Checking

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

Explore checking basics

A woman uses mobile banking while eating.

From no fees to online bill pay, here are the must-have checking account features.

woman standing next to bike and looking at phone

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

Types of checking accounts

Whether you’re making payments online, using a debit card, or writing a physical check, a checking account is a necessity for most people. Here are some of the most-widely available types of checking accounts offered at banks and credit unions.

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

Greg McBride, CFA

Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

Senior Economic Analyst

Learn more

Latest articles

Looking to save money when ordering checks? Consider getting them online instead, here’s how.

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

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

A bounced check is something that should be avoided. Here’s what you need to know.

Outside view of a bank with American flag

Learn the key characteristics of certified checks and how they differ from other types of payments.

Here’s everything you need to know about the specialty consumer reporting agency.

Here’s what you need to know about voiding a check, and the alternative options.

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

Whimsical illustration of a hand putting a quarter into a miniature but realistic high end safe. As if it were a piggy bank

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

Here’s how to save money and get the most bang for your buck.

Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office

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

Person Putting Coin In Piggy Bank At Table

Savers can still earn yields on deposit accounts that are outpacing inflation, even as some yields have decreased recently as banks anticipate a likely Federal Reserve rate cut in September. One such option [...]

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

woman managing personal banking and finance at home

Working as a freelancer requires a new approach to saving money. Here’s how.

No matter your age, these tips can help you improve your financial situation.

Whether you hope to buy a home or just rent for a while, a solid savings plan is the key to finally moving out of your parents’ house.

Panorama of aerial view of Downtown Houston, Texas, USA

As the old saying goes: “Everything is bigger in Texas.” And that’s also true of your list of options when choosing a bank or credit union in the state.

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

Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.

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

young man falling out of the sky along with various household items and cash

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

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

These seven banks and credit unions offer competitive rates on CDs for businesses.

Here’s how to save money and get the most bang for your buck.

The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information

Checking

Explore checking basics

Get started with a checking account

Types of checking accounts

Experts in all things banking

Compare top-rated banks

Review our top banks of 2024

Latest articles