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
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
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.
Here’s how to earn more interest with a high-yield savings account.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Interest is the price you pay to borrow money or the cost you charge to lend money.
High-yield savings rates fluctuate over time. Let’s explore what causes that.
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
Split direct deposit is a simple way to painlessly boost your savings.
Over 1 in 3 people tapped emergency savings in the past year, per a new Bankrate survey.
And here’s how Americans can stay protected in the future.
A deep, prolonged downturn separates the inevitable recession from its uglier counterpart, the depression.
With the U.S. economy facing a sharp recession, rock-bottom rates are expected to continue.
Here’s how to optimize your saving strategy in a tough economy.
The Fed will turn to new tactics that include capping yields and expanding its balance sheet.
The financial and economic hardship is far from over.
In case of a potential emergency, it pays to be financially prepared.
Americans remain cautious about making in-person trips to businesses.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information