Product Focus: Branch Based Savings Accounts

Category: Savings
Date: 7/3/2009

Many savers like to be able to visit their local branch when operating their savings account. While online accounts do tend to pay higher rates, there are some competitive accounts on the market offering branch based access.

Chelsea Building Society – Chelsea Guarantee Plus

Chelsea Building Society is offering a rate of 2.65 per cent on the Chelsea Guarantee Plus account. The account comes with a guarantee that it will pay 2.65 per cent or Bank of England base rate, whichever is higher until 8 September 2010. Savers can invest between £100 and £500,000 into the account, with monthly interest available for those looking for a more regular income. Savers can get instant access to their money, but will lose 60 days' interest during the guarantee period.

Abbey – Instant Access Saver

The Instant Access Saver from Abbey is currently paying 2.50 per cent, including a 1.50 per cent bonus for 12 months. Savers can invest between £1,000 and £2 million into the account, which can also be operated by telephone as well as in branch. Savers can get instant access to their money should they wish to make a withdrawal.

Stroud & Swindon Building Society – 50 Plus Notice

The 50 Plus Notice Account from Stroud & Swindon Building Society is currently paying 3.20 per cent, including a 1.20 per cent bonus until 30 June 2010. Savers aged 50 years and over can invest between £1,000 and £500,000 into the account. If a withdrawal is required, savers must give 90 days' notice, although earlier access is available subject to 90 days' loss of interest.