Savings Account vs Checking Account: Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes to banking, two popular choices are Savings Accounts and Checking Accounts. Savings Accounts are bank accounts that allow you to park your money in a safe and secure way. Whereas, a Checking Account, also known as Current Account also allows cash deposits and withdrawals. However, unlike Savings Accounts, the account balance doesn't earn any interest. Checking Accounts are generally used by businesses to facilitate day-to-day business transactions.

In this blog we have highlighted the key differences between Savings Accounts and Checking Accounts so that you make an informed decision.

What is a Savings Account? 

A Savings Account allows individuals to save and grow their money in a safe and secure way. The account balance keeps earning interest letting your money grow. Generally, the interest is calculated on end-of-the-day balance. Savings Accounts come with Debit Cards, which you can use to withdraw cash from ATMs. However, free cash withdrawals at ATMs are allowed to a certain limit, generally 5 transactions per month.

Post 5 ATM withdrawals, you have to pay a certain fee on every transaction made in that particular month. That said, there are Debit Cards that offer unlimited ATM cash withdrawals. Debit Cards also offer additional benefits like cashback and rewards, health insurance cover, complimentary lounge access, etc. You can avail services like NEFT, RTGS and IMPS services facilitating quick and seamless fund transfers. Also, when you open a Savings Account, banks generally provide a passbook and chequebook. 

If you open a Digital Savings Account or an Online Savings Account, your passbook and chequebook would be directly delivered to your registered home address. A few other services you can avail with a Savings Account include mobile banking, WhatsApp banking, net banking, phone banking, etc. 

What is a Checking Account?

A Checking Account operates along the lines of a Current Account, meaning the account balance doesn't earn any interest. However, unlike Savings Accounts, there're no restrictions on withdrawals. You can use a Checking Account to pay bills, carry out online transactions, and more. The bank provides a passbook, chequebook and a Debit Card at the time of account opening.

Savings Account vs Checking Account: Factors to Consider

1. Purpose and Usage

Both savings accounts and checking accounts serve different purposes. A savings account is designed for long-term savings and typically offers interest on the deposited amount. On the other hand, a checking account is meant for everyday transactions, such as bill payments and online purchases. It provides easy accessibility to your funds through a debit card, cheque book, and online banking services.

2. Account Fees

When comparing savings accounts and checking accounts, it's important to consider the fees associated with each type of account. Checking accounts often come with various fees, such as ATM fees, overdraft protection fees, overdraft fees, and online access fees. On the other hand, savings accounts generally have minimal fees, with charges only if you exceed withdrawal limits or fail to maintain the minimum balance required by the bank.

3. Frequency of Transactions

If you opt for a checking account, it is essential to carry out at least one transaction per month to avoid maintenance fees. However, with a savings account, you can make transactions less frequently, typically once every six months, without incurring any penalties. However, unlike Savings Accounts, Checking Accounts don't have any restrictions on the number of withdrawals made per month.

4. Interest Pay-out

One significant difference between savings accounts and checking accounts is interest payout. Savings accounts offer an opportunity to earn interest on your deposits, allowing your money to grow over time. The interest rate varies among banks and depends on the type of savings account you choose. Checking Account balance generally doesn't earn any interest.

5. Minimum Balance Requirements

Different banks have varying minimum balance requirements for both savings and checking accounts. Generally, a checking account requires higher minimum balance to be maintained compared to savings accounts. Checking account balances can range from ₹1,000 to ₹10,000 or more, depending on the bank and account type. On the other hand, there are basic or zero balance savings accounts that come with no minimum balance requirement.

6. Accessibility

Checking accounts offer greater accessibility for everyday transactions as there are no limitations on withdrawals or deposits. You can make multiple deposits and withdrawals per day without any restrictions. In contrast, savings accounts may have limitations on the number of times you can withdraw money from banks and ATMs each month. Additional charges may apply if you exceed the permitted number of transactions.

7. Consider Your Financial Goals

When choosing between a savings account and a checking account, it is important to consider your financial goals and needs. If you are focused on long-term savings or want to earn interest on your deposits, a savings account is more suitable. On the other hand, if you need easy access to your funds for daily transactions and prefer fewer restrictions, a checking account is the better choice.