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
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
The amount of time for a check to clear can vary from check to check.
Here are easy actions you can take to avoid the fee of get it waived.
Stop wasting time writing checks. Learn the faster, safer way to pay.
Here’s what you need to know about this high-yield checking promo.
Get your tax refund faster and more securely by setting up direct deposit. Learn how to avoid common mistakes.
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.
A biweekly budget lets you allocate your expenses better than on a monthly basis.
The average household earned $101,805 in 2023 before taxes and spent $77,280.
The best time to cash in savings bonds depends on an investor’s life circumstances.
Here’s what you need to know about upcoming changes to Health Savings Accounts.
Learn how deinfluencers help you save money by promoting mindful spending habits.
Here’s how to determine what a good interest rate is on your deposit accounts.
Knowing a savings bond’s value can help you decide whether to hold it or redeem it.
It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
The odds of a downturn jumped the most since 2022.
If you’re looking to save with a credit union, here are the top rates available.
Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.
Being scammed can have devastating effects on your finances. Here’s how to stop it.
Protecting your financial data can help keep your money safe from fraudsters.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information