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
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
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.
The top high-yield savings accounts are currently earning APYs of 5 percent and greater.
$10,000 high-yield savings vs. $10,000 money market account: Here’s which earns more
Worried that your high-yield savings APY isn’t so high? Here’s how to stay on top.
Ready to open a savings account? Here’s what you’ll need to know.
As the Fed hints at lowering interest rates, here’s how to prepare when rates fall.
Keeping your savings in a bank down the street may seem like the obvious play, but there may be real downsides for doing so.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
The Fed has kept interest rates steady so far in 2025, but that might change soon.
Here’s how multiple savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals.
Overwhelmed state unemployment offices have left Americans without aid for weeks, if not longer.
Managing your finances and choosing the right bank can be daunting, especially in a state as big and diverse as Florida.
Powell is dealing with the most intense division of his eight years as Fed chair.
Every financial decision you make is impacted by the Federal Reserve.
How much money you keep at home depends on your personal situation, including your need for cash in everyday life as well as in an emergency situation. Elliot Pepper, CPA, CFP, MST, financial planner and [...]
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.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information