Checking
Maximize your checking: Compare high-yield checking accounts, no-fee checking accounts and more.
Explore checking basics

Here are some key factors to consider when searching for the best checking account.

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
Latest articles

Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.

Early access to direct deposited funds can make managing your budget a bit easier.

Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.

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

Consumers without a bank account face hurdles when trying to cash a check.

This old-school way of paying is still in demand. Here’s everything you need to know.

Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.

Knowing your ATM withdrawal limits can make a sudden need for cash easier to handle.

Here’s everything you need to know about high-yield savings accounts.

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

Big banks pay just 0.01% APY while online banks offer 4% or more. Your $10,000 could earn over $800 more over two years.

The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.

A savings account can be a great tool to teach your child about money. Here are a few of our favorites.

High-yield savings rates fluctuate over time. Let’s explore what causes that.

Interest is the price you pay to borrow money or the cost you charge to lend money.

How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.

Here are scenarios for when each choice – paying down debt or saving – makes more sense.

Here’s why banking at an FDIC-insured bank is vital for the safety of your money.

Learn what a relationship rate is and how it can impact your money.

Find out who is affected most by financial stress by statistic and how to cope.

Manage money anxiety in a low rate environment with these savings strategies.

CDs and fixed annuities can be great retirement options. Here are the differences.

American culture changes at a breakneck pace — just ask fans of Stanley cups and skinny jeans in 2024. But over the past decades, one mantra hasn’t changed much: Don’t talk about your personal finances. [...]

Here are some smart ways to protect yourself if your digital bank account stops working.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information







