Best savings rates

Best Instant access savings

With the base rate at a record low, it has never been more important to shop around to get the best returns on your hard-earned savings.

TOP SAVINGS RATE
ING Direct Savings ING Direct Savings Account
Get a top savings of 2.75% AER rate with ING Direct.
Instant Access to your money, with no charges.
Start saving from a little as £1.

Instant access only accounts

CompanyPackage NameInterest Rate (AER)Notice PeriodMinimum BalanceInterest PaidAccount Access 
ING Direct Savings2.75%Instant£1MonthlyOnline
Post Office Online Saver2.75%Instant£1Monthly/AnnuallyOnline
Barclays E-savings account0.10%Instant£1QuarterlyOnline
e-SAVER Issue 32.40%Instant£1AnnuallyOnline
Santander eSavers Direct2.75%Instant£1AnnuallyOnline
RBS Direct SaverUp to 1.5%Instant£1AnnuallyOnline
e-Savings1.00%Instant£1MonthlyOnline
Essentials1.30%Instant£1MonthlyOnline, Phone

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Our finance expert

Our expert says...

Our finance expert gives his top savings tips...

  • Compare deals – It may sound obvious, but it is crucial that you shop around and compare deals to make sure you get the best rate possible.

What are instant access savings accounts?

Instant access savings accounts allow you to withdraw funds on demand.

What are the benefits of an instant access savings account?

Instant access savings give you immediate access to your money without having to go through the usual channels associated with standard savings accounts.

It’s a good idea to maintain a financial reserve in an instant access savings account, just in case of emergencies.

What else should I know about Instant Access Savings?


  • It’s important to understand how interest is charged and earned, for some accounts you will not earn interest in any month that you make a withdrawal.
  • If you have a large lump sum to invest it may be a better idea to invest some in bonds of notice accounts, as you may be able to gain a higher level of interest.
  • Remember, even though it is an instant access account, it may still take 3 business days to transfer funds between accounts if they are with different banks.

For more information on which account to choose read our guide to ISA vs standard savings accounts, or our 10 tips to a better savings.