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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.
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If you overdraw your account frequently, then overdraft protection could be a good way to avoid hefty overdraft fees.
close up of hands signing a check
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.

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Checking

Available balance vs. current balance

Learn about the two separate balances you may see when looking at your bank account.

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Checking account fees

Learn about the different kinds of checking account fees and what you can do to avoid them.

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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.

 

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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

Greg McBride, CFA Arrow Right Icon

Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

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Senior Economic Analyst

Latest articles

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Here’s why early direct deposit may work better for those looking to get paid in advance.
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It’s not just a place to park capital. Learn how a business checking account can be a business tool.
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There are various ways to earn rewards and maximize financial gains with a rewards checking account.
Male friends walk on a college campus.
Here are top accounts for features like ATM fee waivers, overdraft forgiveness and more.
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Finding the account of your dreams comes down to knowing what you want and the features you value most.
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Many of these options are flexible to your schedule.
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A savings account is a good tool for teaching children financial basics and responsibility.
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Illustration of Fed Chair Jerome Powell
Economists see a slower job market in the year ahead but recession odds remain low.
image of lawnmower and cash
Many of these options are flexible to your schedule.
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A bank reconciliation statement helps you track business finances and catch errors.
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Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.
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Short answer? Yes. Here’s what you need to know.
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