Over 50% of American adults don't have any savings. It's all to easy to buy what you want now with credit and loans within easy access to fund purchases. If your looking to get debt free and save for purchases or have a cash reserve for lifes unexpected costs then a online savings account could be the answer. Before rushing off to apply you need to look out for features to compare such as introductory offers, interest rates, minimum investment and any fees or interest penalties.
Banks, of course, are always looking to attract new customers, and introductory interest rates are one way they do that. Just as credit cards may offer zero-percent rates to bring in new customers, banks offer higher-than-normal interest rates for a specific amount of time. When comparing savings accounts, this is one thing to take into consideration, but not the only thing.
If your planning on a longer term investment then the ongoing rate will be of far greater importance than a short term introductory offer. If on the other hand you have a large lump some cash investment, such as a home deposit, that you know you'll be using within six months or so then you may be able to make use of the high introduction rates.
Some of the best long term savings accounts do have opening offers but others use the offers to pull you in but have downsides hidden in the small print. In some cases banks require a minimum balance to be maintained either permanently or for a certain period after you open the account to avoid being penalized by fees. If you withdraw before the specified time period is up, you'll pay for it. In some cases the penalty amount can more than negate the interest you earned.
Some accounts may be assessed fees, either to open, to close, or on an ongoing basis. Again, these must be disclosed, but they're usually in the fine print. Especially if you choose an online high interest account, you'll want to think carefully if there are fees involved. One of the main advantages of online accounts is low or no fees, since the bank doesn't have to maintain brick-and-mortar branches. If the best savings rates are offset with high fees, you may be better off looking elsewhere.
Another thing to look for are hidden interest penalties in the month you withdraw your funds. Many people overlook these in the fine print, but they can make a difference in the amount of money you receive. Getting less than you thought could put a crimp in your plans.
Sometimes, in order to get an advertised rate, you need to deposit a fairly high minimum. This can be $10,000 or more, in some cases. The minimum deposit amount can be combined with an early withdrawal penalty, turning a high interest savings account effectively into a short-term certificate of deposit. Make sure an account with these restrictions will serve your needs before signing up and sending your money.
High interest saving accounts are a great tool whether you make use of an online account or something offered by your regular bank. Just be sure you read all the information about the account before you sign up, and know about any dates for withdrawal and any fees that might be associated with the account, either on a one-time basis or on an ongoing basis.
Richard Greenwood is Director for the Click 4 Group who run a range of websites to help consumers compare savings account products from leading banks including Raboplus savings.
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