Checking account

A demand deposit account subject to withdrawal of funds by check.

Checking accounts are transaction accounts that allow you to authorize the transfer money to another person or organization either by writing a check that includes the words "Pay to the order of" or by making an electronic transfer.

Banks and credit unions provide transaction accounts, as do brokerage firms and other financial services companies that offering banking services.

Money in transaction accounts is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to $100,000 per depositor in each banking institution. However, the FDIC doesn't insure money market mutual funds that offer check-writing privileges.