Current vs. Savings Account: Key Differences Explained
There are many kinds of bank accounts that are available across banks, NBFCs, small finance banks, and other financial institutions today. Current and savings accounts are two of the most prominent types that banks offer. Which one is right for you? Let’s look at who these accounts cater to and their key differences to help you make an informed decision.
What are Savings & Current Accounts?
Savings accounts are the commonest offerings across banks and financial institutions. They are meant for depositing and saving money, while earning a fixed rate of interest as stipulated by the bank from time to time. You can also withdraw the money you need and make payments or carry out transactions from these accounts. They are meant for almost everyone, right from salaried and self-employed professionals to other individuals.
Current accounts are more tailored for businesses and entrepreneurs who need to transfer and withdraw bigger amounts on a daily basis. These accounts help with fund management although they do not come with interest like savings accounts. The daily withdrawal and deposit limits are higher and there are several services for account holders like doorstep banking, payment and collection solutions, cash management services, business banking facilities, overdrafts, etc.
Let us now examine the main differences between these account types.
Main Differences Between Savings and Current Accounts
Let us take a closer look at the key differences between these two accounts below.
Key Parameter | Savings Accounts | Current Accounts |
---|---|---|
Usage | They help you save and grow your money with interest | They help you take care of daily business transactions with access to quick loans and overdraft facilities to avoid running out of cash |
Suitability | They are more suitable for regular individuals with short or long-term savings goals | Current accounts are ideal for entrepreneurs, businessmen, and companies who make money transfers regularly |
Transaction Limits | Savings accounts have restrictions on the maximum number of transactions in a month | Current accounts have higher or unlimited transaction limits, although charges may apply upon crossing the maximum threshold |
Interest | Savings accounts earn interest as fixed by the bank | There is no such interest earning with a current account |
Overdraft facilities | These are not available with savings accounts | Current accounts mostly come with overdraft facilities |
Minimum balance | The minimum average balance requirement is lower | Current accounts have higher minimum average balance requirements |