Cassidy Horton is a finance writer covering banking, life insurance and business loans. She has worked with top finance brands including NerdWallet, MarketWatch and Consumer Affairs. Cassidy first became interested in personal finance after paying off $18,000 in debt within 10 months of graduating college. She later went on to triple her salary in two years by ditching her 8-to-5 job to write for a living.
Lauren Graves is an educator-turned-editor specializing in personal finance content. She seeks to make complicated topics easier to understand and less intimidating to the average reader with accurate, reliable information and transparent writing. Her expertise includes banking product reviews and general topics universal to personal finance such as saving and budgeting. Her work has been featured in Money Under 30, Investor Junkie, Doughroller, Saving for College and APY GUY.
Cassidy Horton,
Cassidy Horton is a finance writer covering banking, life insurance and business loans. She has worked with top finance brands including NerdWallet, MarketWatch and Consumer Affairs. Cassidy first became interested in personal finance after paying off $18,000 in debt within 10 months of graduating college. She later went on to triple her salary in two years by ditching her 8-to-5 job to write for a living.
Lauren Graves
Lauren Graves is an educator-turned-editor specializing in personal finance content. She seeks to make complicated topics easier to understand and less intimidating to the average reader with accurate, reliable information and transparent writing. Her expertise includes banking product reviews and general topics universal to personal finance such as saving and budgeting. Her work has been featured in Money Under 30, Investor Junkie, Doughroller, Saving for College and APY GUY.
Lawrence “Larry” Sprung, CFP®, is a banking expert, the founder and wealth advisor at Mitlin Financial, Inc®, the author of the Amazon bestselling book “Financial Planning Made Personal” and host of the Mitlin Money Mindset®
In 2004 Larry founded Mitlin Financial, Inc®, a firm named in memory of his wife’s grandfather Mitchell, and his mom, Linda. Linda is more than just the LIN in Mitlin, she is the reason Larry does what he does. As a teen he watched his parents struggle with their finances as she battled breast cancer for over a decade. That experience became his driving force.
The Mitlin team helps the families they serve design their future while planning for joy along the way. Larry worked hard to foster a culture at the firm that has those they serve feel like family, and Mitlin is proud to be serving second and third generations of clients. Over the years, the team has seen firsthand how strong financial habits instilled in parents, children and grandchildren can impact a family’s wealth and wealth stewardship for generations.
Larry has been honored with numerous industry awards for his financial literacy work and passion for putting those he serves first. He is a frequent media guest, has been quoted in countless publications and often speaks at industry conferences.
One of Larry’s greatest passions is raising awareness for mental health. With his wife, Denise, he has raised more than $1.7 million for the organization through the Keith Milano Memorial Fund. The fund was created at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in memory of his brother-in-law.
Larry values his family tremendously and his desire to do right by his wife and two sons drives who he is in and out of the office. You’ll likely find Larry at any number of ice hockey events on any given weekend.
In 2004 Larry founded Mitlin Financial, Inc®, a firm named in memory of his wife’s grandfather Mitchell, and his mom, Linda. Linda is more than just the LIN in Mitlin, she is the reason Larry does what he does. As a teen he watched his parents struggle with their finances as she battled breast cancer for over a decade. That experience became his driving force.
The Mitlin team helps the families they serve design their future while planning for joy along the way. Larry worked hard to foster a culture at the firm that has those they serve feel like family, and Mitlin is proud to be serving second and third generations of clients. Over the years, the team has seen firsthand how strong financial habits instilled in parents, children and grandchildren can impact a family’s wealth and wealth stewardship for generations.
Larry has been honored with numerous industry awards for his financial literacy work and passion for putting those he serves first. He is a frequent media guest, has been quoted in countless publications and often speaks at industry conferences.
One of Larry’s greatest passions is raising awareness for mental health. With his wife, Denise, he has raised more than $1.7 million for the organization through the Keith Milano Memorial Fund. The fund was created at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in memory of his brother-in-law.
Larry values his family tremendously and his desire to do right by his wife and two sons drives who he is in and out of the office. You’ll likely find Larry at any number of ice hockey events on any given weekend.
Expert Reviewed
Lawrence Sprung CFP®
Lawrence “Larry” Sprung, CFP®, is a banking expert, the founder and wealth advisor at Mitlin Financial, Inc®, the author of the Amazon bestselling book “Financial Planning Made Personal” and host of the Mitlin Money Mindset®
In 2004 Larry founded Mitlin Financial, Inc®, a firm named in memory of his wife’s grandfather Mitchell, and his mom, Linda. Linda is more than just the LIN in Mitlin, she is the reason Larry does what he does. As a teen he watched his parents struggle with their finances as she battled breast cancer for over a decade. That experience became his driving force.
The Mitlin team helps the families they serve design their future while planning for joy along the way. Larry worked hard to foster a culture at the firm that has those they serve feel like family, and Mitlin is proud to be serving second and third generations of clients. Over the years, the team has seen firsthand how strong financial habits instilled in parents, children and grandchildren can impact a family’s wealth and wealth stewardship for generations.
Larry has been honored with numerous industry awards for his financial literacy work and passion for putting those he serves first. He is a frequent media guest, has been quoted in countless publications and often speaks at industry conferences.
One of Larry’s greatest passions is raising awareness for mental health. With his wife, Denise, he has raised more than $1.7 million for the organization through the Keith Milano Memorial Fund. The fund was created at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in memory of his brother-in-law.
Larry values his family tremendously and his desire to do right by his wife and two sons drives who he is in and out of the office. You’ll likely find Larry at any number of ice hockey events on any given weekend.
In 2004 Larry founded Mitlin Financial, Inc®, a firm named in memory of his wife’s grandfather Mitchell, and his mom, Linda. Linda is more than just the LIN in Mitlin, she is the reason Larry does what he does. As a teen he watched his parents struggle with their finances as she battled breast cancer for over a decade. That experience became his driving force.
The Mitlin team helps the families they serve design their future while planning for joy along the way. Larry worked hard to foster a culture at the firm that has those they serve feel like family, and Mitlin is proud to be serving second and third generations of clients. Over the years, the team has seen firsthand how strong financial habits instilled in parents, children and grandchildren can impact a family’s wealth and wealth stewardship for generations.
Larry has been honored with numerous industry awards for his financial literacy work and passion for putting those he serves first. He is a frequent media guest, has been quoted in countless publications and often speaks at industry conferences.
One of Larry’s greatest passions is raising awareness for mental health. With his wife, Denise, he has raised more than $1.7 million for the organization through the Keith Milano Memorial Fund. The fund was created at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) in memory of his brother-in-law.
Larry values his family tremendously and his desire to do right by his wife and two sons drives who he is in and out of the office. You’ll likely find Larry at any number of ice hockey events on any given weekend.
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
The best 5% interest savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals faster. Whether you’re saving for a down payment on a house, paying off student loans or building an emergency fund, the higher your interest rate, the sooner you’ll get there.
Even with national average savings account rates hovering around 0.45% as of June 17, 2024, per the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), a 5.00% interest savings account isn’t impossible to find. Below, we’ve gathered the best savings accounts paying 5.00% APY (or close to it).
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Show Summary
Best 5% Interest Savings Accounts
We compared 73 online savings accounts offered by 53 nationally available banks and credit unions to find the best 5% interest savings accounts (or accounts with interest rates close to 5.00% APY). Learn why we picked each account, compare their pros and cons and access individual bank reviews.
Annual percentage yields (APYs) and account details are accurate as of June 24, 2024.
Best for Extra Perks
M1 High-Yield Savings Account
Annual Percentage Yield
5.00%
Minimum Deposit Requirement
$0
Monthly Maintenance Fee
$3
Learn More
On Fiona.com's Website
5.00%
$0
$3
Editor's Take
We chose M1‘s High-Yield Savings Account as the best option for extra perks because it comes with saving and investing tools in addition to earning 5.00% APY on all balances.
Why We Like It
We like the high APY on this savings account and the fact that it offers FDIC insurance up to $3.75 million in FDIC insurance.
What We Don’t Like
M1 does not charge a monthly fee to customers with combined balances of $10,000 or higher, but it does charge a fee of 5.00% APY to users with less than $10,000 in assets. Customers can also waive the fee if they have an active personal loan with the company.
Who It’s Best For
Current or prospective M1 brokerage customers should consider this savings account.
Pros & Cons
- High APY
- FDIC insurance up to $3.75 million
- No minimum deposit or balance requirements
- Full suite of banking products including checking, investing and lending
- Interest compounds monthly
- Check deposits are not permitted
- M1 does not support ACH deposits from certain banks
- No in-person branches
- Monthly fee charged if you don’t meet requirements to waive
Details
M1 isn’t a bank but a fintech company. M1 savings deposits are held by FDIC-insured B2 Bank. Through B2 Bank’s Insured Deposit Network Program, which utilizes the coverage of other FDIC institutions, M1 deposits can be insured up to $5 million.
Interest compounds and is credited to your account monthly. Customers can earn 5.00% APY.
Expert's Take
One major benefit of this account is the ability to ensure an amount greater than the individual FDIC limits ($250,000) offered by most institutions. Through its involvement with the B2 Bank’s Insured Deposit Network Program, M1 can insure deposit amounts up to $3.75 million, which could allow you to keep your funds consolidated in one place.
—Lawrence Sprung, CFP and wealth advisor at Mitlin Financial, Inc
Best for Minimal Fees
Bask Interest Savings Account
Annual Percentage Yield
APY as of March 28, 2024. APY is variable and subject to change after account opening. No monthly account fees or minimum deposit required. Must fund within 15 days of account opening.
5.10%
Minimum Deposit Requirement
$0
Monthly Maintenance Fee
$0
Learn More
On Bask Bank's Website
Member FDIC
Member FDIC
APY as of March 28, 2024. APY is variable and subject to change after account opening. No monthly account fees or minimum deposit required. Must fund within 15 days of account opening.
5.10%
$0
$0
Editor's Take
We picked Bask Bank, an online-only division of Texas Capital Bank because its savings account has no minimum balance requirement or monthly fees and earns 5.10% APY on any balance.
Why We Like It
We like that the only fees you’ll encounter are outgoing wire fees—this is about as close to fee-free as savings accounts get.
What We Don’t Like
This digital bank doesn’t offer support in person or via live chat, but customer support is available on the phone six days a week or via email.
Who It’s Best For
Consider Bask Bank’s Interest Savings Account if you’re looking to avoid fees and earn the highest APY regardless of your balance.
Pros & Cons
- No monthly maintenance fee or hidden fees
- No minimum deposit or balance requirements
- No balance caps on highest APY
- Interest compounds daily
- No live chat support
- No in-person branches
Details
Bask Bank is part of Texas Capital Bank. This savings account charges fees for outgoing wire transfers. Though you can’t walk into a branch as this is an online-only bank, Bask Bank customers have access to both email and phone support. Interest compounds daily and is credited monthly on the last day of each statement cycle. Customers earn 5.10% APY with no minimums or activity requirements. Customers need to make a deposit within 15 days of account opening to avoid closure.
Expert's Take
Bask’s savings account offers a significantly higher rate than the national average while requiring no minimum balance or monthly fees. This account is good for someone who plans to park their cash and let it grow without making repeated withdrawals, as it, like most savings accounts, doesn’t offer checks or ATM access. Another Bask Bank account worth considering is the Mileage Savings Account, which lets consumers earn airline miles on their account balance instead of interest.
—Stephen Kates, CFP and principal financial analyst
Best for ATM Access
UFB Secure Savings
Annual Percentage Yield
Accurate as of 3/28/2024
Up to 5.25%
Minimum Deposit Requirement
$0
Monthly Maintenance Fee
$0
Learn More
On UFB Direct's Website
Accurate as of 3/28/2024
Up to 5.25%
$0
$0
Editor's Take
UFB High Yield Savings ranked well for ATM access because it comes with a free ATM card and doesn’t charge fees for ATM transactions.
Why We Like It
We like that customers can earn up to 5.25% APY on all balance tiers on their savings balances with no minimum balance requirement and no monthly fee. You don’t need to do anything to qualify for the highest rate, and all balance tiers currently earn the same APY. We’re also fans of the highly rated UFB Direct app, which offers intuitive tools for digital banking.
What We Don’t Like
UFB places a six-per-month limit on certain types of withdrawals from your savings account, including overdraft protection transfers and online and mobile banking transfers, after which you’ll be charged a $10 fee per excess transaction. Luckily, this limit does not apply to ATM withdrawals.
Who It’s Best For
This account is ideal for savers who want to make ATM withdrawals from their savings account without incurring fees or worrying about transaction limits.
Pros & Cons
- Includes an ATM card
- No monthly fees
- No minimum balance or deposit requirements
- Interest compounds daily
- No in-person branches
- Excess transaction fees
Details
UFB Direct accounts are offered through FDIC-member Axos Bank, and all deposits are insured up to the maximum limit of $250,000 per depositor. While this account technically has balance tiers, all balances currently earn the same rate. You earn up to 5.25% APY on all balance tiers with no activity or minimum requirements you have to meet to qualify. Interest is compounded daily and credited monthly. Most transactions are limited to six per statement period, and transactions in excess of this limit will incur a $10 excess withdrawal fee.
Expert's Take
UFB Direct’s Secure Savings account offers an impressive APY, and due to its expanded FDIC insurance coverage, it’s a strong choice for anyone looking to save more than $250,000. The bank also offers account alerts via text, which has become increasingly popular in recent years.
—Eric Croak, CFP and president of Croak Capital
Best for Simple Saving
Salem Five Direct eOne Savings
Annual Percentage Yield
5.01%
for deposits up to $1 million
Minimum Deposit Requirement
$10
Monthly Maintenance Fee
$0
Learn More
Read Our Full Review
5.01%
for deposits up to $1 million
$10
$0
Editor's Take
We chose the Salem Five Direct eOne Savings account for simple savings because you can earn 5.01% for deposits up to $1 million with no minimum balance or monthly fees to worry about. All you need is a $10 deposit to open an account.
Why We Like It
We like the eOne Savings account’s lack of activity requirements to earn interest and the fact that it can be easily opened online.
What We Don’t Like
The account is only open to new Salem Five Bank customers or existing customers who have a Salem Five Direct eOne Checking account. Branch access is also limited to the Boston area.
Who It’s Best For
This account is ideal for new Salem Five Direct customers or current customers with a Salem Five Direct eOne Checking account who want to earn interest without worrying about meeting requirements or paying monthly fees.
Pros & Cons
- No activity requirements to earn interest
- No monthly fee
- Low opening deposit requirement
- Existing customers must have an eOne Checking Account
- Account must be opened online, even if you live near a branch
Details
The Salem Five Direct eOne Savings Account is only open to new Salem Five customers or existing customers who have an eOne Checking account. Otherwise, you’re not eligible. You must fund your eOne Savings account with money from outside of Salem Five or Salem Five Direct.
Expert's Take
This account could be a good option as there is no monthly fee, and you can start it with as little as $10. These accounts must be opened online, which could be a hurdle for those who are more comfortable opening accounts in person.
—Lawrence Sprung, CFP and wealth advisor at Mitlin Financial, Inc
Best for Unlimited Transfers and Withdrawals
BMO Alto Online Savings Account
Annual Percentage Yield
5.10%
Minimum Deposit Requirement
$0
Monthly Maintenance Fee
$0
Learn More
On Bankrate.com's Website
5.10%
$0
$0
Editor's Take
We picked BMO Alto’s Online Savings Account because it offers unlimited transfers and withdrawals with no fees or minimums.
What We Liked
This account offers 5.10% APY on any balance. We also like that this account allows unlimited transfers and withdrawals, making it ideal for those planning to move money frequently.
What We Didn’t Like
This account only allows two methods of funding your account. It doesn’t offer checks or debit cards, either. But perhaps most importantly, customers should know that BMO Alto doesn’t have an app—just an online platform.
Who It’s Best For
This account is best for those who want a guaranteed competitive interest rate on any size savings balance. It’s also a great fit for customers who make frequent transfers in and out of their savings and don’t want to be charged for doing so. Customers who appreciate mobile banking will need to choose another account since BMO Alto offers only an online portal.
Pros & Cons
- Highly competitive interest rate on all balances
- Unlimited transfers and withdrawals
- No mobile app for BMO Alto account holders
- Limited ways to fund your account
Details
BMO Alto is an online division of BMO Bank. BMO Alto has no branch locations and no mobile app, so customers have to do all of their banking through the BMO Alto website. The only way to make deposits into your account is via an ACH transfer.
BMO Alto doesn’t have minimum balance requirements for savings accounts, but your account will be automatically closed if it has a balance of $0 for 90 consecutive days. Interest compounds daily and is credited to your account monthly.
Expert's Take
Anyone looking for flexibility in a fully online option could find this option very appealing. This account earns a competitive rate and allows a great deal of flexibility if you need to make a significant number of transfers to and from the account, as there are no restrictions. Be aware that you will not receive checks to write, and BMO Alto does not allow transactions by mail.
—Lawrence Sprung, CFP and wealth advisor at Mitlin Financial, Inc
Honorable Mentions
While they didn’t make our top picks, these honorable mentions have some unique features and perks in addition to competitive interest rates. Depending on your banking preferences and goals, you may find an account below that’s a better fit than the best 5% interest savings accounts ranked above.
Bread Savings High-Yield Savings Account
- Star Rating: 3.9
- Annual Percentage Yield: 5.15%
- Minimum Deposit Requirement: $100
- Monthly Fee: $0
What We Liked
The Bread Savings High-Yield Savings Account offers a 5.15% APY with a relatively low minimum balance threshold, and it doesn’t charge any monthly fees. It also offers unlimited deposits with mobile checks and ACH transfers. If you’re looking for a simple savings account, or if you happen to receive a lot of paper checks, this could be a good fit.
What We Didn’t Like
While there’s no monthly maintenance fee, customers do need to have at least $100 in their accounts to earn the 5.15% APY. This account doesn’t offer checks or debit cards, and Bread Financial doesn’t offer checking accounts.
Who It’s Best For
The Bread Savings High Yield Savings Account will work best for those who prefer to bank digitally and who don’t have a need to deposit or withdraw cash. With its high interest rate and low fees, this account is ideal for regular saving and earning.
CIT Bank Platinum Savings
- Star Rating: 3.8
- Annual Percentage Yield: 5.00% APY on balances of $5,000 or more, 0.25% APY on balances less than $5,000
- Minimum Deposit Requirement: $100
- Monthly Fee: $0
What We Liked
CIT Bank’s Platinum Savings account offers a highly competitive interest rate for those with a balance of at least $5,000, and there are no monthly fees to cut into interest earnings. CIT Bank offers a checking account, too, which can make it easier and more convenient to fund your savings. For people who plan to keep their savings balances high, this account could fit the bill.
What We Didn’t Like
If your Platinum Savings balance is less than $5,000, you’ll only earn the lower APY. This account also requires a minimum deposit of $100. Customers who want to bank with Android devices should know the CIT Bank app receives mixed reviews on Google Play.
Who It’s Best For
CIT Bank’s Platinum Savings is best for customers who have at least $5,000 to save. The high minimum balance requirement to earn better interest could serve as a motivator to avoid dipping into your savings if you think that could work for you. Otherwise, choose another account.
Varo Savings Account
- Star Rating: 3.8
- Annual Percentage Yield: 3.00% to 5.00%
- Minimum Deposit Requirement: $0
- Monthly Fee: $0
What We Liked
The Varo High-Yield Savings Account is packed with benefits to help you reach your financial goals. In addition to earning 3.00% APY without charging a monthly fee and up to 5.00% APY by meeting specific requirements each month, it includes a round-up feature and an automatic paycheck transfer option. Varo Bank is an online-only bank designed for on-the-go users with a highly-rated mobile app and a large ATM network.
What We Didn’t Like
Varo High-Yield Savings Account customers earn 3.00% APY without charging a monthly fee and up to 5.00% APY by meeting specific requirements each month. You also have to meet two conditions to qualify to earn 5.00% APY: You have to receive at least $1,000 in monthly direct deposits, and you have to end each month with a positive balance in all your Varo accounts.
Who It’s Best For
Customers who want savings tools built right into their accounts—without any fees attached—will appreciate all that Varo has to offer. Since Varo has a solid mobile app and helpful features for set-it-and-forget-it saving, this account is best for banking on the go.
Summary of the Best 5% Interest Savings Accounts of 2024
Complete Guide to 5% Interest Savings Accounts
- What Is a 5% Interest Savings Account?
- Benefits of a 5% Interest Savings Account
- How Can I Get 5% Interest on Savings?
- Where Can I Get 5% Interest on My Savings Account?
- How To Choose a 5% Interest Savings Account
- How To Apply for a 5% Interest Savings Account
- Alternatives to 5% Savings Accounts
- How To Maximize APY on Savings
- Recap: Best 5% Interest Savings Accounts 2024
- Methodology
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is a 5% Interest Savings Account?
A 5% interest savings account is a type of savings account that pays an annual percentage yield (APY) of around 5%. If you have $1,000 in a 5% interest savings account, you’ll earn $50 in interest over the course of a year, compared to only earning $1 in a traditional 0.10% interest savings account.
While 5% interest savings accounts can help you maximize your savings, some banks may require you to set up direct deposits or maintain a minimum balance to earn the advertised APY. There may also be caps on how much of your balance can earn the advertised rate.
Benefits of a 5% Interest Savings Account
A 5% interest savings account offers many benefits, such as:
- Higher earnings. A 5% interest savings account earns significantly more interest than a traditional savings account, which might earn as little as 0.01% APY.
- Security. Savings accounts protect your savings—and interest earnings—with FDIC or NCUA insurance.
- Separate savings. Avoid confusion and accidental spending by keeping your emergency fund and other savings separate from your checking account.
- Digital banking. Many 5% interest savings accounts are offered by online banks and fintech companies. This means most accounts offer online and mobile accessibility for on-the-go banking.
- Flexibility. With 5% interest savings accounts, you’ll get a rate on par with the most competitive certificates of deposit (CDs)—without the strict limitations on deposits and withdrawals.
High-interest savings accounts can be a great tool for earning more money and keeping your funds liquid. They’re ideal for an emergency fund or a large expense you’re saving for and plan to make in the near future, such as a house. I don’t recommend using these accounts to save for expenses that are well off in the future, such as retirement or a child’s education. In these cases, you may be better served by investment accounts, such as an IRA or 529 plan.
– Lawrence Sprung, CFP and wealth advisor
How Can I Get 5% Interest on Savings?
In today’s market, there are plenty of accounts that offer 5% interest on savings. High-yield savings accounts are often a good choice, but CDs and money market accounts are also worth considering.
Start by comparing accounts that offer 5% interest. We listed our top-rated choices for 5% interest savings accounts above, but there are other accounts with similar rates. Next, check for any eligibility requirements you must meet to earn 5% interest. Some accounts may have direct deposit or minimum balance requirements to qualify for the highest advertised interest rate.
Not all accounts have minimum requirements, though. If you’re concerned about being able to meet specific criteria, choose an account that earns 5% on all balances—no strings attached.
To start earning 5% interest on your savings, simply open one of these accounts and make an initial deposit.
Where Can I Get 5% Interest on My Savings Account?
To get 5% interest on your savings account, you first need to check what rate your bank offers. If your account pays up to 5.00% APY but you’re not yet earning this rate, you may need to meet specific requirements to qualify for the highest yield. This could mean receiving a certain amount in direct deposits each month, meeting a minimum balance or something else.
If your account doesn’t offer a high APY, you probably need to switch to a high-yield savings account that does. Not only do many of the best high-yield savings accounts pay 5% interest, but some offer even more. Currently, you can find 5% interest savings accounts at M1, Bask Bank, UFB Direct, Salem Five Direct, BMO Alto, Bread Savings, CIT Bank and Varo Bank.
How To Choose a 5% Interest Savings Account
When looking for the best 5% interest savings account to fit your needs, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Find a competitive APY. The best 5% interest savings account should offer an APY of around 4.00% to 5.00%. Anything less than that, and you might not be getting the best deal.
- Look for restrictions. Just because a 5% interest savings account has a high APY doesn’t mean you’ll earn that rate on your entire balance. Read the fine print to see if the interest rate only applies to a portion of your balance and if there are any requirements to earn it.
- Compare fees. Many banks and credit unions offer high-yield savings accounts with no monthly fees, but it’s still worth checking to make sure. Any fees you pay will eat into the interest you earn.
- Consider the customer experience. How easy is it to access your money? Can you deposit and withdraw funds quickly, or does it take days? Consider the customer service options that a bank or credit union offers as well.
How To Apply for a 5% Interest Savings Account
You can open any of the best 5% interest savings accounts online, and it usually takes 15 minutes or less. Just follow these steps:
- Research institutions that offer 5.00% interest savings accounts to find one that best suits your needs.
- Navigate to that bank’s website, and start the application process online.
- Provide your name, address, Social Security number and other personal information to open the account.
- Verify your identity using a valid driver’s license or passport if you’re asked to upload one.
- Submit your initial deposit.
Once you’ve completed these steps, consider setting up savings builder tools, such as round-ups or recurring automatic deposits into your savings account.
Alternatives to 5% Savings Accounts
If you don’t think a 5% interest savings account is right for you, there are other ways to save money and earn interest. Here are a few options to consider:
- High-yield CDs. The best CD rates are generally higher than savings account rates. This is because you agree to lock your money up for a set period of time in exchange for a higher yield. If you know you won’t need your money for a while, opening a CD can be a low-risk way to get started with investing.
- Money market accounts: Like high-yield savings accounts, the best money market accounts offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts. Plus, many come with an ATM card and even checks, so you can access your money more conveniently.
- Index funds: Index funds offer diversification and the potential for an even higher return than the best 5% interest savings accounts. But because your money is in the stock market, there’s always the risk of loss.
- 401(k): Making regular contributions to your 401(k) can be a great way to save for retirement and grow your wealth for the long term. You can invest in stocks, bonds and other assets within your 401(k) account. Plus, you may get an employer match to sweeten the deal.
How To Maximize APY on Savings
If you’re looking to maximize your APY, a 5% APY savings account is one of the best options. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your interest earnings.
- Shop for the best rates. Look for a savings account with a high APY on most or all balances. Online banks tend to offer the highest interest rates. Some banks offer promotional rates, but make sure you read the fine print to avoid any surprises.
- Avoid fees. Monthly service fees and other unnecessary charges can eat into the interest you earn. Although many banks offer ways to waive monthly account fees, it’s best to go with a free 5% APY savings account when possible so you don’t have to worry about meeting waiver requirements each month.
- Meet APY requirements. Some savings accounts require you to regularly meet certain criteria to earn the highest APY. This could include maintaining a minimum balance or making a certain number of transactions each month.
- Automate your savings. Set up an automatic transfer that moves money from your checking to your savings account each month. This will help you grow your balance faster; typically, the bigger your balance, the more you’ll earn in interest.
- Take advantage of compound interest. With a 5% APY, your savings will grow quickly—thanks to compound interest. Make sure you leave your money in the account to take advantage of this.
Pro Tip
If you don’t need immediate access to your savings, many of the best CDs offer even higher APYs. Just make sure you’re comfortable with the terms and don’t need the money before the CD matures.
Recap: Best 5% Interest Savings Accounts 2024
- M1 High-Yield Savings Account: Best for Extra Perks
- Bask Interest Savings Account: Best for Minimal Fees
- UFB Secure Savings: Best for ATM Access
- Salem Five Direct eOne Savings: Best for Simple Saving
- BMO Alto Online Savings Account: Best for Unlimited Transfers and Withdrawals
Methodology
To create our list of the best 5% interest savings accounts, Forbes Advisor analyzed 73 high-yield savings accounts from 53 financial institutions, including traditional brick-and-mortar banks, online banks and credit unions. We ranked each institution on 12 data points within the categories of APY, restrictions and limitations, fees, access, customer experience and account minimums.
Below are the weights we assigned to each category:
- APY: 20%
- APY restrictions and limitations: 20%
- Fees: 20%
- Account minimums: 15%
- Customer experience: 15%
- Access: 10%
As a result, accounts with the highest APYs and lowest restrictions and fees ranked highest on our list.
To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on How Forbes Advisor Reviews Banks.
Forbes Advisor Banking Reviewer and Writer Emily Batdorf contributed to this article.
Find The Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the highest APY for a savings account?
The UFB Secure Savings account currently has one of the highest rates we’ve found, offering up to 5.25% APY on all balance tiers APY. The Bread Savings High-Yield Savings Account follows closely behind, offering 5.15% APY.
What 5% savings accounts are there?
All of the accounts on this list offer up to or close to 5.00% APY with the ability to pay no monthly fees and varying minimum deposit requirements. Consider which account will be the best fit for your financial goals and immediate savings needs.
