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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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Experts in all things banking

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Chief Financial Analyst

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

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Senior Economic Analyst

Banking data studies

Money next to flashing sirens
Over 1 in 3 people tapped emergency savings in the past year, per a new Bankrate survey.
Piggy bank with doctors equipment. Cute and comical
A mid-year checkup is the most effective way to ensure my finances are on track.
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

Illustration of a US Federal Reserve ink stamp
Every financial decision you make is impacted by the Federal Reserve.
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Looking to use Zelle for a transfer? Here are the Zelle limits at various banks.
A man works on his laptop.
Several banks are offering high-yield savings accounts well above 4 percent APY.
Image of Jerome Powell on a blue background.
Tariffs haven’t created much inflation. You still won’t hear the Fed say all clear.
Image of a large money bag in a shopping cart in front of a red downward pointing arrow.
More than half of Americans also say the U.S. economy is on the wrong track.
Piggy bank with cash overflowing
Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.
Person filling out money order
Here’s what you need to know about how money orders work.
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.
A man works on his laptop.
Several banks are offering high-yield savings accounts well above 4 percent APY.
Image of a large money bag in a shopping cart in front of a red downward pointing arrow.
More than half of Americans also say the U.S. economy is on the wrong track.
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.
Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Man using cell phone in living room
It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
Person holding baby looking at person sitting on couch
Wondering what to do when it comes to saving during a recession? Here’s what the experts have to say.
Woman on laptop
The highest savings account rate has dipped ahead of next week’s Fed rate decision.
A photo of the author of the article near a computer and book
Saving money isn’t just about cutting costs. Sometimes, it’s about reframing how you spend your time. Here’s how one mindset shift helped me avoid impulsive purchases and grow my savings with less [...]
CD rates forecast for 2024
You can find a CD account that significantly out-earns the national average if you shop around among banks.
A woman researches online.
Here’s everything you need to know about zero-coupon CDs.
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Understanding what determines CD rates can help you decide whether to get one.
Young mother with toddler
Should you keep money you need access to in a no-penalty CD or in a savings account?
Couple meeting with financial advisor
Jumbo CDs pay a higher yield than other CDs. Here’s what to know before opening one.
man working on a laptop
Investing in CDs for retirement offers benefits but also some drawbacks.
Two people under umbrella using tablet
The Fed’s recent actions may force savers to start thinking differently about their money.
Jerome Powell walking through the Federal Reserve
With the Fed likely holding steady on rates for now, short-term CDs still look like a good option.
Ally Bank logo
Ally’s money market account offers a high APY, no minimum deposit or monthly fee.
Woman looking at phone
Find the right business savings account to help your company’s money grow.
Man working on laptop and drinking coffee
Money market funds are available from several different brokers and fund managers.
Woman online banking with a tablet
How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
A man researches online.
Looking for a place to park your savings? Here’s why a MMA might be appealing.
Woman using mobile phone at the bar
These accounts sound similar, but there are some key differences to know.
A guide to mutual funds
Not sure how to get started investing with mutual funds? We’ll help you understand the basics.
A young woman researches on her phone at a cafe.
Short answer? Yes. Here’s what you need to know.
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.
Young Woman Checking Her Finances At Home
Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
This old-school way of paying is still in demand. Here’s everything you need to know.
close up of hands signing a check
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
Writing on check
Compare prices on paper checks before you place your next order.
person on phone by computer looking at piece of paper
Here’s how these two bank fees compare and how to best avoid them.
Young woman withdrawing money using phone at the ATM machine on the street in Budapest in Hungary.
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
Women using tablet
Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.