To match its checking accounts with ever-changing life circumstances, SunTrust Banks, Inc. announced today a simplified set of solutions – Essential, Select and Signature Advantage – that provide specific, tiered rewards and expanded benefits as one's banking relationship grows, including additional cash back when using a SunTrust credit card.

Each checking package offers its own specific perks:

• Essential Package: includes an Essential Checking account with simple ways to waive the monthly maintenance fee, including ten or more monthly transactions; and no monthly maintenance fee for five years for students.

• Select Package: includes a Select Checking account (and up to three additional Essential checking accounts with no monthly fee); two monthly fee waivers for non-SunTrust ATM cash withdrawals; $25 annual discount on any safe deposit box; and an introductory promotional savings account interest rate.

• Signature Advantage Package: includes a Signature Advantage Checking account (and up to four additional Essential checking accounts with no monthly maintenance fee); unlimited non-SunTrust ATM transaction fee refunds; option to participate in Delta SkyMiles Debit Card program; a small safe deposit box with no annual fee; and an introductory promotional money market account interest rate.

"We encourage people to evaluate whether their checking accounts are keeping up with their lifestyles," said Beverly Ladley, client strategy and solutions executive at SunTrust Bank. "On average, people keep checking accounts years longer than cell phones, jobs or cars. As life's circumstances change, however, people should consider upgrading their checking accounts as well."

According to industry research, people keep checking accounts for an average of 10 years, but cell phones for only two years, jobs for 4.6 years and cars for 7.7 years.

"Life events like getting married, having kids or buying a house can substantially change a person's financial needs," added Ladley. "A married couple might want three checking accounts, for example: two individual accounts and another for the family. SunTrust has options that fit these unique circumstances."