What is Savings Account?

Savings accounts are a popular financial tool used by individuals to save money for future goals, emergencies, or just to have a secure place to keep their money. A savings account is a type of deposit account offered by banks and other financial institutions, where customers can deposit and withdraw their funds while earning interest on the balance. Savings accounts are important for individuals for many reasons.

In this article, we will take a closer look at savings accounts, their benefits, the different types of savings accounts available, how to open and manage a savings account, and some tips for maximizing the benefits of a savings account. Whether you are just starting out with saving money or are a seasoned saver looking to optimize your savings, this article will provide you with valuable insights and information to help you make the most of your savings account.

What Does a Savings Account Mean?

A savings account is a type of deposit account offered by banks and other financial institutions where customers can deposit and withdraw funds while earning interest on the balance. Savings accounts are popular among individuals who want to save money for future goals, emergencies, or just to have a secure place to keep their money.

When you deposit money into a savings account, the bank or financial institution holds your money and pays you interest on the balance. The interest rate varies depending on the bank and type of savings account. Unlike checking accounts, savings accounts have restrictions on the number of withdrawals you can make per month, typically up to six per month. This is because savings accounts are designed to encourage saving, and frequent withdrawals may defeat the purpose.

One of the biggest benefits of having a savings account is the ability to earn interest on the deposited funds. Unlike a checking account, where the balance earns little to no interest, savings accounts offer a way to grow your money over time. Even though the interest rates on savings accounts may be low, every little bit of interest earned can add up over time.

Another benefit of savings accounts is that they are NDIC-insured for up to #500,000 per account. This means that even if the bank or financial institution fails, your money is protected and insured by the NDIC, providing peace of mind for savers.

Savings accounts are easily accessible, allowing you to withdraw your funds at any time. While there may be restrictions on the number of withdrawals you can make per month, the funds are still accessible in case of emergencies or unforeseen expenses. Additionally, many savings accounts offer online and mobile banking options, making it easy to manage and access your funds from anywhere at any time.

Types of Savings Accounts

There are several types of savings accounts available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common types of savings accounts:

1. Traditional Savings Accounts

Traditional savings accounts are the most common type of savings account and are offered by nearly every bank and financial institution. They typically offer low to moderate interest rates but are a great option for individuals who want a safe and secure place to keep their money while earning some interest. Traditional savings accounts often have low minimum balance requirements and may have some restrictions on the number of withdrawals allowed per month.

2. High-Yield Savings Accounts

High-yield savings accounts are a type of savings account that offers a higher interest rate than traditional savings accounts. These accounts typically require a higher minimum balance and may have more restrictions on the number of withdrawals allowed per month. High-yield savings accounts are a good option for individuals who want to earn a higher rate of return on their savings without taking on too much risk.

3. Money Market Accounts

Money market accounts are similar to traditional savings accounts but offer higher interest rates in exchange for a higher minimum balance requirement. Money market accounts also often come with check-writing privileges, which makes them a great option for individuals who want to earn a higher interest rate while maintaining easy access to their funds.

4. Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

Certificates of Deposit (CDs) are a type of savings account that requires you to deposit a fixed amount of money for a fixed period of time, ranging from a few months to several years. CDs typically offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts but come with the risk of penalty fees if you withdraw your funds before the term is up. CDs are a good option for individuals who want a guaranteed rate of return and are willing to lock up their funds for a specific period of time.

When choosing a savings account, it’s important to consider your financial goals and needs. It’s also important to compare the different types of savings accounts and their features before choosing the best one for your needs.

Access Bank Savings Accounts

1. Instant Savings Account

Access Bank offers several savings account options, including the Instant Savings Account. This account has no minimum opening balance, offers an interest rate of 5.25% p.a., and allows for account details to be uploaded via the bank’s contact center, website, or branch. The maximum single deposit is N50,000, and the maximum cumulative balance is N300,000.

The account also provides convenient and flexible opening requirements, no monthly maintenance charge, and access to cash anytime, anywhere with debit cards on ATMs. To open this account, customers only need to complete the account opening form with a signature mandate section and provide one passport photograph. No means of identification is required for Instant Savings 1, but a secondary ID is allowed for Instant Savings 2.

2. Premier Savings Account

The Premier Savings Account requires a minimum opening balance of N1,000 and has a zero minimum daily balance. It offers an interest rate of 5.40% p.a. paid monthly, different variants of Debit Cards based on the customer’s preference, and access to alternative channels such as the Internet and mobile banking.

Customers can deposit dividend warrants up to ₦10,000 (a/c payee only) and cheque deposits up to ₦2,000,000. There is a monthly maintenance fee of N50 for customers with active cards, but there are no other monthly maintenance fees. Account opening requirements include a completed account opening form, one passport photograph, KYC documentation of the customer, valid proof of residence, visitation report, BVN of the signatory(ies), AML risk assessment, and valid means of identification.

3. Home Invest

Access Bank’s Home Invest savings account is designed for investors with access to foreign currency who want to take advantage of local currency yields in Nigeria. The minimum investment amount is USD $10,000 and the minimum investment tenor is 90 days. At the start of the investment, foreign currency funds are converted to Naira, and the bank guarantees a Naira-return based on market realities. Investors can repatriate funds on maturity and also enjoy access to price analytics and market news.

4. DiamondXtra

DiamondXtra is a savings account that comes with a range of benefits. One of the key benefits is the ability to earn competitive interest on your daily balance, which is paid monthly. However, if more than 4 withdrawals are made in a month, the interest is forfeited.

The account also allows you to deposit cheques from other banks and dividend warrants directly into your account. You can use your chequebook to make personal and third-party withdrawals at any Access Bank branch for free. Additionally, you can visit any Access Bank branch to withdraw cash from their ATMs nationwide.

To open a DiamondXtra account, you will need to provide documentary evidence of your address, a valid means of ID, a residence permit (if you’re a foreigner), BVN, and one passport photograph. No reference is required. You can also dial *901*5# to get started.

5. High-Interest Account

The High-Interest Deposit Account (HIDA) is an account designed to help individuals save for emergency funding or special projects. It offers tiered interest rates, allowing savers to earn higher interest on larger savings balances.

The interest accrued per annum is paid out monthly. HIDA offers a range of value-added benefits, including competitive interest rates that increase with the size of the savings balance, free withdrawals up to four times, and the convenience of depositing cash, dividend warrants, and other bank cheques at any Access Bank branch.

The account also enables fund transfers between Access Bank accounts through online, mobile, or branch banking channels. A penalty charge of N300 applies if the balance falls below N5,000. To open the account, you need one passport photograph, personal identification, such as a national passport, driver’s license, or voter’s ID card, and address verification, such as a utility bill or voter’s ID card. HIDA has no COT and provides Internet banking for convenience.

6. Access Money Wallet

Access Wallets Account is a mobile wallet service that offers a combination of financial and telecommunication services. This electronic wallet service enables registered customers to carry out financial transactions using their mobile devices. The Access Money Wallet is accessible via all registered mobile networks and phone types.

One of the benefits of this service is the instant account opening and operation, which can be done by dialing *901*10#. It is compatible with any phone, and customers receive instant value and transfer notifications. This digital banking service is safe and secure, with access to loans and card services.

In addition to these benefits, the Access Wallets Account also provides features such as bill payment, funds transfer, bulk payment services, access to loans and cards, and mini statement generation. This makes it a convenient and versatile option for managing financial transactions on the go.

7. Community Basic Account

The Community Basic Account is designed for unregistered non-governmental and non-profit organizations like churches, clubs, societies, and associations.

To open this account, you need to complete an account opening form and provide two recent passport photographs of each signatory, two duly completed signature specimen cards of all authorized signatories, valid means of identification and BVN, proof of address, certified true copy of constitution/rules, proof of formal registration with a recognized market association/trade union, LGA, state governments, etc., and certificate of registration of a parent body and letter of recognition from the parent body, such as a religious organization like CAN.

This account requires an opening minimum balance of N10,000 and a minimum operating balance of N10,000. It offers a 5.25% p.a interest rate subject to four withdrawals per month and a monthly average operating balance of ₦10,000. Chequebooks are issued to account signatories, and there is no COT.

8. HealthXtra

Access Bank has partnered with Hygeia HMO to offer the HealthXtra Plan, which provides quality healthcare coverage at an affordable cost. The plan offers both annual and monthly subscription options, with a range of benefits including telemedicine consultations, hospital coverage at over 1,000 hospitals nationwide, accommodation for up to 3 days, immunization for children aged 0-5 years, antenatal care after 6 months of being on the scheme, and minor surgeries after the first year. This is a great option for individuals and families who want comprehensive healthcare coverage without breaking the bank.

9. Evergreen Savings Account

The Evergreen Savings Account is a savings account tailored to offer exclusive benefits and privileges to individuals who are 60 years old and above. With no minimum opening or daily balance requirements and no monthly maintenance fees, this account provides cost-saving benefits to seniors. The account also offers a free Verve or Visa debit card and transaction alerts through email and SMS.

Customers can make third-party withdrawals and enjoy a 5.40% interest rate, subject to four withdrawals per month for savings variants only. Additionally, Evergreen Savings Account holders have access to premium lounges nationwide. To open an account, customers need to provide a completed account opening form, a passport photograph, and a valid means of identification along with documentary evidence of their address.

How to Manage a Savings Account

Managing a savings account can be a great way to build wealth and achieve your financial goals. Here are some tips for maximizing the benefits of a savings account:

  1. Set savings goals: Determine how much you want to save and for what purpose. Having a clear savings goal can help you stay motivated and committed to saving.
  2. Make regular contributions: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account to make regular contributions. This can help you save consistently without having to think about it.
  3. Look for high-interest savings accounts: Look for savings accounts that offer competitive interest rates to maximize your savings.
  4. Track your progress: Keep track of your savings progress and adjust your plan as needed. This can help you stay on track and make any necessary changes to reach your goals.
  5. Avoid fees: Be aware of any fees associated with your savings account and try to avoid them by meeting minimum balance requirements and avoiding excessive withdrawals.

However, there are also limitations to savings accounts that you should be aware of, such as low-interest rates, limited withdrawal options, and restrictions on the number of transactions you can make. It’s important to understand these limitations so you can make informed decisions about how to manage your savings.

To overcome these limitations and save more money, consider implementing these strategies:

  1. Create a budget: Identify areas where you can cut back on expenses and redirect those funds toward your savings goals.
  2. Consider alternative savings options: Explore other savings options, such as CDs, money market accounts, or investment accounts, to potentially earn higher interest rates.
  3. Increase your income: Consider ways to increase your income, such as starting a side hustle or negotiating a raise at work, to have more money to put towards savings.
  4. Review and adjust regularly: Review your savings plan regularly to ensure it still aligns with your goals and adjust it as needed to stay on track.

By following these tips and strategies, you can effectively manage your savings account and work towards achieving your financial goals.

Read: What is Internet Banking?

Conclusion

Saving money is crucial for achieving financial goals and securing a stable future. With the right strategies, managing a savings account can be an effective tool for building wealth and achieving financial freedom. It’s important to be aware of the limitations of savings accounts and seek out high-yield options to maximize the benefits.

Access Bank offers a range of savings accounts with various features and benefits to suit different needs. If you’re looking to open a savings account, we encourage you to consider Access Bank and take advantage of its competitive rates and convenient services. Start saving today and take control of your financial future.

Share this article
Shareable URL
Prev Post

How to Transfer Money from Domiciliary Account to Naira Account

Next Post

What is Internet Banking?

Comments 122
  1. I’ve been surfing on-line greater than 3 hours today, but I by no means found any fascinating article like yours. It’s lovely price enough for me. In my opinion, if all webmasters and bloggers made good content material as you did, the internet shall be a lot more useful than ever before. “Dignity is not negotiable. Dignity is the honor of the family.” by Vartan Gregorian.

  2. Heya are using WordPress for your blog platform? I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and create my own. Do you need any html coding expertise to make your own blog? Any help would be really appreciated!

  3. You actually make it seem so easy along with your presentation however I to find this topic to be really one thing which I feel I’d never understand. It seems too complicated and very vast for me. I’m looking forward in your subsequent post, I?¦ll try to get the grasp of it!

  4. The very core of your writing whilst appearing reasonable at first, did not work well with me personally after some time. Somewhere throughout the sentences you actually were able to make me a believer unfortunately only for a short while. I however have got a problem with your jumps in assumptions and one might do well to fill in all those gaps. In the event you actually can accomplish that, I would certainly be fascinated.

  5. With havin so much written content do you ever run into any issues of plagorism or copyright infringement? My site has a lot of unique content I’ve either authored myself or outsourced but it seems a lot of it is popping it up all over the web without my agreement. Do you know any ways to help protect against content from being stolen? I’d truly appreciate it.

  6. Somebody essentially assist to make critically posts I’d state. This is the first time I frequented your web page and to this point? I surprised with the analysis you made to make this actual publish extraordinary. Fantastic process!

  7. Heya this is kind of of off topic but I was wanting to know if blogs use WYSIWYG editors or if you have to manually code with HTML. I’m starting a blog soon but have no coding skills so I wanted to get advice from someone with experience. Any help would be enormously appreciated!

  8. Howdy are using WordPress for your site platform? I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and set up my own. Do you require any coding knowledge to make your own blog? Any help would be really appreciated!

  9. wonderful put up, very informative. I wonder why the opposite experts of this sector do not notice this. You must proceed your writing. I’m sure, you have a huge readers’ base already!

  10. That is the right blog for anybody who desires to seek out out about this topic. You realize a lot its nearly onerous to argue with you (not that I really would need…HaHa). You definitely put a brand new spin on a topic thats been written about for years. Nice stuff, simply great!

  11. This is really fascinating, You are a very skilled blogger. I’ve joined your rss feed and look ahead to searching for more of your wonderful post. Also, I’ve shared your site in my social networks!

  12. Thanks for sharing excellent informations. Your website is so cool. I am impressed by the details that you¦ve on this blog. It reveals how nicely you perceive this subject. Bookmarked this web page, will come back for extra articles. You, my friend, ROCK! I found just the information I already searched all over the place and just couldn’t come across. What an ideal website.

  13. Do you have a spam problem on this site; I also am a blogger, and I was wanting to know your situation; many of us have developed some nice procedures and we are looking to trade methods with other folks, why not shoot me an email if interested.

  14. I’ve been surfing on-line more than three hours these days, yet I never found any interesting article like yours. It’s pretty value enough for me. In my opinion, if all web owners and bloggers made just right content material as you probably did, the web can be much more useful than ever before.

  15. Have you ever thought about adding a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is valuable and everything. But just imagine if you added some great pictures or videos to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with images and video clips, this website could certainly be one of the best in its niche. Awesome blog!

  16. I am really loving the theme/design of your website. Do you ever run into any web browser compatibility problems? A couple of my blog audience have complained about my site not operating correctly in Explorer but looks great in Firefox. Do you have any tips to help fix this issue?

  17. Hello! I just would like to give a huge thumbs up for the great info you have here on this post. I will be coming back to your blog for more soon.

  18. An impressive share, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a little analysis on this. And he in fact bought me breakfast because I found it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the treat! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love reading more on this topic. If possible, as you become expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more details? It is highly helpful for me. Big thumb up for this blog post!

  19. You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be really something which I think I would never understand. It seems too complicated and very broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I’ll try to get the hang of it!

  20. Good day very cool blog!! Guy .. Excellent .. Superb .. I will bookmark your web site and take the feeds also…I am satisfied to find numerous helpful info here within the submit, we’d like develop extra techniques in this regard, thanks for sharing.

  21. Thanks for your entire effort on this site. My mom enjoys getting into internet research and it’s simple to grasp why. My spouse and i hear all of the dynamic ways you produce both interesting and useful information by means of the blog and therefore foster response from website visitors on that situation while our favorite daughter has always been understanding so much. Enjoy the rest of the year. You are always performing a fantastic job.

  22. Magnificent goods from you, man. I’ve understand your stuff previous to and you are just extremely magnificent. I actually like what you’ve acquired here, certainly like what you are stating and the way in which you say it. You make it entertaining and you still care for to keep it wise. I can’t wait to read much more from you. This is actually a terrific web site.

  23. I not to mention my pals came checking the great things found on your web page while instantly developed a terrible suspicion I never expressed respect to the blog owner for those tips. All of the men became consequently passionate to read all of them and already have definitely been taking pleasure in those things. Thanks for simply being quite considerate and also for opting for such cool themes most people are really desirous to understand about. My very own sincere apologies for not expressing gratitude to earlier.

  24. obviously like your website but you need to check the spelling on quite a few of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling problems and I find it very bothersome to tell the truth nevertheless I’ll certainly come back again.

  25. My coder is trying to convince me to move to .net from PHP. I have always disliked the idea because of the costs. But he’s tryiong none the less. I’ve been using WordPress on various websites for about a year and am concerned about switching to another platform. I have heard fantastic things about blogengine.net. Is there a way I can transfer all my wordpress posts into it? Any kind of help would be greatly appreciated!

  26. Sweet blog! I found it while searching on Yahoo News. Do you have any tips on how to get listed in Yahoo News? I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there! Cheers

  27. Excellent post. I used to be checking constantly this blog and I am inspired! Very useful info specially the final part 🙂 I deal with such info much. I was looking for this certain info for a very lengthy time. Thank you and good luck.

  28. I simply had to appreciate you again. I am not sure what I would’ve done without the actual advice shared by you relating to my concern. It seemed to be an absolute daunting dilemma in my view, but taking a look at the professional approach you solved the issue forced me to cry for delight. Now i am happier for your help and then believe you find out what an amazing job you are always putting in educating some other people with the aid of a blog. Most probably you’ve never got to know any of us.

  29. Whats up very nice website!! Guy .. Excellent .. Amazing .. I will bookmark your site and take the feeds additionally…I am happy to seek out numerous helpful information right here within the put up, we need work out extra techniques in this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .

  30. Does your site have a contact page? I’m having problems locating it but, I’d like to send you an e-mail. I’ve got some suggestions for your blog you might be interested in hearing. Either way, great website and I look forward to seeing it improve over time.

  31. It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d most certainly donate to this outstanding blog! I guess for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to new updates and will share this site with my Facebook group. Chat soon!

  32. Thank you for another excellent post. Where else could anyone get that kind of info in such a perfect way of writing? I’ve a presentation next week, and I’m on the look for such information.

  33. Hello, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your blog in Safari, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, awesome blog!

  34. Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your weblog and wanted to say that I’ve really enjoyed surfing around your blog posts. In any case I will be subscribing to your feed and I hope you write again very soon!

  35. excellent put up, very informative. I’m wondering why the other specialists of this sector don’t notice this. You should proceed your writing. I am sure, you have a great readers’ base already!

  36. Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wished to say that I’ve truly loved surfing around your weblog posts. After all I’ll be subscribing in your feed and I am hoping you write again very soon!

  37. Hiya, I am really glad I have found this information. Nowadays bloggers publish just about gossips and web and this is actually annoying. A good website with exciting content, this is what I need. Thanks for keeping this web site, I’ll be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Cant find it.

  38. Hiya, I am really glad I’ve found this info. Nowadays bloggers publish just about gossips and internet and this is actually frustrating. A good blog with interesting content, this is what I need. Thank you for keeping this web-site, I will be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Cant find it.

  39. I’ve been surfing online greater than 3 hours nowadays, yet I by no means discovered any attention-grabbing article like yours. It is pretty value enough for me. In my view, if all site owners and bloggers made excellent content as you probably did, the web can be a lot more useful than ever before.

  40. Hi, Neat post. There’s a problem together with your site in internet explorer, may check thisK IE still is the market leader and a huge component of other folks will omit your fantastic writing due to this problem.

  41. I have recently started a blog, the information you offer on this website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work. “Her grandmother, as she gets older, is not fading but rather becoming more concentrated.” by Paulette Bates Alden.

  42. Una colección magnífica que refleja paciencia, conexión con la naturaleza y una mirada muy personal sobre el año. Cada imagen invita a detenerse y observar con calma. Para apreciar mejor los detalles y evitar distracciones, un black screen for focus
    puede ser una herramienta simple y muy efectiva al revisar este tipo de trabajos visuales.

  43. You really make it seem really easy together with your presentation however I find this topic to be actually something that I believe I might by no means understand. It kind of feels too complicated and very broad for me. I’m taking a look forward to your next put up, I will try to get the hang of it!

  44. Heya i’m for the first time here. I came across this board and I find It truly useful & it helped me out a lot. I hope to give something back and aid others like you helped me.

  45. Undeniably believe that which you said. Your favorite reason seemed to be on the internet the

    easiest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I definitely get annoyed while people consider worries that they plainly don’t know about.

    You managed to hit the nail upon the top and defined out the whole thing without having side-effects , people could take a signal.

    Will probably be back to get more. Thanks

  46. Thank you, I’ve just been looking for info about this topic for a while and yours is the best I have found out so far. However, what concerning the conclusion? Are you sure about the supply?

  47. I have learn several excellent stuff here. Certainly worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how a lot attempt you set to make one of these magnificent informative web site.

  48. Hello There. I found your blog using msn. This is a really well written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I will certainly return.

  49. Hi! I’ve been following your web site for some time now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Austin Tx! Just wanted to say keep up the good job!

  50. I like what you guys are up too. Such smart work and reporting! Keep up the excellent works guys I have incorporated you guys to my blogroll. I think it’ll improve the value of my web site :).

  51. Great blog here! Also your website loads up very fast! What host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to your host? I wish my web site loaded up as quickly as yours lol

  52. It is actually a nice and helpful piece of information. I am glad that you just shared this helpful info with us. Please stay us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.

Leave a Reply to The General landlord claims Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Read next
0
Share