Table of Contents
- Introduction to High-Yield Savings Rates
- Comparing the Best Options
- Detailed Account Profiles
- Current News on Rates
- Why Trust This Information
- What a High-Yield Savings Account Is
- Reasons to Open One
- Earnings Potential
- How to Choose and Open
- Pros and Cons
- Who It's For and Alternatives
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction to High-Yield Savings Rates
You're looking at the best high-yield savings account rates for September 2025, and I can tell you right now that you can earn up to 5.00% APY from institutions like Varo Bank and AdelFi. This is more than 12 times the FDIC's national average of 0.40% APY for savings accounts. A high-yield savings account gives you better interest while keeping your money accessible for withdrawals when you need it. I update these rankings every business day based on the highest APYs from nationally available institutions, with all data collected and 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
Comparing the Best Options
When I rank these accounts, I prioritize the APY first. If rates tie, I look at the lowest monthly deposit requirement, then the lowest minimum balance, and finally the lowest opening deposit. For ties beyond that, it's alphabetical. Remember, some of these are called money market accounts, but they function like savings accounts without check-writing. You should also check our money market rankings if that's what you're after, as rates can be similar.
Detailed Account Profiles
Let me walk you through the top accounts. For Varo Bank at 5.00% APY, you need any opening deposit and balance, but it requires $1,000 monthly direct deposits, a Varo checking account, positive balances, and the rate applies only up to $5,000—above that or if unmet, it's 2.50%. It has no monthly fee, ATM card, mobile check deposit, and checking available. AdelFi offers 5.00% APY for new members with code 'NEW2025', requiring $25 opening deposit, credit union membership by accepting their faith statement, and the rate is tiered: up to $5,000 at 5.00%, then lower. No fee, ATM card, mobile deposit, checking, and CDs. Fitness Bank at 4.75% needs $100 opening and balance, plus an Elite Checking with $5,000 average balance and 10,000 daily steps via app—no ATM or mobile deposit, no checking or CDs here. Pibank at 4.60% is mobile-only, any deposit, but limits to wire or Plaid transfers, no ACH or checks. And so on for the others—each has specifics like membership, balance tiers, or withdrawal limits that you must meet to get the rate.
Current News on Rates
The Federal Reserve just cut rates by 0.25% on September 17, setting the federal funds rate to 4.00%-4.25%. This is the first cut since December 2024, with two more quarter-point drops expected by year-end. Savings rates follow this, so expect them to fall. I track these changes daily to keep you informed.
Why Trust This Information
I collect rates from over 100 banks and credit unions daily, focusing on factors like minimum deposits to help you choose. Investopedia has been doing this since 2019, providing unbiased reviews for your decisions.
What a High-Yield Savings Account Is
A high-yield savings account pays much higher rates than traditional ones, often from online banks. You can link it to your checking for easy transfers, earning 10-12 times the national average.
Reasons to Open One
Open one to build an emergency fund, save for goals like a house or vacation, or just grow your money faster with interest. I opened mine in 2019 and recommend it for easy access and earnings.
Earnings Potential
On $1,000 at 5.00% APY, you'd have $1,050 after a year versus $1,004 at 0.40%. For $10,000, it's $10,500 vs. $10,040—adding $460 more. Bigger balances yield more; add deposits to boost it further.
How to Choose and Open
Pick based on top APY, low minimums, and no fees you can't avoid. Understand terms like minimum deposit, balance, fees, mobile deposit, and ACH transfers. To open, provide personal info, verify identity, and fund via transfer or card. It takes 1-3 days for transfers, so keep a cushion.
Pros and Cons
Pros include higher APY, anytime access, safety, great for emergencies, and potential rate increases. Cons: May need a new bank, withdrawal limits, temptation to spend, possible fees, and rate decreases.
Who It's For and Alternatives
It's best for anyone with extra cash comfortable with online banking, at FDIC/NCUA-insured spots up to $250,000. Alternatives: Checking for daily use (low rates), traditional savings (lower yields), money markets (similar, sometimes with checks), or CDs (higher fixed rates but locked).
Frequently Asked Questions
HYSA means high-yield savings account. They're safe with FDIC/NCUA insurance. Top rates vary, currently near 5.00%—no 7% for adults. You pay taxes on interest via 1099-INT. Rates change with the Fed. You won't lose principal, and you can have multiple accounts. I track about 100 institutions daily for accuracy.
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