How to Choose Easy Access Savings Accounts

Jan 06, 2023 By Triston Martin

It would be best if you considered putting money that you might need to access quickly into a savings account that offers convenient withdrawal options. However, you should be mindful that the value of your savings could decrease if the interest rate is too low.

What exactly is a savings account with simple access?

An accessible access savings account, which is synonymous with the term an instant access savings account, is precisely what the name suggests: a savings account from which you can promptly take your money as and when you require it.

The advantages and disadvantages of having fast access to savings accounts

You are free to withdraw money whenever it suits you, and there are no fees associated with accessing your cash.

A significant initial deposit is optional to open an account.

You have the flexibility to add to your funds at any time.

Compared to other types of savings accounts, this one offers a lower interest rate.

If the interest rate is lower than the rate of inflation, the purchasing power of your money may decrease over time, leading to a loss of value.

Exercise self-control is best because nothing prevents you from spending the money you have saved.

You may be taxed on your interest.

Is the value of your money increasing?

Make it a priority to chase after the most significant possible interest rate and check to see if the rate paid by your account is higher than the rate of inflation. If the rate at which prices are rising is higher than the rate at which you are saving money, then the purchasing power of your cash will steadily decrease over time.

When inflation is strong, this can be a tricky situation, which is why you should only place money in these accounts that you require immediate access to

Will you pay tax on your returns?

There are two exceptions to the rule that state you must report and pay income tax on any interest earnings from savings accounts.

Because of the personal savings allowance, taxpayers subject to the introductory rate can earn up to £1,000 in interest each year without paying income tax. Taxpayers subject to the higher rate can earn up to £500 in interest without paying income tax on it.

Investing up to £20,000 annually in an individual savings account (ISA) allows you to sidestep having to report and pay tax on the interest you earn.

How long will the current interest rate remain in effect?

Many online savings accounts with rapid access offer an additional interest rate over the account's introductory interest rate. The banks will offer you this interest rate in the hopes that you will open an account with them; however, the bonus rate will often only remain for one year, and after that, the interest rate will drop significantly.

For instance, select a savings account with rapid access and an annual percentage yield of 1.5%. It might not seem like much, but if you read the fine print, you can find out that this contains a bonus rate of 1.4% every month for the first year.

Is a savings account with fast access the best option for you?

Ask yourself the following inquiries to determine if a savings account with rapid access is the most suitable choice for you:

Do you have a sum of money you want to deposit into a savings account? If you don't have one already, a traditional savings account may be better for you.

Do you anticipate having an immediate need for your money? If this is not the case, consider opening a notice account or purchasing a bond with a fixed interest rate.

Will you pay tax on your returns? If you answered yes, consider an instant-access ISA as an alternative.

How to pick the most advantageous online savings to account with immediate access

It should be easy to locate the savings account that provides you with the most advantageous rapid access. Four questions need to be asked.

What is the bare minimum required to open an account? A minimum deposit may be required when you open an account at certain financial institutions. Is your nest egg big enough?

What kind of control do you wish to have over the account? Do you require services such as banking in person or over the phone, or are you content to handle everything associated with your account only online?

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