The Federal Reserve met this week and issued its first rate cut of 2025. The Fed cut the federal funds rate by 25 basis points.
One of the reasons for the rate cut was concern surrounding the job market. The recent job reports show only 22,000 jobs were added in August, indicating companies are holding back on hiring until they see the full impact of President Donald Trump's tariffs.
And one way to stimulate job growth is through rate cuts, as it lowers borrowing costs.
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When rate cuts happen, they also impact savers by way of lower APYs. However, even with the rate cut, these high-yield options can help you earn returns that outpace inflation.
How to cushion inflation
While you might not be able to withstand inflation's impacts directly, there are ways to cushion your money to reduce its effect. And one of the best options is a high-yield savings account.
A high-yield savings account allows you to earn a high rate of return. Unlike certificates of deposit, you can add money to these savings accounts at any time.
And you can withdraw or transfer those funds when you need them. Just be careful of any minimum balance requirements that might apply, or else your monthly fee might offset the interest earned.
Using this tool from Bankrate, you can see how rates currently measure up:
There are other considerations with a high-yield savings account. Chief among them is that they come with variable interest rates. If the Fed decides to cut rates again this year, your savings rates can drop too.
In the meantime, if you're looking for a flexible way to save money, it's hard to beat the rates offered. Here are some of the top yield savings accounts we recommend:
Account | APY | Min. opening deposit |
|---|---|---|
4.35% | $0 | |
4.30% | $500 | |
4.30% | $5,000 | |
4.25% | $0 | |
4.25% | $100 | |
4.25% | $1,000 | |
4.20% | $0 |
Use budgeting apps to meet savings goals
Sometimes, a fresh perspective on where your money goes helps you identify spending patterns, and with them, opportunities for more savings. Some of our favorite budgeting apps are easy to use, affordable and can help you meet your savings goals.
One of the easiest to use is Quicken's Simplifi.
The bottom line on high-yield savings accounts
The Fed cut rates for the first time this year. While that will lower the APYs you can earn, high-yield savings accounts help you earn a rate that shields your finances from inflation's impact.
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