High Yield Savings Accounts
Earn more and grow faster with a high yield savings account.
Discover how high yield savings accounts work, why they matter, and how you can start building your savings with confidence.

What is a high yield savings account?
A high yield savings account (HYSA) is a type of savings account that pays you a much higher interest rate than a traditional savings account. The “yield” refers to the annual percentage yield (APY), which measures how much your money grows in one year, including the effects of compounding.
Unlike investments, a high yield savings account carries minimal risk. Your money stays secure, typically backed by FDIC insurance, while earning more interest than it would in a standard account.
With a high yield savings account, you can:
- Earn higher returns on your savings.
- Keep your money accessible when you need it.
- Build your balance faster through compounding interest.
How do high yield savings accounts work?
High yield savings accounts work much like traditional savings accounts, but they pay a higher annual percentage yield (APY), allowing your money to grow faster. The key difference is compounding: the interest you earn gets added back to your balance, and then that larger balance begins earning interest too.
Deposit money
Open account and add funds through a transfer or direct deposit to start saving right away.
Earn interest
Your balance begins earning at a higher annual percentage yield than a standard savings account.
Compounding grows
The interest you earn is added to your balance, and continues earning more interest.
Access funds
Withdraw your money whenever you need it, while keeping your savings safe and insured.
Choose from our best
At Axos, we offer high yield savings accounts designed to help you reach your goals faster. Whether you’re building an emergency fund, saving for a major purchase, or simply looking to earn more on your balance, our accounts give you competitive rates, security, and flexibility.
Axos ONE®
This savings and checking bundle has it all.
KEY FEATURE
Earn up to 4.31% APY** on savings; 0.51% APY** on checking.
- No monthly maintenance, opening, or overdraft fees.
- Early payday: Get paid up to 2 days early1.
- Eligible for expanded FDIC insurance for up to $265 million.
Summit Savings
Keep more savings with no minimums.
KEY FEATURE
Simple, high-yield savings earning a competitive 3.75% APY*.
- No minimum balance for APY.
- No monthly maintenance fees.
- No minimum initial deposit.
How to open a high yield savings account?
Opening a high yield savings account is simple and can usually be done online in just a few minutes. Here’s what to expect:
Complete the application
Apply online by providing your information and submitted with our secured application platform.
Fund your account
Transfer funds or set up direct deposit to start earning with your new high-yield savings account.
Grow your savings
Once your account is funded, your balance will begin earning interest and compounding automatically.
Is this type of account worth it?
Yes. For most savers, a high yield savings account is worth it. Unlike traditional savings accounts that often pay very little interest, a HYSA allows you to earn significantly more on your balance while keeping your money safe and accessible.
High-yield savings accounts are especially valuable if you want to:
- Build an emergency fund that grows faster
- Save for near-term goals such as a car, vacation, or home down payment
- Keep your money safe from market risk while still earning a return
Are HYSAs safe?
Yes. High yield savings accounts are considered one of the safest places to keep your money. They are typically offered by banks and credit unions that are federally insured.
At most banks, like Axos Bank, deposits are protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank. This means that even if the bank were to face financial difficulties, your money would remain protected.
Along with federal insurance, HYSAs maintain the same level of security as traditional accounts.
- For savers who want low risk, dependable growth, and peace of mind, a high yield savings account is a reliable choice.
Start growing your savings today
Now that you know how high yield savings accounts work and why they matter, it’s time to put your money to work. Choose the account that fits your goals and begin earning a competitive APY with the security you can trust.
Frequently asked questions
Do you pay taxes on high yield savings accounts?
Yes. The IRS considers the interest you earn from a high yield savings account taxable income. It is treated the same way as your regular earnings and may be subject to federal and state income tax depending on where you live.
What makes a savings account high yield?
A high yield savings account offers a higher Annual Percentage Yield (APY) than a traditional savings account. The main factors are a higher interest rate, which helps your savings grow faster, and compound interest, which allows you to earn interest on your interest.
Where to open a high yield savings account?
You can open a high yield savings account through most online banks or credit unions. These accounts are usually managed online and often have no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. To open an account, you’ll need to provide basic personal information and meet any requirements needed to start earning interest.
Can you withdraw from a high yield savings account?
Yes, you can withdraw money from a high yield savings account, but there are a few important considerations. These accounts are meant for saving rather than everyday spending and typically do not include a debit card for direct ATM access. You can transfer funds online to a linked checking account.
Should I open a high yield savings account?
You may want to open a high yield savings account if you’re looking to earn more interest than a traditional savings account while keeping your money safe and easily accessible for short-term goals like an emergency fund or a down payment.
What does a high yield savings account do?
A high yield savings account earns a higher interest rate on your deposited money, helping it grow faster through compound interest. It provides a safe, FDIC-insured place to keep funds for goals like an emergency fund or future purchases.