Checking
Maximize your checking: Compare high-yield checking accounts, no-fee checking accounts and more.
Explore checking basics
From no fees to online bill pay, here are the must-have checking account features.
If you overdraw your account frequently, then overdraft protection could be a good way to avoid hefty overdraft fees.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
Get started with a checking account
Checking
Available balance vs. current balance
Learn about the two separate balances you may see when looking at your bank account.
Checking
Checking account fees
Learn about the different kinds of checking account fees and what you can do to avoid them.
Checking
Bank account alerts to protect your money
Explore the types of bank account alerts you can set up to help you stay informed about your finances whenever and wherever you are.
Experts in all things banking
Our expert writers and editors bring you timely news and reliable information - backed by data and first-hand experience.
About Bankrate's team
Chief Financial Analyst
Principal U.S. Economy Reporter
Senior Economic Analyst
Compare top-rated banks
Learn more
- Introduction to Checking Accounts
Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
Finding the account of your dreams comes down to knowing what you want and the features you value most.
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
Setting up direct deposit is typically easy and can save you a lot of time. Here’s how.
Latest articles
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
We all use our checking accounts for the basic purposes — direct deposit of our paychecks, paying monthly bills and making debit card purchases. And while usually you’re seeing money leave your checking [...]
Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a switch to business checking.
Stay on top of your money with the right balance between your checking and savings.
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
The amount of time for a check to clear can vary from check to check.
Here are easy actions you can take to avoid the fee of get it waived.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
Single people and young families tend to have significantly less saved.
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
Financial markets may drop lower, but APYs on high-yield savings remain high.
Looking for a stable way to pay off your debts with money left to save? Read on.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
ATM skimming is a type of payment card fraud. Here’s what you need to know to avoid it.
Bitcoin ATMs are becoming increasingly popular. Here’s everything you need to know.
It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
A look at the best ways to avoid paying such extra charges.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information