CASH – From Trash to Treasure

Important Considerations

Liquidity: How long does it take to access the cash? Most checking and savings accounts can be accessed immediately. Some money market funds are bought and sold, delaying access for one day. Certificates of deposit and bonds have a specific due date, and there may be penalties or costs for cashing them in early.
Safety: What is the risk of losing your deposit if the institution goes belly-up? Banks are generally covered by FDIC, and brokerage accounts are covered under SIPC.
Interest Rates: What will you be earning on the deposit? Is it a fixed or variable rate? The attractive rates of today are not set in stone. When short-term interest rates fall, the interest earned in these accounts could follow.

High-Yield Savings Accounts: HYSAs shine when it comes to getting your hands on your cash. They're ideal for uncertain times when you might need quick access to your funds. In return for a higher yield than your standard savings account, you might be limited to the number of times you can withdraw from the account each month.
Money Market Funds: These funds, especially those at brokerage firms like Charles Schwab, have yields exceeding 5%. They offer superior rates compared to HYSAs but often require a minimum balance and a day to liquidate. Although rare, these funds do carry some risk to your principal if the value of the investments in the fund incurs losses.
Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Locking your money in a CD with a set maturity date can yield higher returns. However, this option lacks the liquidity of HYSAs and money market funds. Breaking the CD early can lead to penalties.
Individual Bonds: The bond market, with current sweet spots ranging from 1-3 years, can offer yields close to 6%. Individual bonds are issued in $1,000 increments. They are backed by the credit of the issuer and could carry more risk than traditional cash options.