6 Best Savings Accounts of December 2024: Up to 5%

## Best Savings Accounts with High APYs for 2024

Looking for a way to grow your savings faster? The best savings accounts offer annual percentage yields (APYs) up to 5.00%, far above the national average of 0.43%. Here’s a breakdown of some top options for high-yield savings accounts, updated as of December 6, 2024.

### **Top Picks for Savings Accounts**

#### **SoFi Checking & Savings**
– **APY**: 4.00% with direct deposit or monthly deposits of $5,000; 1.20% without.
– **Highlights**: Combines checking and savings in one account, offering 0.50% APY on the checking portion.
– **Pros**:
– No minimum deposit to open.
– No monthly maintenance fees.
– **Ideal For**: Customers seeking one institution for both checking and savings.

#### **CIT Bank Platinum Savings**
– **APY**: 4.55% for balances of $5,000 or more; 0.25% for lower balances.
– **Minimum Opening Deposit**: $100.
– **Highlights**:
– No monthly service fees.
– **Ideal For**: Those with $5,000+ to deposit who want high returns.

#### **Bask Bank Interest Savings**
– **APY**: 4.65%.
– **Highlights**:
– No minimum deposit or monthly fees.
– Option to open multiple accounts for different savings goals.
– **Ideal For**: Flexible savers with varying goals, such as building an emergency fund or vacation fund.

#### **EverBank Yield Pledge Savings**
– **APY**: 4.75%.
– **Highlights**:
– No minimum opening deposit.
– No monthly fees.
– Offers other banking products, including interest checking and CDs.
– **Ideal For**: Customers seeking an all-in-one online banking solution.

#### **Barclays Online Savings**
– **APY**: 4.50%.
– **Highlights**:
– No minimum deposit to open.
– Free online tools for setting and tracking savings goals.
– **Ideal For**: Online-only savers who don’t need a checking account.

#### **UFB Direct High-Yield Savings**
– **APY**: Competitive rates around 5%.
– **Highlights**:
– No monthly fees or minimum deposit requirements.
– **Ideal For**: Those seeking simplicity and high returns.

### **Why High-Yield Savings Accounts Matter**
Switching to a high-yield savings account can make a significant difference in your financial growth.

– **Example**: A $10,000 balance in a 5% APY account earns about $500 annually compared to $40 in a 0.43% APY account.

### **Key Features to Look For**
The best savings accounts often share these characteristics:
1. **High APY**: Competitive rates near 5% to maximize your earnings.
2. **No Monthly Fees**: Avoid accounts that chip away at your savings.
3. **Low Minimum Balances**: Flexibility for all savings levels.

### **Savings Alternatives with High Returns**
If you’re looking for additional ways to grow your money:

1. **Money Market Accounts**: Similar to savings accounts but with perks like check-writing.
2. **Certificates of Deposit (CDs)**: Lock in your money for a fixed term for even higher rates, though early withdrawals may incur penalties.

### **Savings Account Basics You Should Know**
– **APY**: Reflects annual earnings, considering compounding interest.
– **Compound Interest**: Earns interest on your balance and previously accrued interest.
– **Minimum Balance**: The lowest amount needed to maintain or open an account.

### **Why Choose a High-Yield Savings Account?**
Having a savings account with a competitive rate is essential for:
– Building an emergency fund.
– Earning passive income.
– Maximizing unused cash.

Switch to a high-yield savings account today and make your money work harder for you.

*Disclaimer: Rates and account terms are current as of December 2024 and may vary by institution.*

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