Free Financial Tool
High-Yield Savings Calculator
See how a HYSA grows with daily compounding and monthly contributions — then compare it to the 0.50% national average.
Configure your HYSA
Compare to Regular Savings
National avg: 0.50% APY
Final Balance (HYSA)
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Principal
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Contributions
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Interest
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vs. Regular Savings (0.50% APY)
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Growth Over Time
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | Deposit | Interest | Balance |
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How the HYSA Calculator Works
This calculator uses the compound interest formula with monthly contributions and daily compounding (n=365) — the standard used by most high-yield savings accounts.
Worked Example
Deposit $10,000 at 4.50% APY, add $500/month for 5 years:
- Total deposited: $10,000 + ($500 × 60) = $40,000
- Final balance at 4.50% APY: ≈ $50,592
- Interest earned: ≈ $10,592
- Same scenario at national avg 0.50% APY: ≈ $40,605 — you'd miss out on ~$9,987
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a high-yield savings account?▾
A high-yield savings account (HYSA) is a federally insured savings account that pays significantly more interest than a traditional savings account. In 2025, top HYSAs pay 4.5–5.5% APY vs. the national average of ~0.50% APY.
How does a HYSA compound interest?▾
Most HYSAs compound interest daily (365 times per year) and credit it monthly. This means your daily balance earns interest each day, which is added to your balance and itself earns interest.
How much can I earn in a high-yield savings account?▾
At 5% APY with $10,000 initial deposit and $500/month for 5 years: ~$50,600 total ($40,000 principal + $10,600 interest). The national average at 0.50% APY would yield only ~$41,200.
Are HYSAs safe?▾
Yes. HYSAs at FDIC-insured banks are federally insured up to $250,000 per depositor. HYSAs at NCUA-insured credit unions have the same protection.
Should I use a HYSA or a CD?▾
HYSAs offer flexibility — you can withdraw anytime. CDs lock your money for a term but may offer higher rates. Use a HYSA for emergency funds and money you may need. Use a CD for funds you won't touch for 6–24 months.
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Example Scenarios — See the Real Numbers