Having a solid savings plan in place can make all the difference in securing your financial future. By understanding the benefits of Synchrony Financial savings, you can make informed decisions about your money.
Synchrony Financial offers a range of savings options that can help you reach your financial goals. Their savings accounts are FDIC-insured, which means your deposits are insured up to $250,000.
Building an emergency fund is essential for financial stability. Synchrony Financial recommends saving 3-6 months' worth of living expenses in an easily accessible savings account.
By prioritizing savings and using tools like Synchrony Financial's savings calculators, you can create a personalized plan to achieve your financial objectives.
Benefits and Types
Savings accounts offer several benefits, including earning interest, flexibility, and saving risk-free. Most savings accounts are insured by the FDIC, meaning you don't have to worry about market volatility or unpredictable annual returns.
Here are some types of savings accounts to consider:
- Savings accounts
- Money market accounts
- High yield savings accounts
These types of accounts offer varying levels of interest rates, access to your money, and flexibility. For example, savings accounts are liquid, meaning you can cash out the funds anytime, while money market accounts may require high balances to receive the best interest rates.
6 Types of Savings
Savings accounts offer a flexible way to save money, earning interest without the need to actively manage your funds. You can cash out the funds anytime, making it a great option for emergency funds or short-term savings goals.
The interest rate on a savings account is the amount of money you earn on your balance, and it's calculated as a percentage of your deposits. This rate can vary depending on the financial institution and the type of savings account, with some offering higher interest rates than others.
High-yield savings accounts, in particular, offer competitive interest rates, often earning near the top of the pack regardless of the balance. These accounts typically have no minimum deposit requirement and may come with additional features like ATM cards or mobile deposit capabilities.
Certificates of deposit (CDs) are another type of savings option, offering fixed interest rates for a specified term. The APY (annual percentage yield) for CDs can range from a few percentage points to over 4%, depending on the term length and institution.
Here are 6 types of savings options:
- Savings accounts: Liquid accounts that earn interest and offer flexibility.
- High-yield savings accounts: Competitive interest rates and often no minimum deposit requirement.
- Certificates of deposit (CDs): Fixed interest rates for a specified term, with varying APYs.
- High-yield savings accounts with ATM access: Combine high interest rates with easy access to your funds.
- Online savings accounts: Digital savings accounts with competitive interest rates and often no minimum deposit requirement.
- Traditional savings accounts: Basic savings accounts with lower interest rates and potentially more restrictions.
Each type of savings has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's essential to consider your financial goals and needs when choosing the right option for you.
What's the Difference Between Checking Accounts?
Checking accounts are designed for everyday spending, allowing you to write checks, pay bills, send e-transfers, and make purchases using a debit card.
You can use a checking account for daily transactions, but be aware that you earn very little (or no) interest on the balance.
Checking accounts are geared for high traffic, making them perfect for managing your day-to-day finances.
It's common for people to hold both checking and savings accounts, as each serves a distinct purpose.
Checking accounts are flexible and protected by FDIC insurance, giving you peace of mind for your financial transactions.
Opening and Accessing
Opening a savings account with Synchrony Bank is a straightforward process. You'll need to provide identifying information such as your name, date of birth, address, social security number, and potential funds to deposit.
To open an account, you can apply online or call Synchrony Bank directly at 1-866-226-5638. If you're already a customer, setting up a savings account is easy - just click the Open Account link, sign in, and follow the steps.
You can also open an account over the phone with a banker or by requesting a paper application be sent to you. The quickest process is generally online, where you can calculate your savings growth and compare savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs.
To access your money, you can log in online or through mobile, transfer funds to an external account, or withdraw cash at an ATM. Synchrony Bank offers ATM cards with a $5 reimbursement per statement cycle for withdrawal fees at unaffiliated ATMs. You can withdraw up to $1,000 per day out of your account.
Here are some ways to access your money:
- Online banking
- Mobile banking
- ATM withdrawals
- Wire transfer (with a fee)
How to Open
To open an account with Synchrony Bank, you'll need to be ready with some basic information. This includes your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number. You'll also need to have some potential funds to deposit.
You can open an account in just minutes with Synchrony Bank, and if you're already a customer, setting up a savings account is easy. Just click the Open Account link and follow the steps.
To get started, you can register for a customer login ID and choose the type of account you'd like to open. Alternatively, you can call 1-866-226-5638 or request a paper application be sent to you.
You'll need to provide your physical address, occupation, and employer, as well as the source of funds you're planning on using to open the account. If you're transferring funds from a current bank account, you'll need the routing and account number.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Visit the Synchrony Bank website to start the online application process
- Provide the required information, including your physical address, email address, occupation, and employer
- Choose the type of account you'd like to open
- Review the terms and conditions
- Make an initial deposit to your account using your checking information
Accessing My Money
You can access your money at Synchrony Bank through various methods. You can access your account online or through mobile, and transfer funds to an external account at any time of the day or night.
The automated phone system is another way to access your money if you don't have access to the internet. You can also use a wire transfer, but it's accompanied by a fee.
If you want to speak to a bank representative, you'll need to call the number listed on the contact page of Synchrony Bank. Additionally, Synchrony offers ATM cards with a $5 reimbursement per statement cycle for withdrawal fees at unaffiliated ATMs.
You can withdraw up to $1,000 per day out of your Synchrony Bank account. CDs can be monitored online or on your mobile device, but you won't be able to withdraw principal (your deposit) until the term is up without incurring fees.
The interest you accrue on CDs can be accessed at any time without penalty. Similar to savings accounts and money market accounts, you can transfer your interest money to an external or internal account, or send a check to the address on file.
Here are some ways to access your money at Synchrony Bank:
- Online
- Mobile
- Automated phone system
- Wire transfer (with a fee)
- ATM cards (with a $5 reimbursement for withdrawal fees at unaffiliated ATMs)
- Checking or sending a check to the address on file (for CD interest)
Who Is Bank?
Synchrony Bank is an online bank that operates without branches, offering high-yield savings products and rewards credit cards.
They are a member of the FDIC, which provides a level of security and protection for depositors.
Synchrony Bank doesn't offer checking accounts or loans, making it a specialized financial institution.
The bank was previously known as GE Capital Retail Bank, showing its history and evolution.
Their focus on savings products and credit cards means they work closely with U.S. retailers to provide private label credit cards.
Synchrony Bank's online-only model allows for streamlined services and convenience for customers.
CD Options
Synchrony Bank offers a range of CD options to suit different needs and preferences.
You can choose from 14 terms, including as short as 3 months and as long as 5 years, with no minimum deposit required.
Synchrony's CD rates vary by term, with the shortest term offering 0.25% APY and the longest term offering 4.00% APY.
The bump-up CD allows account holders to request one rate increase during the term, in case the original rate is lower than the new rate.
Synchrony also offers a no-penalty CD that doesn’t charge an early withdrawal penalty after the first six days following account funding.
Here are Synchrony's CD rates:
You can also open a traditional or Roth IRA CD with Synchrony, with the same rates and terms as its regular CDs.
Synchrony guarantees CD rates for 15 calendar days after the opening of the account, so you'll still get the higher interest rate if the rate increases.
You can withdraw the interest penalty-free at any time, and you're allowed to withdraw the principal balance after the term ends without penalty.
Comparison and Safety
Synchrony Bank is a safe place to keep your money. It's FDIC-insured, which means your deposits are insured up to $250,000.
Synchrony Bank also uses bank-grade encryption for its website and mobile app, so your information is protected.
Synchrony Bank's savings and CD interest rates are highly competitive, making it a great option for those looking to earn a higher interest rate.
However, its money market account (MMA) APY is just average, and you won't be able to use Synchrony Bank as a one-stop-shop for all your banking needs since it doesn't offer checking account products.
Money market accounts have some pros and cons to consider. They can be covered by FDIC or NCUA insurance, potentially offering a higher interest rate than a checking or savings account, and offering convenient access to the money in your account using checks or a debit card.
However, money market accounts may require high balances to receive the best interest rates, could have high opening and monthly balance requirements, and potentially limits you to six convenient fee-free withdrawals each month.
Here's a quick summary of the pros and cons of money market accounts:
- Can be covered by FDIC or NCUA insurance
- Potentially offers a higher interest rate than a checking or savings account
- Offers convenient access to the money in your account using checks or a debit card
Cons:
- May require high balances to receive the best interest rates
- Could have high opening and monthly balance requirements
- Potentially limits you to six convenient fee-free withdrawals each month
Fees and Other Options
There are no fees to open any Synchrony Bank account and no monthly fees. You can start saving right away without any extra charges.
If you need to make a wire transfer, you'll be charged $25, but receiving one is free. This is a one-time fee, not a recurring charge.
Synchrony Bank offers some perks for ATM use, including free withdrawals at ATMs displaying the Plus or Accel logos. They'll also refund out-of-network ATM fees up to $5 per statement cycle.
Early principal withdrawals from CDs come with penalties. Here's a breakdown of the penalties:
- Terms of 12 months or less: 90 days of simple interest at the current rate.
- Terms of more than 12 months but less than 48 months: 180 days of simple interest at the current rate.
- Terms of 48 months or more: 365 days of simple interest at the current rate.
Earned interest can be withdrawn without penalty, so you can access your savings without any added fees.
Fees
Opening a Synchrony Bank account comes with no fees, which is a great perk. You won't have to worry about monthly charges or any other hidden fees.
If you need to initiate a wire transfer, be prepared for a $25 charge. However, receiving wire transfers is free, which is a relief.
ATM use is also free for high-yield savings and money market accounts at ATMs displaying the Plus or Accel logos. And, as a bonus, Synchrony Bank will refund out-of-network ATM fees up to $5 per statement cycle.
CDs do come with penalties for early principal withdrawals. Here's a breakdown of the penalties:
- Terms of 12 months or less: 90 days of simple interest at the current rate.
- Terms of more than 12 months but less than 48 months: 180 days of simple interest at the current rate.
- Terms of 48 months or more: 365 days of simple interest at the current rate.
The good news is that earned interest can be withdrawn without penalty.
Other Options
Synchrony offers a high-yield savings account with a competitive rate that doesn't require locking up your money for a set term.
The savings account currently offers a higher rate than the bank's money market account, making it a better option for savers seeking the highest APY.
Synchrony's money market account offers a lower interest rate than most of the bank's other savings options.
Unless you value the flexibility that a money market account offers, such as writing checks and making ATM withdrawals, it's not the best choice for savers seeking the highest APY.
You can compare your options using Bankrate's list of best savings accounts and money market accounts to find the best fit for your needs.
What's the Catch?
Savings accounts don't have a catch other than relatively low interest rates. They're a safe way to make a little extra on any money laying around, without locking up your funds in a different type of account.
While interest rates are subject to change at any time, savings and money market accounts don't include a rate lock. This means you're subject to market fluctuations over time.
CDs, on the other hand, are better for earning interest, but you sacrifice cash on hand. You can opt for a three-month term, which is one of the shortest available.
The convenience of easily accessible funds and no fees is a trade-off for the potential for lower interest rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Synchrony a good bank for savings?
Yes, Synchrony is a good option for savings, being an FDIC-insured bank with no risk. However, it's an online-only bank with no physical locations.
What is the highest CD rate at synchrony?
Synchrony offers a maximum CD rate of up to 4.25% APY, depending on the chosen term. Check Synchrony's term options for the best rate
Where can I get 5% interest on my savings account?
You can earn 5% interest on your savings account with LendingClub LevelUp Savings, Poppy Bank Premier Online Savings Account, Ivy Bank High-Yield Savings Account, or Varo Bank High-Yield Savings Account. Check these options for details on rates, requirements, and benefits.
Sources
- https://www.synchrony.com/blog/banking/what-is-a-savings-account
- https://smartasset.com/checking-account/synchrony-banking-review
- https://www.bankrate.com/banking/cds/synchrony-cd-rates/
- https://www.synchrony.com/blog/banking/money-market-vs-savings-accounts
- https://thecollegeinvestor.com/31734/synchrony-bank-review/
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