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Compare different types of savings accounts
The best account depends on how much you're trying to save — and for how long.
Some savings account types provide total access to your money while others are created to help you keep your hands off. Explore our guide on the different types of savings accounts to find which one is best for you.
Types of savings accounts
There are 12 types of savings accounts that you can consider for depositing your money:
Which type of savings account is best for me?
The right savings account for you depends on your savings goals and how much you have to save. While traditional savings accounts are a great way to start, CDs can earn higher interest rates if you don’t need access to your money, and money market accounts can come with higher interest rates if you meet the minimum balance and/or monthly deposit requirements. If you’re saving for retirement, specialized retirement accounts often come with tax advantages. These prompts could help you decide:
Young or a student?
Every dollar counts at this stage. Whether you’re studying, interning or simply waiting to turn 18, you’ll find a range of accounts designed just for you.
Account type
- Student savings
- Basic savings
Features
- Earn interest
- Pay low or no fees
- 24/7 access to your money
Saving for a goal?
Developing a strategy to get to your set goal might be easier than you think. Options like automatic transfers can help. But take note of the interest rate, and understand the features that come with your account.
Account type
- High-yield savings
- Online savings
- CDs
Features
- Free transfers
- Automatic savings plan
Retired or a senior?
Whether you love the convenience of the Internet and prefer to chat up a branch rep face-to-face, banks and credit unions offer a range of options for the older set.
Account type
- High-yield savings
- Online savings
- High-yield CDs
- Traditional CDs
- IRA CDs
Features
- Competitive interest rates
- Pay low or no fees
Teaching children?
Learning to save is an important skill for the future, and most parents want to teach their kids to manage money responsibly. Help your child’s savings grow by choosing a starter account.
Account type
- Basic savings
- Kids’ savings
Features
- Joint accounts with parents
- Limited withdrawals
- Low or no fees
Moving to the US?
If you’re moving to the US for work or study, your covered with a wide range of banking options. Look for a standard bank account, like a checking account, for everyday banking needs, and a savings account to grow surplus cash.
Account type
- Basic savings
- High-yield savings
- Money market
Features
- Multilingual bank staff
- 24/7 access to your money
Looking for an online account with no fees?
A bank account that’s fee-free puts every dollar you deposit closer to your savings goal. Plus, online accounts typically offer strong interest rates.
Account type
- Online savings
- High-yield savings
- Money market
Features
- Low or no fees
- Higher interest rates
How to compare different types of savings accounts
Savings accounts, money market accounts, CDs, cash management accounts and retirement accounts each have specific structures and features to help you save. To find the right one for you, consider the monthly fees, interest rates and requirements to withdraw your cash. Use the table to compare account:
| Traditional savings account | High-yield savings account | Money market account | Certificate of deposit (CD) | Cash management account | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Those who want a basic account that earns a modest interest rate, but may come with in-person banking | Those who want to earn an interest rate higher than the national average, but may not have in-person banking | Those who want a checking and savings hybrid that earns interest but is accessible | Those looking for a short-term investment with a locked in interest rate | Those who invest regularly and want to keep their bank account at their brokerage firm |
| Average interest | ~0.60% APY | ~1.30% APY | ~0.09% APY | ~0.06–0.51% APY | ~0.15–1.20% APY |
| Monthly fees | Sometimes | Sometimes | Sometimes | ||
| Minimum deposit | $0 to $100 | $0 to $100 | $2,500 to $10,000 | $500 to $10,000 | $0 to $50 |
| ATM access | Sometimes | ||||
| Checkwriting | |||||
| FDIC or NCUA insured | |||||
| Withdrawal limits | six a month | six a month | six a month | Can’t withdraw until maturity | six a month |
Compare savings accounts
Use the table to compare and sort popular savings account options by APY, fees and minimum deposit to open. If more than one account catches your eye, click the “Compare” box next to each one for a side-by-side view.
Bottom line
There are several types of savings accounts — each with their own features, pros and cons. Each one is unique and serves a different purpose in helping you reach your savings goals. As always, compare savings accounts to find the best option for you.
Frequently asked questions
Compare types of savings accounts
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