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Tarra Jackson

Why the Average American’s Savings Account Is Losing Money

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[[{“value”:”Right now, inflation is around 2.4%. Meanwhile, the average savings account pays just 0.38% APY. (It’s even worse for checking accounts which average a pitiful 0.07%.)Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Basically, for the average saver, inflation is eating at cash value faster than interest is being earned. This results in a net loss each and every month.But here’s the good news. Simply moving cash from an average account to an above average account means it can outpace inflation and keep growing. Some of the top savings accounts are paying near 4.00% APY — that’s 10x more interest than average!Why earning less than 1% interest is costing youLet’s break this down with numbers…If you park $10,000 in a checking account at the national average rate (0.07%), you’ll earn about $7 in interest in one year. Not seven percent. Just seven dollars.In an average savings account at 0.38%, you’d earn about $38.But inflation at 2.4% would eat away $240 in purchasing power over that same year. So in both cases, your money is worth less at the end of the year.Earn up to 4.00% with a high-yield savings accountRight now, many of the top high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) pay upwards of 4.00% APY.At that rate, your money not only outpaces inflation, it earns meaningful interest on your cash.Using the same $10,000 example, a 4.00% HYSA would earn you around $400 in a year. Here’s a comparison with the average savings and checking interest rates:AccountAPYInterest EarnedChecking0.07%$7Savings0.38%$38HYSA4.00%$400Data source: Author’s calculations.Personally, I hold a large cash pile for my emergency savings, and I keep it all in a high-yield account. Last year alone, I earned $798 in interest.If you’ve got cash sitting around in an average savings account earning pennies, it’s time to make a switch. Check out the top-tier HYSAs available today and start earning up to 4.00% on your cash.When it makes sense to keep cash in an HYSANot all your money needs to live in a high-yield savings account. Checking accounts definitely have their use, too!But for any cash you’re purposefully keeping on the sidelines — that money should be working as hard as possible for you.Personally, I treat my HYSA like a financial waiting room. It’s not invested, it’s not at risk, but it’s also not sitting around doing nothing.Here are a few great uses for an HYSA:Emergency fund — A good rule of thumb is three to six months’ worth of essential expenses.Short-term savings goals — Like saving up for a vacation, new car, or wedding. You’ll need the money soon, so you want it safe and liquid.Large upcoming purchases — Whether it’s a tax bill or a home down payment, parking that money in an HYSA keeps it accessible and growing.Buffer cash — If you’re self-employed, seasonal, or just like sleeping better at night, an HYSA can give you extra wiggle room.Basically, if the money isn’t being spent or invested in the near term — it should live in an HYSA earning a top rate.Don’t settle for average interest. You’ll only lose value to inflation over time. Check out today’s top high-yield savings accounts and put your money to work!Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Dollar signs on a plain orange background with a magnifying glass hovered over one sign.

Right now, inflation is around 2.4%. Meanwhile, the average savings account pays just 0.38% APY. (It’s even worse for checking accounts which average a pitiful 0.07%.)

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Basically, for the average saver, inflation is eating at cash value faster than interest is being earned. This results in a net loss each and every month.

But here’s the good news. Simply moving cash from an average account to an above average account means it can outpace inflation and keep growing. Some of the top savings accounts are paying near 4.00% APY — that’s 10x more interest than average!

Why earning less than 1% interest is costing you

Let’s break this down with numbers…

If you park $10,000 in a checking account at the national average rate (0.07%), you’ll earn about $7 in interest in one year. Not seven percent. Just seven dollars.

In an average savings account at 0.38%, you’d earn about $38.

But inflation at 2.4% would eat away $240 in purchasing power over that same year. So in both cases, your money is worth less at the end of the year.

Earn up to 4.00% with a high-yield savings account

Right now, many of the top high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) pay upwards of 4.00% APY.

At that rate, your money not only outpaces inflation, it earns meaningful interest on your cash.

Using the same $10,000 example, a 4.00% HYSA would earn you around $400 in a year. Here’s a comparison with the average savings and checking interest rates:

Account APY Interest Earned
Checking 0.07% $7
Savings 0.38% $38
HYSA 4.00% $400
Data source: Author’s calculations.

Personally, I hold a large cash pile for my emergency savings, and I keep it all in a high-yield account. Last year alone, I earned $798 in interest.

If you’ve got cash sitting around in an average savings account earning pennies, it’s time to make a switch. Check out the top-tier HYSAs available today and start earning up to 4.00% on your cash.

When it makes sense to keep cash in an HYSA

Not all your money needs to live in a high-yield savings account. Checking accounts definitely have their use, too!

But for any cash you’re purposefully keeping on the sidelines — that money should be working as hard as possible for you.

Personally, I treat my HYSA like a financial waiting room. It’s not invested, it’s not at risk, but it’s also not sitting around doing nothing.

Here are a few great uses for an HYSA:

  • Emergency fund — A good rule of thumb is three to six months’ worth of essential expenses.
  • Short-term savings goals — Like saving up for a vacation, new car, or wedding. You’ll need the money soon, so you want it safe and liquid.
  • Large upcoming purchases — Whether it’s a tax bill or a home down payment, parking that money in an HYSA keeps it accessible and growing.
  • Buffer cash — If you’re self-employed, seasonal, or just like sleeping better at night, an HYSA can give you extra wiggle room.

Basically, if the money isn’t being spent or invested in the near term — it should live in an HYSA earning a top rate.

Don’t settle for average interest. You’ll only lose value to inflation over time. Check out today’s top high-yield savings accounts and put your money to work!

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

These Jobs Can Pay $100 an Hour (or More) Without a Degree

By Money Management No Comments

 With the right skills and motivation, you won’t need a college degree to earn a great income. 

Happy young woman with money holding dollars
Pixel-Shot / Shutterstock.com

Earning a college degree takes two things that many of us don’t have a ton of: time and money. Whether you’re just starting out in the workforce or you’re looking to change course in your current career, you may be looking for a high-paying gig that doesn’t require time in a classroom first. These jobs do exist. In fact, many high-demand jobs and entrepreneurial paths reward skill…

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How the Average American Could Earn 10x More Interest on Their Savings

By Uncategorized No Comments
[[{“value”:”If you’re like most people, your savings account isn’t doing you many favors.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. The national average savings APY is just 0.38%, according to the FDIC. That means with $8,000 in a typical savings account, you’re earning about $30 in interest per year — barely enough to cover a nice dinner.But there’s a simple way to fix that: moving your money to a high-yield savings account (HYSA) that earns 10 times that amount.These accounts are easy to open, pay far more interest, and can help you grow your money faster, all with minimal fees. Here’s how you can open one in 30 minutes or less.1. Find an HYSA that works for youThe best online banks offer high-yield savings accounts with APYs of about 4.00% or higher. That same $8,000 deposit could be earning $320 a year or more, with almost no extra work.When comparing options, look for:An APY of at least 3.60%No monthly feesNo minimum balance requirementsFDIC insurance (protects up to $250,000 of your money from bank failure)Want to check out some of our favorite HYSAs? Click here for our full list of the best high-yield savings accounts available today.2. Open your new accountOnce you choose an HYSA, opening it is usually quick and easy.For most applications, you’ll just need to provide basic info like your name, address, and Social Security number. Banks also run a soft credit check, which won’t affect your credit score.In most cases, you can open your new account in under 10 minutes. Some banks may also ask for a small initial deposit to get started. But before you know it, you’ll be ready to save.3. Move your moneyAfter your account is open, you’ll want to link your existing bank account and transfer your savings. The first transfer might take a bit to process, but in most cases your money will start earning interest as soon as it lands.You also don’t have to close your old savings account right away. You can leave it open until you’re sure you’ve moved all automatic deposits and withdrawals to your new account. You can even leave it open forever if you want; just make sure you’re not paying fees for inactivity or a low balance.Ready to make the switch? Get up to 4.40% APY with one of our favorite high-yield savings accounts today.Why do HYSAs pay more?High-yield savings accounts can pay customers higher interest because they’re offered by banks with less overhead than traditional ones.Most banks offering HYSAs are online-only, so they avoid all the costs that come with physical bank branches. This allows them not only to pay higher interest rates, but to charge low or no fees, too.Make the switch todayHigh-yield savings accounts offer a rare combo: strong returns and full flexibility. Unlike something like a certificate of deposit (CD), HYSAs don’t lock up your money for months or years. You can deposit or withdraw funds anytime without penalties — all while earning an APY that’s 10X the national average savings rate.If you want your money to stay safe, accessible, and working hard, an HYSA is one of the best places to keep your savings in 2025.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A white bank structure on an orange background featuring rising arrows.

If you’re like most people, your savings account isn’t doing you many favors.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

The national average savings APY is just 0.38%, according to the FDIC. That means with $8,000 in a typical savings account, you’re earning about $30 in interest per year — barely enough to cover a nice dinner.

But there’s a simple way to fix that: moving your money to a high-yield savings account (HYSA) that earns 10 times that amount.

These accounts are easy to open, pay far more interest, and can help you grow your money faster, all with minimal fees. Here’s how you can open one in 30 minutes or less.

1. Find an HYSA that works for you

The best online banks offer high-yield savings accounts with APYs of about 4.00% or higher. That same $8,000 deposit could be earning $320 a year or more, with almost no extra work.

When comparing options, look for:

  • An APY of at least 3.60%
  • No monthly fees
  • No minimum balance requirements
  • FDIC insurance (protects up to $250,000 of your money from bank failure)

2. Open your new account

Once you choose an HYSA, opening it is usually quick and easy.

For most applications, you’ll just need to provide basic info like your name, address, and Social Security number. Banks also run a soft credit check, which won’t affect your credit score.

In most cases, you can open your new account in under 10 minutes. Some banks may also ask for a small initial deposit to get started. But before you know it, you’ll be ready to save.

3. Move your money

After your account is open, you’ll want to link your existing bank account and transfer your savings. The first transfer might take a bit to process, but in most cases your money will start earning interest as soon as it lands.

You also don’t have to close your old savings account right away. You can leave it open until you’re sure you’ve moved all automatic deposits and withdrawals to your new account. You can even leave it open forever if you want; just make sure you’re not paying fees for inactivity or a low balance.

Ready to make the switch? Get up to 4.40% APY with one of our favorite high-yield savings accounts today.

Why do HYSAs pay more?

High-yield savings accounts can pay customers higher interest because they’re offered by banks with less overhead than traditional ones.

Most banks offering HYSAs are online-only, so they avoid all the costs that come with physical bank branches. This allows them not only to pay higher interest rates, but to charge low or no fees, too.

Make the switch today

High-yield savings accounts offer a rare combo: strong returns and full flexibility. Unlike something like a certificate of deposit (CD), HYSAs don’t lock up your money for months or years. You can deposit or withdraw funds anytime without penalties — all while earning an APY that’s 10X the national average savings rate.

If you want your money to stay safe, accessible, and working hard, an HYSA is one of the best places to keep your savings in 2025.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

3 Gently Used Cars You Can Still Buy for Under $20,000

By Money Management No Comments

 While car prices have soared since the pandemic, a few reliable bargains remain if you know where to look. 

Happy woman driver looking out a car window
Olezzo / Shutterstock.com

These days, finding a gently used car for under $20,000 is no easy task. As recently as 2019, nearly half of 3-year-old used cars cost $20,000 or less, according to iSeeCars. Today, that number has shrunk to just over 10%. Since 2019, the price of 3-year-old cars has jumped 49.9%, from $23,159 in 2019 to $32,635 today. And over the past three months, car prices have been rising…

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15 of the Best Independence Day Sales to Shop Right Now

By Money Management No Comments

 Don’t delay: These Fourth of July deals will soon fizzle out like fireworks. 

Walmart storefront with American flag
Harun Ozmen / Shutterstock.com

Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links within this article, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend. Stop waiting for fall to save on summer items. The Fourth of July is a great time of year to save big on stainless steel grills, swimsuits, sunscreen and more. In fact, many retailers are having star-spangled sales this…

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This Is the Coolest Place in a City During a Heat Wave

By Money Management No Comments

 Research reveals which green spaces offer the most relief from sweltering temperatures, with some locations cooling the air significantly. 

Couple in a botanical garden
bbernard / Shutterstock.com

On a hot summer day — like much of the U.S. is experiencing now — the places most likely to be a little cooler are green spaces. Botanical gardens cool the air most efficiently, according to a 2024 study led by researchers at the University of Surrey in England. It found that the temperature difference between a botanical garden and other parts of the surrounding city was 5 degrees Celsius…

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