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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.
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Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.

Get started with a checking account

Checking

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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Checking

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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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.

 

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Experts in all things banking

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About Bankrate
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Bankrate Financial Analyst

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

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Senior Economic Analyst

Latest articles

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Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.
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Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
close up of hands signing a check
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
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Knowing your ATM withdrawal limits can make a sudden need for cash easier to handle.
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Mobile apps make managing your money a snap and mobile alerts can help protect it.
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Online bill pay can add convenience and security to managing your routine bills.
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A bank may deny you a checking account. Here is what you can do next.
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Depositing cash into someone’s account isn’t always possible, but there are options.
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A savings account can be a great tool to teach your child about money. Here are a few of our favorites.
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It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
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For many of us, saving money feels like an uphill battle.
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Here’s how multiple savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals.
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The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
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Here’s how much $100,000 in a high-yield savings account can earn you.
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Most people know they should save. But understanding why can make the habit stick. Saving isn’t just about “being responsible” — it’s about control, opportunity, and peace of mind. Here are seven [...]
A young man uses an ATM.
Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.
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Setting aside pretax dollars in an HSA can help you defray future medical costs.
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Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
close up of hands signing a check
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
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How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
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Being able to open a checking and savings account can help build financial security.
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ATMs are useful for depositing money, checking your balance, and more, but be aware of possible issues that may arise.
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Here’s how much $10,000 in a high-yield savings account can earn you.
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