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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.
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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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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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Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.

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

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

Learn the key characteristics of certified checks and how they differ from other types of payments.

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

Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.

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.

Sweepstakes winners used their $10,000 prize for practical (and fun) purposes.

Even the small victories add up over time when you’re living on a fixed income.

Budgeting on an irregular income is challenging, but it’s possible. Here’s how to do it.

Online banks offer a number of benefits, and they’re just as safe as brick-and-mortar banks.

Five winners won $10,000 each in Bankrate’s first Drop Your Debt Sweepstakes.

U.S. consumers see inflation as the biggest threat to improving personal finances.

It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and overspend. Here are ways to avoid that trap.

More than 3 in 5 Americans are worried about their incomes over the next six months.

Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.

CDs can be a useful tool to save, but make sure to shop around for the right kind and bank for you.

Coins sitting around in an overloaded jar could be put to better use. Here’s how.

Saving for your grandchildren can help to minimize the financial burdens they face down the road.

Rainy day and emergency funds differ but together provide a sound financial plan.

Use these strategies to keep your deposits safe when they top FDIC limits.

Here are a few different ways to see how much money you have in your bank account.

Several banks continue to offer savings accounts well above 4 percent APY.
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