[header] How to understand different types of bank accounts [title] Know the basic function of a checking account. [step] Most adults need checking accounts in order to manage their money effectively. Checking accounts allow you to access your funds easily and use checks and debit cards instead of cash. 
[title] Understand that checking accounts do not typically pay significant interest. [step] Regular checking accounts pay no interest at all; they are meant only to fund your checks and debit-card expenditures.