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
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.
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
APYs on high-yield savings accounts remain competitive after Fed rate decision.
A new Bankrate analysis shows mothers earned 31 percent less in wages than fathers in 2023.
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
JPMorgan raises recession probability to 50%. Learn five practical steps to protect your savings before economic conditions worsen.
The term “Trumpcession” has been popping up in headlines this week, as economists and market watchers debate whether President Trump’s economic policies could trigger a downturn. But are we actually [...]
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.
Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.
These joint checking accounts are ideal for sharing finances with another person.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information