Which savings account type will earn you the most money in Australia?

August 28, 2024
5
minutes to read
by
Jelina Rosin
Table of Contents

Your business savings account is failing you. It's time to break free from the shackles of low interest rates and hidden fees. Discover how Thriday revolutionises the way businesses save and grow.

With interest rates fluctuating and inflation on the rise, choosing the right savings account is more critical than ever. Don't let your money sit idle while others are maximising their returns. This is your chance to uncover the hidden gems in the Australian banking world and put your savings on the fast track to growth.

What are the available business savings account types in Australia? 

With a plethora of business savings accounts, each with unique features and benefits, you can find one that aligns with your financial goals. Let's delve into the options:

Online business savings accounts

These accounts live online and are accessible through websites or mobile apps, designed for convenient management of your business finances. They typically offer a standard variable interest rate, paid out monthly, regardless of your deposit or withdrawal frequency. It is ideal for businesses that prefer a hands-off approach to saving and need minimal effort to manage their funds.

Just be aware of potential minimum and maximum deposit limits before opening an account.

Bonus interest business savings accounts

Similar to online business savings accounts, but with the added benefit of a bonus interest rate for meeting specific monthly criteria. These criteria can include making a minimum number of deposits, maintaining a minimum balance, or growing your balance compared to the previous month.

However, it's essential to be aware of the specific requirements and consistently meet them to reap the full benefits. Perfect for businesses that can consistently meet the criteria and want to maximise their interest earnings.

High-interest business savings accounts

A favourite among Australians, these accounts offer consistently high interest rates without any strings attached. They provide a safe and stable haven for your savings, allowing them to grow steadily over time.

The appeal of high-interest savings accounts is their simplicity and reliability. You don't need to worry about meeting specific criteria or jumping through hoops to earn a competitive interest rate. However, the interest rates on these accounts can fluctuate, so it's essential to keep an eye on the market and switch providers if necessary to maximise your returns.

Find out more about high-interest accounts and how to use it for your business.

Business term deposits

Unlike the previous options, term deposits lock your business funds in for a fixed period (months to years) at a guaranteed fixed interest rate. The interest rate can vary depending on the term and the amount invested. Still, it's generally higher than regular savings accounts. They typically require a minimum deposit.

Term deposits are ideal for those with a lump sum to invest and are comfortable with limited access to their funds during the term. However, be aware of early withdrawal penalties and consider the potential impact of inflation on your returns over the long term.

By understanding the different types of savings accounts available, you can make an informed decision and choose the one that best suits your financial needs and goals. Remember, your savings have the potential to flourish even in the face of rising costs, and choosing the right savings account is the first step towards securing your financial future.

Now that you have a better understanding of the types of savings accounts available let's explore some of the top contenders in Australia and uncover which one can truly maximise your earnings.

Strategic tips when choosing the perfect business savings account

Align your account with your business needs

Ask yourself:

  • How many transactions does my business typically make each month?
  • Does my business have predictable or fluctuating cash flow?
  • Am I looking to grow my savings aggressively or prioritise liquidity?

For instance, prioritise an account with minimal or no transaction fees if your business deals with high transaction volumes. If your cash flow is unpredictable, an account with an overdraft facility might be beneficial.

Prioritise interest rates and minimise fees

Refrain from settling for mediocre returns. Your business savings should be working for you.

  • Compare interest rates: Research different banks and financial institutions to find the most competitive interest rates. Look for special offers or introductory rates that can boost your initial earnings.
  • Factor in compounding: Consider how often interest is compounded (daily, monthly, annually), as this can significantly impact your overall returns.
  • Mind the fees: Scrutinise account fees, including monthly maintenance fees, transaction fees (for deposits, withdrawals, and transfers), and any other hidden charges.
  • Look for fee-free options: Many business savings accounts offer fee waivers or reductions based on certain conditions (e.g., maintaining a minimum balance).
  • Calculate total costs: Don't just focus on the headline interest rate. Calculate the total cost of the account (interest earned minus fees) to determine your net return.

By prioritising high interest rates and minimising fees, you can ensure that your business savings work harder for you, maximising your financial growth potential.

Leverage account features to your advantage

Modern business savings accounts are packed with features designed to streamline your financial operations and give your business a competitive edge. And who better to lead the charge in innovation than Thriday? This Australian business banking platform is redefining the way businesses manage their finances, offering an array of features that make banking a breeze.

Thriday makes business banking a breeze.

Imagine a centralised dashboard that provides a 360-degree view of your business finances, effortlessly tracking your income, expenses, and cash flow. With Thriday, you can say goodbye to manual bookkeeping and embrace a smarter, more efficient way of managing your money. But the advantages continue beyond there.

Here are some other key features that can supercharge your financial efficiency:

  • Online banking and mobile apps: Look for accounts with robust online banking platforms and intuitive mobile apps. These tools empower you to monitor your balance, view transaction history, make transfers, and manage your finances at your convenience.
  • Integrated accounting software: Some business savings accounts integrate with popular accounting software like Xero or QuickBooks, automating bookkeeping and reconciliation tasks for seamless financial management.
  • Linked business transaction accounts: Choose a provider that allows you to link your business savings account to your transaction account seamlessly. This enables easy fund transfers and better cash flow management.
  • Invoicing and payment solutions: Like Thriday, some business savings accounts offer integrated invoicing and payment solutions, making it easier to bill clients, get paid, and manage your receivables all in one place.

Are you tired of business banking that doesn't work for you? Discover the amazing features that make our clients love Thriday more than any other business bank account.

Explore government incentives

The Australian government offers various incentives and programs to support small businesses, including potential benefits for business savings accounts. Research these programs to see if your business qualifies for higher interest rates or other financial advantages.

Additional considerations for small businesses:

Separate accounts: Maintain distinct accounts for your personal and business finances to ensure accurate bookkeeping and simplify tax preparation. Get started with Thriday today and streamline your finances.

Set clear goals: Establish specific savings goals for your business, whether it's building an emergency fund, saving for future investments, or covering unexpected expenses. Take this quiz and see how much you can save with Thriday.

Automate savings: Set up automatic transfers to your business savings account to ensure consistent contributions and make saving a habit. Discover if Profit First is right for your business.

The bottom line

While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, a high-interest savings account with minimal fees and conditions is generally a safe bet for most savers. A bonus interest account can offer even higher returns if you can consistently meet the criteria. And if you have a lump sum to invest, an introductory interest account can provide a temporary boost.

The key is to take the time to research and compare different options, read the fine print, and choose the account that best aligns with your individual needs and financial goals. You can turn the tide against rising costs with the right savings account and watch your money flourish.

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Thriday customer

DISCLAIMER: Team Thrive Pty Ltd ABN 15 637 676 496 (Thriday) is an authorised representative (No.1297601) of Regional Australia Bank ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL 241167 (Regional Australia Bank). Regional Australia Bank is the issuer of the transaction account and debit card available through Thriday. Any information provided by Thriday is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether Thriday is appropriate for you. Team Thrive No 2 Pty Ltd ABN 26 677 263 606 (Thriday Accounting) is a Registered Tax Agent (No.26262416).

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