Compare high-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs. Top HYSAs are paying 4.50–5.00% APY with full FDIC insurance.
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4.50–5.00% APY
Top HYSA Rate
Online banks
3.64%
Fed Funds Rate
Drives savings rates
4.25–4.75% APY
1-Year CD Rate
Fixed term
$250,000
FDIC Insurance
Per depositor, per bank
HYSA rates closely track the Federal Funds Rate. Data as of 2026-02-26. Source: FRED.
The best option for most savers. Online banks offer 4.50–5.00% APY with no minimum balance, no monthly fees, and full FDIC insurance up to $250,000. Funds are accessible anytime via electronic transfer. Rates move with the Fed Funds Rate.
Combines savings account yields (4.00–4.75% APY) with limited check-writing and debit card access. May require higher minimum balances than HYSAs. FDIC insured. Good for savings you might need to access quickly without transferring funds.
Lock in a fixed rate (4.25–4.75% APY for 1-year CDs) for a set term. Higher rates for longer terms. Early withdrawal penalties apply. FDIC insured. Best when you want a guaranteed rate and won't need the money before maturity.
Standard bank savings accounts offer 0.01–0.50% APY — far below inflation. Convenient if you already bank there, but poor for growing your money. Consider switching to a HYSA for 10–50x the interest rate with the same FDIC protection.
| Feature | HYSA | Money Market | CD | Traditional |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical APY | 4.50–5.00% APY | 4.00–4.75% APY | 4.25–4.75% APY | 0.01–0.50% APY |
| FDIC Insured | Yes ($250,000) | Yes ($250,000) | Yes ($250,000) | Yes ($250,000) |
| Liquidity | High — withdraw anytime | High — checks/debit card | Low — early withdrawal penalty | High — withdraw anytime |
| Minimum Balance | $0 at most online banks | $1,000–$2,500 typical | $500–$1,000 typical | $0–$25 |
| Rate Type | Variable (moves with Fed) | Variable (moves with Fed) | Fixed for term | Variable (rarely changes) |
| Best For | Emergency fund, general savings | Savings with check access | Locking in today's rate | Convenience (same bank) |
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Savings account rates are approximate and change frequently. Always verify current rates directly with the financial institution. FDIC insurance covers up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank, per ownership category.