Category

Money Management

15 States With the Largest Federal Tax Refunds on Average

By Money Management No Comments

 Here’s how much Americans living in these states will get back from the IRS on average. 

senior discount
Goksi / Shutterstock.com

Every April, millions of Americans prepare their tax returns and anticipate potential refunds. For many, the federal tax refund represents an important financial boost — one that can help cover expenses, reduce debt, or increase savings. Using the latest data from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), we explore how refund amounts vary across income levels and the U.S. The following is a…

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The Best CD Rates Today, April 11, 2025: Up to 4.65% APY

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool
Want an easy way to grow your savings? Currently, top CDs offer rates between 4.50% and 4.65%. Short-term CDs, maturing in a year or less, offer the best yields.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. Although the Fed’s rates are steady right now, they might drop later this year. Locking in these attractive rates before that happens could be a good idea.Explore some top CD rate options available today.BankAPYTermMinimum DepositOMB4.65%7 Months$1,000United Fidelity Bank4.60%10 Months$1,000Brilliant Bank4.55%9 Months$1,000Marcus by Goldman Sachs4.50%14 Months$500LendingClub4.00%10 Months$500Data source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 10, 2025.Why we chose these CDsCompetitive rates. A few CDs out there might offer more, but there’s usually a catch.Open easily. You can open these CDs with as little as $500.Online convenience. Open them from your sofa through the issuer’s website.Nationwide access. These banks welcome everyone from across the U.S. with open arms.While the CDs above offer some of the most competitive rates available today, they’re not the only strong options worth considering. Discover offers a solid alternative, with CDs that are budget friendly, easy to open, and are available in a huge variety of terms. If you value a smooth online experience and the recognition of a trusted digital bank, they’re worth a look. Explore Discover® Bank rates here.The Best CD Rates From Our Partners TodayWant to find the best CD for your timeline and goals? Explore top rates by term:Best CD Rates — Our expert picks for the top accounts available todayBest 6-Month CD Rates — Short-term savings with fast accessBest 12-Month CD Rates — Solid returns with just a 1-year commitmentBest 5-Year CD Rates — Maximize earnings over the long haulShould you open a CD now?Though CD rates have dipped since mid-2024, they remain high. The Federal Reserve hasn’t changed rates yet in 2025, but experts expect possible cuts later in the year. Now’s a great time to grab a CD before rates decrease.Consider CDs if you want to:Protect your savings from rate dropsSet aside cash for steady growthEnjoy FDIC protection for up to $250,000CDs pose minimal risk, perfect for cautious savers. Stocks might offer more gains, but carry more risk. CDs provide a secure alternative for steady growth.How to open a CDOpening a CD is quick and simple. Just follow these steps:Search for the highest APY that suits your term needs.Read the details and check if you can meet the minimum deposit.Apply online using the bank’s app, or call them. Approval often takes just minutes.Connect your bank account and transfer your money.Remember, each CD allows only one deposit. Plan your amount wisely. When you’re ready, click here to explore the best CD rates and open a high-yield CD today.Once you’ve opened your CD, keep an eye on its maturity date. When a CD matures, the bank will typically do one of two things unless you say otherwise:Pay out your initial deposit plus your earnings as cashReinvest your funds in a new CD with the same term (but potentially a different APY)Most banks give you a grace period of seven to 10 days after the CD’s maturity date to make a decision.Earn up to 4.10% APY without locking up your moneyFor a high APY with added flexibility, consider a high-yield savings account. These accounts let you:Deposit and withdraw money anytimeMove funds quickly to other accountsSimply stash cash, avoiding the work CDs require at maturityWhile savings rates can change, high-yield savings accounts currently offer APYs close to top CDs. They provide great returns without the long-term commitment, making either one a good choice now, depending on your savings goals.If you want to earn a competitive APY without losing access to your cash for a minimum of several months, check out our list of the best high-yield savings accounts.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.Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. James McClenathen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool recommends Discover Financial Services. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A pot of change with a plant growing out of it

Image source: The Motley Fool

Want an easy way to grow your savings? Currently, top CDs offer rates between 4.50% and 4.65%. Short-term CDs, maturing in a year or less, offer the best yields.

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.

Although the Fed’s rates are steady right now, they might drop later this year. Locking in these attractive rates before that happens could be a good idea.

Explore some top CD rate options available today.

Bank APY Term Minimum Deposit
OMB 4.65% 7 Months $1,000
United Fidelity Bank 4.60% 10 Months $1,000
Brilliant Bank 4.55% 9 Months $1,000
Marcus by Goldman Sachs 4.50% 14 Months $500
LendingClub 4.00% 10 Months $500
Data source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 10, 2025.

Why we chose these CDs

  • Competitive rates. A few CDs out there might offer more, but there’s usually a catch.
  • Open easily. You can open these CDs with as little as $500.
  • Online convenience. Open them from your sofa through the issuer’s website.
  • Nationwide access. These banks welcome everyone from across the U.S. with open arms.

While the CDs above offer some of the most competitive rates available today, they’re not the only strong options worth considering. Discover offers a solid alternative, with CDs that are budget friendly, easy to open, and are available in a huge variety of terms. If you value a smooth online experience and the recognition of a trusted digital bank, they’re worth a look. Explore Discover® Bank rates here.

The Best CD Rates From Our Partners Today

Want to find the best CD for your timeline and goals? Explore top rates by term:

Should you open a CD now?

Though CD rates have dipped since mid-2024, they remain high. The Federal Reserve hasn’t changed rates yet in 2025, but experts expect possible cuts later in the year. Now’s a great time to grab a CD before rates decrease.

Consider CDs if you want to:

  • Protect your savings from rate drops
  • Set aside cash for steady growth
  • Enjoy FDIC protection for up to $250,000

CDs pose minimal risk, perfect for cautious savers. Stocks might offer more gains, but carry more risk. CDs provide a secure alternative for steady growth.

How to open a CD

Opening a CD is quick and simple. Just follow these steps:

  1. Search for the highest APY that suits your term needs.
  2. Read the details and check if you can meet the minimum deposit.
  3. Apply online using the bank’s app, or call them. Approval often takes just minutes.
  4. Connect your bank account and transfer your money.

Remember, each CD allows only one deposit. Plan your amount wisely. When you’re ready, click here to explore the best CD rates and open a high-yield CD today.

Once you’ve opened your CD, keep an eye on its maturity date. When a CD matures, the bank will typically do one of two things unless you say otherwise:

  1. Pay out your initial deposit plus your earnings as cash
  2. Reinvest your funds in a new CD with the same term (but potentially a different APY)

Most banks give you a grace period of seven to 10 days after the CD’s maturity date to make a decision.

Earn up to 4.10% APY without locking up your money

For a high APY with added flexibility, consider a high-yield savings account. These accounts let you:

  • Deposit and withdraw money anytime
  • Move funds quickly to other accounts
  • Simply stash cash, avoiding the work CDs require at maturity

While savings rates can change, high-yield savings accounts currently offer APYs close to top CDs. They provide great returns without the long-term commitment, making either one a good choice now, depending on your savings goals.

If you want to earn a competitive APY without losing access to your cash for a minimum of several months, check out our list of the best high-yield savings accounts.

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.Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. James McClenathen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool recommends Discover Financial Services. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

The Best Savings Account Rates Today, April 11, 2025: Up to 5.00%

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
A high-yield savings account is a great spot to grow your money while keeping it within reach. The highest APYs today range from 4.50% to 5.00%, more than 10 times above the national average.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’ve scoured the top banks to find the best rates for you. With these accounts, your money can grow faster than ever.Check out our list below for the top APYs available today.Bank AccountAPYMinimum Account BalanceVaro Savingsup to 5.00%Max APY on up to $5,000, 2.50% APY afterAxos ONE®up to 4.66%$1,500Pibank Savings4.60%$0TIMBR High Yield Savings4.55%$1,000Peak Bank Envision High Yield Savingsup to 4.54%$100 to open, 2.02% APY on balances of $10,000,000 and aboveBrioDirect High-Yield Savings4.50%$5,000 to open, $25 to maintainData source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 10, 2025.Why we chose these savings accountsAttractive returns. Enjoy some of the top APYs available to boost your savings quickly.Easy start. Some accounts require little or no minimum deposit to open and begin earning interest.Digital convenience. Open and manage these accounts fully online from your phone or computer.Nationwide access. Open an account from anywhere in the U.S. without needing to join a local credit union.If you’re not earning more than 4.00% APY on your savings, it might be time to switch. Rates have been most flat since the end of 2024, but several online banks are leading the pack without requiring huge balances. We like LendingClub LevelUp Savings account because it pays a competitive APY in exchange for a fairly low amount in monthly deposits. Pro tip: Be careful with teaser rates that drop after a few months. Always check the fine print. Read our full LendingClub LevelUp Savings review to learn more.Want to grow your money without locking it up?High-yield savings accounts combine flexibility with competitive interest. If you value easy access to your funds and no long-term commitment, an HYSA may be the perfect fit.Explore more options:Best High-Yield Savings Accounts — See our top picks todayBanks With Savings Buckets — Track your savings goals separatelySafest Banks in the U.S. — Sleep peacefully at night knowing your money is safeShould you open a high-yield savings account now?Have extra cash in a low-interest account? It’s time to make your money work harder. Right now, high-yield savings accounts are offering great rates on the back of the Federal Reserve holding rates steady.Think about opening one if you:Want to earn more without locking up your moneyLike having FDIC insurance for peace of mindNeed flexibility instead of a fixed termWant low fees and easy online accessThese accounts let your money grow while staying accessible. They’re perfect for emergency funds, planned expenses, or short-term goals you aim to achieve soon. Don’t miss the chance to boost your savings. Click here to compare the best high-yield savings accounts and open one today.How to open a high-yield savings accountGetting started with a high-yield savings account is easy and usually takes just a few minutes:Compare your options. Look for the best APY, but also consider fees, ease of access, and minimum balance rules.Apply online. Most accounts can be opened from your phone or computer — no paperwork required.Fund your account. Link an existing checking or savings account and transfer the amount you want to deposit.Set up recurring deposits (optional). Some accounts offer higher APYs when you make regular monthly contributions.Track your balance and earnings. Interest usually compounds daily and is paid monthly, helping your savings grow faster over time.Keep an eye on your APY. Bank’s can raise or lower APYs at their discretion. If you see yours decrease substantially, it may be time to look around for a new account.Prefer to skip the monthly deposit requirements?Some high-yield accounts offer the best rates with no strings attached — no recurring deposit requirements, no minimum balance to earn interest, and no monthly fees. If you’re looking for a hassle-free option, learn more about the American Express® High Yield Savings (Member FDIC), which offers a competitive APY with no minimum deposit.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.Charles Schwab is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. SLM is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Ally is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. HSBC Holdings is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Bank of America is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Wells Fargo is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Synchrony Financial is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Axos Financial, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs Group, JPMorgan Chase, PNC Financial Services, and U.S. Bancorp. The Motley Fool recommends Barclays Plc, Charles Schwab, Discover Financial Services, and HSBC Holdings and recommends the following options: short June 2025 $85 calls on Charles Schwab. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A glass jar full of bills and coins

Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash

A high-yield savings account is a great spot to grow your money while keeping it within reach. The highest APYs today range from 4.50% to 5.00%, more than 10 times above the national average.

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’ve scoured the top banks to find the best rates for you. With these accounts, your money can grow faster than ever.

Check out our list below for the top APYs available today.

Bank Account APY Minimum Account Balance
Varo Savings up to 5.00% Max APY on up to $5,000, 2.50% APY after
Axos ONE® up to 4.66% $1,500
Pibank Savings 4.60% $0
TIMBR High Yield Savings 4.55% $1,000
Peak Bank Envision High Yield Savings up to 4.54% $100 to open, 2.02% APY on balances of $10,000,000 and above
BrioDirect High-Yield Savings 4.50% $5,000 to open, $25 to maintain
Data source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 10, 2025.

Why we chose these savings accounts

  • Attractive returns. Enjoy some of the top APYs available to boost your savings quickly.
  • Easy start. Some accounts require little or no minimum deposit to open and begin earning interest.
  • Digital convenience. Open and manage these accounts fully online from your phone or computer.
  • Nationwide access. Open an account from anywhere in the U.S. without needing to join a local credit union.

If you’re not earning more than 4.00% APY on your savings, it might be time to switch. Rates have been most flat since the end of 2024, but several online banks are leading the pack without requiring huge balances. We like LendingClub LevelUp Savings account because it pays a competitive APY in exchange for a fairly low amount in monthly deposits. Pro tip: Be careful with teaser rates that drop after a few months. Always check the fine print. Read our full LendingClub LevelUp Savings review to learn more.

Want to grow your money without locking it up?

High-yield savings accounts combine flexibility with competitive interest. If you value easy access to your funds and no long-term commitment, an HYSA may be the perfect fit.

Explore more options:

Should you open a high-yield savings account now?

Have extra cash in a low-interest account? It’s time to make your money work harder. Right now, high-yield savings accounts are offering great rates on the back of the Federal Reserve holding rates steady.

Think about opening one if you:

  • Want to earn more without locking up your money
  • Like having FDIC insurance for peace of mind
  • Need flexibility instead of a fixed term
  • Want low fees and easy online access

These accounts let your money grow while staying accessible. They’re perfect for emergency funds, planned expenses, or short-term goals you aim to achieve soon. Don’t miss the chance to boost your savings. Click here to compare the best high-yield savings accounts and open one today.

How to open a high-yield savings account

Getting started with a high-yield savings account is easy and usually takes just a few minutes:

  1. Compare your options. Look for the best APY, but also consider fees, ease of access, and minimum balance rules.
  2. Apply online. Most accounts can be opened from your phone or computer — no paperwork required.
  3. Fund your account. Link an existing checking or savings account and transfer the amount you want to deposit.
  4. Set up recurring deposits (optional). Some accounts offer higher APYs when you make regular monthly contributions.
  5. Track your balance and earnings. Interest usually compounds daily and is paid monthly, helping your savings grow faster over time.
  6. Keep an eye on your APY. Bank’s can raise or lower APYs at their discretion. If you see yours decrease substantially, it may be time to look around for a new account.

Prefer to skip the monthly deposit requirements?

Some high-yield accounts offer the best rates with no strings attached — no recurring deposit requirements, no minimum balance to earn interest, and no monthly fees. If you’re looking for a hassle-free option, learn more about the American Express® High Yield Savings (Member FDIC), which offers a competitive APY with no minimum deposit.

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.Charles Schwab is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. SLM is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Ally is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. HSBC Holdings is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Bank of America is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Wells Fargo is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Synchrony Financial is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Axos Financial, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs Group, JPMorgan Chase, PNC Financial Services, and U.S. Bancorp. The Motley Fool recommends Barclays Plc, Charles Schwab, Discover Financial Services, and HSBC Holdings and recommends the following options: short June 2025 $85 calls on Charles Schwab. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Smells Like Success: 10 Scents That Can Boost Your Money Mojo

By Money Management No Comments

 With inflation rising and markets on edge, these aromas can help you stay calm, sharpen your focus, and make smarter money moves. The nose knows — scent can spark better habits and help you sniff out savings when it matters most. 

Zwiebackesser / 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. With inflation climbing and the economy on shaky ground, staying financially focused is tougher — and more critical — than ever. The surprising part? Your sense of smell might help. Scents like mint, lavender…

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Is Job Anxiety Affecting Your Health? Here’s What Workers Say

By Money Management No Comments

 If you can’t sleep on Sunday night, you’re not alone. 

nervous woman
Cast Of Thousands / Shutterstock.com

If you’ve ever spent your Sunday evening dreading the workweek ahead, you’re not alone. Zety’s Sunday Scaries & Job Anxiety Report reveals that this feeling isn’t just a passing worry — it’s a major workplace issue affecting mental health, productivity, and even career choices. But just how deep does this problem run, and what’s driving employees to their breaking point? Here’s what the data…

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9 Ways to Take Care of Your Pennies so Your Dollars Take Care of Themselves

By Money Management No Comments

 Pennies are disappearing — but smart money habits still start small. These moves can help you stretch every cent. 

Penny
B Calkins / 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. The U.S. has officially stopped minting new pennies — ending a long-running debate about the cost of keeping them in circulation. But just because the penny’s going away doesn’t mean your small money decisions don’t…

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