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
Consumers without a bank account face hurdles when trying to cash a check.
Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.
Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
Tired of paying fees? Here are seven ideas to get around paying them.
The amount of time for a check to clear can vary from check to check.
Early access to direct deposited funds can make managing your budget a bit easier.
If you overdraw your account frequently, then overdraft protection could be a good way to avoid hefty overdraft fees.
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
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.
Losing a savings bond doesn’t mean it’s money lost. Here’s how to find it.
You’ve matured, but those savings bonds from childhood may still need more time.
For savers, here’s what to consider when the Fed lowers interest rates.
Get ahead of your savings by raising your rate by an amount you prefer. Here’s how.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 16, 2025.
It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 11, 2025.
Upcoming Medicaid cuts may make it harder for disabled people to save money.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 10, 2025.
Withdrawing cash at an out-of-network ATM? Be prepared to pay more than ever.
Knowing how these accounts work, and how they differ, can help better your finances.
Considering banking with either Ally Bank or Marcus by Goldman Sachs? Here’s how the two compare.
Aging parents are a growing financial concern for many Gen Xers who are still raising kids at home.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 9, 2025.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information