How Do High-Yield Savings Accounts Work? What You Need to Know

Are you looking to make your savings work harder for you? If so, a high-yield savings account (HYSA) could be the solution you’ve been waiting for. A HYSA allows you to earn more on your money while still keeping it accessible when you need it. Whether you’re saving for a rainy day, a vacation, or building a financial cushion, this type of account is worth considering. In this post, we’ll walk you through how these accounts work, how they compare to other options, and how they fit into your financial goals.

What Is a High-Yield Savings Account?

A high-yield savings account is a savings account that offers a significantly higher interest rate than a traditional savings account. These accounts allow you to grow your savings faster while maintaining easy access to your funds.

Key Features of a High-Yield Savings Account:

• Higher Interest Rates: Interest rates range from 0.40% to over 1.00%, compared to the 0.01% to 0.05% typically found in traditional savings accounts. Sound Credit Union offers tiered high-yield savings accounts, offering a higher rate of return.
• Easy Access to Funds: You can withdraw or transfer your money when needed, providing liquidity and flexibility.
• FDIC/NCUA Insurance: Your deposits are usually insured up to $250,000, ensuring your savings are protected.
• No or Low Fees: Many high-yield savings accounts come with low or no monthly maintenance fees.
• Compounding Interest: Interest is often compounded daily or monthly, helping your savings grow even faster.

How Do High-Yield Savings Accounts Work?

High-yield savings accounts are relatively simple to use. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Depositing Funds: To get started, deposit money into the account. This can be done via an initial deposit or regular transfers, including mobile deposits through your credit union or bank app.
2. Earning Interest: Once your money is in the account, it begins to earn interest. Most high-yield savings accounts compound interest—either daily, monthly, or quarterly—so your balance continues to grow over time. The more you save and the longer you leave it in the account, the more your interest will accumulate.
3. Access to Your Funds: You can transfer money, make withdrawals, or use mobile transfers to send money where you need it. Sound Credit Union allows you to make real-time online transfers, giving you easy access to your cash whenever you need it.
4. Insurance: Most high-yield savings accounts are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), up to $250,000. This means that your funds are protected, and you can have peace of mind knowing that your savings are safe.

If you have any questions about how high-yield savings accounts work or their benefits, contact Sound Credit Union, or stop by a local branch.

High-Yield Savings Account vs. CD: Which Is Right For You?

It’s important to understand the differences between high-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) when deciding which is the best fit for your financial goals. Here’s a quick breakdown of how these two compare:

• Liquidity: One of the major benefits of a HYSA is liquidity—you can access your funds whenever you need them. In contrast, a CD locks your money in for a set term, and withdrawing early usually incurs penalties.
• Interest Rates: While CDs often offer higher interest rates than HYSAs, they are fixed, meaning you won’t benefit from a rate increase during your term. With a HYSA, the interest rate is variable, so it may rise if market rates increase.

When choosing between these two account types, make sure to consider your financial goals, time horizon, and need for flexibility. If you value easy access to your funds and want to take advantage of changing interest rates, a high-yield savings account may be the better option. However, if you’re looking for a guaranteed return over a specific period and don’t need immediate access to your funds, a certificate of deposit could offer a higher return with more stability.

How to Find the Best High-Yield Savings Account for You

Finding the right high-yield savings account for your needs can make a big difference in your financial success. Here are a few things to consider when shopping around:

• Interest Rates: Look for an account that offers a competitive interest rate. The better the rate, the faster your savings will grow.
• Fees: Fees can eat into your earnings, so make sure to check for any monthly fees or charges for excessive withdrawals.
• Account Access: Look for an account that provides easy access for deposits and withdrawals, such as online and mobile options for convenient transactions.
• Deposit Insurance: Ensure your account is NCUA or FDIC insured, protecting your funds up to $250,000.

At Sound Credit Union, we offer high-yield savings accounts with competitive rates, no monthly fees, easy access through mobile and online banking, and NCUA insurance to give you peace of mind while you save.

Understanding High-Yield Savings Account Rates

Interest rates on high-yield savings accounts are typically influenced by the federal funds rate, which the Federal Reserve adjusts according to economic conditions. When the Fed raises rates, high-yield accounts generally follow suit, offering more attractive returns.

It’s essential to stay informed about the market and the rates offered by your bank or credit union. If you notice interest rates rising, it could be the perfect opportunity to switch accounts or increase your deposit to maximize your returns.

If you’re uncertain about how to track these changes or what steps are best for your savings, reach out to Sound Credit Union for expert guidance and friendly advice.

Explore Your Options With Sound Credit Union

If you’re ready to start earning more on your savings, consider opening a high-yield savings account with Sound Credit Union today. Your money should work for you—and with a high-yield account, it can!