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.
Not all checking accounts are created equal.
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
If you overdraw your account frequently, then overdraft protection could be a good way to avoid hefty overdraft fees.
Your bank accounts have two separate balances: the current balance and the available balance. Here’s the distinction.
Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.
Electronic checks (eChecks) offer a digital alternative to traditional paper checks, allowing you to make payments directly from your checking account online. Learn how eChecks work, when to use them, [...]
That string of numbers at the bottom of your check is really important. Find out why.
Mobile apps make managing your money a snap and mobile alerts can help protect it.
Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.
Early access to direct deposited funds can make managing your budget a bit easier.
Here’s what the online bank is offering to help customers boost their savings and meet financial goals.
These common mistakes are costing us a huge chunk of change.
Nearly 3 in 10 adults would be at a loss if they suddenly needed to cover a costly expense.
Many Americans are adding nothing to their savings. These are the biggest reasons.
A new Bankrate survey also finds 1 in 4 Americans is open to buying a home in 2017.
Finances can be complicated for those 40 and up. Here’s how to make your 40s fabulous.
Trump has made tariffs an economic priority — experts share how you may be affected.
These features are designed to save you time and money.
Ally’s money market account offers a high APY, no minimum deposit or monthly fee.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
If you overdraw your account frequently, then overdraft protection could be a good way to avoid hefty overdraft fees.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Your bank accounts have two separate balances: the current balance and the available balance. Here’s the distinction.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information