Let your savings earn more without taking big risks
A lot of people keep their money in regular savings accounts that pay almost nothing in interest — and that’s a problem when inflation keeps rising. But the good news? Interest rates have gone up, which means your cash can finally work harder for you.
Here are two low-risk, high-reward options worth exploring:
High-Yield Savings Accounts
These accounts have become a hidden gem in 2025. Many banks are offering Annual Percentage Yields (APYs) above 5%, which is a huge improvement over the 0.01% traditional accounts used to pay.
They’re FDIC-insured (up to $250,000 per depositor), so your money is protected, and you still have easy access to your cash whenever you need it.
Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
If you don’t need immediate access to your funds, CDs can be an even smarter play. You lock in your money for a set term — 6 months, 1 year, or more — and earn a guaranteed rate.
Because of recent Federal Reserve rate hikes, CD yields are at some of the highest levels in years. That means you can earn a predictable return without risking your principal.
American Pockets Tip: Consider building a CD ladder — splitting your money into several CDs with different maturity dates. That way, you’ll always have one maturing soon, while the others keep earning high interest.
This approach gives you both flexibility and consistent growth — two things retirees value most.
