Although the average national deposit rate for savings accounts is stuck at just 0.40%, some banks and credit unions are boasting high-yield saving accounts paying far, far more. (You can see some of the highest-paying savings accounts here, from our ...

Ruth Sarreal is an editor and content strategist covering consumer banking topics at NerdWallet. She has over a decade of experience writing and editing for consumer websites. She previously edited content on personal finance topics at GOBankingRates.

If you’re unsure how to begin saving or investing, here’s how to build a cash reserve, open a retirement account, and start strengthening your financial future.