Best High-Yield Savings Account Rates for September 2025
I'm here to tell you directly about the top high-yield savings accounts available right now. The best rate you can get is 5.00% APY from Varo Bank and AdelFi, which beats the FDIC national average of 0.40% APY by more than 12 times. These accounts let you earn more interest while keeping your money accessible. I update this ranking every business day based on rates from nationally available institutions, verified as of September 17, 2025.
Top High-Yield Savings Account Rates
- Varo Bank – 5.00% APY
- AdelFi – 5.00% APY
- Fitness Bank – 4.75% APY
- Pibank – 4.60% APY
- Vibrant Credit Union – 4.50% APY
- Presidential Bank – 4.50% APY
- AlumniFi – 4.50% APY
- Axos Bank – 4.46% APY
- TotalBank – 4.41% APY
- Zynlo Bank – 4.40% APY
- Badass Bank – 4.40% APY
- OnPath Credit Union – 4.40% APY
- Newtek Bank – 4.35% APY
- Peak Bank – 4.35% APY
- Vio Bank – 4.31% APY
Key Details on Top Accounts
Let me walk you through the specifics of these accounts. For Varo Bank, you need any opening deposit, but to get the full 5.00% APY on up to $5,000, maintain direct deposits and a positive balance. AdelFi requires a $25 deposit and credit union membership, with the rate on up to $5,000 for new members. Fitness Bank demands a $100 minimum and ties the rate to a step count via their app plus a linked checking account.
Pibank is mobile-only with no ACH transfers, just wires or Plaid. Vibrant Credit Union offers 4.50% on under $15,000 with membership. Presidential needs $5,000 to open and a checking account. AlumniFi requires $25,000 minimum balance. Axos gives 4.46% with direct deposits and $1,500 balance. TotalBank starts at $25,000 with $2,500 minimum. Zynlo has no major limits. Badass limits to two free withdrawals. OnPath needs $25,000 new money. Newtek and Peak have minimal requirements. Vio starts at $100.
Recent News and Why Trust This Information
You should know the Federal Reserve cut rates by 0.25% on September 17, setting the fed funds rate to 4.00%-4.25%, with more cuts expected. This means savings rates will likely drop, so act now if you're considering one. I base this on data from over 100 banks and credit unions, focusing on APY, minimums, and nationwide availability, all federally insured.
What Is a High-Yield Savings Account and Why Open One
A high-yield savings account pays much higher interest than traditional ones, often from online banks. You benefit by earning 10-12 times the average rate, building emergency funds or saving for goals like a house or vacation. I recommend linking it to your checking for easy transfers.
Earnings Potential and How to Choose
On $5,000 at 5.00% APY, you'd earn $250 in a year versus $20 at 0.40%. Look for high APY, low minimums, no fees, and easy access. Understand terms like minimum balance and ACH transfers.
How to Open and Pros/Cons
To open, provide personal info online and fund via transfer. Pros include high APY, safety, and accessibility; cons are variable rates and possible fees. It's best for those with extra cash comfortable with online banking.
Alternatives include checking, money markets, or CDs for locked rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
HYSA means high-yield savings account. They're safe if FDIC/NCUA insured. Rates change with the Fed. You pay taxes on interest. No bank pays 7% currently; top is 5.00%.
Our Methodology
I track rates daily from 100+ institutions, ranking by APY for accounts with up to $25,000 deposit, available in 40+ states, and federally insured.
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