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
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.
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
The CFPB dropped its lawsuit alleging Capital One cheated customers out of interest.
Here’s the difference between APY and interest rate.
It’s possible to negotiate a higher-yielding savings account at your bank.
Keeping your savings in a bank down the street may seem like the obvious play, but there may be real downsides for doing so.
Finding the right savings account consists of comparing rates, fees and more.
These are the key differences between an FSA and an HSA, and how to choose the right one for you.
Learn why you need to check your APY.
Take control of your money and build a six-figure financial foundation. Here’s how.
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
You might not feel better about inflation because prices are still up post-pandemic.
Powell is concerned tariffs could lead to more inflation. This former Fed official has a different view.
Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
Bank of America offers perks beyond basic banking, including museum passes, cash back deals and $300 new account bonuses.
CD rates may seem attractive, but in 2025’s uncertain environment, they create a lose-lose scenario that could cost you money.
APYs on high-yield savings accounts remain competitive after Fed rate decision.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information