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 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

Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.

A second-chance checking account is designed for those whose banking history may prevent them from opening a standard account. Applicants sometimes have past problems such as an unpaid negative balance [...]

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

Here’s how these two bank fees compare and how to best avoid them.

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

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

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

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

Best high-yield savings rate today.

Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of Aug 4, 2025.

An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.

If you’re looking to become a better saver, here are some tips for setting savings goals.

Despite political pressure to cut rates, the Fed looks to keep them steady, for now.

For many of us, saving money feels like an uphill battle.

High-yield savings rates today: July 21, 2025 | Best APYs exceed 4% ahead of next week’s Fed meeting
Despite political pressure, the Fed is expected to maintain interest rates.

With a bit of planning, you can reduce your grocery bill. Here’s how.

These credit unions offer great rates and top-notch features — and many make it easy to join.

Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.

You can get a money order from many places. Here’s what you need to know.

A second-chance checking account is designed for those whose banking history may prevent them from opening a standard account. Applicants sometimes have past problems such as an unpaid negative balance [...]

Linking bank accounts is a way to make it easier to transact between the two.

Now that the U.S. Mint is done producing pennies, what happens to consumer prices?

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

These accounts sound similar, but there are some key differences to know.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information







