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
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.
Your bank accounts have two separate balances: the current balance and the available balance. Here’s the distinction.
It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and overspend. Here are ways to avoid that trap.
More than 3 in 5 Americans are worried about their incomes over the next six months.
Experts say it’s time to prepare now for an expensive gift-buying season.
The coronavirus pandemic drained Americans’ savings accounts.
The first of six monthly Child Tax Credit (CTC) payments start July 15.
The savings account has always been a time-tested standby. Here’s why it still matters.
Before making this your own version of the roaring ’20s, here’s what you may want to consider.
Those taxpayers could potentially see thousands of extra dollars when they file for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
The odds of a downturn jumped the most since 2022.
If you’re looking to save with a credit union, here are the top rates available.
Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.
Being scammed can have devastating effects on your finances. Here’s how to stop it.
Protecting your financial data can help keep your money safe from fraudsters.
The best bank and credit union for you will depend on your banking needs, but in general, the best banks offer accounts with low or no minimum balance requirements and don’t charge monthly fees — or [...]
Keep fees in check when you shift money from one bank account to another.
Compound interest is a powerful force for people who want to build their savings.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information