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.
Check out the 13 different types of checking accounts.
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
That string of numbers at the bottom of your check is really important. Find out why.
Mobile apps make managing your money a snap and mobile alerts can help protect it.
Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.
Early access to direct deposited funds can make managing your budget a bit easier.
The person-to-person payment tool can allow for easy transactions to friends, family and more.
Looking to save money when ordering checks? Consider getting them online instead. Here’s how.
Here’s everything you need to know about the specialty consumer reporting agency.
A bounced check is something that should be avoided. Here’s what you need to know.
APYs on high-yield savings accounts remain competitive after Fed rate decision.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
A new Bankrate analysis shows mothers earned 31 percent less in wages than fathers in 2023.
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
JPMorgan raises recession probability to 50%. Learn five practical steps to protect your savings before economic conditions worsen.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
The term “Trumpcession” has been popping up in headlines this week, as economists and market watchers debate whether President Trump’s economic policies could trigger a downturn. But are we actually [...]
Learn six practical ways to safeguard your finances amid economic uncertainty, from strengthening banking security to finding better rates.
Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
CD rates may seem attractive, but in 2025’s uncertain environment, they create a lose-lose scenario that could cost you money.
APYs on high-yield savings accounts remain competitive after Fed rate decision.
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
A new Bankrate analysis shows mothers earned 31 percent less in wages than fathers in 2023.
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
An extra paycheck in the month can be a game-changer for your finances.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information