7 Best Accounts for Emergency Funds 2025

When life throws financial surprises your way, having an emergency fund is critical. But where should you keep it? The best accounts for emergency savings combine easy access, security, and growth potential. In 2025, high-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, and no-penalty CDs are top choices, offering APYs far above the national average of 0.38%. Here's a quick look at the best options:

• Maybe Finance: A $9/month platform for managing emergency funds across 10,000+ institutions with AI insights.
• Axos Bank ONE Savings: 4.66% APY, no fees, and no minimum balance.
• Varo Bank High-Yield Savings: 5.00% APY on balances up to $5,000, with no fees.
• CFG Bank Money Market: 4.32% APY, $1,000 minimum balance, no ATM access.
• Primis Bank High-Yield Checking: 4.35% APY, no fees, full checking features.
• LendingClub Rewards Checking: 4.40% APY, unlimited ATM fee rebates, tiered interest.
• No-Penalty CDs: Up to 4.34% APY with flexible withdrawal terms.

Quick Comparison

Account Type	Provider	APY	Fees	Minimum Balance	Key Features
All-in-One Platform	Maybe Finance	N/A	$9/mo	$0	Tracks 10,000+ accounts, AI insights
High-Yield Savings	Axos Bank ONE	4.66%	$0	$0	No fees, no minimum balance
High-Yield Savings	Varo Bank	5.00%	$0	$0	ATM access, no fees
Money Market	CFG Bank	4.32%	$0	$1,000	High APY, limited liquidity
High-Yield Checking	Primis Bank	4.35%	$0	$0	Full checking features
Rewards Checking	LendingClub Bank	4.40%	$0	$2,500	Unlimited ATM fee rebates
No-Penalty CDs	Various Banks	Up to 4.34%	$0	$500–$1,000	Flexible withdrawal terms

Choose an account based on your needs: prioritize high APYs for growth, no fees for cost efficiency, and easy access for emergencies. Always ensure your funds are FDIC-insured for peace of mind.

1. Maybe Finance (All-in-One Personal Finance Platform)

Maybe Finance goes beyond the basics of storing your emergency fund. This open-source personal finance platform integrates emergency fund management into your overall financial strategy, helping you not just save but also plan and optimize your financial safety net.

Account Tracking and Management Features

Maybe Finance connects with over 10,000 financial institutions, giving you a real-time overview of all your emergency fund accounts. Whether your money is in a high-yield savings account, a money market account, or short-term CDs, the platform consolidates everything into one easy-to-navigate dashboard.

Its transaction management system automatically categorizes your contributions and withdrawals, while budgeting tools let you set rules to consistently allocate a portion of your income toward savings. For those dealing with multiple currencies - like expats or international workers - the platform’s multi-currency tracking ensures accuracy across the board. These tools work together to provide tailored recommendations for building your emergency fund.

Integration with Emergency Fund Planning

Using AI-powered insights, Maybe Finance analyzes your spending habits, income, and financial commitments to offer personalized emergency fund targets. It doesn’t stop there - its budgeting tools show how growing your emergency fund fits into your larger financial goals, such as paying off debt or investing. This makes Maybe Finance a comprehensive solution for managing and safeguarding your finances.

Pricing and Accessibility

Maybe Finance offers two straightforward pricing options. The monthly plan costs $9, while the annual plan is $90 per year. Both plans include unlimited account connections, AI-driven insights, and full access to budgeting tools.

Security and Data Protection

"At Maybe, we place a high priority on making the app secure and transparent. Our codebase is fully open-source and is auditable by anyone." – Maybe App Security

Your data is protected with bank-level encryption and industry-standard protocols thanks to a partnership with Plaid. Maybe Finance also provides two-factor authentication (2FA) with backup codes for added security. Data is encrypted both at rest and in transit using secure HTTPS connections. For users of its managed hosting option, servers are hosted on Render with SOC 2 Type II compliance, and Cloudflare adds an extra layer of protection through its Web Application Firewall (WAF) and DDoS mitigation. Access to your financial data is tightly controlled, with employees only able to view your information when troubleshooting issues or offering support - and only with your explicit consent.

2. Axos Bank ONE Savings (4.66% APY)

Axos Bank ONE Savings offers a 4.66% APY, making it a strong option for growing your emergency fund. This rate far exceeds the national average savings rate of 0.38%, providing a reliable and competitive platform for your money. Here’s a closer look at what this account has to offer.

Interest Rate (APY)

With a 4.66% APY, this account ensures your savings grow faster than with typical savings accounts. However, to earn this higher rate, you’ll need to link an Axos ONE Checking account and meet one of these two conditions: deposit at least $1,500 per month with a daily average balance of $1,500, or deposit $5,000 per month with a daily average balance of $5,000. If these requirements aren’t met, the rate reverts to 1.00% APY. This setup ensures your funds are working efficiently while still being accessible.

Account Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements

Axos Bank keeps things simple and fee-free. The account has:

• No monthly maintenance fees
• No minimum balance requirements
• No minimum deposit to open

As Axos Bank puts it:

"No monthly maintenance, minimum balance, account opening, or overdraft fees."

This fee-free structure is perfect for emergency funds, as it ensures your savings aren’t diminished by unnecessary charges. The 4.66% APY applies to balances ranging from $0 to over $3,000,000, so whether your fund is small or substantial, it earns the same competitive rate.

Liquidity and Accessibility

When it comes to emergency funds, easy access is crucial. Axos Bank offers multiple ways to access your money, including:

• Transfers and wire transfers
• Withdrawals from over 91,000 fee-free ATMs
• 24/7 phone support (except on Thanksgiving and Christmas)

This flexibility ensures your funds are always within reach when you need them most.

Insurance and Security Features

Your savings are protected with FDIC insurance coverage of up to $250,000 per depositor, providing the same government-backed security as traditional banks. Additionally, Axos Bank employs modern digital security measures, so you can rest assured that your emergency fund is safe while earning competitive returns.

3. Varo Bank High-Yield Savings (5.00% APY)

Varo Bank is making waves with its 5.00% APY High-Yield Savings account. Compared to the national average of just 0.41%, this rate stands out, and with more than 3 million customers, Varo has become a trusted name in digital banking, helping Americans achieve their financial goals.

Interest Rate (APY)

The 5.00% APY applies to balances up to $5,000, while balances above that earn 2.50% APY. To qualify for the highest rate, you’ll need to receive at least $1,000 in direct deposits each month and keep a positive balance in both your Varo Bank and Savings accounts by the end of the month.

Account Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements

Varo keeps things simple with no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements. You can open the account without needing an initial deposit, making it accessible no matter your financial situation. This fee-free setup makes it an excellent option for building or maintaining an emergency fund.

Liquidity and Accessibility

Getting to your money is hassle-free when you need it. If you pair the High-Yield Savings account with a Varo checking account, you’ll receive an ATM card for easy withdrawals at ATMs across the country. Keep in mind that federal limits on withdrawals and transfers per statement cycle apply. Bank-to-bank transfers generally take 24–48 hours, but ATM withdrawals are immediate - though using out-of-network ATMs may incur fees.

Insurance and Security Features

Your deposits are FDIC insured up to $250,000 per depositor, providing peace of mind. Varo’s mobile-first approach includes advanced security features, and its app has earned glowing reviews: 4.9 stars from 216,000 App Store users and 4.7 stars from 230,000 Google Play users. These ratings highlight a strong focus on security and an intuitive user experience.

4. CFG Bank High Yield Money Market Account (4.32% APY)

CFG Bank's High Yield Money Market Account offers an impressive 4.32% APY, giving your emergency savings a chance to grow at a rate far above the national average of 0.41% for traditional savings accounts. This account has earned a 4.2 out of 5 star rating from Bankrate, praised for its standout interest rate.

"CFG's High Yield Money Market Account is true to its name, offering a very high interest rate to help you grow your savings." - Bankrate

Interest Rate (APY)

The 4.32% APY applies universally to all balances, provided you meet the minimum requirements. Once qualified, you'll earn this rate on your entire balance. Keep in mind, though, that rates are variable and can change over time. It’s also important to consider the account’s fee structure, as it could impact the accessibility of your funds.

Account Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements

To open this account, you’ll need a $1,000 minimum deposit, and maintaining at least $1,000 daily in your account is required to earn the advertised APY and avoid fees. Falling below this threshold triggers a $10 monthly fee, which could be an issue if you ever need to withdraw a significant portion of your emergency fund. These requirements make it important to plan carefully to avoid unnecessary costs.

Liquidity and Accessibility

While this account offers a high return, accessing your funds during emergencies may come with some hurdles. For starters, there’s no check-writing or ATM access, which could delay withdrawals. Daily transaction limits add another layer of restriction: you can withdraw up to $5,000 outbound and deposit up to $25,000 inbound per day. Wire transfers are available, but only during business hours and for an additional fee.

On the plus side, you’ll have 24/7 online and mobile banking for account management, including balance checks, bill payments, and transfers. However, it’s worth noting that new deposits are held for five days, and account closures are restricted during the first 10 business days after opening.

Insurance and Security Features

Your deposits are fully FDIC insured up to $250,000, offering peace of mind. The bank’s digital platforms include helpful features like account alerts, mobile check deposits, and secure money transfers. If your financial needs change, you can close the account without penalties after the initial 10-day period, giving you added flexibility.

5. Primis Bank High-Yield Checking (4.35% APY)

Primis Bank's Premium Checking account stands out with an impressive 4.35% APY - a rate that rivals most savings accounts. Recognized by WalletHub as the Best Overall Checking Account for 2025, it combines high returns with easy access to your funds, making it a smart choice for managing emergency savings. Let’s dive into its interest rate, fees, liquidity, and security features.

"If you're looking for a great online checking account with an APY that can compete with most savings accounts, then you should check out Primis Premium Checking." - WalletHub

Interest Rate (APY)

With a 4.35% APY, this account outpaces many traditional savings accounts and sits near the top among high-yield options. Considering the national average savings rate is just 0.38%, this account offers a significant advantage for growing your emergency fund. The combination of a competitive rate and the flexibility of a checking account makes it a rare find.

Business Insider awarded the Premium Checking account 4+ stars, citing its strong performance in a highly competitive market.

Account Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements

One of the standout features of Primis Premium Checking is its no-fee structure. There are no monthly maintenance fees, service charges, or even overdraft fees. This means your emergency fund can grow without being chipped away by unnecessary costs.

Opening the account is simple, with just a $1 minimum deposit required to get started. Even better, there’s no minimum balance requirement to earn the full APY, unlike many other high-yield accounts that demand a significant balance to access their advertised rates.

Liquidity and Accessibility

Primis Premium Checking offers excellent liquidity and convenience. You’ll enjoy free nationwide ATM access and full digital banking tools for 24/7 account management. Whether you need to transfer funds, pay bills, or monitor your balance, the platform makes it easy.

For those who rely on direct deposit, the account also includes an early paycheck deposit feature, giving you quicker access to your money. As an online-only bank, Primis serves customers across the United States without the need for physical branches.

Security Features

Security is a top priority for Primis Premium Checking. The account includes advanced digital protections and 24/7 monitoring to keep your funds safe. These measures ensure you can manage your emergency savings with peace of mind, knowing your money is secure and accessible whenever you need it.

6. LendingClub Bank Rewards Checking (4.40% APY)

LendingClub Bank Rewards Checking is often recognized for its low fees, but its tiered APY structure can make it less ideal for growing emergency savings. Let’s break down the details of its earning potential.

Interest Rate (APY)

This account uses a tiered APY system, which can limit how much your emergency fund grows. As of June 27, 2025, the rates are as follows:

• 0.00% APY on balances from $0.00 to $2,499.99
• 0.10% APY on balances from $2,500.00 to $99,999.99
• 0.15% APY on balances of $100,000.00 and above

The top rate of 0.15% APY lags behind what other accounts offer, making it less appealing for those prioritizing growth in their emergency fund.

Account Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements

This account stands out by charging no monthly maintenance fees and no overdraft fees, which means your savings won’t be eaten away by extra costs. To open an account, you’ll need a $25 minimum deposit.

To qualify for the tiered interest rates, you must maintain at least $2,500 in your account. The same balance or a qualifying $2,500 in direct deposits is required to earn 1% cash back on eligible purchases.

"LendingClub is an online-only bank that offers a reward checking account with no monthly fees. We like the LendingClub Rewards Checking account because it offers 1% cash back on qualifying purchases with no cap on the amount you can earn. We also appreciate that LendingClub doesn't charge overdraft fees, and it offers unlimited ATM fee rebates." - FinanceBuzz

Now, let’s look at how accessible your funds are on a daily basis.

Liquidity and Accessibility

LendingClub makes accessing your funds easy with unlimited ATM fee rebates, so you won’t face extra charges when withdrawing cash. However, transaction limits vary based on your account level and tenure.

Client Level	Daily ATM Withdrawal	Daily External Transfers (Outgoing)	Daily Mobile Deposit
New Client	$500	$5,000	$20,000
Classic	$500	$5,000	$20,000
Preferred	$500	$10,000	$50,000
Elite	$1,000	$50,000	$150,000
Reserve	$2,000	$250,000	$250,000

For new clients, daily ATM withdrawals are capped at $500, and external transfers are limited to $5,000. These limits increase as your account balance and tenure grow.

Insurance and Security Features

Your deposits are FDIC insured up to $250,000, providing peace of mind. LendingClub also offers robust digital security measures, including 24/7 account monitoring, fraud protection, and real-time transaction alerts to keep your funds safe.

7. No-Penalty CDs (6–12 month terms)

No-penalty CDs combine the stability of fixed rates with the flexibility to withdraw funds, making them an appealing choice for emergency savings.

Interest Rate (APY)

The rates for no-penalty CDs typically fall between those of high-yield savings accounts and traditional CDs. As of June 27, 2025, the Bankrate Partner average for no-penalty CDs is 3.99% APY, compared to the national average of 1.72% APY.

Some standout options include:

• Climate First Bank: 6-month no-penalty CD at 4.34% APY
• Marcus by Goldman Sachs: 7-month no-penalty CD at 4.00% APY
• CIT Bank: 11-month no-penalty CD at 3.50% APY

Bank/Institution	Term	APY	Minimum Deposit
Climate First Bank	6 months	4.34%	$500
Marcus by Goldman Sachs	7 months	4.00%	$500
Bank of America	12 months	3.51%	$1,000
CIT Bank	11 months	3.50%	$1,000
Ally Bank	11 months	3.40%	$0

Unlike high-yield savings accounts, which often have fluctuating rates, no-penalty CDs lock in your APY for the entire term. This stability protects your emergency fund from potential rate drops, offering a predictable return.

"Opting for a no-penalty CD offers the advantage of more flexibility in the event of a need for access to funds without taking the monetary hit. A benefit also is the predictability of the return because of the stable rate, as opposed to a high-yield savings account which can see changes or variability. Consider it another tool in one's savings toolbelt." - Mark Hamrick, Bankrate senior economic analyst

Liquidity and Accessibility

While no-penalty CDs provide attractive rates, they aren't as liquid as regular savings accounts. Despite their name, "no-penalty" CDs often require you to withdraw the entire balance if you need access to your funds - partial withdrawals are typically not allowed.

Here’s how a few banks handle withdrawals:

• Marcus by Goldman Sachs: Requires a 7-day wait before allowing full-balance withdrawals.
• Ally Bank: Allows withdrawals starting 6 days after funding, but the entire CD must be closed.
• Bank of America: Waives early withdrawal penalties for its flexible CD account, except during the first 6 days.

These features make no-penalty CDs ideal for planned emergencies rather than situations requiring immediate cash. If you need same-day access to money, a high-yield savings account might be a better fit.

Account Fees and Minimum Balance Requirements

No-penalty CDs generally don’t come with monthly maintenance fees. However, minimum deposit requirements vary:

• No minimum: Ally Bank
• $500 minimum: Climate First Bank, Marcus by Goldman Sachs
• $1,000 minimum: CIT Bank, Bank of America
• Up to $5,000 minimum: Some banks, like M.Y. Safra Bank

Insurance and Security Features

Every no-penalty CD offered by an FDIC-insured bank comes with FDIC protection, covering deposits up to $250,000 per depositor. This ensures your funds are secure, whether you hold the CD to maturity or withdraw early.

Additionally, the fixed rate guarantees consistent returns, helping you plan for future financial needs with more confidence.

Account Comparison Table

When selecting an emergency fund account, it's essential to weigh factors like interest rates, fees, and accessibility. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of various account types to help you decide which option fits your needs best.

Account Type	Provider	APY	Monthly Fees	Minimum Balance	ATM Access	Check Writing	Debit Card	Key Access Features
All-in-One Platform	Maybe Finance	N/A*	$9/month or $90/year	$0	Via linked accounts	Via linked accounts	Via linked accounts	Tracks accounts from 10,000+ institutions, AI insights, multi-currency support
High-Yield Savings	Axos Bank ONE Savings	4.66%	$0	$0	Limited network	No	No	Online transfers, mobile app
High-Yield Savings	Varo Bank	5.00%	$0	$0	55,000+ Allpoint ATMs	No	Yes	Fee-free ATM network, mobile banking
Money Market	CFG Bank	4.32%	$0	$1,000	No	No	No	Online transfers only, 6 transaction limit
High-Yield Checking	Primis Bank	4.35%	$0	$0	Yes	Yes	Yes	Full checking features, unlimited transactions
Rewards Checking	LendingClub Bank	4.40%	$0	$2,500	Yes	Yes	Yes	Unlimited transactions, ATM fee reimbursements, mobile deposit
No-Penalty CD	Various Banks	3.40%-4.34%	$0	$0–$1,000	No	No	No	Fixed rates, full withdrawal required

*Maybe Finance functions as a management platform for accounts held at other institutions, rather than offering direct deposit accounts.

The table highlights key differences like ATM network size, transaction limits, and account perks. For instance, some accounts, such as CFG Bank’s Money Market, limit withdrawals to six per month, while others, like Primis Bank’s High-Yield Checking, offer unlimited transactions and broader access.

If you’re looking for centralized account management, Maybe Finance provides tools to track balances across more than 10,000 institutions. With features like automated alerts and AI-driven insights, it’s a helpful option for those juggling multiple accounts. Each account type serves a specific purpose, whether it's maximizing growth, ensuring easy access, or offering flexibility for your emergency savings.

Conclusion

Building an emergency fund means striking the right balance between three key factors: accessibility, safety, and growth potential. The accounts we've discussed each bring unique benefits, but your choice should align with how you prioritize these elements.

Accessibility is crucial. Scott McClatchey, senior wealth advisor at Ballast Rock Private Wealth, puts it plainly:

"Creating and funding an emergency fund is critical for financial stability. The fund ensures that when unexpected expenses hit the family budget, they're able to handle those expenses out of this account earmarked for such a purpose. ... Otherwise, many fall into the 'run up the credit card trap,' which traps you in escalating credit card debt."

Safety comes next. Emergency funds are not the place for risky investments. McClatchey highlights the volatility of stocks:

"Stocks are volatile, with prices moving up or down daily by sometimes 3% to 4% or more, making them unsuitable for an emergency fund investment."

Historical data backs this up - since 1990, the average market decline during a calendar year has been -13.7%. Such fluctuations could severely impact your savings when you need them most. To avoid this, look for FDIC-insured accounts.

Growth potential is important, but only after ensuring accessibility and safety. High-yield savings accounts, offering APYs above 4%, can significantly outperform the average 0.38% rate. Ohan Kayikchyan, a money coach and certified financial planner, explains:

"When you save your emergency funds in a high-yield savings account, the funds are easily accessible when needed."

This makes it essential to keep an eye on interest rates. Rates change frequently, so what’s competitive today might not be tomorrow. McClatchey advises:

"Shop around, and do your homework."

To simplify this process, you can use tools like Maybe Finance, which tracks accounts from over 10,000 institutions, helping you manage and optimize your emergency fund strategy.

At the end of the day, your emergency fund is your financial safety net, not a vehicle for high-risk investments. Whether you go with a high-yield savings account offering 5.00% APY or a checking account with full transaction flexibility, the key is to ensure immediate access and peace of mind. By carefully balancing accessibility, safety, and growth, you’ll strengthen your financial foundation and be ready for whatever life throws your way.

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