What's the difference between a Savings account and a Money Market?

Both earn dividends and give you access to your money. The main difference is that Money Market accounts typically offer higher rates for higher balances ($2,500 minimum), while Savings accounts start at just $1.00. Money Market also offers check-writing access.

What is a CD and why would I want one?

A Certificate of Deposit locks your money in for a set period (like 6, 12, or 24 months) in exchange for a guaranteed fixed rate that's typically higher than savings accounts. It's perfect when you have money you won't need for a while and want a predictable return.

What makes the Bump Rate CD different from a regular CD?

With a Bump Rate CD, you lock in a rate like a regular CD — but if rates go up during your term, you get a one-time option to bump your rate to the current higher rate. It's like having a safety net if rates climb after you lock in.

What is a Wish Account?

Think of it as a goal-oriented savings account with a term (6 to 24 months). You can deposit anytime, earn dividends, and your balance transfers to your account when the term ends. It's designed to help you save for something specific — a vacation, a car, a wedding, anything you're wishing for.

Can I withdraw early from a CD or Wish Account?

You can, but early withdrawal penalties may apply. For details, check our full account disclosures. The Wish Account penalty is lighter than standard CDs, making it a more flexible option.

What about retirement savings?

Our IRA accounts offer tax-advantaged growth for retirement. We also have a special Educator IRA CD with extra withdrawal flexibility for qualifying educators. We recommend consulting a tax advisor to understand your options and contribution limits.

How much do I need to start?

Most accounts open with just $1.00. Money Market requires $2,500. CD minimums vary — check our current rates page for details. We believe in making savings accessible to everyone.

Are my savings insured?

Yes. Every dollar is federally insured up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.

Where can I see current rates?

Visit our Rates page for the latest savings, money market, CD, and IRA rates — updated regularly.

Grow Your Money With Purpose

Whether you're building an emergency fund, saving for a dream, or planning for retirement — we'll help your money work harder for you.

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Earn More

Competitive rates that help your savings grow faster

Save Your Way

Flexible options from everyday savings to locked-in CDs

No Minimum Stress

Open most accounts with just $1.00

Protected & Insured

Every dollar insured up to $250,000 by NCUA

Savings Account

Your financial foundation. Best for everyone — building an emergency fund or general savings.

Perks:

Earn monthly dividends
Dividends compounded monthly
Only $1.00 to open
Access your money when you need it
Free online & mobile banking
$1.00 keeps your BrightStar membership active
Maintain $25 daily balance to earn APY

Open a Savings Account

Money Market Account

Higher rates for higher balances. Best for members with $2,500+ who want better returns with access.

Perks:

Earn competitive interest rates
Interest compounded and credited monthly
Check-writing and debit card access
Free online & mobile banking
Great for larger emergency funds or short-term goals
$2,500 to open and maintain to avoid monthly fee

Open a Money Market Account

Certificates of Deposit

Guaranteed returns you can count on. Best for members who can set money aside for a fixed term.

Perks:

Fixed rate for your full term — no surprises
Interest compounded and credited monthly
Choose your term length to match your timeline
Auto-renews at maturity with 10-day grace period
Option to receive interest monthly or let it compound
See our Rates page for current CD rates and terms

View CD Rates See current CD specials

Bump Rate CD

Lock in now — bump up later if rates rise. Best for members who want CD security with a safety net.

Perks:

Start with a competitive locked rate
One-time option to bump to a higher rate if rates increase
Interest compounded and credited monthly
Same CD security and guaranteed returns
Peace of mind — you won't miss out if rates climb
Contact us at 954.486.2728 to exercise your bump option

Open a Bump Rate CD

IRA Accounts

Start building the retirement you deserve. Best for members planning for retirement with tax-advantaged savings.

Perks:

Tax-advantaged growth for your future
Interest compounded and credited monthly
Only $1.00 to open
Multiple IRA options available
Educator IRA CD also available with special withdrawal flexibility
Consult your tax advisor for contribution limits and eligibility

Open an IRA Educators: See Educator IRA Benefits

Wish Account

Name your goal. Watch it grow. Best for members saving for something specific — vacation, car, wedding, home down payment.

Perks:

Earn monthly dividends while you save
Make unlimited deposits anytime
Choose your term: 6 to 24 months
Only $1.00 to open
Keeps you on track — dividends stay until maturity
Funds transfer to your account when your goal is reached
$25 daily balance to earn APY

Open a Wish Account

Compare Savings Options at a Glance

Find the right fit for your money and your goals

Compare:

* Bump Rate CD: One-time option to increase rate during your term

CDs: Early withdrawal penalties may apply

IRA: Tax consequences may apply to withdrawals — consult tax advisor

How Fast Can You Reach Your Goal?

See how your savings can grow with BrightStar

Starting Deposit

$

Monthly Contribution

$

Savings Goal

$

Account Type

Time to reach your goal

Interest Earned

Final Balance

Estimates based on current rates. See our Rates page for the latest APY.

Compound Interest

Your dividends earn dividends. Every month, we calculate your earnings on your full balance — including what you've already earned. It adds up faster than you'd think.

Daily Balance Method

We don't just look at your balance once a month. We calculate your earnings every single day, so every dollar counts from the moment it hits your account.

Your Money, Your Access

Savings and Money Market accounts give you flexible access. CDs and Wish Accounts reward you for committing to a term. Either way, your money is always insured and always yours.

Spend Smarter

Free checking, a Visa debit card, and free online banking — the perfect partner for your savings.

Explore Checking Accounts →

Grow Your Balance

Competitive rates, compound interest, and goal-based accounts — your money works harder here.

You're already here ✓

1. Choose Your Goal

Are you building an emergency fund, saving for something specific, or planning for retirement? Pick the account that matches.

2. Open in Minutes

Apply online or visit any branch. Most accounts open with just $1.00.

3. Watch It Grow

Set up automatic transfers from your checking account and let compound interest do the heavy lifting.

Savings Questions, Answered

Find answers to common questions about our checking accounts and services.

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Your Future Self Will Thank You

Federally insured by NCUA to at least $250,000. Start growing your money today.

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