Checking

Maximize your checking: Compare high-yield checking accounts, no-fee checking accounts and more.

Explore checking basics

A woman uses mobile banking while eating.

From no fees to online bill pay, here are the must-have checking account features.

woman standing next to bike and looking at phone

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

Types of checking accounts

Whether you’re making payments online, using a debit card, or writing a physical check, a checking account is a necessity for most people. Here are some of the most-widely available types of checking accounts offered at banks and credit unions.

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

Greg McBride, CFA

Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

Senior Economic Analyst

Learn more

Latest articles

Balancing your checking account may sound dated, but it still makes sense.

Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.

Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.

Young woman withdrawing money using phone at the ATM machine on the street in Budapest in Hungary.

Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.

Capital One Bank signage in New York City

Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.

Two female fashion designers working together at their studio

Opening a business checking account isn’t as simple as opening a personal checking account. Here’s what to know.

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

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

Woman working with business document and laptop on the table

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

female soldier and her husband use a banking app to check the state of their finances

Bank account budgeting tools make it easy to track your personal finances.

Side view of father cooking food while daughter having apple in kitchen

These simple moves can help build a cash cushion.

Whimsical illustration of a hand putting a quarter into a miniature but realistic high end safe. As if it were a piggy bank

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

Easy mornings and working from home for this couple

Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.

The amount of money you should save each month will vary based on your goals. Here’s what to know.

Confused about finding an HSA? Use these tips to determine the best deal for you.

Illustration of cash under a beach umbrella

Here’s how much $10,000 in a high-yield savings account can earn you.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks to journalists at a news conference following the Fed's June 19 interest rate decision.

The Fed’s move is a win for borrowers and a wake up call for savers.

Save time and money by learning from other people’s mistakes.

Here’s everything you need to know about this unique type of easing from the Fed.

Traders work after the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange

The U.S. economy looks far different now than it did when the expansion first began in June 2009.

Money matters abroad can be easier and less costly with a little planning.

Nearly 3 in 10 adults would be at a loss if they suddenly needed to cover a costly expense.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at a press conference

Here’s what the Fed said on interest rates and the economy.

Fintech firm Dave created a product that reinvents overdraft fees and helps customers build their credit.

The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information

Checking

Explore checking basics

Get started with a checking account

Types of checking accounts

Experts in all things banking

Compare top-rated banks

Review our top banks of 2024

Latest articles