Best High-Yield Savings Accounts 2026
Updated March 04, 2026 · FDIC-insured accounts only
Best HYSA Rates Today — 2026
High-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) offer significantly better rates than traditional savings accounts. These online banks pass along the savings from lower overhead costs.
| Bank | APY | New Account Bonus | Min Deposit | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marcus by Goldman Sachs ✓ FDIC |
4.80% Mar 2026 |
— | $0 | $0/mo |
| Synchrony Bank ✓ FDIC |
4.75% Mar 2026 |
— | $0 | $0/mo |
| SoFi ✓ FDIC |
4.60% Mar 2026 |
$300 bonus | $0 | $0/mo |
| Ally Bank ✓ FDIC |
4.50% Mar 2026 |
— | $0 | $0/mo |
| American Express ✓ FDIC |
4.35% Mar 2026 |
— | $0 | $0/mo |
| Discover ✓ FDIC |
4.25% Mar 2026 |
$150 bonus | $0 | $0/mo |
| Capital One ✓ FDIC |
4.10% Mar 2026 |
— | $0 | $0/mo |
APY rates are variable and subject to change. Verify current rates before opening an account.
Why Choose a High-Yield Savings Account?
The average traditional savings account pays just 0.04% APY. A high-yield savings account paying 4.5% APY earns more than 100× more on the same balance:
- $10,000 in traditional savings → ~$4/year in interest
- $10,000 in HYSA at 4.5% APY → ~$450/year in interest
The difference compounds over time. All listed accounts are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor per institution.
Variable Rate Warning
HYSA rates are variable and move with the federal funds rate. When the Fed cuts rates, HYSA rates typically follow within 30 days. Consider pairing a HYSA for liquid savings with a CD for money you won't need for 12-24 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a high-yield savings account?
A high-yield savings account (HYSA) is a savings account that typically offers 10-25x the national average interest rate. Most HYSAs are offered by online banks that have lower overhead costs than brick-and-mortar banks. They are FDIC-insured up to $250,000.
Is my money safe in a high-yield savings account?
Yes. All accounts listed here are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution. This is the same federal protection as traditional bank accounts. The FDIC has never failed to pay insured depositors.
How often do HYSA rates change?
HYSA rates are variable and can change at any time. They typically move with the federal funds rate. During rate cut cycles, expect HYSA rates to decrease within 30-60 days. Rates are usually adjusted monthly but can change more frequently.
Are there limits on HYSA withdrawals?
Federal Regulation D was relaxed in 2020, so many banks no longer enforce the 6-withdrawal-per-month limit. However, some banks still impose limits. Check your account terms, as excess withdrawals may trigger fees.
How do HYSAs compare to money market accounts?
Both earn interest above regular savings rates. HYSAs typically offer better APYs, while money market accounts (MMAs) sometimes come with check-writing privileges and debit cards. For pure yield, HYSAs generally win.