A:Answer I decided to buy this product by applying for, at the time of purchase, a Best Buy credit card which saved me even more money.
There was a credit check which was painless, took about 5 minutes tops and I was approved.
I can't answer your question regarding the necessity of having checking account. But the individual who assisted me was very professional and courteous and certainly would have answered any questions I might have had regarding yours or similar questions with out making me feel uncomfortable. Hope this helps.