets interesting.

The ZKB Private Account ranks #6 among Switzerland's 45 private accounts. It's the standard free offering from Zurich's cantonal bank, one of the largest and most trusted banks in Switzerland. No-frills banking with the option to bundle into a package that includes a credit card.

What Does Free Actually Mean?

Zero account management fee. Zero debit card fee. Free domestic payments and SEPA transfers. You get a Visa Debit and access to mobile and online banking at no cost. Up to three private accounts and two Visa Debit cards are included for free. That's genuinely generous.

ATM withdrawals at ZKB machines are free, but other Swiss ATMs cost CHF 2 each. Abroad, it's CHF 5 per withdrawal. Non-SEPA international payments run CHF 4. These are standard cantonal bank rates, nothing surprising either way.

What Actually Stands Out

The optional inclusive packages are the real play here. Silver (CHF 72/yr) adds a standard credit card. Gold (CHF 150/yr) upgrades to a Gold credit card. Platinum (CHF 384/yr) includes a Platinum credit card. Each package bundles the private account, savings account, and credit card into one fee.

ZKB also offers EUR account management, which is useful if you receive income in euros. As Zurich's cantonal bank, your deposits benefit from the Canton of Zurich's state guarantee. That's arguably the strongest cantonal backing in Switzerland.

What Most Reviews Miss

Account closure costs CHF 20. Most cantonal banks offer free termination, so this is a small but real cost if you decide to leave. Each additional private account beyond three costs CHF 12 per year, and extra Visa Debit cards beyond two cost CHF 40 each.

The 0% interest rate means your money sits idle. No interest on the private account at all. For a bank this size, that's expected but worth noting if you keep large balances in your checking account. Move anything above your monthly needs to a savings account.

The Bottom Line

ZKB offers solid, reliable free banking with the strongest cantonal backing in Switzerland. The standalone account is excellent for everyday use, and the inclusive packages make sense if you also need a credit card. Compare your options in our best private accounts in Switzerland guide.

Verdict: The safe, trusted choice for Zurich residents. Consider a package if you need a credit card bundled in.