Step

What is Step?

Step is a mobile banking app built for teenagers and young adults. According to the app’s public description, it combines a secured credit card with an investing feature, all without a monthly fee. The core offering is a checking account paired with a card designed to help users build credit history while managing everyday spending. The investing component allows small-dollar investments directly from the app, though the exact investment options and terms are not detailed in the available materials. The app positions itself as a starter financial tool for users who are new to banking and personal finance. Documentation suggests the account can be opened by a minor with a parent or guardian co-owner, and the app includes spending notifications and savings goals.

Who is Step for?

Step targets teens and young adults—typically users under 25—who want a first banking account and a way to build credit early. The app’s materials also mention that parents can monitor activity and set limits. The secured credit card is aimed at users with no credit history: the card is backed by the user’s own deposited funds, so there is no credit check required to open it. Over time, responsible use may help establish a credit score. The investing feature is pitched as a low-barrier entry to stock market exposure, but the available data does not specify which securities or fractional shares are available. The app seems designed for users who want banking, credit, and investing in one place, with parental oversight and no monthly fee.

• Teens and young adults (ages 13–24 based on typical account terms)
• Parents who want to co-own and monitor spending
• Users with no existing credit history who want to build credit
• Young people interested in beginning to invest small amounts

How much does Step cost?

The Step pricing page lists a starting price of $0 per month for the basic account. The app describes itself as “free,” meaning no monthly maintenance fee is charged. However, the pricing page does not disclose all possible fees in the publicly available data used for this profile. Common fee types—such as ATM fees, foreign transaction fees, late payment fees on the credit card, or fees for expedited card delivery—are not listed in the materials reviewed here. The secured credit card requires an initial deposit that serves as the credit limit, but the deposit amount is not specified in the available public information. Because the full fee schedule was not verified from the app’s documentation, no dollar amounts or percentages beyond the $0 monthly fee can be stated. Users should check the app’s terms directly for any charges that may apply.