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.
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Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.

Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.

Bank of America offers perks beyond basic banking, including museum passes, cash back deals and $300 new account bonuses.

If you don’t have a bank account, check-cashing services offer access to your money, at a cost.

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.

Savings bonds are safe and easy to buy, but you can earn higher interest income elsewhere.

Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.

Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.

Top high-yielding savings accounts continue to handily outpace inflation.

The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.

APYs on high-yield savings accounts remain competitive after Fed rate decision.

A new Bankrate analysis shows mothers earned 31 percent less in wages than fathers in 2023.

Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.

Top high-yielding savings accounts continue to handily outpace inflation.

Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.

Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.

These joint checking accounts are ideal for sharing finances with another person.

The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.

You might not feel better about inflation because prices are still up post-pandemic.

Powell is concerned tariffs could lead to more inflation. This former Fed official has a different view.

Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
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