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Banking

From savings account details to bank reviews, economic insights and more — Bankrate offers valuable information and advice for you.

Explore banking basics

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How to open a certificate of deposit (CD)

Banking
Everything you need to know about opening an account.
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How to start saving (even if you’re starting from scratch)

Banking
Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
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How to transfer money from one bank to another: 4 ways

Banking
Keep fees in check when you shift money from one bank account to another.

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Bankrate Financial Analyst

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

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Senior Economic Analyst

Banking data studies

A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Over 1 in 4 workers are more worried about job security since 2025 began.
And elderly couple discussing HYSA options
Two-thirds of American savers say they’re earning rates below 4% APY. Here’s why.

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Latest articles

FDIC
Bankrate’s list of all the failed banks in every U.S. state from 2009 to 2025.
Young woman using the ATM
Knowing your ATM withdrawal limits can make a sudden need for cash easier to handle.
Bank building
Even the smallest of these big banks has enormously deep pockets.
Smiling father holds smiling daughter on his lap while looking at a computer
Experian’s new savings account has a yield based on membership tier and no minimum deposit.
Whimsical illustration of a hand putting a quarter into a miniature but realistic high end safe. As if it were a piggy bank
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Image by GettyImages, Illustrated by Bankrate
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
Coworkers discussing a project
Here’s how to find the credit union that will best fit with your financial needs.
Person writing on a piece of paper
Here’s how to determine the amount to put in savings — and what to do with the rest.
Smiling father holds smiling daughter on his lap while looking at a computer
Experian’s new savings account has a yield based on membership tier and no minimum deposit.
Whimsical illustration of a hand putting a quarter into a miniature but realistic high end safe. As if it were a piggy bank
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Image by GettyImages, Illustrated by Bankrate
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
Person writing on a piece of paper
Here’s how to determine the amount to put in savings — and what to do with the rest.
A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Here’s how to boost your savings.
Person imagining a piggy bank made out of cash.
Ready to open a savings account? Here’s what you’ll need to know.
Illustration of construction workers on a roof
An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
Taxes on CD interest aren’t always clear-cut. Here’s what you need to know.
Couple meeting with financial advisor
Jumbo CDs pay a higher yield than other CDs. Here’s what to know before opening one.
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Understanding what determines CD rates can help you decide whether to get one.
man working on tax forms with calculator
Looking to score more tax deductions? IRA CDs might be for you.
Woman doing financial paperwork
Better to let a CD automatically renew or cash it in? Here’s a guide for those looking to renew.
Image of bonds and cash
Consider these important factors before investing in bonds and CDs.
A young female researches on her phone.
Here’s the lowdown on no-penalty CDs, and how they differ from regular CDs.
A long spiral staircase.
Step-up CDs can help you potentially earn a higher rate of return later on.
Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
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CD terms can range from three months to five years. Learn which one is right for you.
Bank teller with customer
These credit unions offer great rates and top-notch features — and many make it easy to join.
Young woman calculating her finances while sitting with her laptop.
Investing with mutual funds is an easy way to build a diversified portfolio. Here’s what you need to know.
Woman using mobile phone at the bar
These accounts sound similar, but there are some key differences to know.
Woman online banking with a tablet
How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
Person looking at smartphone
The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
Young woman using the ATM
Knowing your ATM withdrawal limits can make a sudden need for cash easier to handle.
Illustration of an old-fashioned alarm bell ringing , hovering over a cell phone.
Mobile apps make managing your money a snap and mobile alerts can help protect it.
Young couple paying bills online
Online bill pay can add convenience and security to managing your routine bills.
Person folds his hands in front of their face
A bank may deny you a checking account. Here is what you can do next.
Cash in gloved hand
Depositing cash into someone’s account isn’t always possible, but there are options.
woman sitting on her couch and looking at her phone and credit card
Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.
person using mobile phone leaning on railing
A second-chance checking account is designed for those whose banking history may prevent them from opening a standard account. Applicants sometimes have past problems such as an unpaid negative balance [...]
Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.