An interest-bearing account, also known as a deposit account, is a type of bank account that pays interest on cash deposited into it. These bank accounts are available in a variety of forms, including savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs).
How does an interest-bearing account work?
An interest-bearing account offers depositors a means to grow their savings while maintaining accessibility to their funds. By depositing money into this type of bank account, you can earn interest on your balance, which is calculated as a percentage of the deposit amount. This interest rate can vary depending on the account type and the financial institution.
With an interest-bearing account, you have a secure and convenient option for saving towards long-term goals like a home down payment or your children’s education. By earning a return on your deposits, you can see your savings grow over time, making it an effective tool for financial planning.
By choosing an interest-bearing account, you not only protect your funds but also reap the benefits of accumulating wealth through the interest earned. Whether for savings or reaching specific financial objectives, an interest-bearing account is a practical choice for anyone looking to maximize their money.
Types of Interest-Bearing Accounts
Savings Accounts
A savings account is a type of deposit account that allows you to earn interest on your savings. You can easily grow your savings by making regular deposits and you’ll have quick access to your funds when you need them.
How they work
Setting up a savings account typically involves a minimum deposit requirement. Afterward, you can choose to make additional deposits or withdrawals at your convenience. The interest paid on your account balance is set at a fixed rate determined by the bank, which is generally lower compared to other deposit account options.
Pros and cons
A savings account offers a safe and stress-free solution for saving your money. With low fees and quick access to your funds, it’s a popular choice for many people. However, the interest rates on savings accounts tend to be lower compared to other deposit accounts such as CDs or money market accounts.
Ready to get started? Here are the best savings accounts of 2024.
Checking Accounts
A checking account is a deposit account designed for daily transactions like paying bills or making purchases.
How they work
Checking accounts allow you to deposit money, withdraw funds, and write checks. Some checking accounts may offer interest on the account balance, although the interest rate is typically lower than that of savings accounts.
Pros and cons
Checking accounts offer quick access to your funds and the flexibility to write checks. However, they may also come with additional fees such as monthly service fees or check-writing fees.
Ready to move forward? Here are the best checking accounts of 2024.
Money Market Accounts (MMAs)
A money market account is a type of deposit account that typically offers a higher interest rate than a savings account. However, the minimum deposit and balance requirements are also usually higher.
How they work
Money market accounts offer the same benefits and features of checking and savings accounts, such as deposits and withdrawals, and check writing. They are generally more suitable for short-term objectives rather than long-term savings.
Pros and cons
While a money market account typically offers higher interest rates than a savings account, it also often requires a higher minimum deposit and balance to avoid fees.
Check out the best money market accounts of 2024.
Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
A certificate of deposit (CD) is a type of deposit account that typically offers a higher interest rate than checking or savings accounts, but with a fixed term of deposit.
How they work
To open a CD, you need to deposit a minimum amount and agree to leave the funds in the account for a set period of time, known as the term of the CD. Interest is paid on the account balance at a higher rate than on savings accounts. However, you can’t withdraw the funds before the end of the term without penalty.
Pros and cons
CDs offer higher interest rates than checking or savings accounts, and they can be a good way to save for a specific goal with a set time horizon. However, you’re unable to access the funds before the end of the term without penalty. This can be a disadvantage if the funds are needed earlier.
Cash Management Accounts (CMAs)
A cash management account (CMA) is a hybrid account that combines features of checking, savings, and investment accounts, offering the flexibility to manage your finances all in one place.
How they work
CMAs often provide higher interest rates than traditional checking or savings accounts, along with investment integration for easier access to brokerage services. You can use a CMA for everyday transactions, like bill payments or debit card purchases, and also invest or earn interest on your account balance.
Pros and cons
CMAs offer the convenience of managing your finances in a single account and often provide higher interest rates than traditional checking or savings accounts. However, they may come with potential fees and account maintenance requirements, depending on the financial institution. Additionally, CMAs may have limited in-person banking services compared to traditional banks.
How Interest is Calculated
What is an interest rate?
An interest rate is a figure that represents the amount a bank or credit union pays as interest to an account holder. Usually expressed as a percentage of the deposit, it indicates the annual percentage rate (APR) that you can expect to receive on your deposit.
For example, let’s say you deposit $100 in an account that boasts a yearly interest rate of 1%. After a year, you would have earned an additional $1, derived from the interest paid on your deposit.
What is compound interest?
Compound interest is an investment strategy where interest is not only earned on the original deposit, but also on the growing interest over time. This powerful technique can significantly boost the growth of savings over a period.
Banks may offer compounding of interest at varying intervals such as daily, monthly, or yearly. The more frequently compounding occurs, the quicker the savings will expand.
What is annual percentage yield (APY)?
The annual percentage yield (APY) is a measure that reflects the interest earned by an account holder. Unlike simple interest rates, it takes into consideration the frequency at which the interest is compounded. This provides a more precise assessment of the actual return on an investment.
For instance, a 1% yearly interest rate compounded annually would result in an APY of 1%. But if the interest is compounded monthly, the APY would be higher than 1%. This demonstrates the impact that the compounding frequency can have on the overall yield.
Factors That Affect Interest Rates
Interest rates are affected by a variety of factors, including economic and financial institution factors.
Economic Factors
- Inflation: An increase in the price of goods and services can often result in a corresponding rise in interest rates to balance the elevated costs.
- Federal Reserve: The Federal Reserve has control over monetary policy, which includes determining the target for the federal funds rate. Changes to this rate can impact the interest rates on various accounts.
- Gross domestic product (GDP): The overall economic condition, as demonstrated by the GDP, can also affect interest rates. A thriving economy may lead to higher interest rates as the demand for loans rises.
Financial Institution Factors
Banks and credit unions, among other financial institutions, are susceptible to various elements that can shape the interest rates they provide. These factors include:
- Asset and liability management: Financial establishments utilize diverse approaches to handle their assets and liabilities, which can impact the interest rates they offer on deposit accounts.
- Capital and reserve obligations: Banks must maintain a specified level of capital and reserves, and this can have a bearing on the interest rates they offer.
- Market competition: Competition within the market can also play a role in interest rates. In a competitive marketplace, financial institutions may raise the interest rates on their savings accounts to attract more customers.
Keep in mind that interest rates are dynamic and subject to numerous factors. Make sure you stay on top of current economic and financial sector developments to grasp how they may impact your account’s interest rate.
To secure the best interest rate for your deposit account, it’s a wise move to regularly compare rates from different institutions.
Interest-Bearing Accounts FAQs
What are the benefits of interest-bearing accounts?
Interest-bearing accounts are a smart choice for those who value security and convenience in their savings, as well as potential growth through interest earnings. Not only are deposits insured by the FDIC, but many of these accounts come with the added bonus of online and mobile access to funds.
On top of that, some interest-bearing accounts offer tiered interest rates, meaning the more you save, the more you can earn. So, whether you’re looking to safeguard your hard-earned cash or boost your savings, an interest-bearing account might just be the way to go.
What is a high-yield savings account?
A high-yield savings account is a savings account offering a greater interest rate compared to a standard savings account. The account’s aim is to generate a higher return for the depositor, allowing their savings to grow faster over time.
Here’s a list of the best high-yield savings accounts of 2024.
What is a high-yield checking account?
A high-yield checking account is an interest-bearing checking account that provides a higher interest rate on the funds in the account compared to a conventional checking account. These checking accounts are ideal for people who keep a significant balance in their checking account and are looking to earn extra on that balance.
What is the best interest-bearing account?
Online banks generally offer the best rates on checking, savings, money market, and CDs due to their lower overhead costs. They don’t incur the same expenses as traditional banks, so they can pass on the savings to their customers through higher interest rates.
What are the fees associated with interest-bearing accounts?
Interest-bearing accounts may incur fees such as monthly maintenance fees, withdrawal fees, and transfer fees. Some accounts may also have minimum balance requirements, and there may be fees for failing to maintain the minimum balance.
Closing an account or account inactivity may also result in fees. It’s essential to thoroughly review the fees associated with an interest-bearing account before opening it to ensure it’s cost-effective for your needs.
Are interest-bearing accounts FDIC insured?
Yes, interest-bearing accounts are typically FDIC insured. This means that depositors’ funds are protected up to the maximum limit set by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, providing peace of mind in case of bank failure.
In other words, if the bank you have your interest-bearing account with fails, the FDIC will step in to reimburse you for the insured amount. So, not only do interest-bearing accounts offer the potential to grow your wealth through interest, but they also offer a secure place to keep your savings.
