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Banking

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Explore banking basics

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How to open a certificate of deposit (CD)

Banking
Everything you need to know about opening an account.
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How to start saving (even if you’re starting from scratch)

Banking
Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
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How to transfer money from one bank to another: 4 ways

Banking
Keep fees in check when you shift money from one bank account to another.

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Senior Economic Analyst

Banking data studies

Money next to flashing sirens
Nearly 1 in 4 Americans have no emergency savings, according to a new Bankrate survey.
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A mid-year checkup is the most effective way to ensure my finances are on track.
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Two-thirds of American savers say they’re earning rates below 4% APY. Here’s why.

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Latest articles

Piggy bank in the green grass at sunset
Banks are increasing offerings of green accounts. Here’s what you need to know.
Woman watering plants.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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.
Woman with morning cup of coffee, sitting on patio and enjoying moment for herself.
Many women feel financial success is out of reach in today’s economy — but it doesn’t have to be.
A large pile of cash next to a padlock
A one-year CD can be a safe and worthwhile option, especially turning to high-yielding online banks or credit unions.
A young female researches on her phone.
Here’s the lowdown on no-penalty CDs, and how they differ from regular CDs.
Woman studying a document and working on a laptop
Here’s how multiple savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals.
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.
Woman studying a document and working on a laptop
Here’s how multiple savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals.
woman looking at her phone while walking outside
Top savings APYs remain above 4%, with plenty of account options to choose from.
Mother and daughter looking at savings account info on a cellphone
The best savings accounts for teenagers offer competitive rates and charge no fees.
Someone watering a plant that grows cash
Here’s how much $100,000 in a high-yield savings account can earn you.
female soldier and her husband use a banking app to check the state of their finances
Savings APYs remain high as the Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady.
Person looking at smartphone
The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
stacks of coin with dollar bill
A CD ladder lets savers benefit from higher rates without locking up all your money in long-term CDs.
A long spiral staircase.
Step-up CDs can help you potentially earn a higher rate of return later on.
Illustration of safe with money
CD rates may seem attractive, but in 2025’s uncertain environment, they create a lose-lose scenario that could cost you money.
A father multi-tasks with his young son.
Savers, here are strategies to invest in CDs.
couple in the kitchen with bills
Here’s everything you need to know about brokered CDs.
Woman Inserts Cash Into Wallet
If you think rates may rise again soon, a bump-up CD could be what you’re looking for.
Woman at laptop
Planning for retirement? Here’s what you need to know about IRA CDs.
Man using laptop in kitchen
Callable CDs can offer a higher yield than traditional CDs, but there’s a catch.
A young female researches on her phone.
Here’s the lowdown on no-penalty CDs, and how they differ from regular CDs.
Man working on laptop and drinking coffee
Money market funds are available from several different brokers and fund managers.
Person looking at smartphone
The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
Bank teller with customer
These credit unions offer great rates and top-notch features — and many make it easy to join.
Woman smiling at cash on a cloud
Lay away cash for an emergency or short-term goals with a money market mutual fund.
Man in home office online banking
These tips can help you manage your money more wisely and make you a bit richer.
Ally Bank logo
Ally’s money market account offers a high APY, no minimum deposit or monthly fee.
Woman looking at phone
Find the right business savings account to help your company’s money grow.
person using mobile phone leaning on railing
A second-chance checking account is designed for those whose banking history may prevent them from opening a standard account. Those who apply for this account sometimes have past issues such as an unpaid [...]
Male friends walk on a college campus.
Here are top accounts for features like ATM fee waivers, overdraft forgiveness and more.
Capital One Bank signage in New York City
Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.
Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.
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Consumers without a bank account face hurdles when trying to cash a check.
Outside view of a bank with American flag
Learn the key characteristics of certified checks and how they differ from other types of payments.
woman sitting on her couch and looking at her phone and credit card
Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.
Young Woman Checking Her Finances At Home
Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.