Marcus by Goldman Sachs review

Marcus is the simplest strong choice on this list. Its Online Savings Account paid 3.50% APY as of November 8, 2026, and that rate is not tied to direct deposit, a balance tier or a monthly activity rule. Marcus says there are no fees and no minimum deposit, and it does not run a credit check to open the account. You link checking accounts at other banks, and interest starts the day a transfer is initiated. Same-day transfers are available for $100,000 or less, which matters when savings are your emergency fund. Support is available by phone around the clock. A referral program adds a 1.00% APY boost for 3 months for you and a friend who is new to Marcus, for up to five friends. The limits are clear too: the rate is variable and can change after you open, and Marcus says maximum balance limits apply. For most people who want a high rate without fine print, it is the easiest account to recommend.

Who it is for

Savers who want a strong rate with no direct deposit rules, balance tiers or fees.

Price

$0 monthly fee, no minimum deposit; 3.50% APY as of November 8, 2026.

No fees. No minimum deposit. Same-day transfers of $100,000 or less to/from other banks.
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 8, 2026.

Key features

• 3.50% APY as of November 8, 2026, with no balance tiers or deposit conditions
• No fees and no minimum deposit
• Same-day transfers of $100,000 or less to and from other banks
• Contact center open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Refer a friend and both owners can get a 1.00% APY boost for 3 months

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: The rate does not depend on direct deposit or a minimum balance
• Strength: No credit check or minimum deposit to open
• Strength: Fast same-day transfers for most amounts
• Weakness: The rate is variable and can change after you open
• Weakness: Marcus notes that maximum balance limits apply
• Weakness: The referral boost lasts only 3 months

Key facts

• APY: 3.50% as of November 8, 2026
• Monthly fee: $0
• Minimum deposit: None
• Transfers: Same day for $100,000 or less
• Bank: Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Member FDIC

Where it ranks

Marcus by Goldman Sachs is No. 1 in our Best High Yield Savings Accounts verdict.