5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a High-Interest Savings Account (UK & USA – July 2025)

Saving money is smart. But how and where you save it? That’s what makes the real difference.

Here are the top 5 mistakes most savers make — and what you should do instead in July 2025.


❌ Mistake #1: Sticking With Your Main Bank

Most people let their money sit in an old savings account earning 0.10% to 0.50%.

Better Option:
Open a high-interest account like:

  • Zopa (UK) – 5.20% AER
  • SoFi (USA) – 4.60% APY

🟢 You can still transfer from your main bank, but now you’ll actually earn interest.


❌ Mistake #2: Ignoring Instant Access

Some high-interest accounts lock your money for months.

Better Option:
Choose instant access accounts:

  • Chase UK (5.10% AER)
  • Tandem Bank (5.00% AER)
  • Marcus by Goldman Sachs (4.40% APY)

🟢 Get high interest without giving up flexibility.


❌ Mistake #3: Thinking You Need Thousands to Start

High interest ≠ high minimum deposit anymore.

Better Option:
Start saving with £0 or $0:

  • Tandem (UK) – £0 to open
  • SoFi (USA) – $0 minimum
  • Synchrony Bank (USA) – $0 and no fees

🟢 Start where you are — grow as you go.


❌ Mistake #4: Not Checking for Hidden Fees

Some banks sneak in fees that cancel out your interest gains.

Better Option:
All of these accounts are fee-free:

  • Chase UK
  • SoFi
  • Marcus
  • Tandem
  • Zopa

🟢 No monthly charges. No tricks. Just pure savings.


❌ Mistake #5: Not Comparing Rates Regularly

Rates change. What was best 3 months ago may not be best now.

Better Option:
As of July 2025, these are the top-performing accounts:

BankCountryRateType
ZopaUK5.20% AERNotice
Chase UKUK5.10% AERInstant
TandemUK5.00% AERInstant
SoFiUSA4.60% APYInstant
SynchronyUSA4.50% APYATM/Online
MarcusUSA4.40% APYInstant

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