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’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.
The amount of time can vary from check to check.
Your bank accounts have two separate balances: the current balance and the available balance. Here’s the distinction.
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.
Consider a savings account with an APY above the inflation rate.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
Here are some places to look for a source of funds.
Make 2024 the year you take your savings to the next level.
These holiday savings accounts are still available at many small banks and credit unions. But are they the best way to save?
Saving for your grandchildren can help to minimize the financial burdens they face down the road.
Navigating the world of personal finance is daunting, but it’s particularly so for Gen Zers.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Fed officials, however, are uncertain about how many times they’ll be able to cut borrowing costs in 2025.
This Fed communication tool is important, but be cautious when interpreting it.
Know the two major benefits of opening a CD now, even as interest rates decline.
There’s still time to lock in a high-yielding CD as the Fed cuts rates.
Consider a savings account with an APY above the inflation rate.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
Here are some places to look for a source of funds.
Make 2024 the year you take your savings to the next level.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information