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ALSO CONSIDER: Best high-interest savings accounts | Best online savings accounts | Best high-interest TFSAs | Best high-interest registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs)
Savings accounts help your money grow. The best savings accounts have high annual percentage yields, or APYs. The higher the APY, the more money you’ll earn over time.
- The best HISAs in Canada
- The best TFSA HISAs in Canada
- The best RRSP HISAs in Canada
- Summary of our selections
- Top options from Canada’s Big Six
- Honourable mentions
- Things to know about savings accounts
HSBC Canadian Dollar High Rates Savings Account
Make your money work harder for you. Enjoy a total annual interest rate of up to 6.35% on new deposits from October 16, 2023 to January 12, 2024. Rates are subject to change without notice. Terms & conditions apply.
The best HISAs in Canada
Simplii Financial™ High Interest Savings Account
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Interest Rate6.00%New Client Offer: Earn 6.00% interest for 5 months on your first Simplii Financial High Interest Savings Account. Limits apply.Promotional rate
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- Simplii’s no-fee HISA gives account holders access to CIBC ATMs in Canada.
- Simplii Financial is an online bank owned by CIBC that offers savings and chequing accounts, credit cards, mortgages, loans, lines of credit, registered plans, GICs, and mutual fund accounts. Read our review of Simplii Financial for more information.
- 0.40% standard interest rate.
- No monthly fee.
- Manage your money through online banking and a mobile app.
- Easily set up automatic deposits.
- HISA account holders can open a no-fee chequing account to access money from any CIBC ATM in Canada without a fee.
- No transaction or service fees.
- No minimum balance.
- Immediate access to your money through withdrawals, Interac e-Transfer, transfers to linked accounts, and more.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
Scotiabank MomentumPLUS Savings Account
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Interest RateUp to 5.60%*With the MomentumPLUS Savings Account, you can earn a savings rate of up to 5.60%* for 3 months: Regular Interest Rate + Premium Period Interest Rate + Ultimate Interest Rate Boost + Welcome Bonus Interest Rate.Promotional Rate
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- The MomentumPLUS Savings Account offers a higher interest rate on long-term savings for multiple goals in one account.
- Founded in Halifax in 1832, Scotiabank is one of Canada’s oldest and largest banks, a more or less permanent member of the country’s Big Six financial institutions. Read our review of Scotiabank for more information.
- Earn a savings rate of up to 5.60%* interest for a limited time.
- The longer you save, the higher your interest rate. Plus, save for multiple goals in one account.
- Free unlimited transfers between Scotiabank accounts via self-service.
- No monthly account fees or minimum balance required.
- Choose the timeline and track as you earn.
- Eligible for CDIC Insurance.
- Terms and Conditions Apply. Click ‘Apply Now’ for complete details.
CIBC eAdvantage® Savings Account
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Interest RateUp to 5.60%Clients opening their first CIBC eAdvantage® Savings Account will earn bonus interest for 120 days (up to a balance limit of $1,000,000), in addition to the 1.90% regular interest rate and 0.50% Smart Interest when you save at least $200 per month (up to a balance limit of $200,000).Promotional rate
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- CIBC’s eAdvantage® Savings Account can earn a healthy regular interest rate of up to 1.90%, which can be boosted to 5.60% through bonus interest and Smart Interest, which rewards you for saving at least $200 per month.
- CIBC is a full-service multinational financial institution and one of the Big Six banks in Canada. Read our review for more details.
- Regular interest rate: 0.65% to 1.90% earned on all balances.
- Earn up to 5.60%.
- 0.50% Smart Interest when you save at least $200 a month (up to a balance limit of $200,000).
- 3.20% bonus interest rate for the first four months when you open your first account (up to a balance limit of $1,000,000).
- Set up automatic transfers with AutoSave so you can grow your savings without even thinking about it.
- Free online transfers between your accounts.
- No monthly fee.
- $5 fee for transactions, including debit purchases, CIBC withdrawals (including CIBC ATM), Interac e-Transfer transactions, cheques, pre-authorized payments, and bill payment.
- Bank when, where and how you want with CIBC Online Banking® and the award-winning CIBC Mobile Banking® App.
- Access to nearly 4,000 ATMs across Canada.
- Use your mobile device to deposit personal or business cheques.
- CIBC Smart Balance Alert™ gives you a heads-up when your account is short on funds. That gives you time to make a transfer and avoid a non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee and a declined payment.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
- To be eligible, you must be a Canadian resident who is the age of majority in your province or territory. If you’re under the age of majority, apply by visiting a CIBC Banking Centre.
Tangerine Savings Account
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Interest Rate6.00%To earn 6.00% interest for 5 months, you must become a new client online by November 30, 2023, using the promo code EARNMORE and open your first eligible Chequing Account and Savings Account (including TFSAs, RSPs, RIFs and US$ Savings Accounts) within 30 days.Promotional rate
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Bonus OfferUp to $400To earn the $400 Bonus, Open your first Savings Account and Chequing Account within 30 days of becoming a Client. Activate your Client Card and start earning your Bonus. Use your Client Card for online purchases and online bill payments to earn 20% cash back on Eligible Transactions for 60 days.
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Monthly Fee$0
- Tangerine’s promotional interest rate will earn you a high rate of return for five months. Pair it with the virtual bank’s no-fee chequing account, credit card, registered accounts or a GIC to maximize your financial goals.
- Tangerine is a subsidiary of Scotiabank and offers chequing and savings accounts, GICS, registered accounts, credit cards, mortgages, loans and investment products. Read our review of Tangerine for more information.
- To earn 6.00% interest for 5 months, you must become a new client online by November 30, 2023, using the promo code EARNMORE and open your first eligible Chequing Account and Savings Account (including TFSAs, RSPs, RIFs and US$ Savings Accounts) within 30 days.
- To earn the $400 Bonus, Open your first Savings Account and Chequing Account within 30 days of becoming a Client. Activate your Client Card and start earning your Bonus. Use your Client Card for online purchases and online bill payments to earn 20% cash back on Eligible Transactions for 60 days. Full promotional offer details are listed online.
- 0.80% regular interest rate.
- No monthly fee.
- Automated savings program available.
- Unlimited free self-serve transactions per month.
- Service fees are limited to a $45 charge for non-sufficient funds.
- No minimum balance.
- Immediate access to your money through withdrawals, transfers to linked accounts, and more.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
RBC High Interest eSavings Account
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Interest Rate5.50%Earn 5.50% interest for 3 Months when you open your first RBC High Interest eSavings account. Offer expires December 22, 2023.Promotional rate
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- RBC High Interest eSavings Account offers a competitive interest rate on your deposit with no minimum requirements with free instant e-transfers to your other accounts at any time.
- Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) is one of Canada’s Big Six banks providing banking, investment, and lending solutions to individuals and businesses since 1869. Read our review of RBC for more information.
- Earn high interest on every dollar.
- Free electronic self-service transfers 24/7 with no delay – Including ATM and unassisted telephone fund transfers, from this account to any other RBC Royal Bank personal deposit account in your name.
- Free access to RBC Online, Mobile, and Telephone Banking.
- No minimum deposit requirements.
- The ability to set up a regular, automatic savings plan by arranging pre-authorized transfers from a bank account to your savings account.
- Know what your money is up to with a digital service that can help capture all of your savings and investments in one place.
- Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) provides deposit insurance against the loss of eligible deposits in the event of failure.
Manulife Bank Advantage Account
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Interest Rate5.25%The 5.25% promotional rate is for new deposits to a new personal, non-registered Advantage account. The promotional interest rate is made up of the regular posted annual variable interest rate of 2.85% and the variable annual promotional rate of 2.40%.
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- The no-fee Advantage account offers high-interest savings and a generous promotional rate for new investors.
- Manulife Bank has provided Canadians with branchless banking since 1993. Services include chequing and savings, credit cards, mortgages, loans, and investment accounts.
- Interest is calculated daily and paid monthly.
- No monthly fee.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- There are no fees to open an account, make deposits, or withdraw funds.
- RRSPs, TFSAs and RRIFs are also available.
- Deposits and withdrawals are free.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
KOHO Spending and Savings Account
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Interest RateUp to 5.00%Interest Rate varies by selected subscription plan. Easy Plan: 3%, Essential Plan: 5%, Extra Plan: 5%, Everything Plan: 5%.No minimum balance required
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Bonus Offer30-day free trialAll KOHO subscription plans come with a free 30 day trial.
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Monthly Fee$0-$19Monthly Fee varies by selected subscription plan. Easy Plan: $0, Essential Plan: $4, Extra Plan: $9, Everything Plan: $19.
- This hybrid chequing-savings account earns up to 5.00% interest on savings and up to 2.00% cash back on purchases depending on the subscription plan selected.
- KOHO is a virtual bank that also offers cash back prepaid Mastercards cards
- Interest Rate varies by selected subscription plan. Easy Plan: 3%, Essential Plan: 5%, Extra Plan: 5%, Everything Plan: 5%.
- Monthly Fee varies by selected subscription plan. Easy Plan: $0, Essential Plan: $4, Extra Plan: $9, Everything Plan: $19.
- The account comes with the KOHO prepaid Mastercard that earns up to 2% instant cash back on spending (depending on the selected subscription plan).
- The mobile app comes with spending pattern analysis, budgeting, automated savings and a RoundUp! feature that helps you save money on every purchase.
- Free and unlimited transactions, including e-Transfers and domestic ATM withdrawals.
- No transaction or service fees.
- No minimum balance.
- Immediate access to your money through free withdrawals, e-Transfers, and more.
- Eligible for up to $100k CDIC deposit insurance.
Motive Savvy Savings Account
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Interest Rate4.10%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- Earn interest at a competitive rate on this no-fee and no-minimum balance HISA.
- Motive Financial is an online division of Canadian Western Bank and offers chequing and savings accounts, registered plans and GICs.
- 4.10% interest for balances under $5,000,000, and 0.50% interest for balances $5,000,000.01 and over.
- Interest is calculated on the daily closing balance at the applicable rate tier and paid on the last day of the month, for the period beginning on the last day of the previous month and ending on the second last day of the month.
- No monthly fee.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Unlimited transfers between accounts.
- Free deposits.
- Withdrawals can be deposited into a Motive Savings or Motive Chequing account, a no-fee chequing account that earns interest.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- 2 free transactions per month.
- Service fees are listed online.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
- Motive Financial products are not available to Québec residents.
The best TFSA HISAs in Canada
Tangerine Tax-Free Savings Account
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Interest Rate6.00%To earn 6.00% interest for 5 months, you must become a new client online by November 30, 2023, using the promo code EARNMORE and open your first eligible Chequing Account and Savings Account (including TFSAs, RSPs, RIFs and US$ Savings Accounts) within 30 days.Promotional rate
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Bonus OfferUp to $400To earn the $400 Bonus, Open your first Savings Account and Chequing Account within 30 days of becoming a Client. Activate your Client Card and start earning your Bonus. Use your Client Card for online purchases and online bill payments to earn 20% cash back on Eligible Transactions for 60 days.
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Monthly Fee$0
- This flexible, no-fee TFSA comes with a generous promotional offer that will earn you cash and a high rate of return for five months.
- Tangerine is a subsidiary of Scotiabank and offers chequing and savings accounts, GICS, registered accounts, credit cards, mortgages, loans and investment products. Read our review of Tangerine for more information.
- To earn 6.00% and get a $400 cash Bonus:
- To earn 6.00% interest for 5 months, you must become a new client online by November 30, 2023, using the promo code EARNMORE and open your first eligible Chequing Account and Savings Account (including TFSAs, RSPs, RIFs and US$ Savings Accounts) within 30 days.
- To earn the $400 Bonus, Open your first Savings Account and Chequing Account within 30 days of becoming a Client. Activate your Client Card and start earning your Bonus. Use your Client Card for online purchases and online bill payments to earn 20% cash back on Eligible Transactions for 60 days. Full promotional offer details are listed online.
- 0.80% regular interest rate.
- No monthly fee.
- Automated savings program available.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other Tangerine TFSA investment options include Tax-Free GICs, available in 90-day to 5-year terms, and investment accounts and portfolios.
- Service fees are listed online.
- Deposits and withdrawals are free.
- $50 fee to transfer your TFSA to another bank (transferring in another TFSA is free).
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
Motive Financial TFSA Savings Account
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Interest Rate4.10%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- Earn interest at a competitive rate on this no-fee and no-minimum balance high-interest TFSA.
- Motive Financial is an online division of Canadian Western Bank and offers chequing and savings accounts, registered plans and GICs.
- 4.10% variable interest rate. Interest is calculated on the daily closing balance at the applicable rate tier and paid on the last day of the month, for the period beginning on the last day of the previous month and ending on the second last day of the month.
- No monthly fee.
- Withdrawals can be deposited into a Motive Savings or Motive Chequing account, a no-fee chequing account that earns 0.15% interest.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other TFSA investment options include the Motive® TFSA GIC, available in one to 10-year terms.
- Service fees are listed online.
- Free TFSA withdrawals and deposits.
- $50 fee to transfer your TFSA to another bank (transferring in another TFSA is free).
- $50 fee to close the account within one year of opening.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
- Motive Financial products are not available to Québec residents.
Steinbach Credit Union TFSA Variable Savings
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Interest Rate4.05%
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- SCU’s TFSA Variable Savings offers a flexible way to save and earn tax-free interest for your short- or long-term goals.
- Steinbach Credit Union, or SCU is one of Manitoba’s largest credit unions offering personal and business solutions online, by phone and in person.
- Offers a competitive, variable interest rate.
- No introductory rate to expire after a few months — Steinbach Credit Union offers high-interest rates right from dollar one.
- Interest is calculated on your minimum monthly balance and paid annually on December 31st.
- Automate your contributions to your TFSA monthly so you can save without even thinking about it. Make sure you’re within your annual contribution limits.
- Deposits can be added to your savings at any time without paying a fee.
- All deposits are guaranteed 100% by the Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba.
Canadian Tire Tax Free® High Interest Savings Account
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Interest Rate3.70%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This online-only high-interest TFSA features all the benefits of Canadian Tire’s ‘Money Magnet’ HISA, with tax-free advantages.
- Canadian Tire Bank (CTB) is a federally chartered virtual bank that operates the Triangle Rewards Program and offers credit cards, savings accounts, and GICs.
- 3.70% variable interest rate. Interest is calculated daily, based on the closing balance of the account, and paid monthly.
- No monthly fee.
- Automatic savings plan available.
- Manage your money by phone or through online banking.
- Other Canadian Tire TFSA investment options include Tax-Free GICs, available in one to five-year terms.
- Service fees are listed online.
- Deposits and withdrawals are free.
- $50 fee to transfer your TFSA to another bank (transferring in another TFSA is free).
- No minimum balance.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
- This account is not available to Québec residents.
Hubert Financial High Interest Tax-free Savings Account
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Interest Rate3.65%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This high-interest and no-fee TFSA gives you access to term deposits and VirtualWealth online investment accounts.
- Hubert Financial is the online division of Sunova Credit Union and offers a high-interest savings account, term deposits, registered plans, a credit card and VirtualWealth investing.
- 3.65% variable interest rate. Interest is calculated daily, paid monthly.
- No monthly fee.
- To open this account, you must become a member of Sunova Credit Union, which requires a $5 share. Your share is considered an investment and is fully refundable should you cancel your membership.
- Use this TFSA to save $1,000 and open a higher rate tax-free one-year term deposit that is redeemable quarterly.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other Hubert TFSA investment options include TFSA term deposits, available in one-year quarterly redeemable terms to five-year non-redeemable terms, and VirtualWealth online investment accounts.
- No transaction or service fees, except for wire transfers and a $25 fee for accounts that are inactive for six months with a balance under $1,000.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba deposit insurance.
- Hubert Financial is not available to Québec residents.Hubert’s Happy Savings TFSA HISA
Ideal Savings TFSA
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Interest Rate3.65%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- Ideal savings is a high-interest savings account with no maintenance fee account and a 100% deposit guaranteed.
- Ideal Savings is an online division of Carpathia Credit Union Limited and offers high-interest savings, a U.S. dollar savings account, GICs and tax-free savings accounts.
- There’s no minimum balance required to start earning with this account.
- Interest will be calculated on the closing daily balance and paid out at the end of each month.
- Keep track of your funds through online banking and maintain peace of mind.
- 24/7 accessibility helps you withdraw your funds without penalty at any time or pay your bills online.
- Three free Automatic Fund Transfers (AFT) per month
- No monthly maintenance fee on the account makes it a smart choice for everyday savings and a resourceful place to park funds you’re saving for the short term while contemplating your next move.
- All funds on deposit with Ideal Savings are guaranteed without limit by the Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba.
WealthONE Tax-Free Savings Account
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Interest Rate3.65%$1,000 opening deposit required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- Use this no-fee TFSA to earn tax-free interest in an easy, flexible way.
- WealthONE Bank of Canada is a Canadian Schedule 1 bank that serves all Canadians including the newcomers. It has two offices in Toronto and Vancouver and offers online banking, a mobile app and competitive interest rates.
- No monthly fee.
- Automated savings program available. Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other Wealth One TFSA investment options include guaranteed investment certificates, available in 6-month to 5-year terms, and investment accounts and portfolios through Smart Money Invest.
- Service fees are listed online.
- Deposits and withdrawals are free.
- $50 fee to transfer your TFSA to another bank (transferring in another TFSA is free).
- $100 fee to close your TFSA account.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
The best RRSP HISAs in Canada
Tangerine RSP Savings Account
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Interest Rate6.00%To earn 6.00% interest for 5 months, you must become a new client online by November 30, 2023, using the promo code EARNMORE and open your first eligible Chequing Account and Savings Account (including TFSAs, RSPs, RIFs and US$ Savings Accounts) within 30 days. Regular interest rate: 0.80%, no minimum balance.Promotional rate
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Bonus OfferUp to $400To earn the $400 Bonus, Open your first Savings Account and Chequing Account within 30 days of becoming a Client. Activate your Client Card and start earning your Bonus. Use your Client Card for online purchases and online bill payments to earn 20% cash back on Eligible Transactions for 60 days.
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Monthly Fee$0
- This flexible, no-fee RRSP comes with a generous promotional offer that will earn you cash and a high rate of return for five months.
- Tangerine is a subsidiary of Scotiabank and offers chequing and savings accounts, GICS, registered accounts, credit cards, mortgages, loans and investment products. Read our review of Tangerine for more information.
- No monthly fee.
- Automated savings program available.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other Tangerine RSP investment options include RSP GICs, available in 90-day to 5-year terms, and investment accounts and portfolios.
- Service fees are listed online.
- Deposits and withdrawals are free.
- $50 fee to transfer your RRSP to another bank (transferring another in is free).
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
Steinbach Credit Union RRSP Variable Savings
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Interest Rate3.90%For balances for $100,000 or less.
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This RRSP variable savings account earns a healthy regular interest rate on your daily minimum balance while reducing your taxable income.
- Steinbach Credit Union, or SCU is one of Manitoba’s largest credit unions offering personal and business solutions online, by phone and in person.
- Offers a competitive, variable interest rate.
- No introductory rates that expire after a few months — Steinbach Credit Union offers high-interest rates right from dollar one.
- Interest is calculated on your minimum monthly balance and paid annually on December 31st.
- Manage your accounts on the go with free access to online banking and our mobile app anytime, anywhere.
- Automate your contributions by setting up a monthly preauthorized debit to your RRSP so you can save without even thinking about it.
- Deposits can be added to your savings at any time without paying a fee.
- All deposits are guaranteed 100% by the Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba.
Outlook Financial RRSP High-Interest Savings Account
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Interest Rate3.60%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This easy-to-use high-interest RRSP savings account offers a competitive interest rate and flexible options for new savers.
- Outlook Financial is an online division of Assiniboine Credit Union and offers savings accounts, GICS, TFSAs, Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs).
- 3.60% variable interest rate. Interest is calculated daily and paid back monthly.
- No monthly fee.
- To open this account, you must agree to become a member of Assiniboine Credit Union membership, which requires a $5 share. Your share is considered an investment and is fully refundable should you decide to cancel your membership.
- Manage your money by phone or through online banking.
- Start saving to reach the $1,000 minimum needed to invest in an RRSP Fixed GIC, which may earn higher rates.
- Other Outlook Financial RRSP investment options include spousal RRSPs and guaranteed investment certificates, available in one to five-year terms.
- TFSAs and RRIFs are also available.
- Service fees are listed online.
- $50 fee to transfer your RRSP to another bank (transferring in another RRSP is free).
- $15 fee to close the account within three months of opening.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba deposit insurance.
Achieva Financial RRSP Savings Account
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Interest Rate3.60%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This online-only high-interest RRSP features a competitive rate and the ability to set up spousal RRSPs.
- AcceleRate Financial is an online division of Manitoba’s Access Credit Union and offers savings accounts, GICs, TFSAs, Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs).
- 3.60% variable interest rate. Interest is calculated on the daily closing balance and added to the principal on the last day of each month.
- No monthly fee.
- To open this account, you must agree to become a member of Cambrian Credit Union Limited, which requires a $5 share. Your share is considered an investment and is fully refundable should you decide to cancel your membership.
- Earn $1 per month when you choose electronic documents.
- Ability to set up recurring contributions.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other Achieva RRSP investment options include spousal RRSPs, RRSP GICS, available in one to five-year terms, and Qtrade Direct Investing online investment accounts.
- TFSAs, RRIFs, Locked-In Retirement Accounts (LIRAs) and Life Income Funds (LIFs) are also available.
- Service fees are listed online.
- $15 fee to close the account within six months of opening.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba deposit insurance.
Hubert Financial Happy Savings RRSP
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Interest Rate3.65%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This high-interest, online-only RRSP account provides you with access to investment portfolios and term deposits, including one-year terms redeemable quarterly.
- Hubert Financial is the online division of Sunova Credit Union and offers a high-interest savings account, term deposits, registered plans, a credit card and VirtualWealth investing.
- Interest is calculated daily, paid monthly.
- No monthly fee.
- To open this account, you must become a member of Sunova Credit Union, which requires a $5 share. Your share is considered an investment and is fully refundable should you cancel your membership.
- Use this RRSP to save $1,000 and open a higher rate tax-free one-year term deposit that is redeemable quarterly.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other Hubert RRSP investment options include spousal RRSPs, RRSP term deposits, available in one-year quarterly redeemable terms to five-year non-redeemable terms, and VirtualWealth online investment accounts.
- TFSAs and RRIFs are also available.
- No transaction or service fees, except for wire transfers and a $25 fee for accounts that are inactive for six months with a balance under $1,000.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba deposit insurance.
- Hubert Financial is not available to Québec residents.
WealthONE RRSP Savings Account
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Interest Rate3.65%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This RRSP savings account features a competitive interest rate and comes with access to a digital investing service with professionally managed, low-cost investment portfolios.
- WealthONE Bank of Canada is a Canadian Schedule 1 bank that serves all Canadians including the newcomers. It has two offices in Toronto and Vancouver and offers online banking, a mobile app and competitive interest rates.
- No monthly fee.
- Automated savings program available.
- Manage your money by phone, through online banking and a mobile app.
- Other Wealth One RRSP investment options include spousal RRSPs, guaranteed investment certificates, available in 6-month to 5-year terms, and investment accounts and portfolios through Smart Money Invest.
- TFSAs and RRIFs are also available.
- Service fees are listed online.
- $50 fee to transfer your RRSP to another bank (transferring in another RRSP is free).
- $100 fee to close your RRSP account.
- No minimum balance is required.
- Eligible for CDIC deposit insurance.
MAXA Financial RRSP Savings
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Interest Rate3.55%No minimum balance required
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Bonus OfferN/A
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Monthly Fee$0
- This High-Interest Savings Account offers competitive rates, the convenience of no minimum balance and added savings through zero monthly fee.
- MAXA Financial is an operating division of Westoba Credit Union Ltd. and offers a high-interest savings account, GICs, and TFSA, RRSP and RRIF products.
- The High-Interest Savings Account offers exceptional rates with the convenience and flexibility to make meeting your financial goals easy.
- Deposits are guaranteed 100% by Deposit Guarantee Corporation of Manitoba.
- No minimum balance is required.
- No monthly maintenance fee.
- Interest is calculated on the daily closing balance and paid monthly.
- MAXA MemberCard for ATM and Point-of-Sale transactions.
- Account information is available online or by phone.
- Contributions can be easily transferred from your MAXA High-Interest Savings account online or by phone.
- You can set up recurring transfers from your MAXA High-Interest Savings account online or by phone.
HSBC Canadian Dollar High Rates Savings Account
Make your money work harder for you. Enjoy a total annual interest rate of up to 6.35% on new deposits from October 16, 2023 to January 12, 2024. Rates are subject to change without notice. Terms & conditions apply.
Summary of our selections
- Best HISAs
- Best TFSA HISAs
- Best RRSP HISAs
Best Savings Accounts from the Big 6 Banks
Top options from Canada’s largest financial institutions.
Bank | HISA | TFSA | RRSP |
---|---|---|---|
Bank of Montreal (BMO) | BMO Bank of Montreal Premium Rate Savings | BMO Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) | BMO Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) |
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) | CIBC eAdvantage Savings Account | CIBC TFSA Tax Advantage Savings Account | CIBC RRSP Daily Interest Savings Account |
National Bank of Canada | NBC HISA | NBC Cash Advantage Solution TFSA | NBC Cash Advantage Solution RRSP |
Royal Bank of Canada | RBC High Interest eSavings Account | RBC Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) | RBC Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) |
Scotiabank | Scotiabank MomentumPLUS: Ultimate Package for MomentumPLUS | Scotiabank Savings Accelerator Account TFSA | Scotiabank Savings Accelerator Account RRSP |
TD Bank | TD High Interest Savings Account | TD Canada Trust High Interest TFSA Savings Account | TD RRSP Daily Interest Savings Account (DISA) |
Methodology
NerdWallet Canada selects the best savings accounts based on several criteria including annual percentage yields, minimum balances, fees, digital experience, access to other services, and more. Both registered TFSAs, RRSPs and non-registered savings accounts that are available in more than one province are considered for this list.
Honourable mentions
Though they didn’t make it into our picks for the best overall savings account, the accounts below are also solid choices that can help you meet your savings goals.
Hybrid accounts combine competitive interest rates of savings accounts with the flexibility of chequing accounts.
If you’re comfortable managing your money digitally, consider these online-only accounts from virtual banks.
Non-registered savings from online banks
- Simplii Financial™ High Interest Savings Account
- Tangerine Savings Account
- KOHO Spending and Savings Account
- Motive Savvy Savings Account
- Manulife Bank Advantage Account
High-interest TFSAs from online banks
- Tangerine Tax-Free Savings Account
- Motive Financial TFSA Savings Account
- Canadian Tire Tax Free® High Interest Savings Account
- Hubert Financial High Interest Tax-free Savings Account
- Ideal Savings TFSA
- WealthONE Tax-Free Savings Account
High-interest RRSPs from online banks
- Tangerine RSP Savings Account
- Hubert Financial Happy Savings RRSP
- Achieva Financial RRSP Savings Account
- Outlook Financial RRSP High-Interest Savings Account
- MAXA Financial RRSP Savings
- WealthONE RRSP Savings Account
Things to know about savings accounts
By Hannah Logan
What is a savings account?
A savings account is a common type of deposit bank account that earns interest on its balance.
Savings accounts can make it easier to achieve specific savings goals, such as a new car, a wedding, or an emergency fund. Since savings accounts earn interest, they help your money grow over time.
» Make sure you understand the basics: How interest rates work in Canada
Types of savings accounts
There are a number of different types of savings accounts available to Canadians. Most are fairly simple, while others have features designed to meet specific needs.
Options include:
- Basic savings accounts.
- High-interest savings accounts (HISAs), which earn a higher rate of interest but may come with more restrictions.
- Hybrid accounts, which offer the benefits of chequing accounts with the ability to earn interest.
- Joint savings accounts, which are accessible to more than one person, such as a married couple.
- Kids savings accounts, which parents and guardians can open for children and teens.
- Senior savings account, which offers discounts and advantages for senior citizens.
- Foreign currency savings accounts, such as USD savings accounts for people who want to deposit U.S. dollars without exchanging currency.
- Business savings accounts, which separate business savings from personal savings.
- Registered savings accounts, such as tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs) and registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs), which are registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and offer tax benefits.
» See our picks: The best high-interest savings accounts in Canada
How savings accounts work
When you store your money in a savings account at a bank or credit union, the institution may lend those funds to other clients. However, your money is always accessible to you when you need it, and you’ll typically earn a small amount of interest. Your savings account may have rules about how many withdrawals you can make each month, but it’s typically easy to access your funds when you need them, and you can deposit as much as you’d like.
Since savings accounts are designed to help you save money, they don’t tend to come with debit cards or cheques like you’d get with chequing accounts. If you have chequing and savings accounts with the same institution, you may be able to link them both to your debit card, but you may be charged a fee for using your debit card to withdraw money from your savings account.
To avoid potential fees, your best bet is to transfer the money from savings into chequing when you need it. If you have a smartphone, you can often do this via online banking or your financial institution’s app.
Interest rates on savings accounts vary by the financial institution. Some banks or credit unions pay interest on the total amount in your account, while others only pay interest on amounts above a minimum required balance. Interest on savings accounts is often compounded, which means you can earn interest on your interest, not just on the amount you originally deposited. Read the terms and conditions of the account carefully to see whether the interest is compounded annually, monthly, or daily. The more frequently your account compounds interest, the more your money will grow.
» MORE: How compound interest makes your money grow
How to choose a savings account
Savings accounts are offered by banking institutions across Canada, but that doesn’t mean you should pick one at random. Instead, compare a few different features to ensure you get the best option to suit your needs. Here are some things to consider when choosing a savings account.
Interest rate
How much interest will you earn on the money in your savings account? Keep in mind that some banks offer promotional interest rates that may seem enticing at first, but drop down to a much lower rate after a few months. Depending on your savings goals, this type of introductory interest rate might work for you. However, it’s often better to look at the best regular interest rate and not focus solely on the promotional rates so you can best anticipate the annual percentage yield (APY), which shows how much interest you will earn over a year.
Minimum balance
Some savings accounts in Canada require that you keep a minimum balance in your account at all times if you want to earn interest. For example, your account might require a minimum balance of $1,000. If you can be sure you will always have that minimum amount in place, that’s fine. However, it might be a better idea to look for an account with no minimum requirements for peace of mind that you can always earn interest no matter your balance.
Fees
Most financial institutions in Canada do not charge monthly fees for savings accounts, but there might be fees for certain types of transactions or a limit on the number of free transactions you get per month. Pay attention to the fine print and check to see how many withdrawals are allowed each month, whether you can make free e-transfers, and if there are other service fees to note.
Convenience
You’ll want to make sure it is easy to withdraw your money when you need it. Choose a savings account that’s convenient by considering your banking preferences, such as the RBC savings account for the ease that comes with big banks.
If you prefer to do your banking in person, you’ll want to choose a financial institution with a physical location rather than an online-only bank. In that case, many people prefer to have their savings and chequing accounts at the same financial institution. If you already have a chequing account at a particular bank or credit union, it might be easiest to open a savings account there, too. Plus, it will be simple to move money back and forth between the accounts.
If you’re comfortable with an online-only savings account, make sure you understand how your money can be accessed. Can you use a debit card at an ATM, or will you need to transfer the funds to a chequing account with another bank? Also, consider whether the digital experience is convenient and offers everything you need. Is there a mobile app? Is the online banking interface easy to use? Can you call a customer service representative for questions?
» See our picks: The best online savings accounts in Canada
How to open a savings account
Opening a savings account is a pretty easy process and can be done in person or online depending on your financial institution. The process should only take a few minutes, but you will need to meet a few requirements and share some personal information.
Most Canadian banks require you to be a Canadian resident with a permanent address in Canada. However, some financial institutions will allow you to open a bank account as a non-resident. Many banks and credit unions list these requirements on their websites, or you can contact them to ask about this option.
To open your own savings account, you’ll need to be the age of majority in your home province or territory. You will need to show an official government ID and provide personal information, including your:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN).
- Address and phone number.
- Date of birth.
- Email address, if you plan to use online banking.
Children and younger teens can open youth savings account with a parent or legal guardian, such as the CIBC Youth Account.
» DISCOVER: 8 easy ways to start saving money
When to use a savings account
A savings account is a great place to keep money to help you reach your savings goals. In fact, you could choose to have more than one savings account if you’re saving towards multiple goals at the same time and want to separate your progress towards each one.
Some experts recommend using a savings account to save for something you want to buy in about three years or less, such as:
- A vacation
- Next year’s taxes
- A wedding
- Home renovations
- A new car
- An emergency fund
Basic savings accounts give you easy access to your money accounts typically have fewer rules and no limits on deposits.
For longer-term savings goals, such as retirement or a down payment on a house, a basic savings account might not be the most efficient choice That’s because interest rates are typically quite low, so you won’t earn as much as you could with other options, such as a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP) or guaranteed investment certificate (GIC). And you’ll pay taxes on the interest you earn in a non-registered savings account.
It’s also not generally a good idea to use a savings account for day-to-day transactions, since many savings accounts limit the number of transactions you can make before paying fees. Instead, use your chequing account for daily banking needs.
» Plan for the future: How much money do you need to retire?
Are savings accounts taxable in Canada?
Yes, you will have to pay income tax on any interest you earn in your savings account. Every year, your bank or financial institution will send you a T5 slip that shows how much interest you earned. You’ll claim this interest income along with all other personal income on your tax return.
You won’t pay taxes on the interest you earn in a tax-free savings account (TFSA), which is a registered savings account that can hold both investments and cash deposits. However, these accounts come with strict contribution and withdrawal rules and they aren’t a replacement for a basic savings account.
» See our picks: The best high-interest TFSAs in Canada
Alternatives to basic savings accounts
A savings account is a great option for most people, but it may not be the best type of bank account for all your needs. If you want to save money for less immediate financial goals, consider an option that earns more interest.
Alternatives to basic savings accounts include:
- Chequing accounts.
- RRSPs.
- TFSAs.
- High-interest savings account (HISAs).
- Term deposits, like non-redeemable GICs, that lock your money away for a set period of time in exchange for a higher interest rate.
- Investments options, such as bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), market-linked GICs, and mutual funds, will help your money grow faster than it will in a savings account, but their value can also decrease if the market goes down.
Fortunately, you don’t have to pick just one type of account. You can choose any of these accounts to help you reach your financial goals. It’s all about finding the right combination of bank accounts for your needs.
» Ready for a new bank?: Here’s how to switch to a new bank or credit union
FAQs
Yes, your savings account is as secure as any other type of bank account. Many Canadian banks are covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC), which protects your money — up to $100,000 per type of account — in case the bank fails. However, it’s also up to you to be cautious and protect your banking and personal information to avoid identity theft and ensure that nobody else can access your finances.
Tax-Free Savings Account Guide: What Is a TFSA and How To Use It
A tax-free savings account (TFSA) can be used to tax-shelter your investment and the interest earned inside this account. You can contribute up to $6,500 in 2023.
Should You Stash Cash in an RRSP or TFSA?
Both RRSPs and TFSAs have tax advantages. To decide where to stash your savings, consider your income, tax bracket and existing savings.
Best High-Interest Savings Accounts in Canada for 2023
Compare top interest rates and discover the best no-fee high-interest savings accounts (HISAs) in Canada.
GIC vs. HISA: How to Choose
HISAs and GICs are both low-risk financial tools, but have important differences in interest rates, access to your cash and more.