Bank accounts can go a long way in helping you reach your financial goals — whether that goal is to spend or save money. Here’s a breakdown of the five main types of bank accounts, so you can decide which is best for your needs.
1. Checking accounts
A checking account is designed for everyday spending, as there’s no cap on the number of deposits and withdrawals you can make each month. You’ll typically get a checkbook and a debit card so you can write checks or use your card to make purchases and withdraw cash on the go.
Most checking accounts don’t earn interest, but more and more interest-bearing options are starting to pop up. Perhaps the biggest drawback of a checking account is overdraft fees, which you may face if spend more money than you have in your account.
2. Savings accounts
As its name implies, a savings account is designed for saving. You earn interest on the money you keep in the account, but you typically won’t get an ATM card or checks. You’re also limited to six withdrawals a month per Regulation D.
3. Money market accounts
Think of a money market account as a savings/checking account hybrid. You get the benefits of a debit card and the ability to write checks, but you also earn the same competitive interest rate as you would with a savings account. On the downside, money market accounts are typically limited to six withdrawals a month and they may require deposits of $500 or more to get started.
4. CDs
With a certificate of deposit, you agree to lock your money away for a set period of time (usually anywhere from three months to 10 years). In exchange, you get a fixed interest rate that won’t change even if rates drop.
The only catch is that you can’t withdraw your money before your CD matures. If you do, you’ll pay early withdrawal penalties.
5. Retirement accounts
There are several different types of retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and Traditional and Roth IRAs. Depending on the plan you use, you may gain access to tax breaks, employer matching and other special benefits to help you grow a sizeable nest egg for retirement. But there’s typically a yearly contribution limit, and you may pay penalties if you need to access funds early.
6. Brokerage accounts
A brokerage account is an investment account designed to buy and sell investment products, including stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds and bonds. Open a brokerage account with an investment firm, which can then place trades on your behalf. Some full-service brokerage accounts also offer personalized service and financial advice through a financial advisor.
7. Cash management accounts
With a cash management account (CMA), you can spend, save and invest in one fell swoop. CMAs have similar features to checking accounts and may come with an ATM card, a debit card and check-writing capabilities. They also function as a savings account by offering competitive interest rates.
And since nonbank providers, such as brokerage companies, generally offer cash management accounts, you may also be able to invest in securities using the same account.
VIDEO: Which bank account is right for you?
Compare different types of bank accounts
This table highlights the major differences between the five types of bank accounts:
Things to consider when choosing the type of bank account for you
Here are a few features to keep in mind when finding the best type of bank account for your needs:
Financial goals. Why are you opening a bank account? If it’s to spend money, go with a checking account. If it’s to save and build wealth, go with a savings account or CD. If you want a little bit of both, a money market account may fit the bill.
Fees. Bank account fees include overdraft, ATM, daily balance, paper statement, and monthly maintenance fees. Look for an account with $0 monthly fees and read through the fine print to know how to avoid other associated fees.
Minimum balance requirements. Some accounts come with minimum opening deposit requirements. Depending on how much money you want to keep in your account will help you determine which bank account you’ll want to open.
Interest. Although savings accounts are a popular choice to grow your money, there are checking accounts that earn interest. Compare interest rates and how it’s compounded to decide which account is right for you.
Banking needs. Everyone has unique banking needs. Some prefer convenience and flexibility, while others want to earn rewards and interest. The best bank account will help you manage your finances efficiently and reach your goals.
Best bank accounts by type
The best bank accounts are transparent and flexible and offer perks that help you reach your financial goals. When considering the best accounts, we looked at factors like interest rates, ease of use, ATM access, deposit requirements, monthly fees and additional perks.
The CIT Bank Money Market account has a low opening deposit, no monthly fees and a competitive 1.55% APY that's seven times higher than the national average.
APY
1.55%
Fee
$0
Minimum deposit to open
$100
The CIT Bank Money Market account has a low opening deposit, no monthly fees and a competitive 1.55% APY that's seven times higher than the national average.
Pros
Low opening deposit. You only need $100 to open a CIT Bank Money Market account, which is low considering most money markets have opening deposits of $2,500 or more.
Minimal fees. CIT Bank doesn't charge anything for monthly maintenance, online transfers or incoming wires.
Competitive APY. You'll earn 1.55% interest on your total account balance. You don't have to meet any minimums to qualify.
Cons
Low transfer limits. People Pay and PayPal transfers are limited to $50 a day, but you can electronically transfer up to $2 million a day.
No live chat support. CIT Bank doesn't offer live chat as a support option, which is unusual for an online institution.
Marcus by Goldman Sachs High-Yield CDs takes home the gold for best overall bank account for CDs thanks to its hassle-free online application process, low minimum opening deposit and strong APYs across all CD terms.
1-year APY
4.10%
3-year APY
3.65%
5-year APY
3.60%
Minimum deposit to open
$500
Marcus by Goldman Sachs High-Yield CDs takes home the gold for best overall bank account for CDs thanks to its hassle-free online application process, low minimum opening deposit and strong APYs across all CD terms.
Pros
Several term options. Lock your money away for as little as six months or as long as six years.
30 days to fund account. Most banks give you 10 days to fund your account. But Marcus lets you make as many deposits as you want for your first 30 days.
Strong APYs. Marcus offers consistently high rates for both its short-term and long-term CD options, making it an ideal choice for any CD length.
10-day rate guarantee. If Marcus raises its rates within 10 days of you opening and funding your CD, you'll automatically get bumped up to the higher rate.
Cons
No branches. Marcus by Goldman Sachs High-Yield CDs is online only, so you can't visit a branch for in-person support. But you can call customer support daily.
No partial withdrawals. If you need to dip into your CD before it matures, you'll have to withdraw the full balance.
Early withdrawal penalties. Like most banks, you'll pay a penalty fee if you withdraw money before your CD matures. But Marcus has a no-penalty CD option available if you're worried about needing your money before it's time.
This Synchrony account wins for best overall bank account for savings because it grows your money fast with a strong APY and gives you plenty of ways to access it when the time comes.
APY
4.10%
Fee
$0
Minimum deposit to open
$0
This Synchrony account wins for best overall bank account for savings because it grows your money fast with a strong APY and gives you plenty of ways to access it when the time comes.
Pros
Strong APY. Your savings grows even faster with a 4.1% APY that's compounded daily.
Free ATM card. Unlike other savings accounts, this one comes with an ATM card for easy withdrawals. Plus, Synchrony refunds up to $5 in non-network ATM fees each month.
No fees. There's no monthly maintenance or ATM fees.
Cons
Limited transactions. Typically, you can't make more than six outgoing transactions a month without running the risk of having your account closed. But due to the temporary suspension of Regulation D, this policy could be on pause.
Daily withdrawal limits. To prevent fraud, you can't withdraw more than $1,000 from ATMs and $500 from point-of-sale retailers a day.
One branch. Synchrony's only branch is in Bridgewater, New Jersey, so you'll need to be comfortable managing your account online if you live outside this area.
Aspiration Spend & Save Account is an eco-friendly cash management account with an eye on sustainability and a competitive APY to boot. If you become an Aspiration Plus member, you can earn up to 3% APY and up to 10% cash back on debit card purchases at specific merchants like Warby Parker and Blue Apron. Plus, your cash is FDIC-insured for up to $2 million. But you'll need to meet the requirements to earn the max APY. Aspiration Plus members that pay $7.99 a month (or $5.99 a month if you pay annually) earn 3% APY on balances up to $10,000 when they spend $500 a month with their Aspiration debit card. Customers on its basic account with no mandatory monthly fee can earn up to 3% APY. And for those who don't meet the monthly spending requirement or have an account balance greater than $10,000, you can still earn some interest if you're an Aspiration Plus member.
APY
Up to 3.00%
Fee
From $0 per month
Minimum deposit to open
$10
Aspiration Spend & Save Account is an eco-friendly cash management account with an eye on sustainability and a competitive APY to boot. If you become an Aspiration Plus member, you can earn up to 3% APY and up to 10% cash back on debit card purchases at specific merchants like Warby Parker and Blue Apron. Plus, your cash is FDIC-insured for up to $2 million. But you'll need to meet the requirements to earn the max APY. Aspiration Plus members that pay $7.99 a month (or $5.99 a month if you pay annually) earn 3% APY on balances up to $10,000 when they spend $500 a month with their Aspiration debit card. Customers on its basic account with no mandatory monthly fee can earn up to 3% APY. And for those who don't meet the monthly spending requirement or have an account balance greater than $10,000, you can still earn some interest if you're an Aspiration Plus member.
Pros
Minimal fees. Aspiration offers a basic plan with no mandatory fee and a Plus account for $7.99 a month (or $5.99 a month if you pay annually). And unlike most accounts, it doesn't mark up its extra services. You will pay exactly what it costs them to provide the service, such as $0.82 for a wire transfer.
High APYs. If you meet the conditions, you can earn 1% APY on your balances up to $10,000, or 3% APY for Aspiration Plus members.
Cashback rewards. Earn up to 5% cash back on your debit card when you shop stores listed in Aspiration's Conscience Coalition, or up to 10% for Plus members.
Cons
Requirements to earn max APY. While 3% APY is still one of the highest interest rates we have seen, you must be a Plus member and spend $500 in debit card purchases to earn the maximum 3% APY.
No physical branches. Since Aspiration operates entirely online, you must be comfortable with digital banking and remote customer service.
Annual Percentage Yield (APY)
3.00% on balances of $0 to $10,000 1.00% on balances of $0 to $10,000
Rewards
Unlimited cash back rewards on debit card transactions, plus extra cash back at businesses with high AIM scores
We've dubbed this free Capital One 360 Checking account best overall for its reliable interest rate, flexible overdraft options and convenient ATM access. Plus, Capital One doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, and it offers early paydays.
APY
0.10%
Fee
$0 per month
Minimum deposit to open
$0
We've dubbed this free Capital One 360 Checking account best overall for its reliable interest rate, flexible overdraft options and convenient ATM access. Plus, Capital One doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, and it offers early paydays.
Pros
0.1% APY. This account earns more interest than most traditional savings accounts, but there are stronger rates out there.
Early paydays. If you get paid via direct deposit, your paycheck could land in your account up to two days early.
Flexible overdrafts. Capital One gives you four ways to avoid overdraft fees: auto-decline, next-day grace, free savings transfer or an overdraft line of credit.
Large ATM network. Use your debit card for free at over 39,000+ Capital One and Allpoint ATMs worldwide.
Cons
Not 100% free. Although you won't pay routine fees charged by some banks, Capital One will charge you $25 for above-and-beyond services like overnight card replacements and stop payment requests.
Expensive outbound wires. It's free to receive domestic and international wire transfers. But you'll pay $40 for each domestic wire transfer you send.
Possible credit check. If you choose an overdraft line of credit as your overdraft protection option, Capital One will do a hard pull on your credit.
Use the tabs on this table to sort through popular checking, savings, and money market accounts, as well as CDs. Sort each table by minimum deposit and APY to find one that’s right for you.
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A bank account helps you save for the future, pay bills, spend conveniently, transfer money where you need it and get cash when you want it. Financial institutions offer bank accounts to give you a secure location to hold your money.
The benefits of owning a bank account
Having a bank account can help you manage your everyday finances and keep track of your money. The benefits of owning one are:
A convenient way to organize your money. For example, paying bills, receiving your income, paying for goods and services or sending money to someone else.
A safe place to keep your money. This is especially helpful during uncertain economic climates — the FDIC offers a guarantee on deposits of up to $250,000 per person, per institution.
A place that records your transactions. When applying for a loan, lenders can refer to your transaction records to assess how well you can save money. You can also see where you’re spending most of your income.
A place to build your assets. Money held in your transaction account is easy to access — by linking it to a savings account, you can also earn interest.
What to watch out for
Here are two mistakes to be mindful of when selecting a bank account:
Choosing the wrong type of account. Each type of account serves a very specific purpose. Not choosing the right one could result in paying unnecessary fees or penalty charges.
Not having the right features. Look closely at each account to ensure that it has the features you need to make your banking needs easier.
The key differences and how they can affect your ability to save.
Just some of the brands we compare
Select any company logo below to compare more bank accounts from that brand.
How many bank accounts should I have?
The number of bank accounts you open depends on your personal financial goals. Most people have one checking account and one savings account, but there’s no limit on the number of accounts you can have. Opening multiple accounts is beneficial for budgeting purposes or to help you reach specific savings goals, but it can complicate your finances as well.
As your savings account balance grows, it may make sense to explore other savings options, such as certificates of deposit (CDs). CDs generally offer higher interest rates than standard savings accounts, allowing your money to grow more quickly. And if you’re looking for a hybrid between a checking and savings account, you can consider a money market account or an interest-bearing checking account.
Resources to open and close a bank account
The specific steps involved when opening or closing a bank account may vary slightly from one institution to the next, but they generally follow the same route.
Joint accounts are best for people who are working towards a similar financial goal together.
Why most of us are unwilling to change banks
We don’t want to change banks for a number of reasons. If it’s not our priority to make a change, it may be because we’re getting exactly what we need from our bank or because it’s too much of a hassle to switch. If you’re satisfied with the services your bank provides — or simply feel loyal to the company you’ve been with for years — you might feel less inclined to change.
How do banks protect my security online?
Here are some common measures banks take to protect your sensitive information:
Investment in safety. Banks spend millions of dollars to protect your money, mainly because they are required to refund money to those who have been defrauded.
Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption. This gives an added layer of protection from hackers.
Password security. You’ll often find that your password needs to be a certain length and contain certain characters.
Encrypted personal information. This means that the lock symbol is displayed in your browser, and the information coming in and out is scrambled.
Log-in security. You’re locked out of your account after too many failed log-in attempts. Plus, you’re auto-logged out after a few minutes of inactivity, and there are firewalls in place so only authorized people can log in.
SMS codes. To ensure you say who you are, banks will also send codes to your phone to authorize new transactions.
What should I do if someone is trying to take money from my bank account?
If you’re suspicious that someone hacked your bank account or stole your identity, speak to your bank right away. Ask exactly what information would have had to be provided to your bank for them to be able to access your account. If you’re worried about identity fraud, speak to your local police station — they may request that you change your driver’s license.
Which is the safest type of bank account?
Savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts and CDs are all safe as long as they are insured by the FDIC or NCUA. Most will cover up to $250,000.
Quick tips for using everyday bank accounts
Take advantage of cashback opportunities. If you’re paying for purchases using your debit card, ask for cash out at the same time rather than withdrawing at an ATM. This counts as one transaction, not two, and lets you avoid any potential ATM fees.
Monitor your transaction history. If your account has a limit on the number of transactions, you can make each month before fees apply, monitor your account regularly and try to work out ways to minimize your transactions where possible
Bank securely with credit. When you make a purchase, should you choose debit or credit? By choosing credit, you’ll be activating enhanced security or the complimentary insurance policies offered on your card.
Find ways to waive fees. If you’re currently paying a monthly account-keeping fee on your account, ask your bank what options you have for getting that fee waived. They may suggest opening a savings account, signing up for direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance to get rid of that fee. They may also suggest a different transaction account that could end up suiting your needs better in the long run.
Should I open an international bank account if I’m starting a job overseas?
Going with an international bank could help, but be mindful that in each jurisdiction, the banks are under their local regulations and are separate legal entities. Depending on how strict they are in the country that you’re working in, it may not be worth switching to another bank. Some banks, such as HSBC or Citi may be able to offer you worldwide assistance.
Using your bank account for international transactions
Is it possible to reverse a foreign exchange transaction on my transaction account? You will need the help of your bank in most circumstances, but if you have the supporting documentation, then you should be able to reverse a foreign exchange transaction.
Is it possible to cash out an international check? Yes, some US financial institutions will accept an international check deposit, although the funds could take longer to clear, and you may be charged international transaction fees.
Do foreign banks charge a fee to receive an international money transfer? Yes, there are foreign banks that will charge your recipient upon receiving funds from an international money transfer. Remember to take into account exchange rates and recipient fees.
How much tax do I need to pay from the interest I’ve earned from my bank account?
The amount of tax payable depends on your income. The marginal tax rate is then calculated from there. See our tax returns guide for more information.
How do I find out what my bank account number is?
Locate this information on your most recent bank statement or by logging into your online banking account. Or call your bank directly.
Which bank accounts let me deposit money into my account with an ATM? Most traditional bank accounts will allow you to use ATMs to deposit checks and cash. But some digital bank accounts may not allow for cash deposits, but you may have the option of depositing checks through a mobile app.
How do I transfer money to another bank account? Visit your nearest bank branch or use your financial institution’s phone banking service to make a transfer. But the simplest way to transfer money is through your online banking account. The exact transfer process varies depending on your bank, but you’ll typically have to select the account you want to transfer funds from, provide details about your recipient (their name and account number) and specify the amount that you would like to transfer.
Cassidy Horton is a freelance personal finance copywriter and past contributing writer for Finder. Her writing and banking expertise have been featured in Forbes Advisor, Money, The Balance, Money Under 30, Insure.com, and other top digital publishers. She holds a BS in public relations and an MBA from Georgia Southern University. See full bio
How do I get cash without my direct express card because I’m waiting on my replacement card in the mail.
nikkiangcoDecember 6, 2018
Hi Amanda,
Thanks for getting in touch! To withdraw cash from your Direct Express card while you wait on your replacement card, you may visit any bank or credit union that displays the MasterCard® acceptance mark and get cash from a teller. Hope this helps and let me know if you have questions, I’m here to help!
Best,
Nikki
JeffJuly 7, 2017
I would like to set up an account for my civic organization that requires two authorizations (digital preferred) for any withdrawal of $5000 or more. Can you please help me find a bank that will provide this service?
Finder
MayJuly 10, 2017Finder
Hi Jeff,
Thanks for reaching out.
So far, we do not have an available comparison page for different bank accounts, but most major banks would allow you to open a bank account for your civic organization with two authorized signatories. I would suggest that you contact any of the banks near your office to confirm your application.
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How do I get cash without my direct express card because I’m waiting on my replacement card in the mail.
Hi Amanda,
Thanks for getting in touch! To withdraw cash from your Direct Express card while you wait on your replacement card, you may visit any bank or credit union that displays the MasterCard® acceptance mark and get cash from a teller. Hope this helps and let me know if you have questions, I’m here to help!
Best,
Nikki
I would like to set up an account for my civic organization that requires two authorizations (digital preferred) for any withdrawal of $5000 or more. Can you please help me find a bank that will provide this service?
Hi Jeff,
Thanks for reaching out.
So far, we do not have an available comparison page for different bank accounts, but most major banks would allow you to open a bank account for your civic organization with two authorized signatories. I would suggest that you contact any of the banks near your office to confirm your application.
Meantime, you may like to read our guide on choosing a bank account that will work according to your needs.
Cheers,
May