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10 Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of May 2025: Up to 4.50% APY

Updated: May 7, 2025, 2:37pm
Written By
Former Senior Staff Writer
Reviewed
Deputy Editor, Banking and Investing
& 1 other
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

Among 370 savings accounts from 157 banks and credit unions, we found the Synchrony High-Yield Savings account to be the best high-yield savings account. An impressive 4.00% annual percentage yield (APY), few fees, solid customer service and access to ATMs make the account stand out.

When determining the best high-yield accounts, APY was an important consideration, but we also weighed fees, trustworthiness and other factors. Our winners are all federally insured up to $250,000 per depositor, and none of the accounts we recommend charge a monthly fee.

APYs and account details are accurate as of May 8, 2025.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

We are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Advertisers do not and cannot influence our ratings. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate high-yield savings accounts and the trustworthiness of an institution. We also commissioned a survey of 2,000 adults to determine what Americans want in a savings account.

Read our rigorous editorial guidelines and the banking methodology to learn more about the ratings below.

  • 157 national banks and credit unions analyzed
  • 370 high-yield savings accounts investigated
  • 25 data points weighed and ranked

Read More

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of 2025

Best for Emergency Funds

Synchrony Bank High Yield Savings

Synchrony Bank High Yield Savings
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is subject to change at any time without notice. Offer applies to personal accounts only. Fees may reduce earnings. For High Yield Savings accounts, the rate may change after the account is opened. Visit synchrony.com/banking for current rates, terms and account requirements. Member FDIC.

4.00%

Rates and details as of 3/18/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Synchrony Bank High Yield Savings
Learn More Arrow
On Synchrony Bank's Website
Member FDIC

Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is subject to change at any time without notice. Offer applies to personal accounts only. Fees may reduce earnings. For High Yield Savings accounts, the rate may change after the account is opened. Visit synchrony.com/banking for current rates, terms and account requirements. Member FDIC.

4.00%

Rates and details as of 3/18/25.

$0

$0

Editor's Take

Synchrony High-Yield Savings is a great option if you’re looking for a stand-alone savings account. It offers a competitive interest rate, few fees or minimums and access to ATMs (which not all savings accounts do).

Why We Like It

With a high yield, robust customer service features and few fees, the account offers a solid package for savers.

What We Don’t Like

Synchrony is an online-only bank, making it less useful for folks who prioritize in-person communication or who want to deposit cash.

Who It’s Best For

Consider this account if you’re looking for a new emergency fund that’s not attached to a checking account. (Synchrony doesn’t offer one.)

Pros & Cons
  • High savings yield, with daily compounding interest
  • No monthly fees or minimums
  • No overdraft fees
  • 24/7 automated customer service
  • Access to ATMs
  • No physical branches
  • $25 fee for outgoing domestic wire transfers
  • Limited to six withdrawals per month
Details
  • Earn an APY of 4.00% that compounds daily.
  • No monthly maintenance fee, required minimum deposits or overdraft fees.
  • No incoming wire transfer fees, though you’ll owe $25 for domestic wires. (No international wires available.)
  • Access to ATM card, and no-fee options through the Plus or Accel networks. Receive up to $5 per statement in reimbursements on ATMs used in the U.S.
  • Limited to 6 withdrawals per month, though that doesn’t count ATM withdrawals. After that, your withdrawals will be denied, but there is no fee.
  • 24/7 customer service available via the phone and there’s a chatbot that can connect you to a human representative.

Best for In-Person Banking

Capital One 360 Performance Savings Account™

Capital One 360 Performance Savings Account™
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

3.60%

Rates and details as of 4/8/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Capital One 360 Performance Savings Account™
Learn More Arrow
On Capital One 360’s Website
Member FDIC

3.60%

Rates and details as of 4/8/25.

$0

$0

Editor's Take

Capital One 360 Performance Savings is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-yield savings account with the ability to bank in person and avoid most fees and minimum requirements. While the account’s APY is much higher than the national average, you’ll find better options on this list.

Why We Like It

While consumers are becoming more comfortable banking online, it can be useful to have the option to bank in person, which Capital One allows. The account itself imposes few fees and offers a reasonably high yield.

What We Don’t Like

While the yield is high compared to the national average, there are superior options elsewhere in our ranking.

Who It’s Best For

This is the only bank on our list that has hundreds of banking branches, including its cafes, while also offering a competitive yield on its savings products. If you want to have the option of talking to a human in the flesh, this savings account may be right for you.

Pros & Cons
  • No monthly fees
  • No minimum deposit or balance requirements
  • 24/7 customer service available by phone
  • Bank branches available
  • Higher APYs available elsewhere
  • Other national banks have more branches
  • Interest compounds monthly rather than daily
Details
  • You’ll earn 3.60% on all balances and interest compounds monthly.
  • There’s no monthly maintenance or overdraft fee, though you’re not allowed to overdraft on your account.
  • No minimum balance requirement to open an account or earn interest.
  • Outgoing domestic wire transfers cost $30; international outgoing wires cost $40 and need to be completed at a branch.
  • The savings account doesn’t come with an ATM card; you’ll need a checking account, as well.
  • You are limited to 6 withdrawals per month. However, that limit is currently not being enforced, according to the account disclosure.
  • Customer service available by phone 24/7.

Best for a Good Digital Experience

American Express® High Yield Savings Account

American Express® High Yield Savings Account
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

3.60%

$0 Minimum to earn APY
Rates and details as of 5/8/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

American Express® High Yield Savings Account
Learn More Arrow
On American Express National Bank's Website
Member FDIC

3.60%

$0 Minimum to earn APY
Rates and details as of 5/8/25.

$0

$0

Editor's Take

If you’re looking for a high-yielding savings account from one of the nation’s largest financial institutions, this Amex product might be right for you. Still, you’ll find higher yields from other winners.

Why We Like It

American Express offers the advantages of a large financial institution, including easy-to-use digital banking features and good customer service. There are few fees, and the yield is much higher than that of many national banks.

What We Don’t Like

While high by comparison, you can still find better yields from some of our other winners. Moreover, the account doesn’t come with check-writing privileges or ATM access, making it less flexible for savers.

Who It’s Best For

American Express offers a solid digital banking experience and scores well on independent customer service metrics, making it an ideal fit for someone chiefly concerned with the ease of using an account.

Pros & Cons
  • No minimum balance requirement
  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • Good customer service
  • Daily compounding interest
  • Higher yields available elsewhere
  • No check-writing privileges
  • No ATM access
Details
  • You’ll earn 3.60% APY ($0 Minimum to earn APY, rates as of 5/8/2025) on all balances, with interest compounding daily.
  • There are no monthly maintenance fees, no minimum deposit requirement and you can open an account with any amount.
  • Overdrafts are not allowed, and there’s no fee.
  • There’s no access to ATMs or checks, but wire transfers are permitted..
  • There’s no transaction limit.
  • You can reach customer service 24/7, including via the mobile app.

Best for Avoiding Fees

Barclays Online Savings

Barclays Online Savings
4.8
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

3.80%

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Barclays Online Savings
Learn More Arrow
Read Our Review

3.80%

$0

$0

Editor's Take

The Barclays Online Savings account charges few, if any, fees and offers an elevated yield with no minimum deposit requirement.

Why We Like It

With no monthly fee, minimum deposit requirement or nonsufficient funds fee, you can start saving with any balance without worrying about fees offsetting the interest you earn. Interest compounds daily and there is no limit to the amount of withdrawals or transfers you can make.

What We Don’t Like

You won’t have access to any branches or ATMs. Additionally, you won’t have the option to do all your banking at Barclays, since there are no checking accounts offered.

Who It’s Best For

This account is a good option for savers looking for a no-cost account that earns a solid APY on all balances.

Pros & Cons
  • No fees
  • No minimums
  • Interest compounds daily
  • No branches in the U.S.
  • No ATM access
  • Checking account not available
Details
  • You’ll earn a solid 3.80% on all balances, with interest compounding daily.
  • There is no minimum deposit required to open an account, but your account may be closed if your balance remains below $1 for 180 days.
  • You won’t pay any monthly fees or nonsufficient funds fees.
  • There won’t be a limit to the number of withdrawals and transfers you can make out of your account each month.
  • Customer service is available between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET seven days a week.

Best for Highly Rated Customer Service

Marcus by Goldman Sachs High-Yield Online Savings Account

Marcus by Goldman Sachs High-Yield Online Savings Account
4.9
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

3.75%

Rates and details as of 4/15/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Marcus by Goldman Sachs High-Yield Online Savings Account
Learn More Arrow
Via MoneyLion’s Website

3.75%

Rates and details as of 4/15/25.

$0

$0

Editor's Take

The Marcus by Goldman Sachs High-Yield Online Savings account is a solid account for folks who want to avoid fees, earn an attractive yield (although not the highest) and take advantage of 24/7 customer service.

Why We Like It

You’ll earn a tidy yield on your savings, and you won’t have to deal with maintenance fees or minimum deposits. Plus, Marcus customers have access to 24/7 customer service and have reported high levels of satisfaction in independent analysis, such as the 2024 J.D. Power U.S. Direct Banking Satisfaction Study.

What We Don’t Like

While its yield is competitive, it’s not the highest on the market. Moreover, Marcus doesn’t offer a checking account, so full-service banking isn’t an option, and you can’t access your funds via an ATM, making the account less convenient.

Who It’s Best For

You’ll earn a solid yield on all balances without having to meet any requirements or pay many fees. That makes this account a good choice for someone looking to park cash for a future need (such as Christmas presents or a car down payment) and benefit from highly rated customer service.

Pros & Cons
  • Low fees
  • No minimums
  • Decent yield
  • Good customer service
  • Higher yields elsewhere
  • No physical branches
  • No ATM access
Details
  • You’ll earn a yield of 3.75% APY on all balances, up to maximum balance limits on all balances and interest compounds daily.
  • There’s no minimum balance requirement and no monthly maintenance fee. Marcus doesn’t impose a fee for outgoing or incoming wire transfers, although you can only send a transfer to an account you own at another bank.
  • No access to ATMs, so you shouldn’t use this account if you think you’ll need to dip into your savings in a pinch.
  • Still, you can make as many transfers out of your savings account as you wish.
  • Customer service via the phone is available 24/7, and existing customers can use the chatbot for instant communication.

Best for Insuring Higher Balances

SoFi Checking and Savings Account

SoFi Checking and Savings Account
4.8
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

Up to 3.80%¹

Rates and details as of 5/1/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

SoFi does not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. SoFi does charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.

$0³

SoFi Checking and Savings Account
Learn More Arrow
Read Our Review

Up to 3.80%¹

Rates and details as of 5/1/25.

$0

SoFi does not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. SoFi does charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.

$0³

Editor's Take

SoFi Checking and Savings Account is a no-fee account with perks. As its name suggests, this is a joint checking and savings account that earns interest on both savings and checking balances.

Why We Like It

SoFi pays respectable APYs on both the savings and checking portions of your balance (with savings balances earning the highest interest) and offers additional FDIC insurance up to $3 million. You can also qualify for no-fee overdraft coverage and early paycheck receipt.

What We Don’t Like

This account likely won’t be a good fit for anyone who doesn’t want to deposit their pay. Signing up for direct deposit is required to unlock all account features and the highest interest rate.

Who It’s Best For

This account is an attractive option for those who enjoy digital banking and like the idea of having their checking and savings in one place. Consider this combination account if you’re looking for a rewarding place to send your paycheck.

Pros & Cons
  • No account fees3
  • No minimum deposit requirements
  • Comes with checking account
  • Higher yields elsewhere
  • Must meet requirements to earn the high yield
  • No ATM fee reimbursements
Details
  • You’ll earn a up to 3.80%¹ APY on your savings account, along with 0.50%1 APY on your checking account if you sign up for eligible direct deposit, depositing $5,000 or more every 30 days, or sign up for SoFi+.
  • Eligible deposits include ACH transfers, peer-to-peer transfers from apps such as PayPal and check deposits, among other options.
  • Transfers between your checking account and savings account, interest payments and bonuses do not count as eligible deposits.
  • There is no minimum balance requirement or monthly maintenance fee. You can find fee-free ATMs on the app, but you won’t be reimbursed for out-of-network ATM fees.6
  • To avoid overdrafts, you can sign up for overdraft protection through linked accounts, which will move money from your savings account to your checking account5.
  • You can also sign up for overdraft coverage if you receive at least $1,000 in monthly eligible direct deposits. This allows you to receive $50 in overdraft coverage on debit card purchases only. There are no account fees, but you must repay the amount owed within 30 days to keep coverage5.
  • You can receive up to $3 million in additional FDIC insurance coverage through SoFi’s Insured Deposit Program2.
Disclosures

1SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus with Eligible Direct Deposit or by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days or SoFi members with $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30-Day Evaluation Period can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. Members without either SoFi Plus or Qualifying Deposits, during the 30-Day Evaluation Period will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Only SoFi Plus members are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. If you have satisfied Eligible Direct Deposit requirements for our highest APY but do not see 3.80% APY on your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit arrives, please contact us at 855-456-7634. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet. See the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus

2SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $3M through participation in the program. See full terms at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms. See list of participating banks at SoFi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks.

3SoFi does not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. SoFi does charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.

4 to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.

5Overdraft Coverage is limited to $50 on debit card purchases only and is an account benefit available to customers with Eligible Direct Deposits of $1,000 or more during the current 30-day Evaluation Period as determined by SoFi Bank, N.A. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Members with a prior history of non-repayment of negative balances are ineligible for Overdraft Coverage.

6We’ve partnered with Allpoint to provide you with ATM access at any of the 55,000+ ATMs within the Allpoint network. You will not be charged a fee when using an in-network ATM, however, third-party fees incurred when using out-of-network ATMs are not subject to reimbursement. SoFi’s ATM policies are subject to change at our discretion at any time.

Best for Highly Rated Mobile Banking

Citizens Access® Savings

Citizens Access® Savings
4.8
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

4.50%

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0.01

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Citizens Access® Savings
Learn More Arrow
On Bankrate.com's Website

4.50%

$0.01

$0

Editor's Take

Citizens Access® Savings is a no-frills savings option that’s perfect for those who are only concerned about earning a high APY. The account offers little in terms of bells and whistles, but the attractive interest rate is tough to beat.

Why We Like It

The Citizens Access® Savings account offers a decent 4.50% APY, no monthly fees and a $0.01 minimum opening deposit requirement. This account stands out for seamless mobile banking with a highly rated mobile app. Citizens Access is a division of Citizens Bank.

What We Don’t Like

Citizens Access doesn’t offer a checking account, and savings customers don’t have access to ATM cards or debit cards. You also can’t make cash deposits into this account.

Who It’s Best For

The Citizens Access Savings account is best for customers who prefer digital banking. Those who want an account that encourages building a strict savings habit—with fewer options to quickly access cash via a debit card or ATM card—may be a good fit.

Pros & Cons
  • No monthly fees
  • Highly rated mobile app
  • No ATM access
  • No cash deposits
  • No checking account available
  • No branches
Details
  • This account offers a respectable 4.50% APY on all balances, compounded daily.
  • There are no monthly fees, overdraft fees or minimum deposit requirements.
  • Cash deposits are not accepted.
  • The Citizens Access app has high ratings on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Best for Easy-to-Reach Customer Service

Ally Bank Savings Account

Ally Bank Savings Account
4.8
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

3.60%

Rates and details as of 5/5/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Ally Bank Savings Account
Learn More Arrow
On MoneyLion's Website

3.60%

Rates and details as of 5/5/25.

$0

$0

Editor's Take

Ally Savings is a well-rounded savings account that charges few fees and offers a competitive yield, though it’s outshined by other winners. It also offers 24/7 customer service, as well as live chat, making it easy to resolve issues.

Why We Like It

The combination of available customer service, solid yields and low fees (as well as tools to help you meet your savings goals) make it a great option for most savers. Its “buckets” feature can help you save for specific purchases or needs.

What We Don’t Like

You can find higher yields from other winners, and you can’t deposit cash.

Who It’s Best For

Consider this account if you prefer digital banking, prioritize low fees and accessible customer service, and want among the highest yields on the market—albeit not the best.

Pros & Cons
  • No monthly maintenance fee or required minimum deposit
  • No overdraft fees
  • Solid APY
  • 24/7 customer service
  • No physical branches
  • Can’t deposit cash
  • Higher yields available elsewhere
Details
  • All balances earn 3.60% APY that compounds daily.
  • No monthly maintenance fees, required minimums or overdraft charges.
  • $20 fee for domestic outgoing wire transfers, no fee for incoming wires.
  • Doesn’t come with an ATM card.
  • Limited to 10 withdrawals per month, though there are no fees for excess transactions. If you continually go above the limit, though, Ally may close your account.
  • 24/7 customer service representatives available by phone, as well as live chat.

Best for 24/7 U.S-Based Customer Support

Discover® Bank Online Savings Account

Discover® Bank Online Savings Account
4.7
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

3.60%

Rates and details as of 4/22/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$0

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Discover® Bank Online Savings Account
Learn More Arrow
On Discover's Website
Member FDIC

3.60%

Rates and details as of 4/22/25.

$0

$0

Editor's Take

The Discover Online Savings account offers a solid 3.60% with almost no fees and no minimum balance requirements.

Why We Like It

Discover stands out for its commitment to minimizing fees. You won’t pay fees for account maintenance, nonsufficient funds, excessive withdrawals, official bank checks and a host of other banking services.

What We Don’t Like

Though this account’s APY is many times higher than the national average, it’s still one of the lower yields on our list. Also, Discover has only one branch, and unless it’s near you, you won’t be able to access any in-person services.

Who It’s Best For

This account is best for those who want a no-fee savings account with no minimum balance requirements, and those who would benefit from 24/7 U.S.-based customer support.

Pros & Cons
  • No fees
  • Solid APY
  • Customer service available 24/7
  • There are accounts with higher APYs
  • One physical location
Details
  • You’ll earn 3.60% on all balances, with interest compounding daily.
  • There are no fees for most banking services, though you will pay $30 to send a wire transfer.
  • You can get free overdraft protection by linking two Discover accounts, with one serving as a backup account to fund the other.
  • U.S.-based customer service is available at any time.

Best for ATM Access

Quontic Bank High Yield Savings

Quontic Bank High Yield Savings
4.7
Our ratings take into account a product's APYs, fees, minimums and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Percentage Yield

3.85%

Rates and details as of 5/1/25.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$100

Monthly Maintenance Fee

$0

Quontic Bank High Yield Savings
Learn More Arrow
On Quontic Bank's Website

3.85%

Rates and details as of 5/1/25.

$100

$0

Editor's Take

The Quontic Bank High-Yield Savings account offers an attractive yield on all deposits with few fees, making it a good option for your emergency fund—as long as you don’t mind a completely online banking experience.

Why We Like It

Overall, the account is a satisfactory deal for most consumers. You’ll earn a solid yield on your savings, avoid many fees (such as no-charge overdrafts) and have access to customer service, including live chat.

What We Don’t Like

While the yield is higher than most banks, you can find better options on this list. Moreover, we would prefer if Quontic didn’t have a minimum deposit requirement and reimbursed you for at least some out-of-network ATM costs.

Who It’s Best For

Quontic doesn’t charge for overdrafts or excess transactions, which will be helpful if you want to avoid costly fees.

Pros & Cons
  • No monthly maintenance fee
  • Good customer service
  • Interest compounds daily
  • Live chat support
  • No in-person branches
  • Limited account funding options
Details
  • You’ll earn 3.85% on all balances, and interest compounds daily and is credited monthly.
  • There are no fees for overdrafts or excess transactions, meaning you can withdraw from your account as often as you’d like without facing a charge.
  • You’ll have to pony up at least $100 to open and maintain your account. There are some fees, including $25 for outgoing domestic wire transfers and $35 for international ones. Dormant accounts will be charged $5 monthly, so make sure you keep your account active or close it if you no longer need it.
  • You’ll have access to more than 90,000 fee-free ATMs across the country, which you can locate from Quontic’s map, but you won’t be reimbursed for fees imposed by out-of-network ATM operators.

Quontic Bank is a member of the FDIC, and all deposits are insured up to the maximum limit of $250,000 per depositor.


How To Choose a High-Yield Savings Account

Your search for a new high-yield savings account should mirror our methodology: Yields should factor in most prominently, while fees and the digital experience should follow.

  1. Look for the best interest rates. The interest rate on a savings account determines how much your money grows, so it’s important to earn a competitive yield. Before doing anything else, compare the highest rates.
  2. Look into fees. While many high-yield savings accounts have no monthly maintenance fees, most charge fees for other activities and services. Check out an account’s fee schedule on its website.
  3. Pay attention to digital features. Strong mobile apps, user-friendly online banking platforms and built-in budgeting and savings tools such as savings buckets and auto-save options can make your life easier.
  4. Learn about customer satisfaction. Read customer reviews on rating platforms and app stores to learn about a bank or account’s strengths and weaknesses from real users. It’s also a good idea to look for formal complaints about an institution.
  5. Check minimums. You can open and maintain many savings accounts with $0, but some have minimum deposit and balance requirements you must meet to open or earn interest. If an account has minimum requirements, make sure they work for your savings plans.
Pro Tip
Large national banks with a physical presence might have the most name recognition, but they may not be the best option if you’re looking for a high-yield savings account. Often, online-only banks, credit unions or fintech companies offer the highest APYs. Even if you’ve never heard of an institution’s name before, it’s safe to use if it’s insured by the FDIC or NCUA. Of course, make sure to research user reviews and whether there are any formal complaints against the institution.

How Much Money Should I Put Into a High-Yield Savings Account?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. You should put as much into a high-yield savings account as you comfortably can, while keeping enough funds in your checking account to cover day-to-day expenses. A general rule of thumb is to keep three to six months’ worth of living expenses (think rent/mortgage, food, car and insurance payments, bills and any other essential expenses) in a savings account.

If you’re just starting to save, however, try to set aside a little bit from every paycheck. Set up a direct deposit into a high-yield savings account so that a percentage of your income is automatically saved. The amount you set aside will depend on your income, expenses, debt and personal comfort level.

Before you open a savings account, make sure to check the policies related to withdrawals and transfers. If you need to draw from your savings for unexpected expenses or emergencies, you’ll want to make sure you can easily and quickly access the money you need, without having to pay fees.

How To Open a High-Yield Savings Account

You can typically complete a digital application to open a high-yield savings account online by following these five steps.

  1. Create an account. Enter your email address and create a password, or log in if you’re a customer.
  2. Provide personal and contact information. This typically includes your full name, mailing address and phone number.
  3. Verify your identity. Give your Social Security number and date of birth, then provide a government-issued photo ID.
  4. Submit your application. Both parties will provide the above details to open a joint account.
  5. Make your opening deposit. Once approved, you can link another bank account as a funding source, send a check or cash or schedule a wire transfer or direct deposit to make a deposit. Funding options vary by account and institution.

How Can I Maximize My Savings With a High-Yield Savings Account?

High-yield savings accounts allow you to earn among the highest possible yields and access your cash at any time. To maximize your return, though, you’ll need to employ a few strategies.

1. Follow the Market

2. Save for a Purpose

3. Embrace Restrictions


Recent News on Savings Interest Rates

Banks lowered savings yields throughout 2024 in anticipation of the Federal Reserve lowering the federal funds rate. In late 2024, the Fed slashed the federal funds rate by a percentage point.

In 2025, the Fed has yet to make any moves on its target range, though there may be more rate slashes in the second half of the year. Given the economic uncertainty brought on by proposed tariffs, we’ll have to wait to see how the Federal Reserve chooses to act.

Keep in mind that savings yields are variable, meaning that they can change at any time. If you open a high-yield savings account today with a 3.80% APY, the APY you earn in six months may be lower (or higher, though that is less likely).

How High Will Savings Interest Rates Go in 2025?

How high savings interest rates will go is probably the wrong question; you’re better off asking, “How low might they fall?” That’s because the Federal Reserve is done raising interest rates. Inflation has slowed down since the last time it raised borrowing costs (July 2023), and the economy is showing signs of strain. The unemployment rate, for instance, jumped half a percentage point from early 2023 to now. Along with rising credit card delinquencies, there’s evidence that the economy is weakening. That combination–slowing inflation and a stagnating economy–is why the Fed cut interest rates by one percentage point during the last few months of 2024. Whenever the Fed lowers interest rates, you can expect average savings account rates to fall as well. Fortunately for savers, the Fed appears to be hesitant to cut rates as dramatically in 2025, thanks to prices still growing beyond the Fed’s target. Therefore you have time to take advantage of today’s high-ish rates. Find out more about today’s savings rates and the APYs banks are paying now.

Pro Tip
If you open a new high-yield savings account and then start to see your interest rate start to decline, don’t panic. That doesn’t mean you chose the wrong account, or that you’re necessarily missing out on higher yields. Savings interest rates tend to follow the federal funds rate, and chances are, other institutions will be decreasing their rates at around the same time as yours. If, however, you want to lock in current rates and have money that you are comfortable setting aside for a period of time, consider opening a certificate of deposit (CD) instead.

Is a High-Yield Savings Account the Best Option?

A high-yield savings account is the best option for you if you:

  • Want to earn the highest possible interest rate
  • Don’t want to deal with monthly fees
  • Want to ensure your funds are protected by the FDIC or NCUA

A high-yield savings account may not be the best option if you:

  • Require access to branches or in-person customer service
  • Need to deposit cash into your account
  • Plan to withdraw or transfer from your account regularly (note that some high-yield savings accounts, including many on our list, do not currently have transaction limits in place)
  • Need to write checks
  • Want to lock in an interest rate

Alternatives to High-Yield Savings Accounts

If a high-yield savings account (HYSA) doesn’t seem like a good fit for your money, consider the following alternatives:

See how these savings products compare.

ACCOUNT FEATURESHYSAsMMAsCDsCMAs
Minimums
Many require $0 to open and earn interest, but there are exceptions
Deposit requirements may range from $0 to $5,000 or more
Typically require at least $500 or $1,000 to open
Many accounts require $0 to open and earn interest, but some may require more
Fees
Often have no monthly fees, but may have other service fees
May have monthly fees May have other service fees
Often have no monthly fees Typically have early withdrawal penalty fees
Often have no monthly fees May have other service fees
Withdrawal restrictions
Often limited to six per month
Often limited to six per month
Penalty fees apply for early withdrawals
No restrictions on monthly withdrawals
Spending options
Typically none, but some banks offer checks, debit cards or ATM cards
Typically include checks and may also come with a debit or ATM card
None
Typically include checks, debit cards or ATM cards

Methodology

What do people want in a high-yield savings account? We commissioned a poll of 2,000 American adults to find out.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the top concern is high interest rates. However, the survey revealed other insights. We applied the survey’s results to create the methodology we use to rate hundreds of savings accounts.

Here are the factors we considered, and the weight we gave to each:

  • APY: 40%
  • Trust: 25%
    • Insurance: 10%
    • Total deposits: 5%
    • iOS app rating: 3%
    • Google Play app rating: 3%
    • Years in operation: 2%
    • Trustpilot rating: 1%
    • BBB rating: 1%
  • Access: 15%
    • Live chat: 5%
    • Mobile check deposit: 5%
    • Number of in-network ATMs: 3%
    • Available branches: 2%
  • Fees: 15%
    • Monthly maintenance: 10%
    • Overdraft: 2.5%
    • Wire transfer: 2.5%
  • Minimum balance requirement: 2.5%
  • Amount required to waive monthly fee: 2.5%

Our aim is to highlight banks anyone across the country can use, but we don’t showcase accounts that impose high balance minimums to either open or maintain an account. Minimum deposit requirements of $10,000 or higher affected scores negatively, as did high minimum balance requirements to avoid fees.

We crafted this list of best high-yield savings accounts by analyzing 370 savings accounts from 157 financial institutions, including a mix of traditional brick-and-mortar banks, online banks, credit unions and fintechs.

Check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor reviews banks to learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are high-yield savings accounts safe?

Yes, high-yield savings accounts are safe because they typically include insurance and security features. The FDIC and NCUA protect deposits at insured institutions so customers don’t lose their money in the event of failure, with a standard coverage limit of $250,000 per depositor.

Financial institutions commonly take several other measures to protect users’ personal and financial information. Multifactor authentication, fraud monitoring, data encryption and storage methods are widely used safeguards that keep data secure against cyberattacks and threats. You should also take your own steps to protect your banking information, such as using strong passwords and monitoring your accounts for suspicious activity.

When is it time for a new savings account?

No one wants to spend more time than absolutely necessary figuring out their banking needs. Still, every so often it pays to consider switching banks, at least when it comes to your savings.

Here are three times when it makes sense to open a new account:

  1. Your rate is really low. Some folks haven’t looked at the rate offered by their savings account since the Fed began raising interest rates. Take a look at yours, and see if it’s close to our best picks. If not, opt for one of them.
  2. You want to focus your savings. As mentioned above, opening a savings account for a specific purpose (a kitchen redo, for example) can help you discipline your spending so that you meet your savings goals.
  3. You’re paying too much in fees. Many savings accounts, including our winners, offer high yields and low fees. If you’re getting nickel-and-dimed (check your monthly statement to see), close your account and move your business elsewhere.

How do you calculate interest on a high-yield savings account?

To calculate interest on a high-yield savings account, you’ll need to calculate compound interest, or interest earned on interest. The easiest way to do this is with a compound interest calculator. This uses a formula that factors in an account’s balance, amount of time interest is compounded, earning rate, compounding frequency and ongoing deposits. Savings accounts often make monthly interest payments.

How many high-yield savings accounts can I open?

You can have as many savings accounts as you want, but you might not be allowed to open multiple accounts of the same type with one bank. Keeping savings accounts with different institutions can be a smart strategy for taking advantage of the best rates and features anyway, but always be mindful of insurance coverage limits, fees and minimum balance requirements.

Which high-yield savings account has a 7% interest rate? 

These days, you won’t find any high-yield savings accounts that offer 7% APY. The highest yields you’ll come across are close to 5%. With rates slowly trending downward, it might be a while until financial institutions start offering interest rates anywhere close to 7%.


Next Up In Savings


Information provided on Forbes Advisor is for educational purposes only. Your financial situation is unique and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer financial advice, advisory or brokerage services, nor do we recommend or advise individuals or to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Performance information may have changed since the time of publication. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Forbes Advisor adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.
Taylor Tepper
Taylor Tepper
Former Senior Staff Writer

Taylor Tepper covered banking, investing and pretty much everything else in personal finance for more than a decade, with his work appearing in the New York Times, Fortune and MONEY magazine, as well as many other outlets. His work has received the recognition of his peers, including winning a Loeb award for his piece on the high cost of mental illness, and he completed the education requirement for the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification.

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