Best High-Yield Savings Accounts in 2025

Your savings account shouldn't be earning pennies while inflation eats your money. In 2025, a few standout credit unions offer APYs up to 4.40%—far above what most banks pay and more than 10 times the typical savings rate.

We've analyzed the top high-yield savings accounts to find options that actually help your money grow. You’ll see competitive rates, low fees, and digital tools that make banking simple. Here’s what sets the best apart, plus which accounts are right for different balances and savings goals.

Traditional Online Banks vs Credit Union High-Yield Options

Choosing between traditional online banks and credit unions can make or break your savings strategy in 2025.

Traditional Online Banks: The Heavy Hitters

Major online banks like Marcus by Goldman Sachs and Ally Bank offer APYs in the 3.50%–3.65% range. These banks have solid mobile apps, instant transfers, and 24/7 customer support.

The downside? Some require higher balances to access top rates, and you’re one of many in their system—so the experience can feel impersonal.

Credit Union Advantages: Better Rates, Personal Touch

Credit unions often pay higher rates than banks. Quorum’s HighMarq Savings pays 4.25% APY on balances over $10,000, with zero monthly fees if you enroll in eStatements.

Credit unions give more personalized service and often have easier membership requirements. You’re a member, not just a customer, and you get more flexible terms and better loan rates too.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Online Banks	Credit Unions
APY Range	3.50%–3.65%	4.10%–4.40%
Minimum Balance	$0–$5,000+	Often $0–$100
Digital Features	Excellent	Good to Excellent
Customer Service	24/7 but impersonal	Personal but limited hours
Additional Products	Full suite	Member-focused options

Rate Stability Analysis

Online banks tend to change rates quickly as the Fed moves. Credit unions keep rates stable longer, so you’re better protected if the market shifts.

When it comes to digital banking, both sides now offer mobile deposit, bill pay, and account alerts. In 2025, the gap between them has closed.

Fee Structures Comparison

Most high-yield savings accounts from online banks have $0 monthly fees, but may have minimum balance rules. Credit unions often waive fees if you sign up for eStatements or meet other simple requirements.

The winner? Credit unions edge out traditional banks for higher rates and lower barriers to entry. Online banks win for pure digital convenience.

Top High-Yield Savings Accounts for Maximum Returns

Finding the best high-yield savings account means balancing a strong APY with practical features like low fees and easy access.

Quorum HighMarq Savings: Premium High-Balance Option

Quorum’s HighMarq Savings pays a strong 4.25% APY on balances over $10,000. That’s one of the highest rates anywhere.

This account is great for professionals and business owners who can keep higher balances. Your money stays fully accessible, and there are no monthly fees if you opt for eStatements.

Digital banking is smooth and modern, with a high-rated app for transfers and account management.

This account works best for high-balance savers who want flexibility and top rates—like a CD, but with no lockup.

Best for: High earners and business owners who want maximum APY with complete flexibility.

Best Alternatives for Different Balance Ranges

If you don’t keep $10,000+ in savings, here are some strong alternatives:

Marcus by Goldman Sachs pays 3.65% APY with no minimum balance. No fees, simple online platform.

Ally Bank Online Savings pays 3.50% APY, $0 minimum. Trusted brand, reliable 24/7 phone support.

CIT Bank Platinum Savings offers 4.00% APY—but only for balances of $5,000 or more. $100 minimum to open.

For quick comparison shopping across savings accounts, sites like SuperMoney help you evaluate options side-by-side.

Credit Union High-Yield Options

Credit unions are usually ahead on rates because they return profits to members.

Consumers Credit Union offers up to 4.09% APY on Rewards Checking with qualifying activity (like 12 debit purchases/month and direct deposit).

Alliant Credit Union pays 4.10% APY on High-Rate Savings with just $5 to open. Their digital experience is top-notch.

Navy Federal Credit Union (for military families) offers up to 4.00% APY with excellent customer service.

Membership is usually simple—sometimes just a small donation to a partner charity is all you need.

High-Yield Checking Accounts

Some checking accounts pay high interest, too.

Quorum QBoost Checking pays 4.00% APY on balances up to $5,000. You’ll get up to $20 monthly in out-of-network ATM fee refunds (Quorum doesn’t charge for ATM access, only the ATM owner may). Early direct deposit is included for faster paycheck access.

LendingClub Rewards Checking offers 4.00% APY on balances up to $2,500. No monthly fees if you keep at least $2,500 daily.

Axos Bank Rewards Checking pays up to 3.30% APY with qualifying activities—lower rate, but easier requirements than most high-yield checking options.

These hybrid accounts offer high interest along with everyday banking features.

Fixed-Rate Savings: Term Deposits and CD Alternatives

Fixed-rate savings accounts offer stability. Quorum’s Term Savings gives you guaranteed returns—no surprises.

Right now, their special 13-month term pays 4.40% APY, while the standard 12-month term is 2.60% APY. The 6-month special is also at 4.40% APY. You only need $100 to start, and there are no monthly fees.

Automatic renewal is available, or you can let the term end and withdraw funds. All managed online—no branch visit needed. NCUA insurance covers up to $250,000, just like the FDIC does for banks.

These term accounts are a great way to lock in today’s higher rates for 6–13 months, with no market risk.

When to Choose Fixed vs Variable Rates

Whether you pick fixed or variable depends on where rates are heading and how soon you’ll need the cash.

Market timing matters. Fixed rates let you lock in today’s best offers, while variable accounts move with the market. With rates still above average, fixed options like Quorum’s 13-month Term Savings at 4.40% APY are worth considering.

Current Market Conditions Favor Fixed Rates

The Fed’s rate hikes have likely peaked. Many expect rates to drop in 2025. That makes fixed-rate accounts appealing right now.

Here’s the deal: If you lock in 4.40% for a year, you’re protected even if variable rates drop to 3% or less. Fixed-term accounts and CDs keep your yield safe. Variable rate accounts will fall if the Fed cuts rates.

The catch? You’re stuck if rates unexpectedly rise—but that’s looking less likely this year.

Liquidity Needs Assessment

How fast might you need your money?

Emergency funds should stay in variable high-yield savings for easy access. Fixed terms make sense for money you don’t need soon—like a house down payment in a few years.

Risk Tolerance for Different Life Stages

Young professionals can afford more rate risk. Over decades, variable rates may average higher, even with dips.

Mid-career savers often use both: maybe 60% variable for flexibility, 40% fixed for stability.

Pre-retirees and retirees often choose fixed rates for security, since a drop in rates could hurt purchasing power.

The bottom line: Your age and finances should shape your choice. More years ahead means you can take more risk. Nearing retirement? Go for more fixed-rate protection.

Essential Features and Requirements Comparison

Picking the right account is about more than APY. Here’s what to look for:

Minimum Balance Requirements

Each account has its own rules for top rates. Quorum’s HighMarq Savings pays 4.25% APY on $10,000+ but is open to any amount. Many online banks have no minimum, but some credit unions require a $5–$100 deposit to join.

Across the best accounts:

• No minimum: Many online banks
• $100–$500: Many credit unions
• $10,000+: Premium high-yield accounts

Fee Structures That Actually Matter

Monthly fees eat into returns fast. The good news: Most high-yield accounts waive fees easily. Just sign up for eStatements, keep a minimum balance, or set up direct deposit. Quorum doesn’t charge for ATM access, but out-of-network operators may.

If you use out-of-network ATMs, look for accounts like QBoost Checking, which refund up to $20 monthly in out-of-network ATM fees.

Digital Banking Must-Haves

Your savings account should fit your lifestyle. Look for these features:

Mobile App Quality

• Easy transfers
• Mobile check deposit
• Real-time alerts
• Fingerprint/Face ID login

Online Platform

• Clear dashboards
• Goal-setting
• Automatic savings
• Live chat

Most top accounts score 4+ stars on app stores, but check recent reviews before you choose.

Apps like Monefy can help you track spending and spot ways to save more.

Customer Service You Can Count On

When you need help, you want quick answers. The best high-yield accounts offer:

• 24/7 phone support
• Live chat during business hours
• Email replies within 24 hours
• Branch access (for some credit unions)

Online banks are improving here, with better chat and longer hours.

FDIC/NCUA Insurance and Safety

This is non-negotiable. Every account on our list is either FDIC (banks) or NCUA (credit unions) insured up to $250,000 per depositor. That’s federal protection, even if the institution fails.

For balances over $250,000, consider spreading funds across several institutions. Some banks offer programs to help with this automatically.

Account Accessibility Features

Can you get to your money when you need it?

Transfer Limits

• Federal law allows up to 6 withdrawals/month from savings accounts
• Some banks count internal transfers, others don’t

Transfer Speed

• Same-bank transfers: Usually instant
• External transfers: 1–3 business days
• Wire transfers: Same day (usually a fee)

Access Methods

• Online banking
• Mobile apps
• ATM networks
• Phone banking
• Branch visits (rare for online banks)

The best accounts give you several ways to move money, with no penalty or delay.

Final Recommendations

Your savings deserve better than the 0.45% national average. The accounts here pay 8–10x more. That’s your money, working harder for you.

For high-balance savers: Quorum’s HighMarq Savings pays 4.25% APY with full access. If you keep $10,000+ in savings, this is one of the best out there.

For conservative investors: Quorum’s 13-month Term Savings locks in 4.40% APY (or 6-month special at 4.40% APY). You only need $1,000 to start. All accounts are NCUA insured for safety.

For smaller balances: Look at credit unions and online banks with strong rates and no high minimums. Most still pay 8–10x what big banks do.

Key Decision Factors

APY matters most. A 4% APY difference on $25,000 means $1,000 extra per year. Don’t leave that on the table.

Watch the fees. Most accounts waive monthly charges if you sign up for eStatements or use direct deposit.

Digital access is non-negotiable. You should be able to manage your money 24/7 from a phone or computer.

FDIC/NCUA insurance protects you. All these accounts carry full federal protection up to $250,000.

Your Next Steps

Compare your rate to these high-yield savings accounts. If you’re earning under 4%, you’re missing out.

Ready to upgrade? Try one account, test the service, then move more funds as you get comfortable. Small changes now can mean a much bigger balance down the road.