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High-yield savings accounts pay up to 5.00% APY

Glen Luke FlanaganBy Glen Luke FlanaganStaff Editor, Personal Finance
Glen Luke FlanaganStaff Editor, Personal Finance

Glen contributes to Coins2Day's personal finance section, focusing on real estate, home loans, and credit matters. He's been involved in personal finance since 2019, previously serving as an editor and writer for USA TODAY Blueprint, Forbes Advisor, and LendingTree before his tenure at Coins2Day. Glen enjoys exploring complex subjects and simplifying them into accessible information that people can readily understand and apply to their everyday circumstances.

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High-yield savings accounts continue to provide excellent returns for individuals aiming to boost their savings. Given that numerous accounts now boast annual percentage yields (APYs) exceeding 4.00%, with a limited number still close to the 5.00% threshold, it's an opportune moment to confirm you possess the optimal account for your financial objectives.

Amidst increasing inflation and an uncertain U.S. Economic forecast, the Federal Reserve paused its rate reductions early in 2025. However, the Federal Reserve eventually implemented a widely expected rate decrease during its September session, followed by another in October.

Throughout the initial months of the year, savings account annual percentage yields (APYs) stayed largely consistent. However, following recent reductions in the Federal Reserve's rates and the possibility of further cuts at the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC) December gathering, banks may consequently lower the APYs they provide.

Recognizing the importance of informed financial decision-making, Coins2Day has partnered with Curinos, a team of esteemed financial industry consultants. This collaboration aims to provide readers with a precise and up-to-date snapshot of the most competitive savings account rates available in today’s market, catering to those looking to enhance their savings strategy or embark on new financial endeavors.



Best HYSA rates: Up to 5.00% APY

Coins2Day reviews the top rates offered by leading U.S. Financial institutions each day to help readers obtain the best possible return on their savings. The best high-yield savings account rate of 5.00% can be found at Varo Money. Axos Bank is the runner-up, followed by Newtek Bank. Here are the best savings account rates available nationwide:

FDIC deposit rates: Jan 2020-Now

In March 2024, the national average savings rate stood at 0.47%. This figure saw a rapid decline as the Federal Reserve initiated reductions in the federal funds rate later in the year. Currently, the national average savings rate is at 0.40%.

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Savings account news in 2025

Federal Reserve interest rate decisions are crucial in shaping savings account rates. When the Fed raises its benchmark rate, financial institutions typically follow suit by increasing the interest they offer on savings accounts to remain competitive. Conversely, when the Fed lowers rates, savings account yields generally decrease.

Nonetheless, this connection isn't consistently straightforward. Financial institutions might modify their interest rates due to several elements, such as their internal financial aims, strategies to draw in new clients, and prevailing economic circumstances.

The Federal Reserve convenes meetings approximately eight times each year. At its October gathering, the central bank modified the federal funds rate to a range of 3.75% to 4.00%. A final FOMC session for 2025 is scheduled for December 9-10.

You may discover high-yield savings accounts more readily than you anticipate.

You might have already reviewed offerings from local financial institutions and found their rates unsatisfactory, or questioned the absence of distinct products identified as “high-yield savings accounts.” This situation stems primarily from the fact that the key distinction between high-yield and standard savings accounts lies in their respective interest rates. Conventional accounts frequently provide access to physical branches but at reduced rates, whereas high-yield accounts are generally provided by digital banks, presenting superior rates but restricted in-person support.

High-yield accounts commonly offer interest rates that are ten to twenty times greater than those of standard accounts. For instance, with the national average savings rate standing at 0.40%, numerous high-yield options provide rates exceeding 4.00%.

Beyond offering significantly better interest rates compared to standard savings accounts, a high-yield savings account is worth considering if you wish to bypass minimum balance stipulations or avoid monthly charges. Frequently, these features are offered together. Such accounts are perfect for setting aside money for unexpected expenses or for savings objectives that are not long-term, and they come with FDIC insurance, giving you the same security as conventional banks. Just keep in mind that you'll need to pay taxes on any interest the earnings generated by the account.

Frequently asked questions

How frequently do APYs for high-yield savings accounts fluctuate?

Financial institutions offering high-yield savings accounts have the discretion to alter their interest rates at any time, without adhering to a fixed timetable. However, in reality, these adjustments typically happen when the Federal Reserve modifies the federal funds rate.

If you discover a savings account offering a better interest rate, should you consider changing your bank?

Consider a change, though your circumstances will dictate the best course of action. While holding several savings accounts is permissible, examine any minimum deposit stipulations and assess if the improved interest rate will meaningfully boost your returns prior to proceeding.

Placing $1,000 into an account with a 4% APY and leaving it for a year without additional deposits could yield roughly $39.98 in interest. Conversely, if that same account offered a 4.5% APY, you might gain $44.98 in interest over the same twelve-month period.

Withdrawing funds from a High-Yield Savings Account (HYSA) is generally straightforward.

With a solid online banking system from your bank or credit union, withdrawing funds from your computer or smartphone should be straightforward. Keep in mind that numerous financial institutions still enforce a limit of six withdrawals monthly, despite this no longer being a federal regulation.

Is an online-only bank the right choice for my high-yield savings account?

Online banks, by avoiding expenses such as branch upkeep, can generally transfer those savings to clients via better rates, presenting them as a solid choice for your HYSA.

Is it possible to experience financial losses with a high-yield savings account?

If your institution's account is covered by FDIC or NCUA insurance, your funds are secure up to the maximum insured amount. However, if your account's annual percentage yield (APY) falls short of or doesn't keep pace with inflation, your purchasing power might still decrease.

Former Coins2Day editor Cassie Bottorff developed a series focusing on daily savings rates. Glen Luke Flanagan, Editor of Evergreen Content, has revised this particular edition. 

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