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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.

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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

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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.

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Available balance vs. current balance

Learn about the two separate balances you may see when looking at your bank account.

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Checking account fees

Learn about the different kinds of checking account fees and what you can do to avoid them.

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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.

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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.

Portrait of young couple in front of home

The new year calls for a new look at your old savings account.

Men hands holding a US Government Treasury check

The deadline has recently been extended, but you’re still going to want to act fast.

It takes work and a positive mindset, but an emergency fund can be there for you when you need it most.

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi speaks from a lectern

The HEROES Act is back, but it could be a non-starter for some Republicans.

Woman voting in a face mask at the polls

In this election, many young voters remain unsure about at least one key issue.

A photo of a check from the Treasury Department

The plan includes direct aid to taxpayers: $1,200 to individuals and $500 per child and dependent adult.

A wealthy couple research their financial accounts.

How much is too much? Here’s everything you need to know.

A picture from above of pedestrians crossing a busy street

The study shows that the number of Americans with less emergency savings has ballooned since the crisis began.

Here’s a convenient way for Apple device users to transfer money between friends and family.

With some planning and preparation, this is how I reduced my Thanksgiving grocery bill.

Bankrate writer Karen Bennett and editor Marc Wojno pose in a selfie at the Money 20/20 conference in Las Vegas.

Banks are working to keep customers safe through AI apps and human interaction.

Slow shopping has been growing in popularity despite potential drawbacks.

Knowing a savings bond’s value can help you decide whether to hold it or redeem it.

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.

Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.

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

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Explore checking basics

Get started with a checking account

Types of checking accounts

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