The Best High-Yield Savings Accounts For Passive Income

Want to find the best way to grow your savings? Then consider a high-yield savings account. These can earn you up to 20 to 25 times the national average APY on standard savings accounts and give your money an instant boost—much more than traditional savings accounts can offer.

Just to show you why that passes for a viable investment option, FDIC reports that the current national average rate for a regular savings account sits around 0.37%, while some high-yield savings accounts are paying out as high as 4% to 5% APY or more. If you have money laying around, you could make it grow by putting it in high APY savings accounts.

High-yield savings accounts are great for anyone looking for a new way to grow their money—like a financial sprinkle or an economic cherry on top. Whether you're young and just starting to learn about finances, or you're a seasoned expert, these accounts offer a high interest rate that can help grow your stash of cash even faster than the traditional savings options.

Your interest rate is referred to as APY (Annual Percentage Yield), and the higher your APY, the more money you’ll make on your savings. But you’ll need to watch out for changes in the interest rate, which can occur at any time—it can be like a game of financial roulette.

This could be due to changes to the Fed rate or at the whim of the bank you’re using, so keep an eye out and make sure you don't lose out.

High-yield savings accounts are typically FDIC-insured—even if the bank should fail, your hard-earned funds up to $250,000 stay protected. And unlike Certificates of Deposit, you can access your money whenever you need to, so you don't have to lock up your savings.

However, most high-yield savings accounts come with a minimum deposit requirement and limit the number of withdrawals you can make per month. But don't let that stop you from investing in your future. It does not take much to get the ball rolling—a couple of hundred bucks in a high-interest savings account could put you well on your way.

Looking for the perfect high-yield savings account? A daunting task for sure. Anyone would want to find an account with a high annual percentage yield (APY) for maximum savings.

But the fun doesn't stop there. After all, it isn't just about the APY. There are other fun elements to consider like—what kind of starting deposits you need. Is there an annual fee? And who doesn't like a minimum balance requirement to really test their budgeting skills? There's only one way to know for sure—read the fine print with caution.

We’ve done the hard work of searching for accounts that offer a killer APY, and we’re here to share our top picks. So if you’re up for a little virtual safari, join us as we explore some of the best high-yield savings accounts.

When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck, take a look at UFB’s high yield savings account. This no-hassle account doesn’t require any minimum balance, and with an APY of up to 5.02%, it’s one of the highest interest rates offered on the market. Armed with a secure network of 91,000 ATMs, and backed by Axos Bank, the UFB account could be a viable choice for depositors who want high-yield savings and quick access to their money.

What’s more, UFB offers a suite of convenient mobile banking options, bill-paying services, and free transfers between direct deposit accounts. Knowing how powerful competitive rates are, UFB’s high-yield savings account uses a tiered APY system while still providing the maximum rate of 5.02% regardless of the deposit amount.

APY investment tiers

UFB Direct's tiered system offers five tiers, so no matter how much you have saved, you can earn a high yield. With balances starting at $0 through to $100,000 or more, the tiered system allows anyone to benefit from UFB Direct’s high interest savings account.

So, whether you’re just starting out, or you want to add some wings to your savings, this account could be an optimal way to save your money.

Security and maintenance

UFB Direct is an online-only bank that offers both high-yield savings and money market accounts. It partners with Axos Bank, an online bank established in 1999. All UFB Direct deposit accounts are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 for individual accounts and $500,000 for joint accounts.

With UFB Direct high-yield savings, it's not only about juicy rates—you also benefit from features such as SMS messaging to access account features, top-notch convenience with online and mobile banking, and of course, zero maintenance or service fees.

Downsides of UFB high-yield savings account

While the UFB high-yield savings account offers customers a strong interest rate with no monthly fees, there are some drawbacks to consider. Accounts that are closed mid-cycle will forfeit any accrued interest, and zero-balance accounts at the end of the monthly cycle will be closed with all interest accrued forfeited. Furthermore, the account doesn't offer a signup bonus or associated checking account.

CIT Bank is an online bank which offers a range of deposit accounts along with home loans. But it's also interesting to see that it offers a high-yield online savings account and convenient withdrawals—CIT Platinum Savings.

With an APY of up to 4.75% and a minimum balance of only $100, CIT’s online savings account gives you unrestricted access to your money with no fees. Plus, their mobile app makes it easy to keep track of your earnings, transfer funds, and deposit checks.

What comes with CIT Bank's Platinum Savings account?

With an impressive 4.75% rate for balances above $5,000 and a 0.25% rate for lower balances, this online savings account holds its own among top online savings accounts. As a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), CIT offers protection up to $250,000 per depositor to ensure a sense of security for account holders.

The CIT Platinum Savings account is also a cost-effective option with no opening or maintenance fees to worry about—just a $100 minimum deposit to get started. The bank provides a handy mobile app that allows for easy balance checks, fund transfers, and check deposits, making banking a breeze.

There's a streamlined account opening process at CIT, requiring only around five minutes to complete—ideal for those with busy lives.

Deposits and withdrawals

When it comes to deposit options, flexibility reigns supreme with the CIT Platinum Savings account. Electronically transfer funds from another account, snap a mobile check deposit via the app, opt for the classic mail-a-check method, or initiate a wire transfer.

But what about withdrawal options? CIT’s online savings account offers multiple ways to access your funds in a pinch. Choose between free ACH transfers to another bank account, outgoing wire transfers (balances below $25,000 attract a $10 fee), or simply give CIT a ring to request a check mailed to you free of charge.

Potential drawbacks of CIT Bank high-yield savings account

While the account boasts several attractive features, there are a couple of aspects worth considering. First, to earn the highest APY, you'll need to maintain a minimum balance of $5,000 otherwise or you’ll only earn a modest 0.25%. This makes the account more suitable for those with an established savings base rather than those just starting their savings journey.

CIT’s online savings account is a simple and hassle-free way to grow your rainy day fund with no monthly maintenance fees if you make a minimum deposit of $5,000.

Let’s face it, keeping up with the ever-changing marketplace of financial products isn’t easy. Navigating banks, online savings accounts, and credit unions can make it hard to find the right fit for your financial goals—especially when it comes to savings. It’s essential to look for a product that offers valuable features and a competitive annual percentage yield, which is exactly what PNC’s high interest savings account promises to deliver.

PNC’s High Yield Savings account is a top-tier savings account that offers an impressively competitive APY of 4%. It’s designed for customers in select states and is only available online, but there’s no monthly service charge and no minimum deposit requirement.

PNC offers a super generous savings account, but anyone living in the following states or districts can’t benefit from their savings rates:

• Alabama
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Washington, DC

How does PNC High Yield Savings compare?

The PNC High Yield Savings account is a great choice. It offers a superior yield and a minimal minimum balance requirement. To start earning the APY, all you need is a minimum of $1.

Other top savings accounts are similar, but none offer the same combination of convenience and high yield. For example, Marcus by Goldman Sachs’s High Yield Savings account has a 3.75% APY which is lower.

What features does PNC high-yield savings have?

In addition to a competitive yield, the PNC High Yield Savings account comes with various other features to make saving simple. You'll find the PNC mobile app especially handy, and you’ll get an ATM card with the account. This can help you to easily access and manage your funds on the go.

The High Yield Savings account has some drawbacks, such as a limited number of qualifying states. Also, if your balance goes to zero for 180 days, your account may be closed. Finally, while the APY is competitive, there may be higher APYs available elsewhere.

Major setback

A notable setback for this account is that residents of certain states may face eligibility restrictions and find themselves unable to open a PNC High Yield Savings account, which dampens the account's universal appeal. Yet, the account is a decent choice for anyone living in one of the qualifying states since it offers a competitive yield and has no monthly maintenance fee.

Plus, you won’t need to worry about a minimum opening deposit or a hefty minimum balance requirement. With access to more than 2,600 branches, PNC’s High Yield Savings account could make your saving goals more achievable—and with an APY of 4%, it’s worth considering if you're looking to boost your savings.

Launched in 2020, Bask Bank is a digital bank backed by its parent company, Texas Capital Bank, which has been around since 1998. The Interest Savings Account is one of the bank's three product offerings, alongside its Mileage Savings Account and Certificates of Deposit (CDs). With this digital-only approach, you can check your balance, transfer money, schedule recurring deposits, and update your user profile and preferences through their website.

One of the main upsides of the Bask Interest Savings account is its attractive 4.45% APY, which surpasses many competitors. Keep in mind, however, that the interest rate and APY may change at any time. Bask Bank compounds interest daily, with credit given to the account at the end of each statement cycle.

To open a Bask Interest Savings account, you must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, have a valid U.S. Taxpayer Identification Number, and a valid U.S. address. Additional qualifications apply, and all applicants undergo identity verification and security screening in compliance with regulations like the Patriot Act and Bank Secrecy Act.

There's no minimum balance required to open a Bask Interest Savings account, but accounts that don't receive an initial deposit within 15 business days may face closure. There's also no minimum balance required to obtain the APY.

Transaction limitations and potential fees

Account holders can make up to six pre-authorized, automatic, telephone, or computer transfers each month. No check, draft, debit card, or similar orders to third parties are allowed. While there are no monthly account fees, Bask Bank charges a $35 fee for outgoing wire transfers (domestic & international), which may also be subject to receiving bank charges.

Downsides of Bask Bank high-yield savings accounts

While the Bask Interest Savings Account offers numerous advantages, it's important to consider a few drawbacks. First, the APY and interest rate may change without notice. Additionally, the outgoing wire transfer fee is relatively high compared to some other banks. It's also worth noting that Bask Bank doesn't offer an ATM card, which may limit your access to funds.

Should you open a Bask Bank high-yield savings account?

If you're someone who wants to let their savings grow and accumulate interest, Bask Bank Interest Savings could be a great choice for you, given the exceptional APY currently offered. It's also a convenient option for those who appreciate an entirely digital banking experience, minus the physical branch.

The Bask Interest Savings Account sets itself apart with an impressively high APY, digital ease of use, and fee-free flexibility when moving money between other Bask Bank accounts, such as their Mileage Savings Account. However, potential downsides like a fluctuating APY and lack of an ATM card are crucial factors to weigh before making a decision.

Overall, if you find that the benefits outweigh the disadvantages, Bask Bank Interest Savings could be the right home for your hard-earned money.

LendingClub's High-Yield Savings account offers customers a competitive 4.25% APY, one of the highest rates available. The interest on savings compounds daily and is credited to customers' accounts monthly, making growth more accessible.

This account only requires a $100 minimum opening deposit. Additionally, there are no monthly service fees, taking away the worry most users experience with traditional banks.

To open a LendingClub account, you'll need your Social Security number, current residential address, email address, and $100 or more for the initial deposit. You can use a debit card or transfer from an existing bank account to fund the account.

LendingClub FDIC insurance and account security

LendingClub High-Yield Savings account allows users to make free internal and external transfers with their online and mobile banking, ensuring convenience when moving funds.

Deposits are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor for each ownership category. LendingClub uses 256-bit encryption to secure users' personal and financial data.

Downsides of LendingClub high-yield savings accounts

Although the High-Yield Savings account offers plenty of benefits, there are a couple of disadvantages to consider. Some banks do not require a minimum opening deposit, and children under the age of 18 are not eligible for a LendingClub account.

The LendingClub High-Yield Savings account is an excellent option if you're seeking a competitive interest rate and low fees. Its various digital financial tools available allow you to make informed decisions for your financial growth.

If a high-interest account with minimal fees and excellent features appeals to you, you could consider the LendingClub High-Yield Savings account. With its attractive APY, low initial deposit requirements, and convenient account access, it's a great way to watch your savings grow.

Synchrony Bank High Yield Savings (HYS) account welcomes you with an enticing 4% APY, irrespective of your deposit amount. Who wouldn't want their hard-earned cash to yield such impressive returns?

With no minimum deposit or balance requirement, Synchrony Bank makes it nearly effortless to begin your financial journey. Plus, you can let go of the worry about monthly fees, as there are none.

Opening a Synchrony Bank account is a piece of cake. You'll need your U.S. Social Security or Tax Identification number, a valid U.S. address, and some standard personal information. Once you set up your account, watch your money work for you.

This HYS account offers more flexibility and allows you to request an optional ATM card to withdraw cash and perform other basic transactions at any ATM displaying the Plus or Accel logos. Plus, Synchrony Bank refunds up to $5 in domestic ATM fees per statement cycle.

Benefits of Synchrony Bank high-yield savings accounts

With FDIC insurance up to $250,000 per ownership category, Synchrony Bank ensures that your savings are safe and sound. You also have multiple ways to access your money in the account:

• ATM: Use the optional ATM card to withdraw cash and perform other transactions at any ATM displaying the Plus or Accel logos. Synchrony Bank doesn't charge an ATM fee and will refund domestic ATM fees charged by other institutions up to $5 per statement cycle. Fees associated with using an ATM abroad are not refundable by Synchrony Bank.
• Electronic transfer: Transfer money between Synchrony Bank and other banks seamlessly by simply signing in at synchronybank.com or calling their automated phone system. Transferring funds to and from your High Yield Savings and Money Market accounts is fee-free.
• Check: Request checks for your Money Market account as an additional way to access your funds.
• Wire transfer: Initiate a wire transfer by calling Synchrony Bank's customer service.

Downsides of Synchrony Bank high-yield savings accounts

While the HYS has many advantages, there are a couple of aspects to consider. First, there's no savings option for those under 18 years old. Additionally, there's a maximum combined balance limit of $3,000,000 across all your Synchrony Bank accounts.

In a nutshell, Synchrony Bank High Yield Savings (HYS) account stands out with its competitive 4% APY, no minimum deposit or balance requirements, and the flexibility of an optional ATM card. If you're hunting for a reliable financial institution to help your savings flourish, this one is yet another great place to keep cash.

The Sallie Mae High-Yield Savings Account competes fairly with other high-yield investment options with an impressive 3.95% APY, compounded daily, and paid monthly. Sallie Mae values your money as much as you do. With no minimum deposit required to open an account and no monthly fees, you have yet another account that allows you to save without any worry.

How easy is it to open a Sallie Mae savings account?

Ready to get started? You'll need your name, address, date of birth, and other essential information to open an account, as required by Federal law. Once your account is up and running, you can sit back and watch your savings grow.

Withdraw or transfer your money with ease using Sallie Mae's online platform or by calling their telephone line. Remember that certain fees and transaction limits apply, so make sure to consult the fine print for details.

The bank also provides mobile banking to give you a bird's-eye view of your account, no matter where you are. You can do a lot of different things with Sallie Mae's mobile banking options such as accessing account information, setting up customizable alerts, and staying in control of your finances through SMS banking, a downloadable app, or a mobile-friendly website.

Sallie Mae FDIC insurance

No need to get anxious, but you can rest easy knowing that your money is in good hands—Sallie Mae is an FDIC-insured bank, securing your deposits up to the standard $250,000 per ownership category.

Drawbacks of Sallie Mae high-yield savings accounts

While there's no denying the fantastic perks of Sallie Mae's high-yield savings account, especially a 3.95% APY, you need to consider a couple of drawbacks.

The bank doesn't offer a checking account option, limiting its versatility. Users have also reported a less-than-ideal experience with the bank's mobile app. Additionally, customer service isn't available 24/7, but only from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern time on weekdays.

If you're keen on reaching your financial goals by exploring an attractive 3.95% APY and nifty goal-setting tools, the Sallie Mae High-Yield Savings Account looks like a pretty decent choice. Despite its minor shortcomings, this savings account could be great for those looking to grow their wealth with no strings attached.

Newtek's Personal High Yield Savings account could be your ticket to savings nirvana with its astonishing 5% APY. Forget the national average—Newtek is pushing boundaries with a rate that is over 14 times higher.

What the bank tries to do with this account is to offer a hassle-free ride to the top with no minimum deposit or balance requirements, no monthly fees, and absolutely no hidden fees. The goal is to usher you into a world of savings with no strings attached.

The best part is, you can sign up in a flash. Hop on the Newtek savings rocket by opening your account online in as little as 2 minutes. You'll need your name, address, phone, email, and Social Security or Tax ID handy—before you know it, you'll be earning a really high yield on your money.

Account management and protection

Get a 360-degree view of your accounts from the comfort of, well, anywhere with Newtek's user-friendly digital platform, and manage your account 24/7 wherever you go.

Newtek also offers protection for your precious savings, as they're a proud FDIC-insured member. Your deposits stay secured up to the maximum legal amount of $250,000, giving you peace of mind along your journey to financial triumph.

Drawbacks of Newtek high-yield savings accounts

While Newtek rocks the world of high-yield savings, it's essential to consider the nitty-gritty details. You'll have only six free withdrawals or transfers per statement cycle, with transaction amount limits in place. Take note that withdrawals can only be transferred back to the original external funding source.

Newtek does offer a checking account, but only for business purposes, and that's your ticket to an ATM card. It's a small catch for an otherwise really cool high-yield savings opportunity.

Newtek's Personal High Yield Savings account will undoubtedly turn heads with its superb 5% APY and hassle-free approach to saving. Despite minor restrictions when it comes to ATM card access, this savings account might be a good choice if you're looking to up your financial game with fast results.

A high-yield savings account is an excellent tool for anyone looking to grow their money for emergencies and short-term financial goals.

High-yield savings accounts are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to offer better returns on savings than traditional bank accounts. But are they really worth it?

To understand the importance of this kind of investment option, we'll break down the benefits and drawbacks of high-yield savings accounts, along with some advice for choosing the best one for your needs.

Key advantages of a high-yield savings account

1. Boosted interest rates

High-yield savings accounts offer interest rates that hover around 4% to 5%, sometimes lesser, which might not seem like much, but it still outpaces the return you'd earn keeping your money in a traditional bank savings account.

2. Daily compounding interest

These savings accounts compound interest daily, which means you're earning interest each day. Starting with little and consistent savings can add up over time. For instance, a $1,000 deposit will potentially earn you $39 in a year with 3.9% APY savings account as opposed to just $3.9 from a traditional account earning 0.39% APY.

3. Low-risk and federally insured

Depositing cash into a high-yield savings account has little to no financial risk, as it's FDIC-insured up to $250,000. This means your money is safe even if something drastic, like a bank run, were to occur.

4. Accessibility to funds

The money in your high-yield savings account is accessible whenever you need to use it. In addition, most high-yield savings accounts are online, making it easy to manage your money on the go with mobile banking apps.

5. Minimal (or no) extra costs

The best high-yield savings accounts come with no additional costs, such as monthly fees, and low (or no) minimum deposits and balance requirements. Plus, transferring money between a high-yield savings account and other bank accounts is typically seamless.

Downsides of High-Yield Savings Accounts

1. Fluctuating interest rates

Interest rates on high-yield savings accounts are variable and can fluctuate at any time. While a bank may advertise a high annual percentage yield (APY) when you apply, it likely won't last forever.

2. Not the best long-term wealth-building strategy

High-yield savings accounts aren't the most effective way to build long-term wealth. The inflation rate can outpace the yield you earn over time, so it's better to invest your money rather than adding cash into your savings to earn a slow-and-steady yield.

3. Withdrawal limitations

Your savings are accessible, but only up to a certain number of withdrawals before you're hit with a fee. The withdrawal limit for online savings accounts can restrict the number of times you can access your cash each month.

Some high-yield savings accounts allow holders to transfer money (including electronic transfers, checks, and wire transfers) out of their accounts up to six times per month without having to pay a penalty fee or risk having their account closed.

4. Lack of physical bank locations plus ATM limitations

Most online high-yield savings account banks don't have physical locations, which some people may prefer for more personalized service. Not all online banks offer ATM cards for easy withdrawals too. This can be a drawback for those who require frequent access to their funds.

5. Fund transfer time

Transferring your funds from one bank to another might take time, typically between 24 to 72 hours.

Everyone's financial situation and goals are different, hence, individual requirements will vary. A high-yield savings account can be a valuable addition to your financial portfolio due to its boosted interest rates, daily compounding interest, low risk, and accessibility.

However, it's essential to weigh the downsides, such as fluctuating interest rates and withdrawal limitations. It’s also important to consider your long-term objectives—like investing in real estate or purchasing a car you’ve always wanted—and how savings can help achieve them.

With so many high-yield savings account options out there, it can be challenging to find the right one for you. So we'll walk you through some tips on how to choose a high-yield savings account that fits your needs and helps you grow your savings.

Analyze rates

The first step when choosing a high-yield savings account is comparing interest rates. Look for an account with a competitive annual percentage yield (APY) that outpaces the national average for savings accounts. Keep in mind that interest rates can fluctuate, so focusing on how a high-yield savings account's rate compares to others over time is essential.

Assess policies and features

While analyzing interest rates is crucial, don't forget to consider each account's policies and features. Look for accounts with little to no fees, such as maintenance or transaction fees. Also, think about how accessible and easy to use the account is, with features like automatic transfers and mobile banking apps.

Confirm federal insurance through FDIC

Choose a high-yield savings account with federal protection through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). FDIC can provide up to $250,000 in protection per account holder, ensuring that your funds are safe even if your financial institution fails.

Investigate the institution's reputation

Before settling on a high-yield savings account, research the financial institution offering it. Read customer reviews online and ask yourself questions like, "Is the company reputable and solvent? Have they been around for a while?"

Traditional versus online banks

When choosing a high-yield savings account, consider whether you prefer a traditional brick-and-mortar bank with local branches or an online bank without the overhead expenses. Online banks often offer higher interest rates, but some people may prefer in-person customer service and the option to make cash deposits.

Accessibility and account management

Consider how easy it is to access your funds and manage your account. Can you seamlessly link your checking account with your high-yield savings account? Are there ATM cards for easy withdrawals? Check out online banking options and mobile apps for convenience and ease of use.

Avoid hidden fees and high minimum balances

When comparing high-yield savings accounts, watch out for hidden costs and high minimum balance requirements. You don't want to lose out on earnings due to fees and restrictions. Assess each account thoroughly, taking note of any potential fees and minimum balance requirements.

Make your decision wisely

Once you've considered all these factors, choose your high-yield savings account wisely. Make sure it aligns with your financial goals and offers easy access, competitive rates, reliable customer service, and federal protection. Remember, the higher the interest rate and the more time your funds have to grow, the more earnings you'll accumulate.

High-yield savings accounts can play an essential role in attaining specific financial goals or building up an emergency fund. However, they may not be the best strategy for long-term wealth building. Combining a high-yield savings account with other investment vehicles could maximize your financial growth and cater to your unique financial requirements.

Finding the ideal high-yield savings account requires thorough research and a careful assessment of various institutions, and account characteristics. To make the most of a high-yield savings account, shop around and compare rates among multiple banks, credit unions, and online lenders.

Ideal savings accounts should offer competitive interest rates, minimal fees, and other substantial benefits. Also, pay attention to minimum balance requirements and avoid being lured into high yields that require hefty deposits to achieve.

By examining interest rates, policies, and features, as well as considering factors like reputation and accessibility, you can find an account that fulfills your needs and helps you earn more in the long run.