I've never had a problem getting an actual, real, free checking account. I actually have several. (4 at the moment... don't ask) And 3 of them have free paper checks as well.
I don't see your point? I didn't say it was hard to get a free checking account, I said they make you jump through hoops and open a bunch of related products so they'll waive the $10-15/month fee.
that agrees with my experience. Simple.com for example. Super easy and a great service. No paper checks, but there are others with paper checks. No jumping through hoops.
They don't have brick and mortar offices, but I don't miss it.
A while back I even found someone offering business accounts for free.
I don't see your point? I didn't say it was hard to get a free checking account, I said they make you jump through hoops and open a bunch of related products so they'll waive the $10-15/month fee.