Look past the headline interest rate.

An introductory rate is a starting point. What happens next matters just as much.

A headline rate is annualized

A hypothetical 5% annual rate offered for three months does not mean you earn 5% of your balance in those three months. On $10,000, a simple-interest estimate for that period is about $125 before tax. Compounding changes that estimate slightly.

Use the rate that applies afterward

A shorter introductory offer can earn less over a year than a lower ongoing rate. Our calculator applies a supported introductory rate only during its stated monthly period, then uses the account’s ongoing eligible rate.

Conditional is different from promotional

An ongoing payroll bonus is tied to qualifying deposits, not necessarily to an introductory clock. Select the payroll option only after reading each provider’s deposit amount, eligibility, and timing requirements. We do not assume you qualify automatically.

Keep access and fees in the picture

A withdrawal notice period may be fine for a planned goal, but less useful for money you need immediately. Account fees also reduce earnings. Our calculator can exclude notice accounts and deducts known monthly fees from the projection.

Sources & calculation notes

Examples are illustrative. Check current provider terms and your own eligibility before making a decision.