Guides
Understand your bank
Clear, accurate explainers on the things that actually affect your money — deposit insurance, routing numbers, switching banks, and how to read a bank’s health. No jargon, no sales pitch.
Account basics
What is a routing number?
The 9-digit ABA number that tells money where to go — where to find yours, why banks have several, and how to avoid sending funds to the wrong place.
Read guide →Switching
How to switch banks (without missing a payment)
A step-by-step checklist for moving direct deposits and automatic payments to a new bank cleanly — and the order that keeps you from getting hit with overdrafts.
Read guide →Safety
Are online banks safe?
Online-only banks can be just as safe as a branch on Main Street — if you check the one thing that actually protects your money. Here is what to verify.
Read guide →Deposit insurance
FDIC vs NCUA: what's the difference?
Banks are insured by the FDIC; credit unions by the NCUA. Coverage is nearly identical — $250,000 — but the agencies, funds, and account names differ.
Read guide →Bank health
What is a good bank health score?
What capital ratios, return on assets, and our Sonar Score actually tell you about a bank — and the crucial thing a health score does not change.
Read guide →Saving
High-yield savings explained
Why some savings accounts pay 10x the national average, how APY and compounding work, and what to check before you move your emergency fund.
Read guide →Check your own bank
Search any US bank to see its FDIC status, health signal, and coverage notes in seconds.
Scan your bankBankSonar guides are informational only and not financial advice. See our disclaimer.