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
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
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.
Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.
Single people and young families tend to have significantly less saved.
A joint bank account can make financial life easier for those sharing finances.
Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks to decide if a credit union is right for you.
Most online banks are secure and pay better yields than brick-and-mortar banks.
Bankrate’s list of all the failed banks in every U.S. state from 2009 to 2025.
Knowing your ATM withdrawal limits can make a sudden need for cash easier to handle.
Experian’s new savings account has a yield based on membership tier and no minimum deposit.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information