Top banks for checking accounts offer low fees, strong customer support, and convenient access to free ATMs. Some even provide rewards or interest on your balance.
Additionally, checking accounts are federally insured—banks are covered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC), while credit unions are protected by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). This insurance safeguards up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution, per account ownership category.
A checking account is intended for daily expenses like bill payments, writing checks, making purchases, and withdrawing cash. When choosing one, consider digital banking features and ATM accessibility to ensure it fits your needs. It’s also wise to look for an account with low or no service fees and minimal balance requirements.