Optimum Savings Account
The Optimum Savings Account at Circle Federal Credit Union is designed for members who want to maximize their savings without locking their money into a certificate or maintaining a large minimum balance. By rewarding members for everyday banking activities, the account offers a significantly higher Annual Percentage Yield (APY) than a traditional savings account while still providing full access to deposited funds.
Earn a Premium Rate Through Everyday Banking
Unlike a standard savings account that pays the same dividend rate to all members, the Optimum Savings Account offers a relationship-based rate. Members who meet two simple monthly requirements can earn a 1.26% APY on all balances, making it one of Circle FCU's highest-yield liquid savings options.
To earn the promotional rate each month, members must:
- Maintain a Circle FCU checking account and complete at least one debit card transaction (PIN, signature, or point-of-sale purchase) during the month.
- Receive at least $50 in ACH deposits into any eligible sub account under the membership (excluding the primary 000 Share Savings account).
When both requirements are met, the Optimum Savings Account earns the premium dividend rate. If either requirement is missed, the account earns the standard base savings rate instead.
| Eligibility | Dividend Rate | APY |
| Monthly Requirements MET | 1.25% | 1.26% |
| Monthly Requirements NOT MET | 0.02% | 0.02% |
Rates are variable and may change without notice.
Unlimited Withdrawals and Deposits
Unlike certificates or other savings products that limit access to your money, the Optimum Savings Account offers unlimited electronic withdrawals and deposits. The account is also not subject to Regulation D withdrawal limitations, giving members greater flexibility to move money when needed.
This makes the account suitable for emergency funds, short-term savings goals, or any savings you want to keep readily accessible while still earning a competitive return.
Pair It With a Rewards Checking
The Optimum Savings Account works especially well when paired with a Circle FCU checking account. Since one of the qualification requirements is making at least one monthly debit card purchase, members who already use Circle FCU for everyday banking can often qualify for the higher savings rate with little additional effort.
Optimum Savings vs. Standard Savings
| Standard Savings | Optimum Savings |
| Basic membership account | Relationship-based high-yield savings account |
| Earns the standard savings rate | Earns 1.26% APY when monthly requirements are met |
| No activity requirements | Requires one debit card transaction and $50 in qualifying ACH deposits each month |
| Ideal for establishing membership | Ideal for maximizing liquid savings while actively banking with Circle FCU |
| Monthly dividends | Monthly dividends with higher earning potential |
Must have a share savings account to be a member and qualify for the Optimum Savings account. Share savings account opened with a $5 minimum deposit. No minimum deposit required to open a checking account. If checking account does not have a debit card and e-statements, it will be subject to a $5 monthly fee on balances less than $50. If terms are not met, the base interest rate on the Optimum Savings is .02%. There is no limit on the number of electronic withdrawals and the Optimum Savings is not subject to Reg D fees. APY = annual percentage yield. Federally insured by the NCUA. Some restrictions may apply. All rates are subject to change without prior notice. These rates replace previously dated rates. These rates are for Circle Federal Credit Union members only. Membership required. Must qualify for Membership. Federally Insured by the NCUA up to $250,000. Equal Opportunity Lender.
