Savings accounts are a great way to set money aside and have it grow faster, thanks to compound interest. They are also a good spot to save for emergencies and larger savings goals like a down payment on a car or home.
The best savings accounts offer competitive annual percentage yields (APYs), low fees, and FDIC insurance on deposits. They also have mobile apps and small minimum balance requirements to make it easy to keep your money safe.
Money Market Account
Money market accounts are a safe place to store large amounts of cash, often with a higher interest rate than traditional savings and checking accounts. They are also FDIC-insured, which means your deposits are protected for up to $250,000 per depositor in the event of a bank failure or an economic crisis.
However, money market accounts are only suitable for some. Consider your personal and financial goals before opening a money market account to ensure it will meet your needs.
In addition, you should check out the fees and withdrawal limits that apply to money market accounts. For example, some MMAs have minimum balance requirements and may charge monthly maintenance fees. These fees can negate much of your earnings with the account.
Certificate of Deposit
One of the safest ways to grow savings is by putting your money in a certificate of deposit (CD). These accounts require you to lock your funds for a specific term, often three months to five years.
CDs are available from online banks, brick-and-mortar banking institutions, and even credit unions. They offer fixed interest rates and up to $250,000 in FDIC insurance if purchased from an insured bank or credit union.
They also don’t have monthly fees like savings and money market accounts. However, some CDs have an early withdrawal penalty, affecting interest earnings.
High-Yield Savings Account
A high-yield savings account is one of the best ways to grow your money. These accounts offer a higher interest rate than standard savings accounts, and you don’t have to worry about minimum balances or monthly fees.
If you’re saving for a big purchase or want to save for retirement, a high-yield savings account can make it easier to meet your goals. It’s also a great way to park windfalls, such as stimulus checks or large payouts.
A high-yield savings account has pros and cons, so it’s important to know how to pick the right one for your needs. Look for high-yield accounts with competitive rates, no monthly fees, and offer options for transferring to and from linked deposit accounts.
High-Yield Online Savings Account
High-Yield Online Savings Accounts are a great way to save. They offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts, and most don’t require monthly fees or a minimum balance to stay open.
This account can help you meet short-term goals and build your emergency fund. It’s also FDIC-insured, so your money is protected if the bank ever goes under.
Opening a new savings account can be a breeze, but you should find one that fits your needs. For example, the best national banks have robust mobile banking platforms, no minimum deposit or balance requirements, and high APYs.
Individual Retirement Account
Individual Retirement Accounts, or IRAs, are among the best ways to save for retirement. They offer long-term tax advantages and a wide variety of investment options.
IRAs come in several types, including traditional and Roth IRAs. There are also SEP and SIMPLE IRAs for small businesses and self-employed individuals.
For self-employed people or without access to workplace retirement plans such as 401(k)s, IRAs are the ideal way to build up savings for the future.
There are many different IRAs, and your choice depends on your situation. A retirement advisor can help you decide which is best for your unique goals and financial situation.
Specialty Accounts
A specialty savings account is a special-purpose savings account that targets a specific goal, such as retirement or a medical expense. These accounts may come with tax benefits and other features that can be useful for people who have specific savings goals.
For example, an HSA (health savings account) is a tax-free way to save for health care costs. These accounts are designed to hold money that you can use to pay for qualified medical expenses, including deductibles and co-pays.
Besides an HSA, another option for savings is an IRA. These accounts can be tax-free if you meet certain eligibility requirements, and they’re a great way to save for retirement.
Vacation Account
A vacation account is a safe way to keep your money safe and accessible for a few months so that you can save up for an important getaway. These accounts are especially useful for putting down a deposit on a rental car or buying a hotel room.
Importance of Savings Account
A savings account is an essential part of any financial strategy, and it’s especially important to save as much money as you can while the economy is healthy. The key to making this a successful financial strategy is regularly reevaluating your situation and implementing smart saving strategies.
The safety of savings accounts is important because they don’t usually lose value in the market as quickly as other investments. This can be a huge advantage during the stock, bond, or real estate volatility. This is how to ensure your funds stay secure in a volatile economy. These accounts are federally insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per ownership category, and financial institution, so they aren’t likely to be at risk if your bank goes under.