Synchrony Bank Review | saving accounts high yield saving accountsstud

Synchrony Bank Review

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Aditi Patel

Top Online Banking Services Editor

Pros

  • Offers some of the most competitive interest rates on savings products.
  • No minimum balance required across savings, CDs, and money market accounts.
  • Provides up to $5 in monthly reimbursements for domestic ATM fees.

Cons

  • Does not operate any physical branch locations.
  • Lacks a checking account option.
  • The money market account yields less than the savings account.

About Synchrony Bank

Synchrony Bank is a digital-only financial institution offering attractive interest rates on savings products like high-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs). With no physical branches and a focus on online banking, Synchrony appeals to individuals looking to grow their savings while avoiding traditional banking fees. However, it lacks full-service banking options, notably checking accounts, which might be a drawback for customers seeking an all-in-one banking solution.

Banking Services Offered by Synchrony

Savings Options

Synchrony’s high-yield savings account is a standout for those looking to maximize their interest earnings without worrying about fees or balance requirements.

Key Features:

  • Attractive APY, compounded daily.
  • Zero monthly maintenance fees.
  • No minimum deposit to open an account.
  • Comes with an ATM card.
  • Fee-free usage at Plus and Accel ATMs.
  • Reimburses up to $5 monthly for out-of-network ATM fees.
  • Allows mobile check deposits, direct deposits, and transfers to and from linked accounts.
  • Mail-in deposit option is also available.

Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

Synchrony provides a wide range of CD terms and specialty CDs designed for flexibility and higher returns.

CD Highlights:

  • Terms range from 3 months to 5 years.
  • No minimum deposit requirement.
  • Daily compounded interest.
  • Early withdrawal of earned interest permitted.
  • Options include Bump-Up CDs (with interest rate increases during the term) and No-Penalty CDs (allowing early withdrawals without penalties).

Money Market Account

This account is a hybrid option, combining savings interest rates with features similar to checking accounts.

Features Include:

  • Daily interest compounding.
  • No required minimum balance.
  • No monthly service fees.
  • Includes an ATM card.
  • Offers check-writing capabilities.

While the interest rate isn’t as strong as the high-yield savings account, it still presents a solid option for those needing some spending flexibility.

Digital Banking Experience

Synchrony’s mobile and online platforms provide a user-friendly experience designed for convenience and functionality.

Mobile App and Website Capabilities:

  • Rated 4.7/5 on both Apple App Store and Google Play.
  • Features include mobile check deposits, transaction history, and credit card management.
  • Live chat support available within the app.
  • Tools like savings and CD interest calculators are available through the website.
  • The web platform is well-designed with intuitive navigation and clear user instructions.

Security and Accessibility

Synchrony accounts are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor, ensuring protection of funds even if the bank closes. The digital infrastructure is built for seamless access, and the mobile and desktop platforms provide comprehensive account control with layered security features.

How Much Does it Cost?

  • Interest Rates: Generally higher than traditional banks but may not lead the pack compared to top-tier online competitors.
  • Fees: Very few. No monthly service charges on savings, money market, or CD accounts. Up to $5 ATM fee reimbursement per month.

Customer Support

As a digital bank, Synchrony operates without branches, but offers multiple support channels.

Support Availability:

  • Phone support for business accounts:
    – Monday to Saturday: 8 a.m. – 12 a.m. ET
    – Sunday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. ET
  • Online chat and in-app messaging options.
  • Despite these offerings, Synchrony received below-average marks in customer satisfaction according to J.D. Power’s 2024 Direct Banking Satisfaction Study.

Bottomline

Synchrony Bank is a strong choice for individuals focused on saving rather than everyday banking. Its high-yield accounts and fee-free structure make it ideal for those looking to grow their money digitally. However, the absence of a checking account and in-person services may be limiting for those seeking a full-service banking experience. If your financial needs are primarily centered around saving and you’re comfortable managing accounts online, Synchrony could be a highly rewarding option.

Synchrony Bank