Difference Between Current and Savings Account: A Complete Guide
The difference between current and savings account is a fundamental requirement of every individual or business person in management of finance. Although the two accounts are provided by the banks, they have individual purposes and include specific features, advantages, and drawbacks. Savings account can make a person increase money gradually with the help of interest, and a current account is designed to address the needs of businesspeople and professionals who complete an appropriate number of operations. The knowledge of the difference between current and savings account will allow you to select the most appropriate account, which will be the best match based on your financial activity, objectives, and life-style. This paper describes some of the major differences, advantages and optimal use of each type of account.
What is a Savings Account?
The savings account is specifically created to enable the individual to deposit money and get an interest on his or her savings. It promotes financial disciplines because it assists individuals to save their money in safe places so that they can use it in the future. A savings account, unlike current accounts will restrict the daily transactions to ensure that there is minimum balance requirements to allow constant accrual of interests.
The main idea behind a savings account is to make people save on a regular basis, earn interests and easily handle personal funds.
What is a Current Account?
A current account is customized to suit business, companies, freelancers as well as professionals who handle high-value and regular transactions. In most instances, this account will not give interest since the main aim of this account is to aid the optimal cash flow management. Banks are also unlimited with regards to withdrawal, deposits and cheque payments and are therefore ideal to use commercially.
Key Difference Between Current and Savings Account
With the knowledge of the distinction between current and savings account, you make the right financial instrument. The key distinctions are the following:
1. Purpose
- Savings Account: Good when one wants to save and receive interest.
- Current Account: This is used by business persons and high frequency transactions.
2. Interest Rate
- Deposits on savings account attract interest.
- Interest is not typically paid in current accounts because of the high flexibility in transacting.
3. Transaction Limit
- Savings accounts limit the withdrawal so as to encourage the savings culture.
- Unlimited transactions can be made in current accounts.
4. Minimum Balance
- Lower minimum balance is required in savings accounts.
- High minimum balance is required in current accounts because of business usage.
5. Overdraft Facility
- Overdrafts are hardly available in savings accounts.
- Hypothetically, overdraft is popularly used in the current accounts to give flexibility to the cash flow.
Which Account Should You Choose?
Your financial needs will determine the choice of either of the two. A savings account is the best option in case you wish to save money and get an interest on the same. However, when the transactions are daily then a current account will be more appropriate. Being aware of the difference between the current and savings account will enable the opening of the appropriate account to enjoy long term financial comfort.