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
Convenient access to your cash often comes at a price — and sometimes it’s a very high one.
Tired of paying fees? Here are seven ideas to get around paying them.
There’s more than one way to bank. Here are the reasons to consider banking locally.
There’s no need to pay for a checking account when many banks offer free checking.
Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.
Debit cards are inherently less secure than credit cards, especially at these spots.
Knowing your ATM withdrawal limits can make a sudden need for cash easier to handle.
This old-school way of paying is still in demand. Here’s everything you need to know.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Tariffs could cost households $3,800 in 2025. Discover smart budgeting strategies to offset rising prices on consumer goods.
Find the best high-yield savings account rate today.
How to find the best high-yield savings account in times of high inflation
These simple moves can help you build a cash cushion.
Here’s how to earn more interest with a high-yield savings account.
You might not feel better about inflation because prices are still up post-pandemic.
Knowing how fixed and variable expenses differ can help you improve your finances.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
Stay on top of your money with the right balance between your checking and savings.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Knowing bank holiday schedules can help you avoid delays on necessary transactions.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information