High‑interest savings (HISA)

A savings account offering a higher interest rate than standard accounts, often with promo periods and conditions.

Updated Sep 06, 2025

A high-interest savings account (HISA) is a type of savings account that offers a higher interest rate than a regular savings account. It is designed to help money grow faster while still keeping funds accessible.

Key Features

  • Higher returns: Interest rates are significantly higher than standard savings accounts, though they may vary over time.
  • Accessibility: Funds are still liquid, meaning you can withdraw them when needed, but there may be transaction limits.
  • Low risk: Like regular savings accounts, HISAs are typically insured up to a certain amount.

When to Use

HISAs are ideal for short-term savings goals such as emergency funds, vacation savings, or saving for a down payment. They provide better growth than standard savings without locking money away.

Final Thoughts

A HISA offers a balance between growth and accessibility. It’s a safe way to earn more interest on idle cash, but it’s not meant to replace long-term investments like stocks or bonds.