Mortgage Q&A: “What is the easiest type of mortgage to get?”
Relative to other types of loans, it can be difficult to get approved for a mortgage.
After all, mortgage lenders typically require a tri-merge credit report, steady income and employment, and assets in the bank.
They don’t just take your word for it like they might on a credit card application.
All of those items must be documented to ensure you’re a creditworthy borrower capable of financing a piece of real estate.
Easiest Types of Mortgages to Get, Ranked
1. FHA loan (lowest combination of credit score and down payment) 2. Conforming loan (lower min. down payment but need 620 FICO) 3. VA loan (zero down and no min. FICO but must be active duty/veteran) 4. USDA loan (zero down, no min. FICO but must be rural location and there are income limits) 5. Jumbo loan (usually need 10%+ down payment, 680+ FICO, and asset reserves)
FHA loans are the easiest mortgage to get because of the 3.5% down payment and 580 minimum FICO score required.
Conforming loans are a close second, despite a lower 3% minimum down payment, due to the higher 620 minimum FICO score required.
Both USDA and VA loans don’t require a down payment and technically don’t have a minimum FICO requirement, but are more specialized products. Thus not as easy.
Jumbo loans are typically the hardest to get because they are larger (loan amounts) and aren’t backed by Fannie/Freddie or the government.
Tip: If you already have a mortgage, a streamline refinance can be even easier to qualify for.
The Answer Depends on What Your Issue(s) Might Be
Before we get down to the nitty gritty, I should note that there isn’t a universal answer to this question.
It depends what may make obtaining a home loan difficult to begin with.
Are your credit scores not all that good? Do you have limited income? No money in the bank? Or perhaps a combination of all these items?
The first thing you should do is self-evaluate. Take a look at your income (and employment history), your credit report (and scores), and your assets.
Would you lend yourself a mortgage? Funnily enough, even if you wouldn’t, there’s probably a lender that would!
Jokes aside, take the time to do this to see where you stand before you apply for a mortgage.
Easy street isn’t necessarily the best avenue to take when it comes to home loan financing.
Now let’s discuss particulars based on some common issues.
If You Lack a Down Payment for a Mortgage
If down payment funds are your problem, there are plenty of zero down home loan options out there.
The two most common are VA loans and USDA loans. However, these are reserved for military/veterans and those buying in rural areas, respectively.
Assuming either of those are YOU, the down payment is no longer a hurdle. They allow 100% financing.
Even if you don’t qualify for those loan types, there are credit unions that offer zero down mortgages.
And many state housing finance agencies that offer grants and down payment assistance.
Some private lenders also offer grants. Rocket Mortgage launched “Purchase Plus” in late December.
It offers up to $7,500 in closing cost credits for first-time home buyers to use toward their mortgage costs.
Purchase Plus is available in specific census tracts in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Detroit, Memphis and Philadelphia.
And Guaranteed Rate just launched a “Special Purpose Credit Program” in the same cities that provides up to $8,000 in assistance to underserved borrowers.
That’s a minimum of $5,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance, and up to an additional 1% of the sales price (or $3,000).
Many Types of Mortgages Only Require a 3-3.5% Down Payment
Even if you don’t qualify for zero down financing, conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac only require 3% down.
Conforming loans are the most common type of mortgage, offered by pretty much every bank and lender in the nation.
Fannie Mae’s offering is known as HomeReady Mortgage, while Freddie Mac’s is called Home Possible.
Both require a minimum FICO score of 620, which is pretty low and what some would consider easy to qualify for.
Additionally, they allow for boarder income so roommates/renters can contribute to your income to help qualify for the loan.
If you don’t have a 620 FICO score, there’s the FHA loan, which requires a minimum score of 580 with 3.5% down payment. Or as low as 500 if you can muster 10% down somehow.
If Your Credit Scores Are Low…
If you’ve got decent income and assets, but your credit scores are a problem, you still might be in luck.
For example, there is no minimum credit score requirement for VA loans, per the VA.
But individual lenders will still impose their own limits, which may be 580 or higher. Still, that’s very accommodating.
The USDA home loan program also doesn’t impose a minimum credit score, but most lenders want a 640 FICO or higher.
As mentioned above, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac require a minimum 620 FICO. However, it’s possible to get approved with a lower score if you have a co-borrower with higher scores.
And the FHA only requires the 580 FICO for max financing (3.5% down).
So you’ve got several very liberal options to choose from that approve those with pretty low credit scores.
If Your Income Is Limited…
If income is your problem, you may still not have any issues as most home loan types are also pretty flexible in this department too.
With regard to your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), a conforming loan backed by Fannie Mae will allow a DTI ratio as high as 50%.
The FHA can go even higher, to a staggering 56.9%. The VA doesn’t have a maximum DTI, and can also go quite high depending on the circumstances.
USDA loans are generally stricter and want a DTI of 41% or lower, but may allow up to 46%.
Even if income is an issue for you, there’s the possibility to use a co-borrower or boarder income to help you qualify.
[What Mortgage Has the Best Rate?]
If You Are Recently Employed…
While income is one thing, employment history is another. Mortgage lenders are happy you’re making what you’re making.
But they want to know that you’ll be making that money consistently into the future. Mortgages can last 30 years, remember?
This means they typically want to see a two-year employment history to consider the income stable.
But once again, there are exceptions to the rule and it’s often possible to qualify with less than two years employment. Or even one year.
Across all loan types, a letter of explanation and supporting documentation may allow for limited employment history.
For example, a recent graduate may qualify for a mortgage if employment is likely to continue. Same goes for a medical school graduate (see physician mortgages for more on that).
Ultimately, there are lots of ways around the typical two-year requirement if you can demonstrate employment stability.
It also helps if you have good credit and/or money in the bank to offset such a risk.
Jumbo Loans Are Probably the Hardest Mortgages to Qualify For
While I’ve hopefully highlighted the fact that most mortgages are actually pretty easy to qualify for, there’s one category that isn’t.
I’m talking about jumbo loans, which exceed the conforming loan limit. These loans are offered by jumbo lenders, and are often backed by the companies themselves.
But here’s the thing – the 2023 conforming loan limit is $726,200. And the high-cost loan limits (for expensive areas of the country) are a whopping $1,089,300!
In other words, most folks don’t need a jumbo loan anyway.
If you do, expect higher down payment requirements, higher minimum FICOs, and larger reserve requirements.
After all, you’re asking to borrow a lot of money, so you better be good for it.
This might entail a minimum down payment of 10-20%, FICO scores of 680 and up, lower DTI ratios, and several months of reserves in the bank.
If You Have to Ask What Is the Easiest Type of Mortgage to Get…
Those who read the sections above should realize it’s fairly easy to qualify for a mortgage.
Credit score requirements are super low across all loan types. And DTI ratios are also very forgiving in most cases.
The same goes for employment history and asset/reserve requirements.
And the fact that you can often employ gift funds or a co-borrower to help qualify is the icing on the cake.
But if you have to ask the question, you may want to reassess your decision to rent vs. buy.
There’s a reason all these minimum requirements are in place. And there’s a reason why it takes around a month to get a mortgage.
It’s a big deal and the decision shouldn’t be taken lightly. Additionally, those who are adequately prepared should qualify for the lowest mortgage rates with the best terms.
So instead of focusing on easy, focus instead on how to qualify for the best rate.
Read More: 21 Things That Can Push Your Mortgage Rate Higher
Editor’s Note: This story was written byLauren Toms from partner site MoneyCrashers.
If you’ve been following the news this year, you might have heard about bank runs: Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank and First Republic in the U.S. and Credit Suisse internationally. And it’s understandable if you’re spooked.
A bank run happens when many — if not most — of a bank’s customers try to withdraw their money all at once, either because they’re worried the bank might go out of business or they’ve heard rumors about the bank’s financial health. Bank runs can be very stressful for both the bank and its customers and can have big effects on the economy as a whole.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect your money now so a bank run doesn’t ruin your day or your net worth.
Keep your money in a federally insured bank
One of the best ways to protect your money during uncertain times is to keep it in a federally insured bank. That means your deposits are insured up to $250,000 per depositor by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (aka FDIC) or National Credit Union Administration (for credit unions).
If the bank fails, you won’t lose your money so long as you don’t have more than the insured amount in all your accounts with that bank.
To find out if your bank is federally insured, you can look for the FDIC or NCUA sign at your bank or credit union or ask a representative. You can also check the FDIC’s online database, BankFind, to verify if your bank is insured.
Don’t make assumptions. Some banks are uninsured, so it’s important to do your research and ensure your money is protected. Some banks or credit unions may also have private insurance. But it’s not backed by the U.S. government and is subject to the rules of the bank’s underwriter.
In addition to providing insurance for your deposits, using a federally insured bank also comes with other benefits. For example, federally insured banks must comply with certain regulations that protect consumers and promote stability in the financial system. Theoretically, that means that your money is more secure and less likely to be at risk in the event of a bank failure.
Diversify your wealth
Diversifying across different banks and credit unions is an important step to protect your money during uncertain times. That means spreading your money across different FDIC- and NCUA-insured institutions, with no more than $250,000 in each account.
That serves two purposes. One, the more banks you have, the more likely you are to have at least one unaffected by bank runs. They tend to spread, meaning that if one bank starts to fail people start worrying about others, which results in a run on others.
Two, it ensures that if the worst does happen and the bank becomes insolvent, you have a better shot of having at least one bank remain unscathed — meaning you still have money in at least one account to keep paying bills and living life.
And diversification doesn’t just apply to the rich and powerful. Even if you only have a few thousand dollars in the bank, keep it in at least two different institutions. Otherwise, you could temporarily lose access to all your cash between the moment the bank stops processing withdrawals and the moment the FDIC steps in — which can take a few days.
For example, maybe keep half in a longstanding bank like Chase and the other in a neobank like Chime (which importantly has no connection to Chase). By diversifying across different banks, you reduce the risk of losing access to all your money at once.
Stay informed and be prepared
Staying informed about your bank’s financial health is a key part of protecting your money during uncertain times. Regularly check your bank’s financial statements and reports, which are usually available online or in-branch. These reports can give you insight into your bank’s financial performance and stability.
Another way to stay informed is to pay attention to the news and any announcements your bank makes. That can help you stay up to date on any changes or developments that may affect your bank’s stability. But if you hear any rumors or concerns about your bank’s financial health, it’s important to verify them before taking any action.
In addition to staying informed, it’s important to be prepared in case of a bank run. That means creating a plan to protect your money and ensure you have access to funds when you need them.
One way to do that is to keep a small amount of emergency cash on hand at all times. How much you keep depends on what you think you might need, how big an emergency you’re planning for, and whether you have a safe place to keep it.
Some people, especially those with several banks, may just want a few hundred dollars on hand in case there’s an immediate issue. Others may want an entire month’s worth of money in case the worst happens.
But neither of those is a good idea if you don’t have a safe place to store it. Technically, you could use a safe deposit box. But bank branches might close if the bank goes under, severing your access to those funds.
In lieu of that, think of a safe place in your home where you can keep it away from the prying eyes of houseguests and burglars alike. Ideally, it would be inside a fireproof, waterproof safe in case of natural disaster.
Keep calm and don’t panic
During a bank run, it’s natural to feel scared and uncertain. However, panicking can actually make the situation worse and put you at greater financial risk.
One danger of panicking is that you may withdraw too much money too quickly, leaving you without enough funds to cover your expenses and causing any automatic payments to bounce. Additionally, withdrawing large amounts of money can contribute to the bank’s instability and potentially make the situation worse for everyone involved.
To stay calm and make rational decisions during uncertain times, go back to your plan — and maybe even have a backup plan in case it’s worse than you thought or happens faster than you predicted.
One way to stay calm is to focus on the things you can control, such as your own finances and your own actions. That means avoiding rumors and speculation, and instead relying on verifiable facts and information.
Another way to stay calm is to remember the importance of having a long-term financial plan. By focusing on your goals and priorities, you can avoid making hasty decisions.
Final word
Bank runs can be a scary and uncertain time for both banks and their customers. However, by taking proactive steps to protect your money, you can minimize your risk and safeguard your finances.
By taking action now, you can protect yourself and ensure you have access to funds when you need them. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your money.
It’s time to check out the top mortgage lenders in Georgia based on their 2021 loan volume.
These mortgage companies outranked more than one thousand other lenders to take the top honors.
Overall, about $160 billion in home loans was funded in The Peach State last year, making it one of the bigger states volume-wise nationwide.
And taking the #1 spot was Rocket Mortgage, also the nation’s largest mortgage lender.
Read on to see which other companies ranked in the top 10.
Top Mortgage Lenders in Georgia (Overall)
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
Rocket Mortgage
$12.2 billion
2.
Pennymac
$6.6 billion
3.
Wells Fargo
$5.3 billion
4.
Truist
$4.7 billion
5.
UWM
$4.7 billion
6.
Ameris Bank
$4.0 billion
7.
Newrez
$3.9 billion
8.
Freedom Mortgage
$3.8 billion
9.
AmeriHome Mortgage
$3.5 billion
10.
Fairway Independent
$3.1 billion
Detroit-based Rocket Mortgage, the nation’s biggest mortgage lender, originated an impressive $12.2 billion in home loans in Georgia last year.
That was nearly double their nearest competitor, Pennymac, per HMDA data from advisory company Richey May.
SoCal based Pennymac funded about $6.6 billion in the state last year, and only about a third of it came via the retail channel.
They mostly dole out loans via the correspondent lending channel (via smaller banks and credit unions), and through mortgage brokers in the wholesale channel.
In other words, your loan may have been originated by a different company, but backed by Pennymac.
In third was San Francisco-based Wells Fargo with $5.3 billion funded, another good showing despite their controversies.
They were followed closely by Truist Financial and United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM), both with about $4.7 billion funded.
In sixth was Atlanta, Georgia’s own Ameris Bank with a healthy $4 billion in home loan volume.
Newrez was a close seventh with $3.9 billion, followed by Freedom Mortgage, AmeriHome, and Fairway Independent Mortgage.
Top Mortgage Lenders in Georgia (for Home Buyers)
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
Pennymac
$3.5 billion
2.
Rocket Mortgage
$2.6 billion
3.
Ameris Bank
$2.4 billion
4.
UWM
$2.3 billion
5.
Homestar Financial
$2.2 billion
6.
Truist
$2.1 billion
7.
Fairway Independent
$2.1 billion
8.
Wells Fargo
$1.9 billion
9.
Newrez
$1.9 billion
10.
AmeriHome Mortgage
$1.9 billion
If we consider only home purchase lending, the list changes quite a bit and new names surface.
Pennymac was the #1 home purchase lender in Georgia with $3.5 billion funded, followed by Rocket Mortgage with $2.6 billion.
Ameris Bank took third with $2.4 billion, meaning about 60% of their total mortgage business is home purchase loans.
In fourth was UWM with $2.3 billion, followed by Gainesville, GA-direct lender Homestar Financial with $2.2 billion in origination volume.
Others in the top 10 included Truist Financial, Fairway Independent, Wells Fargo, Newrez, and AmeriHome.
Top Refinance Lenders in Georgia (for Existing Homeowners)
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
Rocket Mortgage
$9.5 billion
2.
Freedom Mortgage
$3.3 billion
3.
Pennymac
$3.1 billion
4.
Wells Fargo
$3.1 billion
5.
UWM
$2.4 billion
6.
Truist
$2.2 billion
7.
loanDepot
$2.2 billion
8.
Mr. Cooper
$2.0 billion
9.
Newrez
$2.0 billion
10.
Better Mortgage
$1.8 billion
Now let’s talk about the biggest refinance lenders in Georgia. As expected, Rocket Mortgage absolutely dominated with $9.5 billion funded.
That was nearly triple second place Freedom Mortgage’s $3.3 billion, a testament to how active they are in the state.
In third was Pennymac with $3.1 billion, followed closely by Wells Fargo with roughly the same amount funded.
In fifth was UWM with $2.4 billion, a strong showing since they only work with mortgage brokers via the wholesale channel.
The rest of the top 10 included Truist Financial, loanDepot, Mr. Cooper, Newrez, and struggling lender Better Mortgage.
Top Mortgage Lenders in Atlanta
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
Rocket Mortgage
$8.7 billion
2.
Pennymac
$4.2 billion
3.
Wells Fargo
$4.0 billion
4.
UWM
$3.7 billion
5.
Truist
$3.7 billion
6.
Ameris Bank
$3.1 billion
7.
Newrez
$3.1 billion
8.
AmeriHome Mortgage
$2.6 billion
9.
Freedom Mortgage
$2.4 billion
10.
loanDepot
$2.4 billion
Top Mortgage Lenders in Augusta
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
Rocket Mortgage
$432 million
2.
Pennymac
$429 million
3.
Queensborough National
$326 million
4.
Freedom Mortgage
$249 million
5.
Veterans United
$233 million
6.
Centerstate Bank
$230 million
7.
Wells Fargo
$227 million
8.
Truist
$221 million
9.
New American Funding
$214 million
10.
U.S. Bank
$180 million
Who Are Georgia’s Best Mortgage Lenders?
I typically head over to Zillow and check customer reviews to determine which mortgage companies are faring best in a particular state.
Here’s what I found for Georgia. Atlanta-based AmeriSave has a 4.68/5 rating from over 2,400 reviews. Not the best rating, but the most reviews by far.
Then there’s Atlanta’s Silverton Mortgage, which has a superior 4.94/5 rating from about 1,200 reviews.
Even better is Ameris Bank’s 4.95/5 rating from nearly 900 customer reviews, and fellow Atlanta lender First Option Mortgage’s 4.97/5 from about 1,000 reviews.
Honorable mention goes to Capital City Home Loans and its 4.96/5 score from 300 reviews.
As for the big, national brands, Rocket has a 4.48/5, Pennymac a 4.4/5, and Wells Fargo a 4.95/5.
So it appears there are plenty of solid options, whether you use a local, Georgia-based mortgage lender or a national brand.
Also be sure to check out some local mortgage brokers to see what they can offer.
In Best Low-Risk Investments for 2023, I provided a comprehensive list of low-risk investments with predictable returns. But it’s precisely because those returns are low-risk that they also provide relatively low returns.
In this article, we’re going to look at high-yield investments, many of which involve a higher degree of risk but are also likely to provide higher returns.
True enough, low-risk investments are the right investment solution for anyone who’s looking to preserve capital and still earn some income.
But if you’re more interested in the income side of an investment, accepting a bit of risk can produce significantly higher returns. And at the same time, these investments will generally be less risky than growth stocks and other high-risk/high-reward investments.
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Determine How Much Risk You’re Willing to Take On
The risk we’re talking about with these high-yield investments is the potential for you to lose money. As is true when investing in any asset, you need to begin by determining how much you’re willing to risk in the pursuit of higher returns.
Chasing “high-yield returns” will make you broke if you don’t have clear financial goals you’re working towards.
I’m going to present a large number of high-yield investments, each with its own degree of risk. The purpose is to help you evaluate the risk/reward potential of these investments when selecting the ones that will be right for you.
If you’re looking for investments that are completely safe, you should favor one or more of the highly liquid, low-yield vehicles covered in Best Low-Risk Investments for 2023. In this article, we’re going to be going for something a little bit different. As such, please note that this is not in any way a blanket recommendation of any particular investment.
Best High-Yield Investments for 2023
Table of Contents
Below is my list of the 18 best high-yield investments for 2023. They’re not ranked or listed in order of importance. That’s because each is a unique investment class that you will need to carefully evaluate for suitability within your own portfolio.
Be sure that any investment you do choose will be likely to provide the return you expect at an acceptable risk level for your own personal risk tolerance.
1. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS)
Let’s start with this one, if only because it’s on just about every list of high-yield investments, especially in the current environment of rising inflation. It may not actually be the best high-yield investment, but it does have its virtues and shouldn’t be overlooked.
Basically, TIPS are securities issued by the U.S. Treasury that are designed to accommodate inflation. They do pay regular interest, though it’s typically lower than the rate paid on ordinary Treasury securities of similar terms. The bonds are available with a minimum investment of $100, in terms of five, 10, and 30 years. And since they’re fully backed by the U.S. government, you are assured of receiving the full principal value if you hold a security until maturity.
But the real benefit—and the primary advantage—of these securities is the inflation principal additions. Each year, the Treasury will add an amount to the bond principal that’s commensurate with changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Fortunately, while the principal will be added when the CPI rises (as it nearly always does), none will be deducted if the index goes negative.
You can purchase TIPS through the U.S. Treasury’s investment portal, Treasury Direct. You can also hold the securities as well as redeem them on the same platform. There are no commissions or fees when buying securities.
On the downside, TIPS are purely a play on inflation since the base rates are fairly low. And while the principal additions will keep you even with inflation, you should know that they are taxable in the year received.
Still, TIPS are an excellent low-risk, high-yield investment during times of rising inflation—like now.
2. I Bonds
If you’re looking for a true low-risk, high-yield investment, look no further than Series I bonds. With the current surge in inflation, these bonds have become incredibly popular, though they are limited.
I bonds are currently paying 6.89%. They can be purchased electronically in denominations as little as $25. However, you are limited to purchasing no more than $10,000 in I bonds per calendar year. Since they are issued by the U.S. Treasury, they’re fully protected by the U.S. government. You can purchase them through the Treasury Department’s investment portal, TreasuryDirect.gov.
“The cash in my savings account is on fire,” groans Scott Lieberman, Founder of Touchdown Money. “Inflation has my money in flames, each month incinerating more and more. To defend against this, I purchased an I bond. When I decide to get my money back, the I bond will have been protected against inflation by being worth more than what I bought it for. I highly recommend getting yourself a super safe Series I bond with money you can stash away for at least one year.”
You may not be able to put your entire bond portfolio into Series I bonds. But just a small investment, at nearly 10%, can increase the overall return on your bond allocation.
3. Corporate Bonds
The average rate of return on a bank savings account is 0.33%. The average rate on a money market account is 0.09%, and 0.25% on a 12-month CD.
Now, there are some banks paying higher rates, but generally only in the 1%-plus range.
If you want higher returns on your fixed income portfolio, and you’re willing to accept a moderate level of risk, you can invest in corporate bonds. Not only do they pay higher rates than banks, but you can lock in those higher rates for many years.
For example, the average current yield on a AAA-rated corporate bond is 4.55%. Now that’s the rate for AAA bonds, which are the highest-rated securities. You can get even higher rates on bonds with lower ratings, which we will cover in the next section.
Corporate bonds sell in face amounts of $1,000, though the price may be higher or lower depending on where interest rates are. If you choose to buy individual corporate bonds, expect to buy them in lots of ten. That means you’ll likely need to invest $10,000 in a single issue. Brokers will typically charge a small per-bond fee on purchase and sale.
An alternative may be to take advantage of corporate bond funds. That will give you an opportunity to invest in a portfolio of bonds for as little as the price of one share of an ETF. And because they are ETFs, they can usually be bought and sold commission free.
You can typically purchase corporate bonds and bond funds through popular stock brokers, like Zacks Trade, TD Ameritrade.
Corporate Bond Risk
Be aware that the value of corporate bonds, particularly those with maturities greater than 10 years, can fall if interest rates rise. Conversely, the value of the bonds can rise if interest rates fall.
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4. High-Yield Bonds
In the previous section we talked about how interest rates on corporate bonds vary based on each bond issue’s rating. A AAA bond, being the safest, has the lowest yield. But a riskier bond, such as one rated BBB, will provide a higher rate of return.
If you’re looking to earn higher interest than you can with investment-grade corporate bonds, you can get those returns with so-called high-yield bonds. Because they have a lower rating, they pay higher interest, sometimes much higher.
The average yield on high-yield bonds is 8.29%. But that’s just an average. The yield on a bond rated B will be higher than one rated BB.
You should also be aware that, in addition to potential market value declines due to rising interest rates, high-yield bonds are more likely to default than investment-grade bonds. That’s why they pay higher interest rates. (They used to call these bonds “junk bonds,” but that kind of description is a marketing disaster.) Because of those twin risks, junk bonds should occupy only a small corner of your fixed-income portfolio.
High Yield Bond Risk
In a rapidly rising interest rate environment, high-yield bonds are more likely to default.
High-yield bonds can be purchased under similar terms and in the same places where you can trade corporate bonds. There are also ETFs that specialize in high-yield bonds and will be a better choice for most investors, since they will include diversification across many different bond issues.
5. Municipal Bonds
Just as corporations and the U.S. Treasury issue bonds, so do state and local governments. These are referred to as municipal bonds. They work much like other bond types, particularly corporates. They can be purchased in similar denominations through online brokers.
The main advantage enjoyed by municipal bonds is their tax-exempt status for federal income tax purposes. And if you purchase a municipal bond issued by your home state, or a municipality within that state, the interest will also be tax-exempt for state income tax purposes.
That makes municipal bonds an excellent source of tax-exempt income in a nonretirement account. (Because retirement accounts are tax-sheltered, it makes little sense to include municipal bonds in those accounts.)
Municipal bond rates are currently hovering just above 3% for AAA-rated bonds. And while that’s an impressive return by itself, it masks an even higher yield.
Because of their tax-exempt status, the effective yield on municipal bonds will be higher than the note rate. For example, if your combined federal and state marginal income tax rates are 25%, the effective yield on a municipal bond paying 3% will be 4%. That gives an effective rate comparable with AAA-rated corporate bonds.
Municipal bonds, like other bonds, are subject to market value fluctuations due to interest rate changes. And while it’s rare, there have been occasional defaults on these bonds.
Like corporate bonds, municipal bonds carry ratings that affect the interest rates they pay. You can investigate bond ratings through sources like Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s, and Fitch.
Fund
Symbol
Type
Current Yield
5 Average Annual Return
Vanguard Inflation-Protected Securities Fund
VIPSX
TIPS
0.06%
3.02%
SPDR® Portfolio Interm Term Corp Bond ETF
SPIB
Corporate
4.38%
1.44%
iShares Interest Rate Hedged High Yield Bond ETF
HYGH
High-Yield
5.19%
2.02%
Invesco VRDO Tax-Free ETF (PVI)
PVI
Municipal
0.53%
0.56%
6. Longer Term Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
This is another investment that falls under the low risk/relatively high return classification. As interest rates have risen in recent months, rates have crept up on certificates of deposit. Unlike just one year ago, CDs now merit consideration.
But the key is to invest in certificates with longer terms.
“Another lower-risk option is to consider a Certificate of Deposit (CD),” advises Lance C. Steiner, CFP at Buckingham Advisors. “Banks, credit unions, and many other financial institutions offer CDs with maturities ranging from 6 months to 60 months. Currently, a 6-month CD may pay between 0.75% and 1.25% where a 24-month CD may pay between 2.20% and 3.00%. We suggest considering a short-term ladder since interest rates are expected to continue rising.” (Stated interest rates for the high-yield savings and CDs were obtained at bankrate.com.)
Most banks offer certificates of deposit with terms as long as five years. Those typically have the highest yields.
But the longer term does involve at least a moderate level of risk. If you invest in a CD for five years that’s currently paying 3%, the risk is that interest rates will continue rising. If they do, you’ll miss out on the higher returns available on newer certificates. But the risk is still low overall since the bank guarantees to repay 100% of your principle upon certificate maturity.
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7. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending
Do you know how banks borrow from you—at 1% interest—then loan the same money to your neighbor at rates sometimes as high as 20%? It’s quite a racket, and a profitable one at that.
But do you also know that you have the same opportunity as a bank? It’s an investing process known as peer-to-peer lending, or P2P for short.
P2P lending essentially eliminates the bank. As an investor, you’ll provide the funds for borrowers on a P2P platform. Most of these loans will be in the form of personal loans for a variety of purposes. But some can also be business loans, medical loans, and for other more specific purposes.
As an investor/lender, you get to keep more of the interest rate return on those loans. You can invest easily through online P2P platforms.
One popular example is Prosper. They offer primarily personal loans in amounts ranging between $2,000 and $40,000. You can invest in small slivers of these loans, referred to as “notes.” Notes can be purchased for as little as $25.
That small denomination will make it possible to diversify your investment across many different loans. You can even choose the loans you will invest in based on borrower credit scores, income, loan terms, and purposes.
Prosper, which has managed $20 billion in P2P loans since 2005, claims a historical average return of 5.7%. That’s a high rate of return on what is essentially a fixed-income investment. But that’s because there exists the possibility of loss due to borrower default.
However, you can minimize the likelihood of default by carefully choosing borrower loan quality. That means focusing on borrowers with higher credit scores, incomes, and more conservative loan purposes (like debt consolidation).
8. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
REITs are an excellent way to participate in real estate investment, and the return it provides, without large amounts of capital or the need to manage properties. They’re publicly traded, closed-end investment funds that can be bought and sold on major stock exchanges. They invest primarily in commercial real estate, like office buildings, retail space, and large apartment complexes.
If you’re planning to invest in a REIT, you should be aware that there are three different types.
“Equity REITs purchase commercial, industrial, or residential real estate properties,” reports Robert R. Johnson, PhD, CFA, CAIA, Professor of Finance, Heider College of Business, Creighton University and co-author of several books, including The Tools and Techniques Of Investment Planning, Strategic Value Investing and Investment Banking for Dummies. “Income is derived primarily from the rental on the properties, as well as from the sale of properties that have increased in value. Mortgage REITs invest in property mortgages. The income is primarily from the interest they earn on the mortgage loans. Hybrid REITs invest both directly in property and in mortgages on properties.”
Johnson also cautions:
“Investors should understand that equity REITs are more like stocks and mortgage REITs are more like bonds. Hybrid REITs are like a mix of stocks and bonds.”
Mortgage REITs, in particular, are an excellent way to earn steady dividend income without being closely tied to the stock market.
Examples of specific REITs are listed in the table below (source: Kiplinger):
REIT
Equity or Mortgage
Property Type
Dividend Yield
12 Month Return
Rexford Industrial Realty
REXR
Industrial warehouse space
2.02%
2.21%
Sun Communities
SUI
Manufactured housing, RVs, resorts, marinas
2.19%
-14.71%
American Tower
AMT
Multi-tenant cell towers
2.13%
-9.00%
Prologis
PLD
Industrial real estate
2.49%
-0.77%
Camden Property Trust
CPT
Apartment complexes
2.77%
-7.74%
Alexandria Real Estate Equities
ARE
Research Properties
3.14%
-23.72%
Digital Realty Trust
DLR
Data centers
3.83%
-17.72%
9. Real Estate Crowdfunding
If you prefer direct investment in a property of your choice, rather than a portfolio, you can invest in real estate crowdfunding. You invest your money, but management of the property will be handled by professionals. With real estate crowdfunding, you can pick out individual properties, or invest in nonpublic REITs that invest in very specific portfolios.
One of the best examples of real estate crowdfunding is Fundrise. That’s because you can invest with as little as $500 or create a customized portfolio with no more than $1,000. Not only does Fundrise charge low fees, but they also have multiple investment options. You can start small in managed investments, and eventually trade up to investing in individual deals.
One thing to be aware of with real estate crowdfunding is that many require accredited investor status. That means being high income, high net worth, or both. If you are an accredited investor, you’ll have many more choices in the real estate crowdfunding space.
If you are not an accredited investor, that doesn’t mean you’ll be prevented from investing in this asset class. Part of the reason why Fundrise is so popular is that they don’t require accredited investor status. There are other real estate crowdfunding platforms that do the same.
Just be careful if you want to invest in real estate through real estate crowdfunding platforms. You will be expected to tie your money up for several years, and early redemption is often not possible. And like most investments, there is the possibility of losing some or all your investment principal.
Low minimum investment – $10
Diversified real estate portfolio
Portfolio Transparency
10. Physical Real Estate
We’ve talked about investing in real estate through REITs and real estate crowdfunding. But you can also invest directly in physical property, including residential property or even commercial.
Owning real estate outright means you have complete control over the investment. And since real estate is a large-dollar investment, the potential returns are also large.
For starters, average annual returns on real estate are impressive. They’re even comparable to stocks. Residential real estate has generated average returns of 10.6%, while commercial property has returned an average of 9.5%.
Next, real estate has the potential to generate income from two directions, from rental income and capital gains. But because of high property values in many markets around the country, it will be difficult to purchase real estate that will produce a positive cash flow, at least in the first few years.
Generally speaking, capital gains are where the richest returns come from. Property purchased today could double or even triple in 20 years, creating a huge windfall. And this will be a long-term capital gain, to get the benefit of a lower tax bite.
Finally, there’s the leverage factor. You can typically purchase an investment property with a 20% down payment. That means you can purchase a $500,000 property with $100,000 out-of-pocket.
By calculating your capital gains on your upfront investment, the returns are truly staggering. If the $500,000 property doubles to $1 million in 20 years, the $500,000 profit generated will produce a 500% gain on your $100,000 investment.
On the negative side, real estate is certainly a very long-term investment. It also comes with high transaction fees, often as high as 10% of the sale price. And not only will it require a large down payment up front, but also substantial investment of time managing the property.
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11. High Dividend Stocks
“The best high-yield investment is dividend stocks,” declares Harry Turner, Founder at The Sovereign Investor. “While there is no guaranteed return with stocks, over the long term stocks have outperformed other investments such as bonds and real estate. Among stocks, dividend-paying stocks have outperformed non-dividend paying stocks by more than 2 percentage points per year on average over the last century. In addition, dividend stocks tend to be less volatile than non-dividend paying stocks, meaning they are less likely to lose value in downturns.”
You can certainly invest in individual stocks that pay high dividends. But a less risky way to do it, and one that will avoid individual stock selection, is to invest through a fund.
One of the most popular is the ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrat ETF (NOBL). It has provided a return of 1.67% in the 12 months ending May 31, and an average of 12.33% per year since the fund began in October 2013. The fund currently has a 1.92% dividend yield.
The so-called Dividend Aristocrats are popular because they represent 60+ S&P 500 companies, with a history of increasing their dividends for at least the past 25 years.
“Dividend Stocks are an excellent way to earn some quality yield on your investments while simultaneously keeping inflation at bay,” advises Lyle Solomon, Principal Attorney at Oak View Law Group, one of the largest law firms in America. “Dividends are usually paid out by well-established and successful companies that no longer need to reinvest all of the profits back into the business.”
It gets better. “These companies and their stocks are safer to invest in owing to their stature, large customer base, and hold over the markets,” adds Solomon. “The best part about dividend stocks is that many of these companies increase dividends year on year.”
The table below shows some popular dividend-paying stocks. Each is a so-called “Dividend Aristocrat”, which means it’s part of the S&P 500 and has increased its dividend in each of at least the past 25 years.
Company
Symbol
Dividend
Dividend Yield
AbbVie
ABBV
$5.64
3.80%
Armcor PLC
AMCR
$0.48
3.81%
Chevron
CVX
$5.68
3.94%
ExxonMobil
XOM
$3.52
4.04%
IBM
IBM
$6.60
5.15%
Realty Income Corp
O
$2.97
4.16%
Walgreen Boots Alliance
WBA
$1.92
4.97%
12. Preferred Stocks
Preferred stocks are a very specific type of dividend stock. Just like common stock, preferred stock represents an interest in a publicly traded company. They’re often thought of as something of a hybrid between stocks and bonds because they contain elements of both.
Though common stocks can pay dividends, they don’t always. Preferred stocks on the other hand, always pay dividends. Those dividends can be either a fixed amount or based on a variable dividend formula. For example, a company can base the dividend payout on a recognized index, like the LIBOR (London Inter-Bank Offered Rate). The percentage of dividend payout will then change as the index rate does.
Preferred stocks have two major advantages over common stock. First, as “preferred” securities, they have a priority on dividend payments. A company is required to pay their preferred shareholders dividends ahead of common stockholders. Second, preferred stocks have higher dividend yields than common stocks in the same company.
You can purchase preferred stock through online brokers, some of which are listed under “Growth Stocks” below.
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Preferred Stock Caveats
The disadvantage of preferred stocks is that they don’t entitle the holder to vote in corporate elections. But some preferred stocks offer a conversion option. You can exchange your preferred shares for a specific number of common stock shares in the company. Since the conversion will likely be exercised when the price of the common shares takes a big jump, there’s the potential for large capital gains—in addition to the higher dividend.
Be aware that preferred stocks can also be callable. That means the company can authorize the repurchase of the stock at its discretion. Most will likely do that at a time when interest rates are falling, and they no longer want to pay a higher dividend on the preferred stock.
Preferred stock may also have a maturity date, which is typically 30–40 years after its original issuance. The company will typically redeem the shares at the original issue price, eliminating the possibility of capital gains.
Not all companies issue preferred stock. If you choose this investment, be sure it’s with a company that’s well-established and has strong financials. You should also pay close attention to the details of the issuance, including and especially any callability provisions, dividend formulas, and maturity dates.
13. Growth Stocks
This sector is likely the highest risk investment on this list. But it also may be the one with the highest yield, at least over the long term. That’s why we’re including it on this list.
Based on the S&P 500 index, stocks have returned an average of 10% per year for the past 50 years. But it is important to realize that’s only an average. The market may rise 40% one year, then fall 20% the next. To be successful with this investment, you must be committed for the long haul, up to and including several decades.
And because of the potential wide swings, growth stocks are not recommended for funds that will be needed within the next few years. In general, growth stocks work best for retirement plans. That’s where they’ll have the necessary decades to build and compound.
Since most of the return on growth stocks is from capital gains, you’ll get the benefit of lower long-term capital gains tax rates, at least with securities held in a taxable account. (The better news is capital gains on investments held in retirement accounts are tax-deferred until retirement.)
You can choose to invest in individual stocks, but that’s a fairly high-maintenance undertaking. A better way may be to simply invest in ETFs tied to popular indexes. For example, ETFs based on the S&P 500 are very popular among investors.
You can purchase growth stocks and growth stock ETFs commission free with brokers like M1 Finance, Zacks Trade, Wealthsimple.
14. Annuities
Annuities are something like creating your own private pension. It’s an investment contract you take with an insurance company, in which you invest a certain amount of money in exchange for a specific income stream. They can be an excellent source of high yields because the return is locked in by the contract.
Annuities come in many different varieties. Two major classifications are immediate and deferred annuities. As the name implies, immediate annuities begin paying an income stream shortly after the contract begins.
Deferred annuities work something like retirement plans. You may deposit a fixed amount of money with the insurance company upfront or make regular installments. In either case, income payments will begin at a specified point in the future.
With deferred annuities, the income earned within the plan is tax-deferred and paid upon withdrawal. But unlike retirement accounts, annuity contributions are not tax-deductible. Investment returns can either be fixed-rate or variable-rate, depending on the specific annuity setup.
While annuities are an excellent idea and concept, the wide variety of plans as well as the many insurance companies and agents offering them, make them a potential minefield. For example, many annuities are riddled with high fees and are subject to limited withdrawal options.
Because they contain so many moving parts, any annuity contracts you plan to enter into should be carefully reviewed. Pay close attention to all the details, including the small ones. It is, after all, a contract, and therefore legally binding. For that reason, you may want to have a potential annuity reviewed by an attorney before finalizing the deal.
15. Alternative Investments
Alternative investments cover a lot of territory. Examples include precious metals, commodities, private equity, art and collectibles, and digital assets. These fall more in the category of high risk/potential high reward, and you should proceed very carefully and with only the smallest slice of your portfolio.
To simplify the process of selecting alternative assets, you can invest through platforms such as Yieldstreet. With a single cash investment, you can invest in multiple alternatives.
“Investors can purchase real estate directly on Yieldstreet, through fractionalized investments in single deals,” offers Milind Mehere, Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Yieldstreet. “Investors can access private equity and private credit at high minimums by investing in a private market fund (think Blackstone or KKR, for instance). On Yieldstreet, they can have access to third-party funds at a fraction of the previously required minimums. Yieldstreet also offers venture capital (fractionalized) exposure directly. Buying a piece of blue-chip art can be expensive, and prohibitive for most investors, which is why Yieldstreet offers fractionalized assets to diversified art portfolios.”
Yieldstreet also provides access to digital asset investments, with the benefit of allocating to established professional funds, such as Pantera or Osprey Fund. The platform does not currently offer commodities but plans to do so in the future.
Access to wide array of alternative asset classes
Access to ultra-wealthy investments
Can invest for income or growth
Learn More Now
Alternative investments largely require thinking out-of-the-box. Some of the best investment opportunities are also the most unusual.
“The price of meat continues to rise, while agriculture remains a recession-proof investment as consumer demand for food is largely inelastic,” reports Chris Rawley, CEO of Harvest Returns, a platform for investing in private agriculture companies. “Consequently, investors are seeing solid returns from high-yield, grass-fed cattle notes.”
16. Interest Bearing Crypto Accounts
Though the primary appeal of investing in cryptocurrency has been the meteoric rises in price, now that the trend seems to be in reverse, the better play may be in interest-bearing crypto accounts. A select group of crypto exchanges pays high interest on your crypto balance.
One example is Gemini. Not only do they provide an opportunity to buy, sell, and store more than 100 cryptocurrencies—plus non-fungible tokens (NFTs)—but they are currently paying 8.05% APY on your crypto balance through Gemini Earn.
In another variation of being able to earn money on crypto, Crypto.com pays rewards of up to 14.5% on crypto held on the platform. That’s the maximum rate, as rewards vary by crypto. For example, rewards on Bitcoin and Ethereum are paid at 6%, while stablecoins can earn 8.5%.
It’s important to be aware that when investing in cryptocurrency, you will not enjoy the benefit of FDIC insurance. That means you can lose money on your investment. But that’s why crypto exchanges pay such high rates of return, whether it’s in the form of interest or rewards.
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17. Crypto Staking
Another way to play cryptocurrency is a process known as crypto staking. This is where the crypto exchange pays you a certain percentage as compensation or rewards for monitoring a specific cryptocurrency. This is not like crypto mining, which brings crypto into existence. Instead, you’ll participate in writing that particular blockchain and monitoring its security.
“Crypto staking is a concept wherein you can buy and lock a cryptocurrency in a protocol, and you will earn rewards for the amount and time you have locked the cryptocurrency,” reports Oak View Law Group’s Lyle Solomon.
“The big downside to staking crypto is the value of cryptocurrencies, in general, is extremely volatile, and the value of your staked crypto may reduce drastically,” Solomon continues, “However, you can stake stable currencies like USDC, which have their value pegged to the U.S. dollar, and would imply you earn staked rewards without a massive decrease in the value of your investment.”
Much like earning interest and rewards on crypto, staking takes place on crypto exchanges. Two exchanges that feature staking include Coinbase and Kraken. These are two of the largest crypto exchanges in the industry, and they provide a wide range of crypto opportunities, in addition to staking.
Invest in Startup Businesses and Companies
Have you ever heard the term “angel investor”? That’s a private investor, usually, a high net worth individual, who provides capital to small businesses, often startups. That capital is in the form of equity. The angel investor invests money in a small business, becomes a part owner of the company, and is entitled to a share of the company’s earnings.
In most cases, the angel investor acts as a silent partner. That means he or she receives dividend distributions on the equity invested but doesn’t actually get involved in the management of the company.
It’s a potentially lucrative investment opportunity because small businesses have a way of becoming big businesses. As they grow, both your equity and your income from the business also grow. And if the business ever goes public, you could be looking at a life-changing windfall!
Easy Ways to Invest in Startup Businesses
Mainvest is a simple, easy way to invest in small businesses. It’s an online investment platform where you can get access to returns as high as 25%, with an investment of just $100. Mainvest offers vetted businesses (the acceptance rate is just 5% of business that apply) for you to invest in.
It collects revenue, which will be paid to you quarterly. And because the minimum required investment is so small, you can invest in several small businesses at the same time. One of the big advantages with Mainvest is that you are not required to be an accredited investor.
Still another opportunity is through Fundrise Innovation Fund. I’ve already covered how Fundrise is an excellent real estate crowdfunding platform. But through their recently launched Innovaton Fund, you’ll have opportunity to invest in high-growth private technology companies. As a fund, you’ll invest in a portfolio of late-stage tech companies, as well as some public equities.
The purpose of the fund is to provide high growth, and the fund is currently offering shares with a net asset value of $10. These are long-term investments, so you should expect to remain invested for at least five years. But you may receive dividends in the meantime.
Like Mainvest, the Fundrise Innovation Fund does not require you to be an accredited investor.
Low minimum investment – $10
Diversified real estate portfolio
Portfolio Transparency
Final Thoughts on High Yield Investing
Notice that I’ve included a mix of investments based on a combination of risk and return. The greater the risk associated with the investment, the higher the stated or expected return will be.
It’s important when choosing any of these investments that you thoroughly assess the risk involved with each, and not focus primarily on return. These are not 100% safe investments, like short-term CDs, short-term Treasury securities, savings accounts, or bank money market accounts.
Because there is risk associated with each, most are not suitable as short-term investments. They make most sense for long-term investment accounts, particularly retirement accounts.
For example, growth stocks—and most stocks, for that matter—should generally be in a retirement account. While there will be years when you will suffer losses in your position, you’ll have enough years to offset those losses between now and retirement.
Also, if you don’t understand any of the above investments, it will be best to avoid making them. And for more complicated investments, like annuities, you should consult with a professional to evaluate the suitability and all the provisions it contains.
FAQ’s on High Yield Investment Options
What investment has the highest yield?
The investment with the highest yield will vary depending on a number of factors, including current market conditions and the amount of risk an investor is willing to take on. Generally speaking, investments with the potential for high yields also come with a higher level of risk, so it’s important for investors to carefully consider their options and choose investments that align with their financial goals and risk tolerance.
Some examples of high-yield investments include:
1. Stocks: Some stocks may offer high dividend yields, which is the annual dividend payment a company makes to its shareholders, expressed as a percentage of the stock’s current market price.
2. Real estate: Investing in real estate, either directly by purchasing property or indirectly through a real estate investment trust (REIT), can potentially generate high returns in the form of rental income and appreciation of the property value.
3. High-yield bonds: High-yield bonds, also known as junk bonds, are bonds that are issued by companies with lower credit ratings and thus offer higher yields to compensate for the added risk.
4. Private lending: Investing in private loans, such as through peer-to-peer lending platforms, can potentially offer high yields, but it also carries a higher level of risk.
5. Commodities: Investing in commodities, such as precious metals or oil, can potentially generate high returns if the prices of those commodities rise. However, the prices of commodities can also be volatile and subject to market fluctuations.
It’s important to note that these are just examples and not recommendations. As with any investment, it’s crucial to carefully research and consider all the potential risks and rewards before making a decision.
Where can I invest my money to get high returns?
There are a number of places you can invest your money to get high returns. One option is to invest in stocks, which typically offer higher returns than other investment options. Another option is to invest in bonds, which are considered a relatively safe investment option.
You could also invest in real estate, which has the potential to provide high returns if done correctly. Finally, you could also invest in commodities, such as gold or silver, which can be a risky investment but can also offer high returns.
What investments can I make a 10% return?
It’s difficult to predict exactly what investments will generate a 10% return, as investment returns can vary depending on a number of factors, including market conditions and the performance of the specific investment. Some investments, such as stocks and real estate, have the potential to generate returns in excess of 10%, but they also come with a higher level of risk. It’s important to remember that past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results, and that all investments carry some degree of risk
Since its inception in June 2017, Zelle’s instant payment service has exploded in popularity. It has established itself as one of the most widely used methods of money transfer in the United States.
Zelle, a digital payment network, is housed under the umbrella of Early Warning Services, LLC (EWS). EWS is a private financial services company jointly owned by some of the largest names in banking. These include Bank of America, Capital One, JPMorgan Chase, PNC Bank, Truist, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo.
How does Zelle work?
Zelle users can quickly send money to other registered Zelle users for free. Anyone can download the Zelle app. However, if your bank or credit union partners with Zelle, you can enroll through your bank’s mobile banking app or website.
To send money via Zelle, all you need is the recipient’s phone number or email address. Once you’ve confirmed the payment, they will receive a text message or email with a link to accept it.
There are currently more than 1,190 banks that use Zelle in the U.S. Below is the full list.
Full Listing of Banks That Use Zelle (A-Z)
Banks Starting With # or A
1st Bank of Sea Isle City
1st Century Bank
1st Colonial Community Bank
1st National Bank
1st Source Bank
1st State Bank
1st Trust Bank
Abington Bank
Academy Bank
ACCESSbank Omaha
ACNB Bank
Adirondack Bank
Advancial
Albany Bank & Trust
Alden State Bank
ALEC
Algonquin State Bank
Alliance Bank
Allied First Bank
Ally Bank
Alma Bank
Alpine Bank
Altamaha Bank and Trust
Amalgamated Bank of Chicago
Amalgamated Bank (NY)
Amarillo National Bank
Ambler Savings Bank
Amegy Bank
Amerant Bank
American Bank
American Bank and Trust
American Bank of Missouri
American Bank, N.A.
American Commercial Bank Trust
American Community Bank NY
American Community Bank Trust
American First National Bank
American Investors Bank
American National Bank & Trust
American National Bank of MN
American National Bank of TX
American Savings Bank
American State Bank and Trust
Ameris Bank
AMG National Trust Bank
Anchor Bank
Anderson Brothers Bank
Andrew Johnson Bank
Anstaff Bank
Apple Creek Banking Company
Arbor Bank
Arizona Bank & Trust
Armed Forces Bank
Armstrong Bank
Arthur State Bank
Arvest Bank
Aspire Banking
Associated Bank N.A.
Astra Bank
Atlantic Capital Bank
Atlantic Union Bank
Banks Starting With B
Banks Starting With C
Banks Starting With D
DL Evans Bank Mobile
Dacotah Bank
Dairy State Bank
Dallas Capital Bank, NA
Dean Bank
Dedham Savings
Desjardins Bank N.A
Dewitt Savings Bank
Dime Community Bank
Discover Bank
Dogwood State Bank
Dollar Bank, FSB
Dominion Bank
Drake Bank
Dubuque Bank & Trust
DuGood
Dundee Bank
Banks Starting With E
Eagle Bank
East West Bank
Eastern Bank
Eastern Colorado Bank
Eastern Michigan Bank
Eclipse Bank
Edmonton State Bank
Elements Financial
Embassy Bank For Lehigh Valley
Embassy National Bank
Empire State Bank
Endeavor Bank
Englewood Bank & Trust
Enterprise Bank
Enterprise Bank & Trust
Enterprise Bank & Trust Co.
Enterprise Bank of SC
Envision Bank
Ephrata National Bank
Equitable Bank
Erie Bank
ESSA BANK & TRUST
Eureka Savings Bank
Exchange Bank
Exchange Bank (CA)
Exchange Bank of NE Missouri
Excite Mobile Banking
Banks Starting With F
Banks Starting With G
Gate City Bank
Gateway First Bank
Generations Bank
Genesis Bank
Geo D. Warthen Bank
Georgia Banking Company
Georgia Community Bank
German American Bank
Gibsland Bank & Trust
Glens Falls National Bank
Glenwood State Bank
Golden Valley Bank
Gorham Savings Bank
Grand Ridge National Bank
GrandSouth Bank
Grandview Bank
Great Plains National Bank
Great Plains State Bank
Greater Community Bank
GreenLeaf Bank
Greenville Savings Bank
Grove Bank
Grove Bank & Trust
Grundy Bank
GTE Financial
Guadalupe Bank
Guaranty Bank
Guaranty Bank – MS
Guaranty Bank & Trust
Guaranty Bank (SFC)
Guardians
Gulf Capital Bank
Guthrie County State Bank
Banks Starting With H
Habib American Bank
Haddon Savings Bank
Hanmi Bank
Hanover Bank
Happy State Bank
Harrison County Bank
Hawthorn Bank
Hearthside Bank
Heartland Bank (NE)
Hendricks County Bank
Heritage Bank (KY)
Heritage Bank MN
Heritage Bank of Commerce
Heritage Bank of Schaumburg
Heritage Community Bank
Heritage Community CreditUnion
Heritage Southeast Bank
Hickory Point Bank and Trust
Highland Bank
Hillcrest Bank
Hilltop Bank
Hinsdale Bank and Trust
Holcomb Bank
Home Bank
Home Federal Bank of TN
Home National Bank
Home Savings Bank
Home State Bank
Home State Bank, IL
Home Trust & Savings Bank
Home-Federal Bank
Homeland Community Bank
HomeStreet Bank
HomeTrust Bank
Horizon Bank
Hoyne Savings Bank
Huntingdon Valley Bank
Huntington Bank
Huntington FSB
Huron Community Bank
Hyperion Bank
Banks Starting With I
Idaho Trust Bank
iGObanking
Illiana Financial
Illinois Bank & Trust
InBank
IncredibleBank
Independence Bank – Montana
Independent Bank
Infinity Bank
INSOUTH Bank
Integrity Bank for Business VA
Interamerican Bank
International Finance Bank
Intracoastal Bank
INTRUST Bank
Investar Bank
Investors Bank
Iowa State Bank
Iowa Trust and Savings Bank
Ireland Bank
Iron Workers Bank
Iroquois Federal Savings
Isabella Bank
Israel Discount Bank of NY
Ixonia Bank
Banks Starting With J
JBT
JCBank
JD Bank
Jefferson Bank
Jersey Shore State Bank
John Marshall Bank
Johnson Financial
Jones Bank
Jonesburg State Bank
Banks Starting With K
Kalamazoo County State Bank
Karnes County National Bank
Katahdin Trust Company
Kearny Bank
KEB Hana Bank USA
Kennebunk Savings Bank
KeyBank
KeySavings Bank
KeysBank
Keystone Bank
Kingston National Bank
Banks Starting With L
Ladysmith Federal
Lafayette State Bank
Lake City Bank
Lake Forest Bank
Lake Shore Savings
Lakeland Bank
Lakeside Bank
Lakeside Bank Chicago
Lamar National Bank
Landmark National Bank
Laona State Bank
LCFB
Lea County State Bank
Lead Bank
Leader Bank
Ledyard National Bank
Lee Bank
Lee Bank Mobile Banking
Legacy National Bank
Legend Bank
Level One Bank
Lexicon Bank
Liberty Bank
Liberty Bank for Savings
Liberty Capital Bank
Liberty National Bank
Liberty National Bank (OH)
Liberty Savings Bank
Libertyville Bank
LifeStore Bank
Lisle Savings Bank
Llano National Bank
Logansport Savings Bank
Lone Star National Bank
Lone Star State Bank of WT
Longview Bank
Longview Bank & Trust
Louisiana National Bank
Lowry State Bank
Loyal Trust Bank
Lubbock National Bank
Lumbee Guaranty Bank
Luther Burbank Savings
Luzerne Bank
Lyons National Bank
Banks Starting With M
M AND P BANK
M C Bank
M&F Bank
M&M Bank
M&T Bank
M1 Bank
MA Bank
Mabrey Bank
Machias Savings Bank
Magnifi Financial
Magnolia State Bank
Magyar Bank
Main Street Bank
Malvern National Bank
Manasquan Bank
Maple Bank
Marblehead Bank
Marion Center Bank
Marquette Bank
Marquette Savings Bank
Mars Bank Mobile Banking
Marthas Vineyard Bank
Maspeth Federal Savings
MCBank
McClain Bank
McHenry Savings Bank
McIntosh County Bank
MCNB Banks
Meade County Bank
Meadows Bank
Mediapolis Savings Bank
MemoryBank
Mercer County State Bank
Merchants & Farmers Bank Green
Merchants Bank
Merchants Bank of Indiana
Merchants National Bank
Meredith Village Savings Bank
Meridian Trust
Merrimack County Savings Bank
Metairie Bank
Metro City Bank
Metropolitan Bank
Metropolitan Commercial Bank
Mi BANK
Mid America Bank
Mid America Bank – Kansas
Mid Penn Bank
Middlefield Bank
Middletown Valley Bank
MidFirst Bank
Midland States Bank
MidSouth Bank
MIDWEST BANK
Midwest Bank – Minnesota
Midwest BankCentre
Midwest Bk
Midwest Community Bank
Midwest Heritage
MidWestOne Bank
Milford Federal
Millennium Bank
Minnesota Bank & Trust
MINNSTAR BANK
Minster Bank
MNB Bank
Monifi
Monona Bank
Monson Savings Bank
Montecito Bank & Trust
Montgomery Bank Mobile Banking
Monticello Banking Company
Morgan Stanley
Mound City Bank
Mountain Valley Bank
Mountain View Bank of Commerce
MPH Bank
Banks Starting With N
Nano Banc
Natbank, N.A.
National Bank of Arizona
National Bank of Blacksburg
National Bank of Indianapolis
National Capital Bank
NBC Oklahoma
NBT Bank
Nebraska State Bank & Trust Co
NebraskaLand Bank
Needham Bank
Neighborhood National Bank
Nokoosa Port Edwards Bank
Nevada State Bank
New Frontier Bank
New Mexico Bank & Trust
New Millennium Bank
New York Community Bank
Newburyport Bank
Newtown Savings Bank
NexTier Bank
NGNB
Nicolet National Bank
Noah Bank
NobleBank & Trust
North Dallas Bank & Trust Co
North Shore Bank, FSB
North Star Bank
North State Bank
Northbrook Bank
Northeast Bank
NorthEast Community Bank
Northern Trust
Northfield Bank
NorthSide Community Bank
Northumberland National Bank
Northwest Bank
Northwest Bank & Trust Co
Northwest Bank (PA)
Northwestern Bank
Northwestern Bank (IA)
Norway Savings Bank
Banks Starting With O
Oak Bank
Oakwood Bank
Oakworth Capital Bank
OCEAN Bank
Ocean Financial
Oconee Federal
Ohio State Bank
Old Dominion National Bank
Old Missouri Bank
Old National Bank
Old Plank Trail Bank
Old Point National Bank
Old Second Bank
OMB
One Florida Bank
OneWest Bank
Open Bank
Opportunity Bank of Montana
Orange Bank & Trust Company
Origin Bank
Osgood State Bank
Ozarks Federal Savings & Loan
Banks Starting With P
Pacific Alliance Bank
Pacific City Bank
Pacific Premier Bank
Pacific West Bank
Park Bank
Park National Bank
Park Ridge Community Bank
Parkway Bank
Partners Bank
Pathfinder Bank
Patterson State Bank
PCB Bank
Peapack-Gladstone Bank
Pegasus Bank
Penn Community Bank
Peoples Bank
Peoples Bank & Trust Co
Peoples Bank (IN & IL)
Peoples Bank (TX)
Peoples Bank (WA)
Peoples Bank IA
Peoples Bank of Alabama
Peoples Bank of East Tennessee
Peoples Bank of Altenburg
Peoples Bank of Graceville
Peoples Bank of Kankakee City
Peoples Bank of Kentucky
Peoples Bank of Paris Texas
Peoples National Bank
Peoples State Bank (WI)
Peoples State Bank Plainview
Peoples State Bank, Hville
Peoples Trust Company
PeoplesBank
Persons Banking Company
Peru Federal Savings Bank
Peshtigo National Bank
Philo Exchange Bank
Phoenixville Federal B&T
Piedmont Federal Savings Bank
Pinnacle Bank
Pinnacle Bank (CA)
Pinnacle Bank (GA)
Pinnacle Bank Texas
Pinnacle Bank Wyoming
Pinnacle Financial Partners
Pioneer Bank
Pioneer Bank (VA)
Pioneer Bank MN
Piscataqua Savings Bank
Pittsfield Cooperative Bank
PlainsCapital Bank
Planters Bank Mobile Banking
Platte Valley Bank NE
Platte Valley Bank WY
Plus International Bank
PNC Bank
Poca Valley Bank
Points West Community Bank
Ponce Bank
Port Washington State Bank
Prairie Community Bank
Preferred Bank
Premier Bank of the South
Premier Valley Bank
PremierBank Wisconsin
Primebank
PrimeSouth Bank
Primis
Progressive Bank
PromiseOne Bank
Prospect Bank
Prosperity Bank
Provident Bank
Provident Bank (CA)
Prudential Bank
PyraMax Bank
Banks Starting With Q
Quad City Bank & Trust
Quail Creek Bank
Quaint Oak Bank
Queenstown Bank
Quontic Bank
Banks Starting With R
R.Bank
Red River Bank
Redstone Bank
Redwood Capital Bank
Regions Bank
Reliabank
Reliance Bank
Reliance Bank (PA)
Renasant Bank
Republic Bank
Republic Bank of Chicago
Rhinebeck Bank
Richwood Bank
Riddell National Bank
Ridgewood Savings Bank
Rio Bank
Rising Bank
River Bank
River City Bank
River City Bank (KY)
Roanoke Rapids Savings Bank
Rochelle Bank
Rockland Savings Bank
Rockland Trust
Rockpoint Bank
Rocky Mountain Bank
Round Top State Bank
Royal Business Bank
RSI Bank
Banks Starting With S
S&T Bank
Sabine State Bank and Trust
Salem Five Cents Savings Bank
San Luis Valley Federal Bank
Sandhills Bank
Sandhills State Bank
Sandy Spring Bank
Sanibel Captiva Community Bank
Santa Cruz County Bank
Santander Bank
Saratoga National
Savings Bank of Walpole
Sawyer Savings Bank
Schaumburg Bank
Schuyler Savings Bank
Scottsdale Community Bank
Seacoast Bank
SECURITY BANK (OK)
Security Bank Laurel NE
Security Federal Bank
Security First Bank
Security National Bank IA
Security National Bank of SD
Security Savings Bank
Security State Bank – Wyoming
Seneca Savings
Settlers Bank
SFC Bank
Shore United Bank
Silicon Valley Bank
Simmons Bank
Skyline National Bank
SmartBank
SNB Bank, N.A.
Solutions Bank
Somerset Savings
South GA Banking Co
South Shore Bank
South Story Bank & Trust
SOUTHERN BANK
Southern Bank and Trust Co
Southern First Bank
Southern Independent Bank
Southern Michigan Bank and Trust
SouthPoint Bank
Southside Bank
SouthStar Bank
SouthState
Southwest Missouri Bank
Southwestern National Bank
SpiritBank
Spratt Savings Bank
Spring Bank
Spring Bank Brookfield WI
Springs Valley Bank & Trust Co
SSB Kenyon
St. Ansgar State Bank
St. Charles Bank
Starion Bank
State Bank Financial
State Bank of Cross Plains
State Bank of Southern Utah
State Bank of the Lakes
Stephenson National B&T
Stockman Bank of Montana
Suffolk Federal
Sullivan Bank
Summit Bank
Summit Community Bank
Sundance State Bank
Sunflower Bank, N.A.
Sunstate Bank
Surrey Bank
Susquehanna Community Bank
Susser Bank
Sutton Bank
Synovus Bank
Banks Starting With T
Tandem
TBK Bank, SSB
TC Federal Bank
TCBT
TD Bank N.A.
Terrabank
Territorial Savings Bank
Texas Bank and Trust Company
Texan Bank NA
Texas Capital Bank
Texas First Bank
Texas National Bank RGV
Texas National- Jacksonville
Texas Regional Bank
Texas Security Bank
The Andover Bank
The Bank
The Bank & Trust ssb
The Bank of Elk River
The Bank of Hemet
The Bank of Missouri
The Bank of New Glarus
The Bank of Princeton
The Bank of Southside VA
The Bank of Tampa
The Bank of Tescott
The Berkshire Bank
The Callaway Bank
The Citizens Bank
The Citizens Bank-Enterprise
The Citizens National bank KS
The Cornerstone Bank
The Dart Bank
The Dime Bank
The Farmers and Merchants Bank
The Farmers Bank
The Farmers Bank of Appomattox
The Federal Savings Bk
The Fidelity Bank (NC)
The First National Bank of LI
The Grant County Bank
The Gratz Bank FKA Linkbank
The Hamler State Bank
The Harbor Bank of Maryland
The Marblehead Bank
The Milford Bank
The MINT National Bank
The National Bank of Texas
The Neffs National Bank
The Peoples Bank
The Peoples Bank-Gambier OH
The Peoples State Bank
The Piedmont Bank
THE SAVINGS BANK
The State Bank
The State Bank Group
The Tri-County Bank
The Union Bank Co.
Think Bank
Third Coast Bank SSB
Thomaston Savings Bank
Thomasville National Bank
TIAA Bank
Timberline Bank
Touchstone Bank
Town and Country Bank
Town Bank
TowneBank
Tradition Capital Bank
Traditions Bank
Tri City National Bank
Troy Bank and Trust
Truist
Trustco Bank
TruStone Financial
TrustTexas Bank
Twin Valley Bank
Banks Starting With U
U.S. Century Bank
UBank
UBank TN
Ulster Savings Bank
Umpqua Bank
Unified Bank
Union Bank & Trust
Union Bank Monticello, AR
Union Bank
Union Savings Bank
Union State Bank
United Bank
United Bank & Trust
United Bank (AR)
United Bank of MI
United Business Bank
United Community Bank
United Community Bank, LA
United Cumberland Bank
United Security Bank
United Fidelity Bank
United Prairie Bank
United Southern Bank
Unity Bank
Unity Bank WI
Unity National Bank
Universal Bank
Universal City Studios
University Bank
Univest Bank and Trust Co.
URSB
U.S. Bank
US Metro Bank
USAA Federal Savings Bank
Banks Starting With V
Valley Bank
Valliance Bank
Varsity
Vectra Bank Colorado
Veritex Community Bank
Village Bank
Village Bank & Trust
Village Bank (VA)
Vinton County National Bank
Virginia National Bank
VisionBank
Banks Starting With W
WaFd Bank
Wallis Bank
Walpole Co-operative Bank
Washington Savings Bank
Washington Savings Bank Lowell
Waterford Bank, N.A.
Wauchula State Bank
Waumandee State Bank
Wayne Bank
Wayne Bank (PA & NY)
WCF Financial Bank
Webster Bank, former SNB sites
Wells Fargo Bank
WEOKIE
WesBanco Bank
West Alabama Bank
West Gate Bank
West Point Bank
West Shore Bank
West Texas National Bank
Western Bank
Western Commerce Bank
Western State Bank (KS)
Western States Bank
Westfield Bank
Westmoreland Federal Savings
WestStar Bank
Wheaton Bank
Willamette Valley Bank
Wilson Bank & Trust
William Penn Bank
Winchester Savings Bank
Windsor Federal Savings
Winnsboro State Bank (WSB)
Winter Hill Bank (WHB)
Winter Park National Bank
Wintrust Bank
Wisconsin Bank & Trust
Wood & Huston Bank
Woodford State Bank
Woodlands Bank
Woodlands National Bank
WoodTrust Bank
Woori America Bank
Wrentham Cooperative Bank
WSFS Bank
Wyoming Bank & Trust
Wyoming Community Bank
Banks Starting With Y
Yakima Federal Savings
Yampa Valley Bank
Banks Starting With Z
Zions Bank
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you receive money from Zelle?
If someone sends you money via Zelle, you’ll receive an email or text about their payment. Once you do, click on the link in the email or text. Then, download the Zelle app in the Apple App Store or Google Play if you haven’t already.
Click, “get started” and enter your email address or phone number, depending on how the funds were sent to you. Select “continue” and find your bank. As soon as you add your billing address on the next screen and click “continue,” you’ll be able to receive the transfer and any other transfers in the future.
What are the pros and cons of Zelle?
Just like any other digital payment provider, Zelle comes with pros and cons you should consider, including:
Pros
No fees to send or receive money
Available to customers at almost 10,000 U.S. banks and credit unions
Quick transfers, often within minutes
Chance to earn interest on money kept in checking and savings accounts connected to Zelle
Convenience of no contactless payments
Cons
Can’t cancel a payment after you send it if the recipient is already signed up with Zelle
Inability to link Zelle to a credit card
May require a smartphone
No chance to maintain a cash balance
Only for U.S. customers
Is there a fee for using Zelle?
Zelle doesn’t charge fees to send or receive money. But it’s a good idea to contact your bank or credit union to find out whether any additional fees may apply.
Is Zelle safe?
Since Zelle was created by banks and uses data encryption, it’s safe in most cases, especially when you compare it to alternative options like Venmo and Cash App. Despite this, Zelle doesn’t offer fraud protection for authorized payments.
This means if you use Zelle to make an online purchase, there’s not much you can do if you never receive the item. To avoid all safety concerns, only use Zelle to pay people you know and trust.
What’s the difference between Zelle, PayPal, and Venmo?
PayPal and Venmo are digital payment providers, which are similar to Zelle. However, unlike Zelle and Venmo, PayPal allows you to send and receive payments internationally. Many online retailers use PayPal as well.
Venmo is unique in that it’s a combination of a digital wallet and social media as you can comment with emojis when you send and receive payments. Zelle is not a digital wallet because you can only use it to transfer money from one account to another. While Zelle is generally free to use, PayPal and Venmo do charge fees in some situations.
Sometimes it can seem like banks always put profits over the people they serve, but several U.S. banks are committed to doing just the opposite.
I found 15 banks that shape their business models around community support and environmental sustainability. Many of them even qualify as B Corporations, which have to abide by legal requirements such as a diverse workforce, sustainable practices, and more.
What’s Ahead:
Overview of the best socially responsible banks
Bank or credit union
Best for
Are they a Certified B Corporation?
Unique feature
National Cooperative Bank
Cooperatives
No
Real estate mortgages for homeowners with low to moderate income
Southern Bancorp
Those who live in rural areas
No
Free financial education center
Amalgamated Bank
Those who support sustainable business
Yes
Donate your spare change with their “Donate the Change” program
Ando Savings
Tracking the effect of your investment
Yes
Auto-save by rounding up debit card purchases
BankPurely
Investing in planting trees
No
One tree is planted for every SavingPurely account opened
Aspiration Bank
Knowing how your spending stacks up to your values
Yes
Investment accounts with fossil fuel-free portfolios
Clearwater Credit Union
Montana small businesses
No
All-in-one banking options
Verity Credit Union
Entrepreneurs in underserved communities
No
Microloans
Virginia Community Capital (VCC)
Real estate entrepreneurs taking on eco-friendly construction projects
Yes
The Revolving Loan Fund that fills financial gaps for investors who can’t afford commercial financing
Central Bank of Kansas City
Tax help and Missouri residents
No
Incentives to invest in economically disadvantaged areas
Carver Federal Savings Bank
Those looking to help support the Black community
No
They donate to local communities
First Green Bank
Those in economically disadvantages areas
No
A loan plan for homeowners who wish to install solar panels
Mascoma Bank
Those living in low-income cities in New England
Yes
Loans for energy-efficient renovations
City First Bank
Those who want to support the development of low-income communities
Yes
Through CDARS, customers can make larger, FDIC-insured deposits
Beneficial State Bank
Those with less than perfect credit
Yes
Underwriters consider factors other than credit score
Best national banks for socially responsible banking
These banks have brick-and-mortar branches, but they’re large enough to have seamless online and mobile account services, as well as multiple resources for customers and borrowers.
National Cooperative Bank
The National Cooperative Bank began as a lender to business cooperatives that meet community needs, including grocery stores, health centers, nonprofits, housing co-ops, credit unions, and more.
Cooperatives remain their main lending focus, but NCB also specializes in real estate, mortgages for homeowners with low or moderate incomes, and loans for solar energy installation. They’ve branched into personal banking as well, and personal or commercial accounts can be opened online from anywhere in the United States.
Like many socially responsible banks, NCB prioritizes investments in renewable energy projects, and they don’t invest in fossil fuels.
Some of their standout features include:
Member of the Global Alliance of Banking on Values (GABV), a worldwide banking network with a commitment to economic and environmental sustainability.
Personal checking and savings accounts come with up to 0.50% Annual Percentage Yield (APY).
Retirement accounts include IRAs, Roth IRAs, and IRA rollovers.
Learn more about the National Cooperative Bank.
Southern Bancorp
Southern Bancorp is a huge organization with banking, lending, community development, and more services under its $1.1 billion-asset umbrella, but don’t let the size fool you — this bank provides big solutions for small communities, with a commitment to expanding opportunity in rural areas.
In addition to the basics like checking, savings, and lending, Southern Bancorp has a robust public policy advocacy division where they work to promote laws that have positive financial impacts on working families. There’s also a free financial education center with credit counseling and tax prep services.
Since Southern Bancorp is headquartered, and specializes in, the Arkansas and Mississippi Delta regions, physical branches are mostly in this region. But customers from anywhere in the U.S. can open personal or business accounts online.
The bank’s leadership demographic reflects the community it serves; the CEO and 50% of the board members are Black.
Their unique features include:
A Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).
Certified B-Corporation or B-Corp — a designation reserved for organizations committed to responsible practices.
Personal checking and savings accounts, including accounts designed for specific financial goals.
Online banking is available anywhere with internet access.
Home, auto, and personal loans.
Learn more about Southern Bancorp.
Amalgamated Bank
Headquartered in New York and Washington D.C., Amalgamated Bank extends online checking and savings account access across the United States. They’re committed to sustainable business practices within their own walls. Employees earn a minimum hourly wage of $20/hour, above the federal minimum, and over 30% of employees are union members. The business strives to be 100% carbon-neutral in its operations.
Amalgamated makes its lending priorities clear from the start. They don’t lend to fossil fuel companies, weapons manufacturers, or private prison operators. Instead, they focus on lending to companies in the solar energy or sustainable food industries. If you invest with Amalgamated, you can opt for a portfolio that’s fossil-fuel-free.
And they’re the first major U.S. bank to endorse HR 40, the bill calling for a national commission to establish reparation payments for Black Americans.
Their standout features include:
Certified B Corp and member of the GABV.
Online personal checking and savings accounts with 0.10%-0.40% APYs.
Restart Checking accounts available for customers with poor credit.
Give-Back savings accounts donate half your interest (0.30% APY) to an organization of your choice.
An optional “Donate the Change” program rounds up your purchases and donates the change to a cause the bank selects.
Over 40,000 free in-network ATMs for customers outside NY and D.C.
Learn more about Amalgamated Bank.
Ando Savings
Ando is another bank that puts the environment front and center. They’ve pledged 100% of their investments to initiatives supporting sustainable practices, like agriculture and public transit.
Investors can track the effect of their own investment dollars in the Ando mobile app’s Impact Center, which traces financial impact across five categories including clean energy, sustainable transportation, and green buildings.
You’ll find the following with Ando:
Spending and savings accounts, as well as a Visa debit card, are available to anyone in the U.S.
Accounts have no fees or minimum balances.
Ando’s Count the Change program helps you “auto-save” by rounding up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and moving the difference from spending to savings.
Learn more about Ando.
Best online banks for socially responsible banking
These banks are fully digital — not only is the all-mobile bank trendy and convenient, but its format also allows the bank to live a little lighter on the earth, with no energy use from physical branches.
BankPurely
BankPurely is the digital arm of NYC-based Flushing Bank, a bank that invests most of its money in community initiatives. As a fully online operation, BankPurely has formal PayItGreen approval for reducing its paper waste and carbon footprint.
They’re currently partnering with Plant-It 2020 to plant indigenous trees in New York State. Ando is one of many socially progressive banks that works with a tree-planting organization, taking a small but important step to counteract climate change.
A few great features include:
Checking, savings, and money market accounts available, with up to 0.25% APY on savings accounts and 0.5% on money market accounts.
CDs are available with 0.55% APY, and Ando will plant a tree for every CD you open.
Learn more about BankPurely.
Aspiration
Aspiration is one of the best-known socially responsible online banks, with multiple account options for the conscious customer. Their “pay what’s fair” fee model for a basic checking account is a rare offering even for the most flexible banks (and yes, paying $0 in fees is an option).
Both the free and fee-based “Aspiration Plus” checking accounts give you a personal impact score to see how your spending stacks up against your values. Accountholders get 3%-10% cash back when they buy anything from Aspiration’s Conscience Coalition partner vendors — an incentive to shop for the greater good.
The bank is currently rolling out a credit card that will reward shoppers who make carbon-friendly financial choices.
Here are a few key features:
Certified B Corp and member of global environmental organization 1% for the Planet.
Aspiration Plus savings accounts ($5.99/month) offer up to 5.00% APY.
Investment accounts available with fossil fuel-free portfolios.
IRA retirement accounts.
As a donor, Aspiration prioritizes funding microloans for low-income recipients.
Learn more about Aspiration or read our full review.
Best regional banks and credit unions for socially responsible banking
Some regional banks offer online accounts to residents elsewhere in the U.S., while others are only open to residents of a certain state or region. Here’s a cross-section of ethical standouts across the country.
Clearwater Credit Union – Montana residents
As Montana’s largest CDFI and a member of Inclusiv, an organization serving residents in low-income communities, Clearwater Credit Union is making its mark nationally but keeping a local focus.
They loan primarily to local businesses and offer a solid selection of financial services to customers.
Here are a couple of great features they offer:
Checking and savings accounts are available.
Health savings accounts (HSAs), traditional IRAs, and Roth IRAs.
Personal, student, and car loans for borrowers.
Learn more about Clearwater Credit Union.
Verity Credit Union – Washington state residents
Verity is active in the local microloan business — one project they’ve funded is the Business Impact Northwest loan program, which gives a financial boost to entrepreneurs in underserved communities.
As an environmentally conscious credit union, they’ve hopped on board the solar installation funding train as well, providing loans to homeowners installing solar panels.
Some especially helpful features include:
Open an account online or through their branch locations.
Accounts can be managed online.
IRAs and 401(k) rollovers are available.
Learn more about Verity Credit Union.
Virginia Community Capital (VCC) – Virginia residents
VCC is the community development arm of VCC Bank, a state bank that’s also a certified B Corp. Food access is a VCC funding priority, and they work with businesses providing healthy, local groceries across the state.
As a real estate funder, VCC has a Clean Energy Financing loan program for entrepreneurs taking on environmentally friendly construction projects.
Some helpful features include:
The Revolving Loan Fund fills financial gaps for investors who can’t afford commercial financing.
Personal savings accounts have low $25 opening deposit minimums.
Checking accounts, CDs, and Roth IRAs are available.
Learn more about VCC.
Central Bank of Kansas City – Missouri residents; online banking for all U.S. residents
Based in Kansas City, Missouri, Central Bank of Kansas City focuses most of its efforts on the local economy. Their lending programs include New Market Tax Credits — incentives to invest in economically disadvantaged areas — and tax credits for developers building low-income housing.
Some exciting features are:
Checking, savings, and money market accounts have fully online options for non-local customers.
Personal accounts earn between 0.05% – 0.15% APY.
Brick-and-mortar banks forMissouri locals.
Learn more about the Central Bank of Kansas City.
Carver Federal Savings Bank – NYC, New England, and Mid-Atlantic residents
Carver Federal Savings Bank was founded in Harlem, NYC, and designed to strengthen Black communities, and the bank’s stayed true to this mission since 1948.
As a CDFI, they focus their donations on local initiatives, and they don’t invest in fossil fuels. Residents of eight states — CT, DE, MA, MD, NY, NJ, RI, and VA, as well as Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, PA — can open accounts with Carver.
Their key features are:
Interest-bearing checking and savings accounts.
A mobile banking app makes Carver accounts easy to access online.
Account fees are waived with minimum monthly balances.
Learn more about Carver Federal Savings Bank.
First Green Bank – Florida residents
First Green Bank is a local leader in “green” investments. They fund commercial and residential projects that meet environmental standards, and community initiatives that support sustainable development in areas like water and agriculture. They have a loan plan specifically for homeowners who want to install solar panels.
Here are some exciting features:
Florida residents have checking and savings account options, including interest-bearing sustainable savings.
HSAs, IRAs, and youth savings accounts are available.
Learn more about First Green Bank.
Mascoma Bank – New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine residents
Mascoma finances projects designed to revitalize low-income communities in Northern New England.
Local residents can take advantage of their suite of financial services, from the basic checking and savings accounts to mortgages and homeowner loans for solar or energy-efficient renovations.
Some key features include:
Three tiers of checking accounts are offered, and two earn interest.
Home equity loans and lines of credit, as well as traditional mortgages.
Emergency flood loans are available to cover storm-related damages.
Learn more about Mascoma Bank.
City First Bank – Washington, D.C. area residents
For individuals, nonprofits, and other businesses in or near Washington, D.C., City First Bank is a CDFI worth checking out. They give 80% of their loan funds to projects in low-income communities, and they’ve financed thousands of affordable housing units in a city where the cost of living is rising quickly. City First has even branched out to finance nonprofits across the Mid-Atlantic.
Some top-of-the-line features include:
Personal checking and savings accounts havecompetitive interest rates.
Customers can make larger, FDIC-insured deposits through CDARS (Certificate of Deposit Registry Service) and money market accounts.
Learn more about City First Bank.
Beneficial State Bank – Oregon, Washington, and California residents
Beneficial State Bank funds renewable energy, affordable housing, and other community projects across the Pacific Northwest. Their nonprofit Beneficial State Foundation is a vocal public policy advocate for progressive change in the banking system.
As a lender, Beneficial uses a nontraditional underwriting model that considers factors other than credit scores. They’re also a trustworthy stop for auto loans if you’re a Pacific Northwest resident with subpar credit.
Here are some of their features:
Checking and savings accounts are fully mobile.
Money market accounts and IRAs are available.
California residents can finance an electric or hybrid vehicle at affordable rates through Beneficial’s Clean Vehicle Assistance program.
Learn more about Beneficial State Bank.
Why choose a socially responsible bank?
A bank or credit union account might seem like a convenience-based choice, not a values-based one. But when you entrust a bank with your money, you’re implicitly supporting the projects the bank funds.
You can make a difference
As a consumer, you have the power to make choices that sway banks’ overall priorities. Banks want your business, and if more customers opt for banks that support community development or environmental causes (or avoid fossil fuel funding that contributes to climate change), the industry will take note that people want socially responsible banking.
It is safer in their hands
Your money’s also in safe hands — just because these banks have a “people over profit” focus doesn’t mean they don’t make a profit.
Along with the standard FDIC insurance protection guarantees, socially responsible banks are just as profitable (if not more so) than their competition, according to research by the GABV.
What makes a bank socially responsible?
The primary barometers of social responsibility for banks are their lending and investment choices.
Read more: Ethical Banking: What You Should Know About Socially Responsible Banks
Charitable donations and community service
Many, if not most, banks advertise their charitable donations and community services, but they may still fund projects that contribute to climate change or displace low-income residents. If you go beyond a bank’s self-promotion materials to their lending practices, you’ll get a sense of the bank’s true priorities.
Transparency about their investment donation
Another indicator of responsibility is the bank’s transparency about their investment and donation choices — ethical banks take their accountability to the public seriously. And many socially responsible institutions are working for economic equity, with programs designed to help low-income residents or borrowers from underserved communities.
Public commitment to social good
Some large national and regional banks have received accolades for public commitments to the social good. The Ethisphere Institute, a think tank that examines corporate responsibility, has rewarded U.S. Bank on their list of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for seven straight years. Though awards from an outside organization don’t necessarily indicate a bank is truly making impactful, ethical choices, they can be a sign the institution is on the right track.
If you’re holding banks to the highest standard, however, you’ll look for certifications that indicate a deeper commitment. Every bank or credit union on this list is either a certified B Corp, a certified CDFI, or a member of the GABV.
Certified B Corporations
B Corporations have a legal obligation to meet certain requirements, including a diverse staff, a well-paid workforce, environmentally sustainable in-house practices, and more.
The B Corp certification needs to be renewed every two years and can be lost if the company changes its practices to focus more on profit than customers.
Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV)
The GABV is a small but impactful network of about 50 worldwide banks. Each bank has pledged to invest in its community, be transparent about its practices, and establish long-term client relationships.
Like B Corps, GABV members have to score well on a regular, detailed assessment of their ethical practices.
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs)
CDFIs may be banks or credit unions, but they earn their U.S. Treasury CDFI certification by financing projects in low- or moderate-income or traditionally underserved communities. This may mean lending to nonprofits, supporting affordable housing, or offering mortgages to aspiring homeowners denied by other lenders.
How to find a socially responsible bank
This list is a start, but there are many, many more banks and credit unions on the local level that have socially responsible goals.
Mighty Deposits is a great site for finding out how banks are spending their money — just type in your bank(s) and/or credit union(s) and find out what percentage of the bank’s funds get invested in community projects.
Mighty Deposits includes detailed spending breakdowns in categories for each bank. You can also search for a bank that doesn’t fund fossil fuels, a CDFI, or a bank owned by Black Americans.
The independent site Better Banking Options is another way to find community-focused banks.
If you want to know more about a bank’s political donations, including any national and local candidates the bank supports, Open Secrets has data on most large banks (and several of the smaller ones, too).
Summary
If you’re thinking about a bank switch, consider a bank that’s dedicated to socially responsible causes. With the variety of checking, savings, and investment features these banks offer, you’re likely to find a spot that meets your needs.
Pre-qualification is usually the first step in the process for student loan applications. After that, you’ll choose from a list of potential lenders. Then, ideally, you’ll select the one with the best rate.
But what if you and your pals could contact a single lender for a loan together? Would they be more inclined to reduce their rate? Introducing Juno: a platform that seeks to harness the power of community.
Juno has created a platform that allows students to band together and leverage their buying power to get the best possible rates on their loans. Juno works with several different lenders to find the best rates for borrowers.
And because they work with multiple lenders, they can offer more flexible repayment options than most traditional organizations. So, if you’re looking for a student loan, we encourage you to check out Juno and see what we can do for you. Juno is a reliable and trustworthy source for student loans, and most Juno student loans reviews are positive.
Check out our Juno review below to learn more!
What’s Ahead:
About Juno Student Loans
Juno was founded in 2018 by two Harvard Business School students shopping for loans to cover their student debt. Their mission is to help reduce the alarming level of student loan debt in the United States. Juno offers competitive rates and terms on its student loans and has various lender options.
Its founders, Nikhil Agarwal and Chris Abkarians, used negotiation strategies to obtain more affordable loans for their education. They decided to create Juno so other students could benefit from their experience.
Working with Lenders
In 2022, Juno held an auction to compel lenders to provide the community with the best prices. They spent hours poring over rate tables and spreadsheets to determine which lenders provided the best rates for most borrowers. It allowed them to get the best possible deals for their members and ensured they got the best terms for new student loans as well as refinancing existing student loans.
Juno charges the chosen lender a pre-determined fixed fee before the start of the agreement. It ensures that Juno will not get tempted by more substantial financial inducements from other companies.
Offering the community the best pricing is the only way for lenders to prevail in the auction. By providing the community with the best possible pricing, Juno can ensure that it remains the preferred choice for student loans.
Saving Students Money
As an authority on student loans, Juno has helped countless students and families save money on borrowing. Juno members have borrowed more than $500 million at reduced rates, making it an ideal go-to source for anyone looking to lower their student loan payments.
With a wide range of options and expert negotiators on staff, Juno is well-equipped to help you get the best possible terms on your student loans.
What Loan Types Does Juno Offer?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the loans you can access.
Undergraduate Loans: These loans are for students enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited institution.
Graduate Loans: These loans are for students enrolled in a graduate or professional program at an accredited institution.
MBA Loans: These loans are for students enrolled in an MBA program at an accredited institution.
Parent Loans: These loans are for parents of dependent students enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited institution.
DACA Loans: These loans are for students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited institution.
Degree Abroad Loans: These loans are for students enrolled in a degree program at an accredited international institution.
Student Loan Refinancing: If you have an existing student loan and have already graduated, you may be able to reduce your rates through refinancing.
Now let’s provide some in-depth Juno student loans reviews.
1. Juno Graduate Loans
As a graduate student, you want to be sure that you’re getting the best possible deal on your student loans. That’s where Juno comes in.
Juno is committed to providing the best possible terms for graduate students with credit scores of 650 or above. In addition, they offer a cash incentive and a price match promise to anyone who can find a better private student loan.
Pros
Free membership
Juno offers the lowest rate guaranteed
No obligation
Cons
Juno doesn’t work with every lender
Verdict
With Juno, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best deal possible on your loan. That’s why they’re the best choice for graduate students looking for a private student loan.
Get a quote for a graduate student loan
2. Juno Undergraduate Loans
Federal Stafford loans are generally the best choice for undergraduates. Still, it’s common for students to need to borrow more than the federal maximum of $5,500 for their first year of school. As an undergraduate student, you may find yourself in need of extra funds to cover the cost of tuition and other associated expenses.
The cost can be even higher for parents helping their children pay for college. Parent PLUS loans, which the federal government offers, have an interest rate of 7.54% for the 2022–2023 school year and a 4.2% origination charge. That can make them quite expensive for borrowers with good credit.
Consider a private loan from Juno if you cannot secure additional funding through federal loans. Juno currently offers a notable rate reduction for student loans, which can help families fill the gap after reaching the national lending limit, saving you money in the long run.
Pros
Low fixed interest rate
No origination fees
Deferment period
Cons
You can’t see what rates you’ll get before signing up
Verdict
Our Juno student loans reviews are overwhelmingly positive for undergraduates. Juno’s undergraduate loans have competitive interest rates and terms that could help you cover most expenses.
Get a quote for an undergraduate student loan
3. Juno MBA Student Loans
If you’re looking to finance your MBA, you may wonder if getting a private loan is worth it. Unfortunately, most MBA graduates enter profitable positions not covered by PSLF or IDR policies after graduation.
So, private student loans can be a great way to finance your education. Juno offers low-interest loans specifically for MBA students, with repayment terms possible starting after graduation.
Pros
No credit checks involved
You can tap into lower rates
Quick sign-up process
Cons
Potentially longer approval process
Verdict
If you’re looking for a low-interest loan to finance your MBA, Juno could be a good option.
Get a quote for an MBA student loan
4. Refinancing a Loan Through Juno
Already taken a loan out? It’s not too late – you can also refinance through Juno. They offer a wide range of services for students and professionals to meet the needs of borrowers.
Here are our Juno student loans reviews for refinancing.
If you are looking to refinance your loan, Juno has a few different partner lenders that can help you. Earnest, Splash Financial, and Laurel Road all offer refinancing with periods ranging from 5 to 15 years.
If you want to refinance medical loans, you will get sent to Laurel Road. However, if you wish to refinance any other loan, Earnest or, Splash is used instead. Juno is an excellent resource for those looking to lower their monthly payments or interest rates on their existing student loans.
Refinancing plans are available for:
General Student Loan Refinancing
Medical Student Loan Refinancing
Parent PLUS Loan Refinancing
MBA Student Loan Refinancing
Get a quote for refinancing a student loan
How Does Juno Compare to Federal Loans?
Juno student loans reviews are slightly different from federal loans. One thing to note is that the government offers federal student loans, while banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions offer private student loans.
Interest Rates
Interest rates are another key difference. With a federal loan, interest rates are set by Congress, while the lender sets private student loan interest rates. As of 2022, the interest rate for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans and Unsubsidized Direct Loans is 4.53-6.54%. For federal Grad PLUS Loans, the interest rate is 7.54%.
Repayment
Federal student loans offer several repayment options, including income-driven and extended repayment plans. On the other hand, private student loans like Juno typically only provide a standard repayment plan, although some others may offer a comprehensive plan.
Protection
Finally, federal loans offer borrower protection. For example, if you become unemployed or have a sudden drop in income, you may be eligible for a deferment or forbearance on your federal student loans.
These options temporarily allow you to stop or make smaller payments than usual. But, unfortunately, there is no such thing as a deferment or forbearance for private student loans – if you can’t make your payments, you’ll likely default.
So Which is Best?
One thing is sure from our Juno student loans reviews: pooling resources can help you secure the lowest loan interest rate guaranteed. Private financing is often considered less flexible than federal support, but Juno is seeking to change this.
FAQs about Juno Student Loans
Is Juno Legit?
Yes – Juno’s track record is impressive. Since its founding in 2018, Juno has already had more than 110,000 members sign up to join one of its negotiation groups, and it has secured over $520 million in loans.
It’s free to use, and you can choose the best option for your needs. So if you’re considering where to get your student loans, check out Juno as a potential option!
Can I get a scholarship from Juno?
Yes, Juno provides a $1,000 essay scholarship. Only citizens of the United States may enter, and a winner gets chosen annually.
Can Juno be used to refinance debts for overseas students?
Yes! Juno launched a program to help international students refinance their student loans this December. It is the first program of its kind.
Does Juno require a good credit score?
No, you don’t need an excellent credit score for a loan — you can get a cosigner to help you get qualified if your credit score is low. A cosigner is usually a parent or other family member who agrees to sign the loan with you (but their score will need to be above 650).
This way, even if your credit score isn’t good, you may still be able to get the loan you need. When requesting refinancing from Juno without a cosigner, a credit score higher than 650 is advisable.
What kind of student loan do most people take out?
The most typical Juno loan is a 10-year loan with a fixed interest rate. However, many parents choose the deferred option, where they don’t make any payments while their children are in school.
But paying a little while in school to receive a lower interest rate is often the wiser choice. For instance, if you pay $25 per month, you may save a lot of money if you take advantage of the autopay discount.
Summary
Saving money as a student by using the force of collective bargaining to get lower interest rates is innovative. We’ve looked at Juno student loans reviews. Many students balk at private financing compared to federal funding – this might be the organization that changes the game.
By pooling borrowers with similar profiles, Juno can negotiate better interest rates with lenders on behalf of its members. And because there’s no cost to use Juno’s services, it doesn’t hurt to try it out and see if you could be qualified for lower interest rates.
So why not give it a shot today?
Get a quote for a graduate student loan refinance or a new private student loan
As housing affordability wanes, mortgage lenders have gotten increasingly creative to help borrowers qualify.
The latest innovative product is “Movement Boost,” a zero-down FHA loan offered by South Carolina-based Movement Mortgage.
Instead of requiring a minimum 3.5% down payment, home buyers can take out a repayable second mortgage that covers those funds and closing costs if needed.
This means a home buyer doesn’t need any cash to close in some cases, which often proves to be a roadblock.
Read on to learn more about the new loan program.
How Movement Boost Works
Movement Boost takes the standard FHA loan and supercharges it by removing the 3.5% down payment requirement.
Instead, borrowers wind up with a first and second mortgage, the latter covering the down payment and up to 1.5% in closing costs if necessary.
The first mortgage is set at 96.5% of the purchase price, with the remaining 3.5% funded via a repayable second lien.
This second lien features a mortgage rate 2% above that of the first mortgage. And the loan term is 10 years.
For example, if you purchased a $300,000 home, you’d take out a first mortgage at $289,500.
You’d typically need $10,500 to make the minimum down payment of 3.5%.
But with Movement Boost, that $10,500 could be financed via a second mortgage. Additionally, you could tack on another 1.5% ($4,500) for closing costs.
Let’s pretend the interest rate on the first mortgage is set at 6.5%. That would make the second mortgage rate 8.5%.
This would result in a monthly payment of $130.18 if the loan amount were $10,500. Or $185.98 if you took out a larger $15,000 loan to cover closing costs also.
While you’d have to make two monthly mortgage payments, the tradeoff would be $10,500 to $15,000 more dollars in your pocket.
Movement Boost Guidelines
Home purchase loan for first-time and repeat buyers
Must be a primary residence
Single-family homes, 2-unit properties, condos, and manufactured homes permitted
Minimum 620 FICO score (640 for manufactured homes)
Maximum DTI ratio of 50%
Can finance down payment and up to 1.5% in closing costs
Available in all states except for New York
As noted, Movement Boost is an option for a home buyer looking to take out an FHA loan who wants/needs help with the down payment and possibly closing costs too.
This means you need to be a home buyer, though both first-timers and repeat buyers are eligible.
Additionally, a minimum 620 FICO is required and the maximum DTI ratio is 50%.
In terms of allowable property types, single-family homes, condos, two-unit properties, and manufactured homes are permitted.
If it’s a manufactured home, you need a minimum FICO score of 640.
In all cases, the property must be your primary residence, the one you intend to live in full time throughout the year.
Those who wish to come in with a larger down payment can also apply gift funds from an acceptable source.
The new product is available nationwide in all states except for New York.
Who Is Movement Boost Designed For?
Simply put, Movement Boost is geared toward the home buyer who lacks a down payment. Or one who doesn’t want to lock up all their cash in a property.
It combines a low-down payment FHA loan with down payment assistance to provide zero down home loan financing.
The program is part of Movement Mortgage’s Grab The Key initiative, which focuses on helping more underserved communities tap into homeownership.
By financing the down payment instead of paying it at closing, borrowers can deploy their money elsewhere. Or continue to build up their reserves while owning a property.
The caveat is that the borrower must qualify for two mortgages instead of one. However, the loan amount on the second mortgage will be comparatively small.
And as seen in our example, may only set the borrower back $100-$200 per month. It also features a shorter payback period, which allows the homeowner to build equity faster.
As always, be sure to compare all available loan options with multiple banks, brokers, lenders, and local credit unions.
Also ask yourself if you’re ready for homeownership if you lack the minimum down payment required.
It’s generally advisable to have several months of reserves set aside so you can continue to make payments if facing some kind of hardship.
Of course, financing the down payment instead of paying it upfront may allow you to set aside those funds.
Lastly, be sure to compare the pros and cons of an FHA loan vs. conventional loan to see which is best for your situation.
One downside to an FHA loan is that the mortgage insurance remains in force for the life of the loan.
Movement Mortgage was a top-30 mortgage lender in 2022, funding about $23 billion during the year.
Read more: Rocket Mortgage Launches a 1% Down Home Loan
Whether you’re new to the state or a longtime resident, Michigan has plenty to offer. There’s also a wide range of financial institutions, from national banks with multiple branches to the small, independent bank that focuses on building community.
If you’re in the market for a new bank account, the options can be overwhelming. Here are some of the best banks in Michigan to help you find a bank that meets all your banking needs.
12 Best Banks in Michigan
Ready to start comparing banks? The below list includes some of the best banks in Michigan that offer checking accounts, savings accounts, and lending products.
1. Chase
With more than 4,700 branches and 15,000+ ATMs nationwide, Chase Bank is a great Michigan bank for those who frequently travel. Although the rates on savings accounts are low, Chase Bank has some impressive checking account options.
For many Michigan customers, Chase Total Checking will be the best deal. There’s a $12 service fee with that account, but it can be waived by either keeping a $1,500 balance, having $500 in direct deposit activity each month, or connecting a Chase savings account and maintaining at least $5,000 in combined balances.
Fees:
$12 monthly service fee (can be waived)
$34 overdraft fee
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance requirements ($1,500 to waive service fee)
ATMs:
Fee-free at 15,000+ Chase bank ATMs nationwide
$3-$5 fee for each out-of-network ATM transaction
Interest on balance:
.01% APY on savings accounts
Up to 3.75% APY on CDs
Additional perks:
$300 bonus for new checking account
Autosave feature helps you quickly build savings
2. Fifth Third Bank
Regional banks are often a great compromise between a large, corporate bank and a small, local bank. Fifth Third Bank is a regional bank with branches in Michigan, Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
You’ll get access to cash while traveling in those areas, as well as expanded access through Fifth Third’s partner ATM network, which has more than 40,000 ATMs nationwide.
Fees:
No monthly service fee
$37 overdraft fee
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance requirements
ATMs:
Fee-free at 2,100+ Fifth Third Bank ATMs
Fee-free at 40,000+ partner ATMs nationwide
$3 for each out-of-network ATM transaction
Interest on balance:
.01% APY on savings accounts
Up to 4.75% APY on CDs
Additional perks:
Extra business day to resolve overdrafts
Early Pay gives you access to direct deposit two days early
3. Chime
Chime is an online bank with a full suite of banking services, including an online savings account that earns 2.00% APY. You’ll need direct deposit to qualify for Chime’s biggest benefits, including early access to your paycheck and SpotMe, a feature that covers you for up to $200 of overdrafts.
There are no monthly maintenance fees, and you can also withdraw money at more than 60,000 ATMs nationwide.
Fees:
No monthly fees
No overdraft fees
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required
ATMs:
Fee-free at 60,000+ MoneyPass, Allpoint, and Visa Plus Alliance ATMs
$2.50 out-of-network ATM transaction fee
Interest on balance:
2.00% APY on savings
Additional perks:
SpotMe covers up to $200 in overdrafts
Access paycheck up to two days early
4. GO2bank
GO2bank is another online banking option with perks designed to compete with traditional banks. As long as you have at least one payroll or government benefits direct deposit monthly, the $5 monthly fee will be waived. You’ll have fee-free access to cash through Allpoint ATMs nationwide, as well as the ability to deposit cash at more than 90,000 retailers across the country.
Fees:
$5 monthly fee (waived with requirements)
$15 overdraft fee after 24 hours in negative balance
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance requirement
ATMs:
Fee-free at 53,000+ Allpoint ATMs nationwide
$3 for each out-of-network ATM withdrawal
Interest on balance:
4.50% APY on savings account
Additional perks:
5. Citizens Bank
Although it’s based in Providence, Rhode Island, Citizens Bank has branches in Michigan, as well as Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, DC.
Checking accounts come with a $9.99 monthly fee, but you can avoid it with at least one deposit a month.
Fees:
$9.99 monthly service fee (waived with requirements)
$35 overdraft fee
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required
ATMs:
Fee-free at 3,200+ Citizens ATMs
$3 for each out-of-network ATM transaction
Interest on balance:
.01% APY on savings accounts
Up to 2.75% APY on CDs
Up to 2.75% APY on money market account
Additional perks:
Citizens Paid Early gives you access to direct deposit two days early
Citizens Peace of Mind helps you avoid overdraft fees
6. Huntington National Bank
Another regional bank with branches in Michigan is Huntington National Bank. You’ll get fee-free ATM access at Huntington ATMs, which are located throughout Michigan, as well as in Ohio, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Customers who have recurring direct deposits coming in will qualify for perks like Standby Cash, which issues a line of credit as you need it. You’ll pay no interest on that loan as long it’s repaid in three months. After three months, the rate is only 1%.
Fees:
No monthly fees
$15 overdraft fee (waived up to $50)
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required
ATMs:
Fee-free at more than 1,700 ATMs
$3.50 for each out-of-network ATM transaction
Interest on balance:
Up to .06% APY on savings accounts
Up to 5.13% APY on CDs
Up to 4.18% APY on money market account
Additional perks:
Standby Cash issues a no-interest loan as you need it
Early Pay gives you access to direct deposit up to two days early
7. Consumers Credit Union
If you live, work, or attend post-secondary school in the lower peninsula area of Michigan, Consumers Credit Union has plenty to offer. There are 26 offices in the area, as well as fee-free ATM access through the nationwide Co-Op Network. Consumers Credit Union has competitive rates on CDs, as well as great home and auto loan options.
Fees:
No monthly maintenance fee
$35 overdraft fee
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
ATMs:
Fee-free at Consumers Credit Union ATMs
Fee-free at 30,000+ Co-Op ATMs nationwide
$3 out-of-network ATM fee
Interest on balance:
Up to .25% APY on savings account
Up to 4.50% on CDs
Up to .50% on money market account
Additional perks:
Competitive rates on home and auto loans
Purchase discounts when using Consumers Credit Union debit card
8. Ally Bank
Online banking can help save you money, as long as you don’t need a local branch. Ally Bank gives you everything you need to manage your money through its website and mobile banking app.
As with many online banks, you’ll get competitive interest rates on deposit and savings accounts, including 0.25% APY on your checking account balance. Ally offers cash access through more than 53,000 Allpoint ATMs nationwide, as well as up to $10 in out-of-network ATM fee reimbursements each statement period.
Fees:
No monthly fees
No overdraft fees
Balance requirements:
No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required
ATMs:
Fee-free at 53,000+ Allpoint ATMs nationwide
Up to $10 in out-of-network ATM fee reimbursements monthly
Interest on balance:
.25% APY on checking accounts
3.85% APY on savings accounts
Up to 4.80% APY on CDs
4.15% APY on money market account
Additional perks:
Robo Portfolios help you invest
Spending Buckets help you budget
9. Flagstar Bank
Although it’s headquartered in Hicksville, New York, Flagstar Bank has a regional headquarters in Troy, Michigan. One of the best things about Flagstar checking accounts is the 0.25% interest rates you’re offered on home and personal loans when your payment comes from your checking account.
Although Flagstar does have a high-yield savings account that offers 2.50% APY, there’s a $35 monthly service fee for balances under $50,000.
Fees:
No monthly maintenance fee
$36 overdraft fee
Balance requirements:
$50 minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required
ATMs:
Fee-free at Flagstar ATMs
Fee-free at 56,000+ Presto! and Allpoint ATMs
$2.50 for each out-of-network ATM withdrawal
Interest on balance:
Up to 2.50% APY on savings account
4.25% on CDs
Additional perks:
Discounts on loans when payments made from your Flagstar checking account
Robust business checking account options
10. Old National Bank
Based in Chicago, Illinois, and Evansville, Indiana, Old National Bank has branches in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kentucky, and Illinois. Currently, you can earn a $300 bonus for a new checking account when you receive at least two direct deposits totaling at least $3,000 and enroll in online or mobile banking.
Old National’s free checking account requires at least $500 in direct deposit activity monthly. You’ll also have to maintain a minimum balance of at least $750 or maintain a $1,500 combined balance in all your Old National accounts. If you’re active-duty military, you can qualify for a free checking account without meeting any requirements.
Fees:
$6.95 monthly service fee (waived with requirements)
$36 overdraft fee (waived up to $25)
Balance requirements:
$50 minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required ($1,500 to waive monthly fees)
ATMs:
Fee-free at Old National ATMs
Fee-free at 53,000+ Allpoint ATMs nationwide
$3 out-of-network ATM fee
Interest on balance:
Up to 4.85% on CDs
Up to 5.00% on money market account
Additional perks:
$300 bonus for new checking account
View all accounts, including those with other banks, in one dashboard
11. Diversified Members Credit Union
Diversified Members Credit Union has expanded over the years and now serves 25,000 members, with branches in Novi, Clawson, and Detroit. You’ll also get online and mobile banking options, as well as access to branches and ATMs through the Co-Op network.
Although DMCU’s checking accounts come with a $10 fee, you can avoid those monthly maintenance fees by enrolling in e-statements and online banking, as well as having at least 15 debit card transactions post each statement period.
Fees:
$10 monthly fee (waived with requirements)
$30 overdraft fee
Balance requirements:
$25 minimum opening deposit
No minimum balance required
ATMs:
Fee-free at DMCU ATMs
Fee-free at 30,000 ATMs nationwide
$2 out-of-network ATM transaction fee
Interest on balance:
.05% APY on checking
Up to .35% APY on savings
Up to 1.15% APY on money markets
Additional perks:
Robust business checking account options
Competitive rates on auto and recreational vehicle loans
12. Comerica
Although it was founded in Detroit in 1849, Comerica is now headquartered in Dallas. But it still has branches in Michigan, as well as Arizona, California, Florida, and Texas.
Comerica’s basic checking package comes with a $13 monthly fee that can be waived by keeping a $1,000 balance or having at least one $250 electronic deposit each month. Full-time students up to age 26 and military members can also request to have the fee waived.
Fees:
$13 monthly fee (waived with requirements)
$34 overdraft fee
Balance requirements:
$50 minimum opening deposit
No minimum balance required ($1,000 to waive service fee)
ATMs:
Fee-free at Comerica ATMs
$2.50 out-of-network ATM transaction fee
Interest on balance:
.01% APY on savings
Up to 5.00% APY on CDs
Up to 4.25% APY on money market account
Additional perks:
Earn up to $500 for referrals
Discounts on home equity lines of credit
Choosing the Best Bank in Michigan
When you’re in the market for a new checking or savings account, it’s important to recognize what’s most important to you. It likely will differ from what someone else finds important. Here are some features to consider when you’re comparing national, regional, and local Michigan banks.
Mobile Banking Features
These days, almost every bank offers mobile banking as a core feature. The best banks let you manage almost everything through either the app or an online web portal. Look for features that will eliminate your reliance on local branches and ATMs, including mobile check deposit and the ability to easily transfer money from your checking account to your online savings account.
That doesn’t mean you can’t choose a bank with branches in Michigan, though. You may like the features that come with a traditional bank account, including the ability to visit a local branch for in-person customer service. If a bank offers easy access to branches and ATMs, mobile banking will still give you the convenience of being able to manage your account when you can’t get to a bank.
Minimum Deposits and Balances
When searching for the best banks, you’ll notice that some come with requirements. Banks and credit unions may charge monthly service fees to access your account, and it can be tempting to go with a bank that advertises free checking. In doing that, though, it’s important to pay attention to the requirements that go with that account.
If you’re on a budget, the best checking accounts have very few fees while also refraining from requiring a minimum daily balance. That means you don’t have to stress about keeping a certain amount in your account. When looking at a bank or credit union, also look for the requirements to open the account. Some banks require a minimum deposit to get started.
Interest Rates
Saving money on fees isn’t the only priority when looking for a bank account. Your balance should earn interest, and the higher the annual percentage yield, the better.
It’s not unusual for a savings account and CD to earn interest, but there are also high-yield checking account options. An interest checking account will probably be a better fit for you if you routinely hold a high balance in your checking account. You can also find high interest rates on savings and CDs with online banks that might offset any out-of-network ATM fees you occasionally pay to access cash.
Michigan Bank Promotions
Whether you’re searching for a community bank or holding out for a great deal with a national bank, always look into any bank promotions currently going on. Typically, bank promos require that you maintain the account for at least a couple of months, as well as complete a fixed number of activities, such as electronic deposits or maintaining a minimum balance.
In some cases, promotions will be for specific product types, such as a business checking account. If you’re in the market for a new business bank account, you may get a better deal by going with a different bank than you use for your personal checking account.
ATM Access
Online banks, local banks, and credit unions will often increase their interest rates on savings and CDs to compete with bigger financial institutions, but there’s a downside. You might not get the cash access you’d find with a national bank. You may find a full selection of ATMs near your house, but when you travel, you’ll have to pay an out-of-network ATM fee to get cash from your bank accounts.
In recent years, though, online banking and credit unions have made this easier. Your credit union may be a part of a national co-op network that expands access to both branches and ATMs nationwide.
Online banks will partner with national ATM networks like AllPoint and MoneyPass to offer account holders cash. If you ever need to deposit cash, your online bank might let you take your debit card to one of many partner locations to add the funds to your app, although this usually comes with a fee.
In some cases, a small or online bank will offer ATM fee reimbursements. These may be limited to a small dollar amount per statement period. This could include a few banks who don’t offer fee-free ATM withdrawals among your options.
Our Methodology
Finding the right bank can be tough, so we took personal preferences into account. Here are some of the features we used to determine the best banks and credit unions in Michigan:
Variety of financial products: Checking and savings are typically the first features you look for in a bank, but there are other things to consider. We focused on banks that offer other accounts, such as money markets and certificates of deposits.
Local vs. online: Preferences can vary, so we chose a variety of account types, including small banks, credit unions, corporate banks with branches in Michigan, and online-only banks.
Interest rates: We noted the interest rates offered by each bank. If you’re hoping to save money, it’s important to get the best rates possible. We tried to include banks that offer an APY that’s above the national average.
Bank requirements: There are often minimums associated with an account, especially if you won’t pay monthly fees. We took a look at those requirements and disclosed them to make it easier for you to quickly identify what you’ll need. Those include the amount you’ll need to deposit to open the account and the minimum balance you’ll need to retain each day.
Other fees: You won’t just face service fees with a new account. If your checking goes into the negative, you’ll likely have to pay an overdraft fee. Some banks have a minimal out-of-network ATM transaction fee that’s in addition to any fees charged by the third-party bank. Check a bank’s fee schedule before signing on to make sure you know exactly what fees you’ll face.
Finding a new bank can be challenging. The good news is, once you’ve found the right fit, you probably won’t have to switch for a while. It’s important to take your time and compare as many banks as possible to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Mastering your checking account is a crucial piece of the personal finance puzzle. In the mix, there’s a tricky bit that often gets missed: the returned check. So, what’s a returned check, and why should you keep an eye out for it? Let’s dive in and break it down.
Defining a Returned Check
A returned check, often synonymous with a “bounced check“, is a check that has not been honored by a financial institution due to a variety of possible issues. Understanding the check clearance process is key to comprehending why checks might be returned.
When you write a check, you are essentially issuing a promise that your financial institution will pay the designated amount to the recipient’s account. If, for any reason, your financial institution refuses to fulfill this promise, the check “bounces” back to the issuer. This refusal often has more to do with the check writer’s account than the check recipient’s account.
Common Reasons Why Checks Are Returned
Understanding why checks are returned can help you avoid this inconvenient and potentially costly scenario. Here are some common causes:
Insufficient funds: A primary cause for returned checks is insufficient funds in the check writer’s account. If your checking account doesn’t have enough money in it to cover the check amount, your bank or credit union will likely return the check. While sometimes this might result from an honest mistake, such as forgetting to account for an automatic payment, it’s always best to double-check your account balance before writing a check.
Post-dated checks: If a check is cashed or deposited before the date written on it, your financial institution may decide not to honor it and return it instead. While this largely depends on your bank’s policies, it’s always safer to avoid issuing post-dated checks.
Stop payment order: A check can be returned if the check writer issues a stop payment order. Essentially, this order instructs the bank not to pay the check. While a stop payment fee might be incurred, this could be a useful step if you believe there might be a problem with the check.
Closed account: A check drawn on a closed bank account will always be returned. If the check writer’s account has been closed for any reason, no payments can be issued from that account.
Signature mismatch: Financial institutions verify the signature on the check with the one on file at the bank. A discrepancy here might lead to a returned check.
Frozen account: An account might be frozen due to legal issues, ongoing fraud investigations, or other such reasons. In such scenarios, the financial institution will not honor checks drawn on the account.
Invalid check details: Clerical errors like an incorrect account number, routing number, or check number could cause a check to be returned.
The Consequences of Having a Check Returned
Beyond the inconvenience and potential embarrassment of having a check returned, there are several serious consequences to consider:
Bank fees for the sender: If you write a check and there aren’t sufficient funds in your checking account to cover it, you’ll likely face a non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee or a returned check fee imposed by your financial institution. These charges vary but can often be substantial.
Bank fees for the recipient: The check recipient’s bank may also charge a bounced check fee if a check is returned. This can create friction between the recipient and the check writer and potentially jeopardize their relationship.
Impact on your credit score: A returned check can lead to a dip in your credit score if not resolved quickly. In some cases, the recipient may report the bad check to credit bureaus, which can negatively affect your creditworthiness.
Legal consequences: Continuous patterns of writing bad checks can potentially result in legal trouble, with laws varying from state to state. Depending on the amount of the check and the laws in your jurisdiction, it could be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Dealing with a Returned Check as the Check Writer
If you’ve inadvertently bounced a check, you should take immediate steps to rectify the situation. The first thing to do is contact your bank or credit union to understand why the check was returned and discuss the fees you might owe, such as the NSF fee or stop payment fee. Your financial institution is a critical partner in resolving these issues, even if the bounced check was due to an honest mistake.
Next, reach out to the check recipient. Open and honest communication can help prevent misunderstanding and maintain trust. Arrange to pay the amount owed, which could involve writing a new check if you now have sufficient funds in your account, or exploring alternative payment methods if necessary.
Dealing with a Returned Check as the Check Recipient
On the receiving end of a bounced check, it’s essential to contact the check writer directly and inform them about the issue. They may not be aware of the situation, and a simple conversation might be all it takes to get the issue resolved.
However, if the check writer doesn’t cooperate or rectify the situation, there are legal measures you can take to recover your funds. Remember to account for any associated fees you might have incurred, like the bounced check fee.
How to Prevent Returned Checks
Having a check returned is a stressful situation that most people would prefer to avoid. By following these practical tips, you can minimize the chances of facing returned checks:
Maintain sufficient funds: Keep track of your account balance and ensure there are enough funds to cover any checks you write. This involves being aware of any pending transactions that may affect your account balance.
Regularly monitor your account: Stay updated with your checking account activity. Most banks and credit unions provide online and mobile banking services that can help you keep an eye on your account balance and transactions.
Use overdraft protection: Overdraft protection services can prevent bounced checks by automatically transferring funds from a linked account to cover the check amount. While there may be associated fees, they are often less than overdraft fees.
Consider alternative payment methods: Given the evolution of digital banking, there are numerous alternative payment methods you can use. These include online transfers, debit cards, and personal loans, all of which offer different benefits and levels of convenience.
The Pros and Cons of Writing Checks
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of writing checks. While checks can be convenient for large transactions, they carry risks such as potential returned check fees and the need to maintain a sufficient balance in your checking account at all times.
Compared to other forms of payments, such as debit cards, electronic transfers, or personal loans, checks require a more active role in personal finance management.
Bottom Line
Understanding the dynamics of a returned check and how to avoid them is crucial for sound personal finance. By ensuring there is enough money in your checking account, actively monitoring your account, and considering alternative payment methods, you can avoid the inconvenience and potential financial and legal troubles associated with returned checks.
Remember that while mistakes can happen, habitual bounced checks can lead to serious consequences. Stay proactive, keep an eye on your account balance, and consider overdraft protection or alternative payment methods. Your personal finance journey is sure to be smoother if you take these precautions.