Climate First Bank Ties 3.26% Checking Yield to Charitable Giving

Climate First Bank, a Florida-based, FDIC-insured community lender that opened in June 2021, has built its business around financing solar installations, energy retrofits and other mission-aligned projects. The model has produced rapid loan growth, increasing the need for dependable funding. Winning primary checking relationships nationwide — particularly payroll deposits that tend to remain in place — would give the bank a steadier retail deposit base to support lending while differentiating it from larger rivals.

The bank has introduced Impact Checking, offering a 3.21% interest rate and 3.26% annual percentage yield, with terms dated Feb. 25, 2026. Customers need $50 to open the account and must establish at least $500 in recurring monthly payroll or government direct deposits within 90 days to earn the yield. Climate First Bank also contributes $100 to a selected nonprofit. The account carries no monthly service fee or minimum-balance requirement, combining a high return with the bank’s social-impact pitch.