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 reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.
About Bankrate
Bankrate 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
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
Consumers without a bank account face hurdles when trying to cash a check.
This old-school way of paying is still in demand. Here’s everything you need to know.
Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.
Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
Knowing your ATM withdrawal limits can make a sudden need for cash easier to handle.
Mobile apps make managing your money a snap and mobile alerts can help protect it.
A cash offer means the buyer can buy the home outright, without needing a mortgage.
Your parents’ living situation determines how much you need to fill out.
How Americans save for retirement and tips on meeting your retirement goals.
Selling a home isn’t free, in Texas or anywhere.
The Amex Blue Business Cash is a great fit for small businesses looking for a straightforward cash back credit card.
The Capital One Platinum Credit Card has credit-building benefits that can help you improve your score.
How much income do you need for a $800K home purchase?
You’ll be considered independent, which is usually good news for financial aid.
Big banks pay just 0.01% APY while online banks offer 4% or more. Your $10,000 could earn over $800 more over two years.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Here are simple steps to take to avoid paying checking account fees.
In this era of no-fee banking, pesky fees still exist. Here’s how to avoid them.
How to avoid these banking mistakes.
Here’s what other banks have to offer that you might be missing out on at yours.
Consumers without a bank account face hurdles when trying to cash a check.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information
