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
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.
Bank of America offers perks beyond basic banking, including museum passes, cash back deals and $300 new account bonuses.
If you don’t have a bank account, check-cashing services offer access to your money, at a cost.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
We all use our checking accounts for the basic purposes — direct deposit of our paychecks, paying monthly bills and making debit card purchases. And while usually you’re seeing money leave your checking [...]
Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a switch to business checking.
Stay on top of your money with the right balance between your checking and savings.
Single people and young families tend to have significantly less saved.
Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
Financial markets may drop lower, but APYs on high-yield savings remain high.
Looking for a stable way to pay off your debts with money left to save? Read on.
If you have over $25,000 in your savings account, consider these strategies.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
Tariffs could cost households $3,800 in 2025. Discover smart budgeting strategies to offset rising prices on consumer goods.
Find the best high-yield savings account rate today.
Learn why a bank could close your account and what to about it.
Knowing bank holiday schedules can help you avoid delays on necessary transactions.
Savings bonds are safe and easy to buy, but you can earn higher interest income elsewhere.
These accounts sound similar, but there are some key differences to know.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information