A savings account typically refers to an account in which a person places money to earn a small amount of interest. Unlike a 401k or an IRA, the funds are usually easily accessible, though some banks do charge for withdrawing money early. In most cases, people can withdraw money from the account at any time, at least at any time the bank is open or the bank’s ATM is available.
The term "bank" is used here generally, since credit unions and money market fund companies can offer savings accounts to customers. In addition to earning interest on deposits, the account also provides a safe place for people to put their money, and it's far better than stowing it in the mattress or the cookie jar.
In the US, if the bank declares bankruptcy, is the target of embezzlement, or mismanages its funds, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insures all accounts, up to $100,000 US dollars (USD). In fact, people who bank in the United States should always look for an account that is FDIC insured. Most banks, credit unions, and money market funds do offer this protection.
Consumers also need to shop around for a savings account that offers the best interest rates. In the past, it was often the case that banks offered a slightly higher interest rate than did credit unions. This is because credit unions attempt to confer lower interest rates than bank rates to their customers borrowing money. Now, credit unions are often quite competitive in rates. Money market funds tend to be the most changeable in rates, since interest earned will depend on the stock market.
When a person puts money into a savings account, he is actually lending his money to the financial institution. In return for this loan, the bank offers the account holder part of the interest rate it charges customers. As a result, the bank and the account holder both make a profit.
Sometimes, people might keep their money in an interest checking account, but if they really plan not to spend the money for a few months, it makes sense to use a savings account instead. Interest checking accounts typically pay much less interest and normally require a relatively high minimum balance, about $1,000 USD. If this balance is not maintained, the checking account may actually charge the account holder a fee for using the account, which nullifies any potential interest earned.
Most savings accounts require a minimum deposit, usually $100 USD. Most financial institutions make an exception for accounts opened for children, who often have one as their first bank account. Banks are very accommodating to children because it is a way to build its future base of customers. Usually kids can open an account with about $5 USD.
