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
Here’s what you need to know about interest checking accounts.
Online checking accounts stand out for different features. Here’s our top picks.
We list seven ways to endorse a check and how to process it correctly and securely.
Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
Balancing your checking account may sound dated, but it still makes sense.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Even earning as little as $100 in extra income here and there can give you added spending money.
These simple moves can help build a cash cushion.
Even as interest rates drop, some top-yielding savings accounts remain competitive.
Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.
Consider a savings account with an APY above the inflation rate.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
Even the small victories add up over time when you’re living on a fixed income.
Officials are sounding the alarm that they’re running the economy too hot.
Budgeting on an irregular income is challenging, but it’s possible. Here’s how to do it.
H&R Block launched a challenger bank aimed at those not served by traditional banks.
Online banks offer a number of benefits, and they’re just as safe as brick-and-mortar banks.
Bank of America is the latest bank to eliminate NSF fees and reduce overdraft fees.
The principle can sometimes predict where inflation is heading.
Five winners won $10,000 each in Bankrate’s first Drop Your Debt Sweepstakes.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information