Category

Money Management

What Hurts Stocks Helps This: Every Investor Should Have Some

By Money Management No Comments

 When stocks tumbled 40% during the 2008 crisis, gold surged 25%—demonstrating why financial experts recommend this portfolio protection. 

Pla2na / 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. Smart investors understand that market protection isn’t about timing the next crash—it’s about owning assets that respond differently when trouble hits. Gold has historically been a hedge against all kinds of trouble…

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Is a ‘Severance’-Style Work Identity Key to Career Success?

By Money Management No Comments

 Find out why many surveyed workers say they would opt for a “severed” work life. 

Popular Apple show "Severance" displayed on a TV screen.
Rokas Tenys / Shutterstock.com

Imagine a world where you could completely separate your work and personal life — no stress from the office bleeding into your evenings, no worrying about how your personal beliefs might affect your career. The hit TV show “Severance” explores this concept as science fiction, but for many workers, the idea feels closer to reality than fiction. Based on a survey of 1,000 U.S. workers…

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Here’s the Smartest Place to Put Your Money When the Stock Market Dips

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
The U.S. stock market is down over 8% year to date, as measured by the S&P 500 Index. On Thursday alone, the index sank 4.84% — its biggest daily loss since 2020.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. Investors are worried and wondering how to protect their money. You might be thinking about moving your money to a safe haven, like Treasuries or certificates of deposit.But when the stock market is down, the best place to put your money is — stay with me now — the stock market.Let me show you why stock market dips are big opportunities for investors, as well as a smart and simple way to invest now.Downturns are the best time to buyStock market downturns are scary. I’ve seen my retirement portfolio drop by five figures this year, and that’s gut-wrenching.But I’m not panicking, and there are two reasons why:The U.S. stock market has always recovered from downturns and gone on to reach new highs.When stocks lose value, they basically go on sale. You can buy shares for less money.As an example, let’s go back to early 2020, when the S&P 500 dropped by 33% in about a month due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since its March 2020 low point, the index has gained 141% — even after this year’s losses.That means investors who bought stocks at those lows have more than doubled their money.A smart and easy way to buy stocks on the dipYou don’t have to be an expert stock-picker to profit from the stock market. There’s a simple strategy that could earn you high returns and save you a fortune in taxes.1. Open an IRAAn individual retirement account (IRA) is a tax-advantaged retirement savings account that’s available to anyone who earns income.You can put up to $7,000 in an IRA each year (or $8,000 if you’re 50 or older), and then you can invest the money in stocks, funds, bonds, and more. You can also deduct your contributions from that year’s taxable income, which means you get an upfront tax break.The best part? The investments in your IRA are not subject to capital gains tax or dividend tax. So when you sell stocks that have gained value, or get a dividend payment, the IRS can’t take a share of your earnings.Tax rates vary from person to person, but in my case, these tax breaks could save me six figures in retirement.The only caveat is that you need to leave your money in the account until age 59 1/2. If you withdraw money before then, you’ll pay a 10% penalty (with some exceptions).Opening an IRA is easy. To get started, check out our list of the best IRA brokers and open a new account. Your broker will walk you through how to open an IRA. You’ll probably be done in minutes.Once your IRA is open, it’s time to start investing. Here’s a good way to start.2. Buy an S&P 500 index fundThe S&P 500 Index represents over half the U.S. stock market by value. It’s made up of 500 big, successful companies, and since 1957 it has gained an average of 10% per year.You can buy a share in the whole index with one quick purchase of an S&P 500 index fund.S&P 500 index funds invest in all the companies within the S&P 500, so they mirror the index’s performance. They charge a very low fee to do the work for you.You can buy an S&P 500 index fund through your IRA broker. And just like that, you’ll have a diversified stock portfolio.That doesn’t mean an S&P 500 index fund should be your entire portfolio. You may want to diversify with investments like real estate, international stocks, or low-risk assets like bonds. But an S&P 500 index fund is one of the best ways to start profiting from the stock market’s growth.Check out our list of the best stock brokers to open an account today.Don’t believe me? Take it from Warren BuffettWarren Buffett, legendary investor and one of the richest people on Earth, is a big fan of buying stocks when the market is down. In his words: “Be fearful when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful.”In other words, when people are panicking and selling stocks, it’s probably a good time to buy.Buffett has also said that ordinary investors would do well to invest 90% of their portfolios in a low-fee S&P 500 index fund and the other 10% in government bonds.And if it’s good enough for Buffett, it’s good enough for me.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.James McClenathen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Man looking at tablet with downward trending line graph on it.

Image source: Getty Images

The U.S. stock market is down over 8% year to date, as measured by the S&P 500 Index. On Thursday alone, the index sank 4.84% — its biggest daily loss since 2020.

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.

Investors are worried and wondering how to protect their money. You might be thinking about moving your money to a safe haven, like Treasuries or certificates of deposit.

But when the stock market is down, the best place to put your money is — stay with me now — the stock market.

Let me show you why stock market dips are big opportunities for investors, as well as a smart and simple way to invest now.

Downturns are the best time to buy

Stock market downturns are scary. I’ve seen my retirement portfolio drop by five figures this year, and that’s gut-wrenching.

But I’m not panicking, and there are two reasons why:

  • The U.S. stock market has always recovered from downturns and gone on to reach new highs.
  • When stocks lose value, they basically go on sale. You can buy shares for less money.

As an example, let’s go back to early 2020, when the S&P 500 dropped by 33% in about a month due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since its March 2020 low point, the index has gained 141% — even after this year’s losses.

That means investors who bought stocks at those lows have more than doubled their money.

A smart and easy way to buy stocks on the dip

You don’t have to be an expert stock-picker to profit from the stock market. There’s a simple strategy that could earn you high returns and save you a fortune in taxes.

1. Open an IRA

An individual retirement account (IRA) is a tax-advantaged retirement savings account that’s available to anyone who earns income.

You can put up to $7,000 in an IRA each year (or $8,000 if you’re 50 or older), and then you can invest the money in stocks, funds, bonds, and more. You can also deduct your contributions from that year’s taxable income, which means you get an upfront tax break.

The best part? The investments in your IRA are not subject to capital gains tax or dividend tax. So when you sell stocks that have gained value, or get a dividend payment, the IRS can’t take a share of your earnings.

Tax rates vary from person to person, but in my case, these tax breaks could save me six figures in retirement.

The only caveat is that you need to leave your money in the account until age 59 1/2. If you withdraw money before then, you’ll pay a 10% penalty (with some exceptions).

Opening an IRA is easy. To get started, check out our list of the best IRA brokers and open a new account. Your broker will walk you through how to open an IRA. You’ll probably be done in minutes.

Once your IRA is open, it’s time to start investing. Here’s a good way to start.

2. Buy an S&P 500 index fund

The S&P 500 Index represents over half the U.S. stock market by value. It’s made up of 500 big, successful companies, and since 1957 it has gained an average of 10% per year.

You can buy a share in the whole index with one quick purchase of an S&P 500 index fund.

S&P 500 index funds invest in all the companies within the S&P 500, so they mirror the index’s performance. They charge a very low fee to do the work for you.

You can buy an S&P 500 index fund through your IRA broker. And just like that, you’ll have a diversified stock portfolio.

That doesn’t mean an S&P 500 index fund should be your entire portfolio. You may want to diversify with investments like real estate, international stocks, or low-risk assets like bonds. But an S&P 500 index fund is one of the best ways to start profiting from the stock market’s growth.

Check out our list of the best stock brokers to open an account today.

Don’t believe me? Take it from Warren Buffett

Warren Buffett, legendary investor and one of the richest people on Earth, is a big fan of buying stocks when the market is down. In his words: “Be fearful when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful.”

In other words, when people are panicking and selling stocks, it’s probably a good time to buy.

Buffett has also said that ordinary investors would do well to invest 90% of their portfolios in a low-fee S&P 500 index fund and the other 10% in government bonds.

And if it’s good enough for Buffett, it’s good enough for me.

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.James McClenathen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

The Best CD Rates Today, April 4, 2025: Up to 4.65% APY

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
Today’s top CD rates have annual percentage yields (APYs) of up to 4.65%. CDs with terms of a year or less generally have the highest rates on offer now.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. While the Fed made a recent decision to hold rates steady, there’s still a very good chance that cuts could occur in the second half of the year. That means now is a great time to lock in high CD rates while they last.Check out some of the best CD rates we found available today.BankAPYTermMinimum DepositOMB4.65%7 Months$1,000DR Bank4.65%6 Months$500United Fidelity Bank4.60%10 Months$1,000Brilliant Bank4.55%9 Months$1,000Marcus by Goldman Sachs4.50%14 Months$500LendingClub4.50%10 Months$2,500Data source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 3, 2025.Why we chose these CDsExtremely competitive rates. Some CDs have slightly higher rates than those on our list, but most come with a catch.Low minimum deposits. Some CDs require a minimum deposit of $5,000 or more, while the CDs above let you deposit as little as $500.Available nationwide. Some high-yield CDs are offered by regional credit unions that not everyone can easily join. The CDs above come from banks that anyone in the U.S. can join without jumping through hoops.Online convenience. Some banks require you to visit a branch to open a CD. The CDs on our list can each be opened straight from the issuer’s website.While the CDs above offer some of the most competitive rates available today, they’re not the only strong options worth considering. LendingClub offers a solid alternative, with CDs that are easy to open and come from a well-known digital bank. If you value a smooth online experience and flexible terms, it’s worth a look. Explore LendingClub 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?CD rates dipped after mid-2024, when the Fed began to lower the federal funds rate for the first time in more than four years, but they still deserve a look. The Fed is currently holding steady on rates, but further cuts are predicted in the second half of 2025.Opening a CD is a smart idea for those seeking safe, steady returns and protection against future rate drops.Enjoy peace of mind with FDIC backing, covering your deposits up to $250,000 per person, per bank. While CDs are low-risk, stocks may offer higher returns, but with more risk.How to open a CDWhen you’re ready, you can open a CD in just a few simple steps:Shop around to find the highest APY for the term you want.Read the fine print and make sure you can meet the minimum deposit, if there is one.Apply for a new account on the bank’s website or mobile app, or over the phone. You’ll likely be approved and ready to invest in minutes.Link an existing bank account to transfer funds to a new CD. Remember that you can only make one deposit per CD.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 cashIf you want to earn a high APY with more flexibility and less commitment, look into a high-yield savings account.The best high-yield savings accounts allow you to:Deposit and withdraw money whenever you wantQuickly transfer money to other accountsSavings account rates can change at any moment, but right now, high-yield savings accounts have APYs that compete with the top CDs. Depending on your goals, either could be a smart choice now.If you want to earn a competitive APY without committing 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.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 has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A glass jar full of bills and coins

Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash

Today’s top CD rates have annual percentage yields (APYs) of up to 4.65%. CDs with terms of a year or less generally have the highest rates on offer now.

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.

While the Fed made a recent decision to hold rates steady, there’s still a very good chance that cuts could occur in the second half of the year. That means now is a great time to lock in high CD rates while they last.

Check out some of the best CD rates we found available today.

Bank APY Term Minimum Deposit
OMB 4.65% 7 Months $1,000
DR Bank 4.65% 6 Months $500
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 4.50% 10 Months $2,500
Data source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 3, 2025.

Why we chose these CDs

  • Extremely competitive rates. Some CDs have slightly higher rates than those on our list, but most come with a catch.
  • Low minimum deposits. Some CDs require a minimum deposit of $5,000 or more, while the CDs above let you deposit as little as $500.
  • Available nationwide. Some high-yield CDs are offered by regional credit unions that not everyone can easily join. The CDs above come from banks that anyone in the U.S. can join without jumping through hoops.
  • Online convenience. Some banks require you to visit a branch to open a CD. The CDs on our list can each be opened straight from the issuer’s website.

While the CDs above offer some of the most competitive rates available today, they’re not the only strong options worth considering. LendingClub offers a solid alternative, with CDs that are easy to open and come from a well-known digital bank. If you value a smooth online experience and flexible terms, it’s worth a look. Explore LendingClub 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?

CD rates dipped after mid-2024, when the Fed began to lower the federal funds rate for the first time in more than four years, but they still deserve a look. The Fed is currently holding steady on rates, but further cuts are predicted in the second half of 2025.

Opening a CD is a smart idea for those seeking safe, steady returns and protection against future rate drops.

Enjoy peace of mind with FDIC backing, covering your deposits up to $250,000 per person, per bank. While CDs are low-risk, stocks may offer higher returns, but with more risk.

How to open a CD

When you’re ready, you can open a CD in just a few simple steps:

  1. Shop around to find the highest APY for the term you want.
  2. Read the fine print and make sure you can meet the minimum deposit, if there is one.
  3. Apply for a new account on the bank’s website or mobile app, or over the phone. You’ll likely be approved and ready to invest in minutes.
  4. Link an existing bank account to transfer funds to a new CD. Remember that you can only make one deposit per CD.

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 cash

If you want to earn a high APY with more flexibility and less commitment, look into a high-yield savings account.

The best high-yield savings accounts allow you to:

  • Deposit and withdraw money whenever you want
  • Quickly transfer money to other accounts

Savings account rates can change at any moment, but right now, high-yield savings accounts have APYs that compete with the top CDs. Depending on your goals, either could be a smart choice now.

If you want to earn a competitive APY without committing 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.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 has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

The Best Savings Account Rates Today, April 4, 2025: Up to 4.50%

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool
Want to grow your money while keeping it close? A high-yield savings account fits the bill. With APYs around 4.00%, it’s a perfect time to snag great savings rates.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. Not all accounts are alike, though. Some offer much better returns than the average. We’ve explored top banks to bring you the best savings options.Here’s a list of some of the best high-yield savings account rates 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%$25, $5,000 to open accountData source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 3, 2025.Why we chose these savings accountsThe accounts above stood out to us for several key reasons:High APYs. These are among the most competitive interest rates available, helping your money grow faster.Low barriers to entry. Most accounts have low or no minimum deposit requirements to open or earn interest.Available nationwide. These banks let you open an account from anywhere in the U.S. without needing to join a local credit union.Online convenience. Every account listed can be opened and managed entirely online from your phone or computer.If you’re looking for an account that combines a strong APY with online access and flexibility, CIT Platinum Savings stands out. It’s a smart option for savers who want high returns. Read our full CIT Platinum 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 separatelyShould you open a high-yield savings account now?Got extra cash sitting in a savings account and earning little? Now’s a great time to make a change. With rates still high, high-yield savings accounts let your money grow without tying it down.Consider a high-yield savings account if:You want to earn more interest without locking away your moneyYou appreciate safety — most accounts come with FDIC insuranceYou want easy online access with no or low feesYou prefer flexibility over fixed termsHigh-yield accounts offer better returns while keeping your cash within reach. They’re a perfect place to stash your cash for emergencies, home projects, or upcoming trips.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.Click here to compare the best high-yield savings accounts and open one today.Don’t want to deal with 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.American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Ally is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. SLM is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. HSBC Holdings is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Wells Fargo is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Synchrony Financial 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. Charles Schwab is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Citigroup 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 March 2025 $80 calls on Charles Schwab. 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 to grow your money while keeping it close? A high-yield savings account fits the bill. With APYs around 4.00%, it’s a perfect time to snag great savings rates.

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.

Not all accounts are alike, though. Some offer much better returns than the average. We’ve explored top banks to bring you the best savings options.

Here’s a list of some of the best high-yield savings account rates 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% $25, $5,000 to open account
Data source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of April 3, 2025.

Why we chose these savings accounts

The accounts above stood out to us for several key reasons:

  • High APYs. These are among the most competitive interest rates available, helping your money grow faster.
  • Low barriers to entry. Most accounts have low or no minimum deposit requirements to open or earn interest.
  • Available nationwide. These banks let you open an account from anywhere in the U.S. without needing to join a local credit union.
  • Online convenience. Every account listed can be opened and managed entirely online from your phone or computer.

If you’re looking for an account that combines a strong APY with online access and flexibility, CIT Platinum Savings stands out. It’s a smart option for savers who want high returns. Read our full CIT Platinum 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?

Got extra cash sitting in a savings account and earning little? Now’s a great time to make a change. With rates still high, high-yield savings accounts let your money grow without tying it down.

Consider a high-yield savings account if:

  • You want to earn more interest without locking away your money
  • You appreciate safety — most accounts come with FDIC insurance
  • You want easy online access with no or low fees
  • You prefer flexibility over fixed terms

High-yield accounts offer better returns while keeping your cash within reach. They’re a perfect place to stash your cash for emergencies, home projects, or upcoming trips.

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.

Click here to compare the best high-yield savings accounts and open one today.

Don’t want to deal with monthly deposit requirements?

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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.American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Ally is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. SLM is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. HSBC Holdings is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Wells Fargo is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Synchrony Financial 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. Charles Schwab is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Citigroup 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 March 2025 $80 calls on Charles Schwab. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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14 Essential Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

By Money Management No Comments

 It’s one of the most expensive things you’re likely to ever buy. Make it easier for yourself. 

woman in front of home
Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock.com

For first-time homebuyers, the whole homebuying process may look a bit daunting. You’re going into what could be the biggest purchase of your life with no experience to fall back on. The good news is a little preparation can go a long way and help you approach this major decision with confidence. Here are tips for buying your first house.

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