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Banking

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of September 2025

High-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) are one of the easiest ways to earn more on money you’re already saving. While big banks still pay close to 0.40% APY (if you’re lucky), many online banks and credit unions have 3% to 5% APYs right now.

We found standout options from Synchrony, SoFi, Betterment, Capital One, and more. Here’s what makes each one great.

Best Mobile Experience
Total Assets
$478.5 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
A- (Fitch)
Savings APY
3.50%
4.8
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor
Best Institutional History
Total Assets
$2.14 trillion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
A/Stable (S&P)
Savings APY
3.70%
4.7
LendEDU Rating
New Bank With Capital Strength
Total Assets
$41 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $3 million
Credit Rating
N/A
Savings APY
1.00%3.80%
4.6
LendEDU Rating
Up to $250,000 per depositor; Up to $3M via SoFi Insured Deposit Program.
Diverse Savings Options
Total Assets
$213.6 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
BBB- (S&P)
Savings APY
1.00%3.85%
4.5
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor, per account category
Competitive High-Yield Savings and CD Rates
Total Assets
$111.9 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
BBB
Savings APY
3.80%
4.4
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor, per ownership category.
Great for Larger Deposits
Total Assets
$76 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
BBB+ (S&P)
Savings APY
4.30%
4.2
Best FDIC Insurance
Total Assets
$63+ billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $4 million
Credit Rating
N/A
Savings APY
3.75%4.40%
4.1
LendEDU Rating
Up to $2M ($4M joint) for Cash Reserve via program banks; $250,000 for Checking. New customer offer: 4.40% APY with qualifying deposit.
Safest Bank Overall
Total Assets
$4 trillion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
A (S&P)
Savings APY
0.01%
3.5
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor
Largest Bank in U.S.
Total Assets
$3.26 trillion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
A+ (S&P)
Savings APY
0.01%
3.4
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor
Advanced Consumer Security Features
Total Assets
$544 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
A / A-1
Savings APY
0.01%
3.0
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor
Table of Contents

High-yield savings accounts to consider this month

1. Capital One

Best Mobile Experience

4.8 /5

About Capital One 360 Performance Savings

APY3.50%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableYes
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingA+, Accredited; Customer reviews = 1.11/5
Trustpilot rating1.3/5
Why we think it’s great

If you do most of your banking on your phone, Capital One’s 360 Performance Savings is a standout. The mobile app is one of the highest-rated in the App Store (4.9 stars with nearly 10 million reviews in September 2025), so managing your money really does feel seamless.

The account itself is solid too: 3.50% APY, no fees, and no minimum balance requirements. You can deposit checks, set up automatic transfers, and even pop into a Capital One Café or branch if you like the in-person option.

2. Barclays

Best Institutional History

4.7 /5

About Barclays Online Savings

APY3.70%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableNo
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingA+, Not accredited; Customer reviews = 1.06/5
Trustpilot rating1.7/5
Why we think it’s great

Barclays has a long history: It’s been around since 1690. (Yes, you read that right!) It’s likely not going anywhere anytime soon. Its Online Savings is perfect if you don’t want to worry about account minimums. You can open an account with any amount and still earn a strong 3.70% APY. That’s about five times the national average.

There are no monthly fees, and you’ll get easy online transfers, direct deposit options, and FDIC protection. It’s simple, reliable, and a great option if you’re just starting out or prefer to keep your savings flexible without jumping through hoops.

3. SoFi

New Bank With Capital Strength

4.6 /5

About SoFi’s online HYSA

APY1.00%3.80%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableYes (automatically comes with savings account)
CDs availableNo
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured (up to $3 million)
BBB ratingA+, Not accredited; Customer reviews = 1.38/5
Trustpilot rating4.2/5
Why we think it’s great

SoFi offers a modern banking experience backed by solid financials and rapid growth. With $41 billion in assets and up to $3 million in FDIC insurance, it combines digital innovation with strong capital reserves.

It’s a great starter savings account because it makes saving feel easy (and even kind of fun). When you open an account, you can earn up to a $300 cash bonus and unlock rates up to 4.50% APY for the first six months. That’s a nice head start if you’re just beginning to build savings.

Get a 0.70% APY boost on the standard rate for 6 months when you set up a new account with eligible direct deposit.

We also love the extras: Vaults for organizing goals, roundups that stash your spare change, and automatic transfers so saving happens in the background. Plus, your SoFi savings comes with a free checking account.

4. CIT Bank

Diverse Savings Options

4.5 /5

About CIT Savings Accounts

APYUp to 3.85%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableYes
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingA–, Not accredited; Customer reviews = 1.08/5
Trustpilot rating1.8/5
Why we think it’s great

CIT Bank is all about rewarding how you save. With its Platinum Savings account, you’ll earn a strong 3.85% APY if you keep at least $5,000 in your account. Drop below that threshold and the rate falls to just 0.25%, so it pays (literally) to keep a higher balance here.

Its other savings options include the Savings Connect account, which you can open with a deposit of at least $100. It doesn’t require a minimum balance to earn its 3.75% APY.

CIT even offers a Money Market account and a Savings Builder account, which starts at 1.00% APY but tracks your savings and rewards you with a higher interest rate as you develop a consistent savings habit.

5. Synchrony

Competitive HYSA and CD Rates

4.4 /5

About Synchrony High Yield Savings

APY3.80%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly feeNone
ATM cardYes
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableNo
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingNo rating, Not accredited; Customer reviews = 1.05/5
Trustpilot rating1.1/5
Why we think it’s great

There’s plenty to like about Synchrony’s high-yield savings account. For one, you can get an optional ATM card, something most savings accounts don’t offer. That means if an emergency hits, you don’t need to wait days for a transfer. You can just swipe your card and access your money right away.

The 3.80% APY is competitive, and we love that you don’t need to jump through hoops to earn it. Compared to big banks like Chase or Bank of America, where you’d earn pennies, Synchrony’s rate consistently comes out ahead.

6. Betterment

Best FDIC Insurance

4.1 /5

About Betterment Cash Reserve

APY3.75% – 4.40% (new customer offer with qualifying deposit)
Required opening deposit$10
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositNo
Checking accounts availableYes
CDs availableNo
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured through partner banks
BBB ratingA–, Accredited; Customer reviews = 1.73/5
Trustpilot rating1.6/5
Why we think it’s great

Betterment’s Cash Reserve isn’t your typical savings account. It’s technically a cash account tied to your brokerage. But that’s part of what makes it powerful. You get a competitive APY (up to 4.40% with current promos), no fees, and FDIC insurance up to $4 million for joint accounts, and $2 million for individual accounts.

Another feature that sets it apart is the automation tools. You can create multiple savings goals, turn on recurring transfers, and let Betterment’s system nudge you toward progress without lifting a finger.

And if you ever decide you’re ready to invest, your money is already sitting inside Betterment’s platform, so you can move it straight into an investment portfolio. If you’re a saver who loves to “set it and forget it,” this one checks all the boxes.

7. BrioDirect

Great for Larger Deposits

4.2 /5

About Brio HYSA

APY4.30%
Required opening deposit$5,000
Minimum balance$25
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableNo
CDs availableNo
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingB–, Not accredited; Customer reviews = 1.0/5
Trustpilot rating2.3/5
Why we think it’s great

BrioDirect is a strong choice if you have a larger chunk of cash to set aside. You’ll need at least $5,000 to open the account, but once you’re in, you’ll earn a competitive 4.30% APY with no monthly fees.

This account is backed by Webster Bank, so your money is FDIC insured, and you can manage everything online or through the mobile app. BrioDirect is the online banking arm of Webster Bank, so you manage your account through the mobile app.

Honorable mentions

These are high-yield savings accounts we think are also worth considering at the time of writing.

8. Ally

Great for Frequent Transfers


About Ally Bank High Yield Savings

APY3.50%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableYes
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingA+, Not accredited; Customer reviews = 1.14/5
Trustpilot rating1.4/5
Why we think it’s great

Ally’s savings account is hard to beat if you move money around often. Unlike many banks, there are no withdrawal penalties, so you can transfer funds as much as you need. On top of that, Ally has some of the best savings tools out there, like “buckets” to organize your goals, round-ups that sweep spare change into savings, and even a feature that analyzes your spending and shifts extra money automatically.

On a personal note: I’ve had Ally checking and savings since 2014, and I still love them. The tools are helpful, the customer service is excellent, and it’s the bank I recommend to friends again and again.

9. Discover

Great for Joint Accounts


About Discover Savings

APY3.50%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableYes
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingA+, Accredited; Customer reviews = 1.2/5
Trustpilot rating1.5/5
Why we think it’s great

Discover’s Online Savings Account is a strong pick for couples or families who want a simple, fee-free place to grow savings together. You’ll earn a solid 3.50% APY with no minimum deposit and no monthly fees, so it works for any budget.

10. Marcus by Goldman Sachs

Great for Long-Term Savers


About Marcus HYSA

APY3.65%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositNo
Checking accounts availableNo
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingA+, Accredited; Customer reviews = 1.12/5
Trustpilot rating1.2/5
Why we think it’s great

Most banks make you wait a couple of business days to move money in or out of an external bank account, but Marcus lets you transfer up to $100,000 the same day. That’s a big deal if you need quick cash for an emergency or want to act fast on a big purchase, like finally spotting the right car.

Plus, you’ll earn a competitive 3.65% APY and enjoy no fees or minimum balance requirements.

11. PenFed Credit Union

Great for Credit Union


About PenFed Premium Online Savings

APY2.80%
Required opening deposit$5
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardNo
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableYes
CDs availableYes
FDIC or NCUA insuredNCUA insured
BBB ratingA+, Not accredited; Customer reviews = 1.19/5
Trustpilot rating3.8/5
Why we think it’s great

If you’re a credit union fan, PenFed makes it easy to join with just $5. Its Premium Online Savings earns 2.80% APY and comes with no monthly fees. You can deposit money through mobile check deposit, transfers, or at a branch, and your savings are NCUA-insured.

The APY isn’t the highest on our list of great high-yield savings accounts. However, PenFed’s long history and member-first approach make it a solid pick if you prefer credit union banking.

12. Varo

Great for Small Balances


About Varo HYSA

APY2.50% – 5.00%
Required opening deposit$0
Minimum balanceNone
Monthly fee$0
ATM cardYes (debit card)
Mobile check depositYes
Checking accounts availableYes (included)
CDs availableNo
FDIC or NCUA insuredFDIC insured
BBB ratingA–, Accredited; 1.36/5
Trustpilot rating4.0/5
Why we think it’s great

Varo’s online savings account stands out because you get both checking and savings in one (complete with a debit card for everyday spending). Plus, all you need is $1,000 in monthly direct deposits to unlock a huge 5.00% APY on up to $5,000, one of the highest rates available. Balances above that earn 2.50%, which is still far above the national average.

What is a high-yield savings account?

A high-yield savings account is just like a regular savings account, only it pays you way more interest, so your money grows faster.

For reference, big banks often pay around 0.01% APY (aka pennies on your money), but many high yield savings account interest rates are around 3% to 5% APY. That difference can add up fast, especially if you’re saving for an emergency fund or a big goal.

Why APYs vary between banks

Ever wonder why one bank offers 0.10% APY and another promises 3.50%? It mostly comes down to strategy and overhead. Online banks and fintechs can afford to pay more because they don’t have the same expenses as traditional banks with branches, tellers, and big buildings to maintain.

Some larger banks also stick to lower rates, knowing many people won’t shop around. That’s why it’s always worth it to research the best savings accounts.

Should I save money in a HYSA, money market account, CD, or somewhere else?

These can all be great accounts, but it ultimately comes down to what you’re saving for.

  • A HYSA is best for emergency funds or savings you might need in the near future.
  • A money market account can offer similar rates to a HYSA, but usually comes with debit card or check-writing privileges.
  • CDs (certificates of deposit) lock in your APY for a set term (so it can’t dip if the Fed cuts rates, for example), but you’ll pay a penalty if you withdraw early.
  • Traditional savings accounts at big banks are the safest bet for convenience or in-person banking, but they usually pay next to nothing in terms of interest. And most of them are riddled with monthly fees and other charges that further eat away at your savings.

How to open a high-yield savings account online

Opening an online savings account usually takes less than 15 minutes. Here’s what to expect:

  1. Find which account you’d like to open. (The best savings accounts on this list are an excellent place to start.)
  2. Apply online. Provide your name, address, Social Security number, and ID.
  3. Fund the account. Many HYSAs let you open an account with $0, but you’ll want to transfer at least $1 so it doesn’t get closed due to inactivity. You can usually link your current bank account to fund your HYSA.
  4. Set up extras. Add direct deposit or automatic transfers to grow savings faster.

When is the best time to open a high-yield savings account?

The best time is now. Rates on HYSAs move up and down with the Federal Reserve, so today’s 3% or 5% APYs could drop in the future.

But even when the Fed cuts rates, HYSAs almost always outperform traditional savings accounts, so waiting rarely pays off.

If you have cash sitting in a low-rate account, moving it into a HYSA is one of the easiest ways to make your money work harder, no matter what the economy is doing.

Recap of the best high-yield savings accounts

Best Mobile Experience
Total Assets
$478.5 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
A- (Fitch)
Savings APY
3.50%
4.8
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor
Best Institutional History
Total Assets
$2.14 trillion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
A/Stable (S&P)
Savings APY
3.70%
4.7
LendEDU Rating
New Bank With Capital Strength
Total Assets
$41 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $3 million
Credit Rating
N/A
Savings APY
1.00%3.80%
4.6
LendEDU Rating
Up to $250,000 per depositor; Up to $3M via SoFi Insured Deposit Program.
Diverse Savings Options
Total Assets
$213.6 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
BBB- (S&P)
Savings APY
1.00%3.85%
4.5
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor, per account category
Competitive High-Yield Savings and CD Rates
Total Assets
$111.9 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
BBB
Savings APY
3.80%
4.4
LendEDU Rating
Per depositor, per ownership category.
Great for Larger Deposits
Total Assets
$76 billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $250,000
Credit Rating
BBB+ (S&P)
Savings APY
4.30%
4.2
Best FDIC Insurance
Total Assets
$63+ billion
FDIC Insurance
Up to $4 million
Credit Rating
N/A
Savings APY
3.75%4.40%
4.1
LendEDU Rating
Up to $2M ($4M joint) for Cash Reserve via program banks; $250,000 for Checking. New customer offer: 4.40% APY with qualifying deposit.
Article sources

At LendEDU, our writers and editors rely on primary sources, such as government data and websites, industry reports and whitepapers, and interviews with experts and company representatives. We also reference reputable company websites and research from established publishers. This approach allows us to produce content that is accurate, unbiased, and supported by reliable evidence. Read more about our editorial standards.

About our contributors

  • Cassidy Horton, MBA
    Written by Cassidy Horton, MBA

    Cassidy Horton is a finance writer passionate about helping people find financial freedom. With an MBA and a bachelor's in public relations, her work has been published more than 1,000 times online.

  • Kristen Barrett, MAT
    Edited by Kristen Barrett, MAT

    Kristen Barrett is a managing editor at LendEDU. She lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, and has edited and written personal finance content since 2015.