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

You can spend less on reorders and still have the security features you need.

Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.

Young smiling woman using mobile phone while working on a laptop at a cafe

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

man sitting at outdoor cafe table and looking at his phone

Mobile banking apps aren’t just trendy, they can help you better manage your money.

Looking to save money when ordering checks? Consider getting them online instead, here’s how.

Find out which banks are ranked as the best for your small business account in 2023.

Early access to direct deposited funds can make managing your budget a bit easier.

A bounced check is something that should be avoided. Here’s what you need to know.

A Gen Z woman counting cash next to a laptop

Navigating the world of personal finance is daunting, but it’s particularly so for Gen Zers.

Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office

Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.

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.

Young woman wearing white headphones using laptop and mobile phone for remote work

A biweekly budget lets you allocate your expenses better than on a monthly basis.

A full grocery basket surrounded by grocery receipts

The average household earned $101,805 in 2023 before taxes and spent $77,280.

The best time to cash in savings bonds depends on an investor’s life circumstances.

Female patient paying with credit card at doctor's office front desk

Here’s what you need to know about upcoming changes to Health Savings Accounts.

Close-up of woman trading stock online on mobile phone

A money market account is like a parking spot for cash, but with a few guardrails.

Navigating the world of personal finance is daunting, but it’s particularly so for Gen Zers.

These seven banks and credit unions offer competitive rates on CDs for businesses.

Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.

A CD ladder lets savers benefit from higher rates without locking up all your money in long-term CDs.

President Biden Delivers Remarks On Hidden Junk Fees

The CFPB has passed a rule to cut overdraft fees, but there are ways to save now.

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

Explore the unique bank perks you might be missing out on.

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