A money market account gives you the flexibility of a checking account, with the high returns of a high-yield savings account.
It makes them a perfect way to earmark money for saving goals if you don't want to tie up your money in CDs.
Money market accounts differ from traditional savings accounts, as they allow check-writing privileges and sometimes come with a debit card that can be used to access money at an ATM.
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They provide a higher level of liquidity that you likely won't find in other high-yield savings accounts. The APY of a money market account includes compounding interest, which is usually credited monthly.
Top money market accounts right now
Here are some of the best money market accounts. All are FDIC-insured banks or NCUA credit unions, letting you keep your savings safe:
Account | APY | Min. Opening Deposit |
|---|---|---|
4.25% | $100 | |
4.10% | $1,000 | |
3.90% | $1,000 | |
3.85% | $1 | |
3.77% | $100 | |
3.75% | $50 | |
3.50% | $5,000 |
Pros of a money market account:
Some of the benefits:
- They offer higher interest rates than a traditional savings account
- You gain more access to your cash through debit card and check-writing capabilities
- Money market accounts are safe ways to grow your cash, as most are FDIC or NCUA insured.
Cons of a money market account
Keep these things in mind before opening one:
- Many banks require a minimum deposit to open an account, and have minimum balance requirements, as well
- The return on money market accounts can be lower historically than investing your money in the stock market
- The interest rate on money market accounts is variable, meaning that if the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates again, your money market rate could drop
- Having easy access to savings can encourage some to spend more than they ought
Why open a money market account?
A money market account gives you the best of both worlds: You'll earn a higher rate of return with the ability to position investments if the Fed cuts rates in the future.
They also give you more access to your cash, unlike high-yield savings accounts from online banks, where you can access funds from an ATM card or online transfer.
Use this tool to compare some of today's top savings options fast:
There are a few key points to consider. Interest rates on these are variable, so if the Fed decides to cut rates again in the future, it will lower your returns. The Fed has already cut rates twice this year, and there's a chance they might cut them again when they meet next week.
You'll need to pay attention to Fed updates as they transpire. Moreover, some MMAs have minimum balance requirements, and failing to meet these results in monthly fees, which can offset some of your interest earnings.
Overall, they're among the most versatile savings solutions available, even with these considerations.
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