Back when I used to write checks for everything, I was fanatical about keeping my register to the penny. Now, I only write three checks per month; one to church and the other two for bills that don't offer online bill pay. Everything else is paid online and those items pretty much show up right away, so I try to keep a cushion in the account and don't stress over it. I check my account several times a week, so I would spot any unusual charge pretty quickly.