Online Savings Accounts: Which to Get

By Matthew Paulson, published Jan 30, 2007
Published Content: 977  Total Views: 464,271  Favorited By: 20 CPs
Rating: 3.0 of 5
I've kept my money in Share Builder's money market account for quite some time, but after some quick looking, I soon realized that there were better places to put my money. Share Builder's account currently only offers 4.46% annual percentage yield, does not have FDIC insurance, or any other advanced features. There are much better options out there, but which is the best option? I did some research, and this is what I came up with.

Amboy Direct's Premium Savings. This savings account is Amboy's latest entry into the online savings account world. It features 5.25% APY, or 5.35% APY if you have at least $20,000 in the account. In addition, it seems that the signup process is simple, and you can get a $25 bonus if you leave $3,000 in the account for 90 days. Amboy receives a 4 star ranking by BankRate, making it a very desirable option.

ING Direct. ING is one of the longest established banks that have offered high yield savings accounts. Their accounts have fast ACH transfer times and excellent customer service. They used to be at the top of interest rates, but now only are providing 4.5% APY. You can however get a $25 sign-up bonus for creating an account with ING Direct

HSBC Direct. HSBC offers a competitive 5.05% APY and an ATM card to withdraw money. However they only have a 3 star ranking on Bankrate and there are numerous stories on the internet about poor customer service and other issues related to HSBC's Online Accounts.

IGoBanking. IGOBanking tops the list for annual percentage yield coming in at 5.30%, however they only launched two months ago and that leaves the possibility in for some "growing pains" with the service. BankRate currently gives them a 3 star rating. All though the rate is very desirable, I'd prefer to go with a more established online bank.

Emigrant Direct - Their American Dream Savings Account currently offers 5.05% APY. Their account has no fees and no minimum balance. The company has very excellent customer service to go along with it.

Online Savings Accounts: Which to Get

Amboy Direct's Premium Savings Account offers interest rates of 5.25%!

Credit: Amboy

Copyright: Amboy

Takeaways
  • In the last few years, the number of high yield online savings banks moved from 1 to nearly 50.
  • Online savings accounts range from 4% to 5.35% APY. Make sure you get the best rate!
  • Customer service can be very very good or very very bad, depending on which bank you go with.
Did You Know?
Among the banks reviewed, Amboy Direct's Premium Savings account appeared to be the most viable option.
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