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 reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.
About Bankrate
Bankrate 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
Depositing cash into someone’s account isn’t always possible, but there are options.
Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.
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.
Here’s how these two bank fees compare and how to best avoid them.
This old-school way of paying is still in demand. Here’s everything you need to know.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.
A savings account can be a great tool to teach your child about money. Here are a few of our favorites.
It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
Here’s how much $10,000 in a high-yield savings account can earn you.
For many of us, saving money feels like an uphill battle.
Here’s how multiple savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals.
How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
Jumbo CDs pay a higher yield than other CDs. Here’s what to know before opening one.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of Aug 4, 2025.
An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
A bank may deny you a checking account. Here is what you can do next.
Officials are worried about cutting interest rates too soon as Trump’s tariffs push up inflation.
Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
Here’s what you need to know about interest checking accounts.
If you’re looking to become a better saver, here are some tips for setting savings goals.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information