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.
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Mobile apps make managing your money a snap and mobile alerts can help protect it.

Online bill pay can add convenience and security to managing your routine bills.

A bank may deny you a checking account. Here is what you can do next.

Depositing cash into someone’s account isn’t always possible, but there are options.

Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.

A second-chance checking account is designed for those whose banking history may prevent them from opening a standard account. Applicants sometimes have past problems such as an unpaid negative balance [...]

Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.

Here’s how these two bank fees compare and how to best avoid them.

A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year

Here’s how to boost your savings.

Ready to open a savings account? Here’s what you’ll need to know.

An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.

It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.

Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.

Keeping your savings in a bank down the street may seem like the obvious play, but there may be real downsides for doing so.

Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.

Overdraft protection can be a helpful and convenient tool to avoid paying a steeper overdraft fee.

Here’s why you should avoid being underbanked and how to ensure that you aren’t.

Bank account bonuses are a great way to bring in new customers. Here’s how.

A CD often earns a competitive, fixed rate. Here’s what to know before opening one.

The Fed has kept interest rates steady so far in 2025, but that might change soon.

Workers still have less purchasing power today than at the beginning of 2021.

Looking to boost your savings in today’s economy? Try these not-so-obvious tips.

These four types of bank accounts can help you meet your financial goals.
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