While savings accounts with a near-5% interest rate are excellent options for saving money and earning extra cash, other savings vehicles may better suit your financial goals.
Here are a few alternatives to consider.
High-Yield CDs
High-yield certificates of deposit (CDs) sometimes offer even higher rates than savings accounts. This is because when you open a CD account, you agree to lock your cash away for a fixed period of time. If you’re confident you won’t need to access your cash before the account’s maturity date, you could earn an impressive APY by opening a CD. Some of the best CD rates on the market are nearly 5%.
Money Market Accounts
Another alternative to a high-yield savings account is a money market account. These accounts typically carry high APYs, and many come with an ATM card to make accessing your money easier. Some of the best money market accounts currently offer APYs well over 4%.
Index Funds
Index funds have the potential to earn significantly higher returns than high-yield savings accounts and can keep pace with inflation over the long term. However, returns are not guaranteed, and there is a risk of loss.
401(k)
Contributing to a 401(k) is a good retirement savings strategy for those focused on long-term savings. Plus, many employers offer a 401(k) match to help you grow your savings even more.
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 at Mitlin Financial