If you are not happy with the saving account interest rate you are getting with your current bank, then there are several options that you can consider. Here are a few suggestions that might help you locate and take advantage of a better interest rate for your saving account.
Your first move should be to see what your current bank could do for you. It is very possible that your bank may have another type of saving account that your current balance can be rolled into and will provide you with a better rate. In some cases, you may find that the interest rates are based on the minimum amount you maintain in the account. Should you find that you are very close to reaching a level where you will command a substantially better rate of interest, then your best bet may be to stay with your current financial institution and move more money into your savings.
In the event that your current bank cannot provide you with anything other than the saving account interest rate that is currently in place, then start checking out the competition. Contact other banks in the area and tell them the amount you would be able to deposit into a saving account and ask them what would be the best rate of interest they could extend to you with that balance. You may find that your bank is very competitive with local interest rates and that you will not do any better by moving your account. On the other hand, you may try a local credit union and find they are in a position to provide you with a superior rate of interest on your savings. Unless you do some investigation, you will never know.
Online banking accounts are much more sophisticated and secure than they were a few years ago. The advent of the Internet bank has meant that even persons who maintain modest savings can sometimes get a better interest rate by using an online bank. Log online and do some searching for Internet based banks and get some ideas of what type of rate of interest you can command. Also, investigate how you would be able to get to your money should an emergency arise and what sort of penalties there may be for withdrawing all or part of your savings. Make sure to compare this to your current bank’s policies as well. A great saving account interest rate will do you little good if you can’t get to your money should the need arise.