Savings options

High-yield savings vs money market account

Both are bank deposit accounts insured by the FDIC up to $250,000. A money market account may add checks or a debit card and need a higher balance. A money market fund is different: it is an investment at a brokerage, not a bank deposit, and is not FDIC-insured.

Two jars and a box

Two insured bank accounts, one look-alike investment

High-yield savings
Bank deposit, FDIC-insured, usually no checks.
Money market account
Bank deposit, FDIC-insured, may include checks or a card.
Money market fund
An investment at a brokerage, not FDIC-insured.

1Where they are the same

Both are deposits at a bank or credit union, insured up to $250,000, with variable rates.

2Where they differ

Money market accounts may let you write checks or use a card, and some need a higher minimum balance to get the best rate.

3The fund trap

A money market fund has a nearly identical name but is an investment. It aims to keep a steady value, but it is not guaranteed or insured.

4Which to pick

Compare APY, fees and minimums. If you rarely spend from it, a high-yield savings account is usually simpler.

How to do it in Oaktally

Whichever account you pick, Oaktally keeps its balance and your savings goal in one place.

  1. Add the accountAdd the savings or money market account with its balance.
  2. Give it a goalIn Plan, add a goal and choose Target date.
  3. Add money each paydayThe ring shows how far along you are.
Get personal early access
Oaktally goal editor: $2,400 getaway goal, $1,540 set aside, target date Apr 27, 2027 shows $150 a month.

Frequently asked questions

Is a money market account FDIC-insured?

Yes, a money market deposit account at an FDIC-insured bank is covered up to $250,000.

Is a money market fund safe?

It is low risk, but it is an investment and can lose value. SIPC covers broker failure, not losses.

Further reading

FDIC: Financial products that are insured ↗SIPC: What SIPC protects ↗

Educational examples, not individual financial advice.

High-yield savings vs money market account: the steps from this guide on one card.

Save this guide

The steps on one card, for later or for Pinterest.

Save to Pinterest