What Banks in Memphis, TN offer the Best Rates on High Yield Savings Accounts?
Memphis’ best high-yield savings and money market rates for 2025. View current APYs¹, features, and account details from Leaders Credit Union.
Last reviewed: December 9, 2025. We update this article whenever changes occur to ensure you have the latest information.
Earn More: Memphis’ Top High-Yield Savings Rates at Leaders Credit Union
Transparent, up-to-date rates and account options for local savers. Leaders Credit Union's Forward Plus High-Yield Savings Account currently offers 3.50% APY² – one of the highest local rates – with no minimum balance requirement. As a member-owned credit union, we prioritize competitive dividends on your savings, helping you earn more while keeping your money safe. Open an Account and start earning today.
Current High-Yield Savings Account Rates (Memphis, TN)
All accounts are federally insured by the NCUA up to $250,000. Rates and terms are subject to change – please refer to official disclosures or contact us for the latest updates.
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Forward Plus High-Yield Savings – 3.50% APY²
• No tiers: Flat rate on all balances up to $5 million.
• Minimum Opening Deposit: $0 (no minimum to open).
• Monthly Fees: $0 (no monthly fee).
• Eligibility: Open to West Tennessee residents (including Memphis area) and other eligible groups; Leaders Credit Union membership required (one-time $25 membership fee).
• Last Updated: 10/01/2025. -
11-Month Term Share Certificate (Certificate Special) – 3.50% APY³
• Term: Single term (11-month Certificate).
• Minimum Opening Deposit: $1,000.
• Monthly Fees: No monthly fee (early withdrawal penalty applies).
• Eligibility: Open to all Leaders Credit Union members (same eligibility as above).
• Last Updated: 09/09/2025. -
Money Market Account (Money Market Certificate) – 1.25% APY
• No tiers: Pays quarterly dividends on all balances.
• Minimum Opening Deposit: $3,000.
• Monthly Fees: $0 (no monthly fee; no withdrawal penalties).
• Eligibility: Open to Leaders Credit Union members (West Tennessee community eligibility).
• Last Updated: Mar 1, 2024
Product Highlights & Details
Each of our savings products is designed to help you maximize earnings while providing flexibility for your financial needs. Below we break down the features and benefits of our high-yield savings options, and how they stack up against local competitors and national averages.
Forward Plus High-Yield Savings Account
Leaders Credit Union's flagship high-yield savings account, Forward Plus, pays an outstanding 3.50% APY² on your entire balance – with no minimum balance required and no tiers. This means whether you save $50 or $5 million, you earn the same high rate on every dollar. There are no monthly service fees or balance requirements to worry about. This truly “no strings attached” approach makes Forward Plus one of the most rewarding savings accounts in Memphis.
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Rate Advantage: At 3.50% APY², Forward Plus is well above the national average savings rate (around 0.45% APY as of late 2025) (bestcashcow.com). It’s also highly competitive locally – for example, Independent Bank offers a 3.85% APY “new money” savings special (slightly higher, but only for new funds) (i-bankonline.com), and Orion Federal Credit Union requires a hefty $100,000 balance to get 3.75% APY (orionfcu.com). Forward Plus gives you a top-tier rate with no balance hurdles. In fact, even Regions Bank only pays 3.50% on certain accounts if you keep $100k deposited (bestcashcow.com), and big banks like First Horizon offer under 1% APY (bestcashcow.com) – so Leaders Credit Union’s 3.50% APY² is a market-leading offer for everyday savers in Memphis.
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No Tiers or Caps: Unlike some promotional accounts that pay high interest only up to a certain balance (for example, some institutions pay ~5% but only on your first $5,000), Forward Plus has no such cap. Every dollar you save earns the same rate, all the way up to a very high maximum balance of $5 million. This makes it ideal for both starter emergency funds and large nest eggs.
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Easy Access & Digital Banking: Funds in Forward Plus are fully liquid. You can withdraw or transfer money at any time without penalties (standard savings account transaction limits apply per federal regulations). The account integrates with our robust online and mobile banking tools, so you can track your balance, transfer funds, and manage your savings anywhere. It’s as simple as a regular savings account, just with a far better yield.
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How to Open: You can open a Forward Plus High-Yield Savings online – membership with Leaders Credit Union is required, but anyone in the Memphis/West Tennessee community can join (see Eligibility for details). There’s no minimum deposit needed to start this account. As soon as you fund it, you’ll begin accruing dividends (interest), paid monthly to your account.
Why choose Forward Plus from Leaders? It delivers one of the highest returns in Memphis with zero hassle. You get a steady rate without jumping through hoops. It’s a perfect place for safety and growth – whether you’re saving for an emergency, a down payment, or just stashing extra cash, your money works harder here. And because we’re a local credit union, you also get personalized service and trust that national online banks can’t match. Forward Plus is currently one of the top high-yield savings accounts available.
Money Market Savings (Money Market Certificate)
If you want to earn dividends while keeping the flexibility to withdraw funds, our Money Market Account (listed as Money Market Certificate) is an option to consider. This account currently pays 1.25% APY (with dividends paid quarterly). While 1.25% APY is a more modest rate than Forward Plus, the money market account offers a blend of certificate-like earnings with more flexibility:
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Flexible Access with No Penalties: You can withdraw your money at any time without any early withdrawal penalty. This account is designed to function similarly to a classic money market deposit account – you earn a fixed quarterly dividend but maintain access to funds if needed. It’s great for savers who might need to tap their savings occasionally but still want better earnings than a basic savings account.
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Minimums: The Money Market account requires a $3,000 minimum deposit to open, and a $1,000 minimum balance to continue earning dividends. (If your balance falls below $1,000, you won’t earn interest until you bring it back up, but your account remains open.) There are no monthly fees on this account, so as long as you meet the minimum to earn interest, it’s free to maintain.
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Use Case: This account is ideal if you have a larger short-term savings that you might need to draw from. For example, if you’re holding funds for a near-future purchase or an emergency fund that you want to keep more accessible than a certificate, the money market gives you that flexibility. You’ll earn higher interest than a regular savings ((the national average for money markets is around 0.58% according to the FDIC, so 1.25% APY is still more than double the average). However, note that the Forward Plus from Leaders Credit Union rate (3.50% APY²) is significantly higher; many members opt to keep most funds in Forward Plus and perhaps use the money market for amounts above $250k (as an added insured account) or for specific withdrawal needs.
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Comparing Locally: Many banks’ money market rates are in the 1-2% range or lower. For instance, First South Financial offers up to ~2.32% APY on their money market accounts at higher balances. Leaders’ money market at 1.25% APY is competitive for its class given its no-penalty feature. If maximizing yield is your priority and you don’t need frequent withdrawals, our Forward Plus or certificates might be better choices. If flexibility is key, the money market provides a penalty-free safety net for your savings with a decent return.
Note: Why is the money market rate lower? Generally, money market accounts trade off a bit of yield for more liquidity. At Leaders Credit Union, we’ve chosen to funnel our highest rates into the Forward Plus product to benefit as many savers as possible, while still offering the money market account for those who want another flexible arrangement.
Term Share Certificates (CDs)
For savers who don’t mind locking in their money for a set period in exchange for a guaranteed return, we offer a range of Term Share Certificates (our name for Certificates of Deposit). Certificates can be an excellent, safe way to boost your savings if you won’t need the funds for a while.
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Limited-Time Special – 11-Month Certificate at 3.50% APY³: Currently, Leaders Credit Union has a special promotion: an 11-month certificate earning 3.50% APY³. This rate is fixed for the term once you open, and the certificate will mature after 11 months. $1,000 minimum is required to open the certificate. This special is a great option for short-term funds – it’s significantly above what standard 6-12 month certificates at many banks are paying. (For context, many local bank certificates of similar term might offer anywhere from ~2% to 4%; for example, some Memphis banks had 5-month specials at 4.00% and 11-month at 3.85% APY (i-bankonline.com), so our 3.50% APY³ for 11 months is right in line with top local deals.)
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Standard Certificate Rates: In addition to specials, we have traditional certificate terms from 3 months up to 60 months. As of now, these have APYs around 0.30% (3-month) up to 2.50% (for 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60-month terms).
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No Monthly Fees or Surprises: Our certificates have no monthly fees. You only need to meet the minimum deposit, and then let the account sit and earn. Dividends can be paid monthly or at maturity (you choose whether to reinvest them or have them paid out). All our certificates are federally insured up to $250k, just like savings accounts.
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Early Withdrawal Policy: All term share certificates carry an early withdrawal penalty if you withdraw the funds before the term ends. The penalty amount depends on the term. Terms of 12 months or less: Penalty equals 90 days’ dividends on the amount withdrawn. Terms greater than 12 months and up to 24 months: Penalty equals 180 days’ dividends on the amount withdrawn. Terms greater than 24 months: Penalty equals 365 days’ dividends on the amount withdrawn. It’s important to commit funds that you won’t need until maturity to avoid these penalties. However, if you do find yourself needing the money, you have the option to use the certificate as collateral for a low-interest loan, or withdraw early and incur the fee.
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Laddering and Strategy: Many of our members use a certificate ladder strategy – splitting funds into multiple certificates (e.g., 6-month, 12-month, 24-month) so that something is always maturing if needed. With our currently flat standard rates (2.50% APY across 6-60 months), a ladder is less about rate differences and more about liquidity timing. In a rising rate environment, you may opt for shorter-term certificate (like our 11-month) to stay flexible. In a falling rate environment, locking longer could be advantageous. Our team is happy to discuss strategies to maximize your earnings using certificates in combination with our savings accounts.
Bottom line: If you have funds you won’t need immediately, lock-in rates like the 3.50% APY³ 11-Month Certificate can yield great returns with zero market risk. For any certificate opened, we clearly disclose the APY and maturity date. Upon maturity, you can withdraw or roll it over (and we’ll help you find the best new option at that time). Leaders Credit Union’s certificates offer guaranteed growth and are a safe addition to any savings plan.
Memphis Area Availability & Branch Access
Leaders Credit Union is proud to serve Memphis and the West Tennessee region with both local branch presence and broad membership eligibility. Our high-yield savings products are available to Memphis-area residents – you can enjoy these top rates whether you prefer banking online or in-person at our branch.
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Memphis Branch Location: We have a full-service branch conveniently located in the Bartlett area of Memphis: 2724 Summer Oaks Dr., Bartlett, TN 38134. This branch offers lobby and drive-thru services (open Monday through Friday, with extended drive-thru hours on Fridays). Our friendly staff there can assist with opening accounts, answering questions about rates, and all your banking needs. We also have a new branch in Arlington, Tennessee (just outside Memphis): 5500 Airline Road, Arlington, TN 38002, and several branches throughout West Tennessee (Jackson, Dyersburg, Union City, and Milan). No matter where you are in the region, you’re not far from a Leaders Credit Union location or fee-free ATM.
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Field of Membership: Leaders Credit Union has several ways to qualify for membership including living in our service area. If you live, work, worship, or attend school in the Memphis area (Shelby County) or many surrounding counties in West Tennessee, you are eligible to join (depositaccounts.com). This includes all of Shelby County and counties like Madison, Dyer, Tipton, Fayette, and more (depositaccounts.com). We’re the only credit union based in West Tennessee that was recognized among the state’s best (Forbes ranked us #2 in Tennessee in 2025) (yourleague.org), and we welcome the Memphis community to be part of our member-family. Even if you’re outside those counties, you can still join by becoming a member of the Leaders Education Foundation or other affiliated local organizations – so essentially anyone in the region can become a member and take advantage of our great rates.
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Local Advantage: By choosing a Memphis-based institution like Leaders, you get the benefit of local decision-making and personalized service. We are deeply rooted in the community – for example, we support local schools and charities, and most of our employees live right here in West Tennessee. When you call or visit, you’ll get a real person who understands the financial landscape of our area. We know you have choices (banks like First Horizon, Regions, etc., are all around), but as a credit union, our mission is different: we return profits to members in the form of better rates. The 3.50% APY² on our savings is a direct result of that mission – we’re not paying shareholders, we’re paying you, the member-owner.
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Digital Access for All: Even if you prefer not to visit a branch, our services are fully accessible to Memphians. You can open accounts online easily (membership application + account opening can be done in minutes). Our online banking and Leaders mobile app let you deposit checks, transfer funds, and monitor your savings 24/7. In essence, you get the high-tech convenience of an online bank plus the option of face-to-face service if and when you need it. And if you travel, you have access to a network of shared branches and ATMs nationwide through co-op partnerships (so you can walk into other credit unions’ branches and do basic transactions on your Leaders account, typically free of charge).
Savings Growth Calculator – Plan Your Earnings
Wondering how much interest that 3.50% APY² from Leaders Credit Union will earn you over time? Try our interactive savings calculator on the Leaders website. Input your starting balance, set a monthly deposit amount, and see how your savings could grow. The calculator will project your balance growth and estimated earnings over time. It’s a handy tool to fine-tune your savings goals:
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For example, if you start with $10,000 in Forward Plus and add $200 a month, after one year at 3.50% APY² you’d have around $12,476 (earning roughly $276 in dividends, assuming compounding) – significantly more than you’d get at a big bank paying 0.50%. Over 5 years, keeping that pattern, you could accumulate around $23,000, with over $1,500 in total interest earned. The difference is clear when you earn more on every dollar.
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You can even email the results to yourself for reference. This can help you plan for goals like an emergency fund, vacation fund, or down payment. Adjust the numbers to see how increasing your monthly deposit, or starting with a higher initial amount, will impact your timeline. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge – when you see the projections, you might be motivated to save even more!
To access the calculator, visit our Financial Wellness Tools section or click “Calculators” under Education on our site’s main menu. It’s free to use and doesn’t require any login. If you need guidance on how to interpret the results or set a realistic goal, our financial champions are always happy to help! As your financial champion for life, we love helping members craft a savings plan that works.
Important Rate Disclosures & Fine Print
We believe in full transparency. Here are the key disclosures and details regarding our rates and policies:
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Rate Accuracy: All Annual Percentage Yields (APYs) quoted here are accurate as of the date noted and are subject to change at any time. For the latest rates, you can always check our official rates page or contact us directly.
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Dividend Calculation: “Dividends” is the credit union term for interest. Forward Plus dividends are paid monthly (and compounded monthly, meaning each month’s interest adds to your balance to earn more next month). Our Money Market Certificate pays dividends quarterly (compounded quarterly). Term Share Certificates can pay at maturity or monthly into another account. The stated APY assumes you leave dividends in the account to compound for a full year.
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Fees and Minimums: As noted, Forward Plus has no monthly fees and no minimum balance to earn the 3.50% APY². The only potential fee would be if you close your membership account entirely (there’s a $25 one-time membership share which remains yours). Money Market and regular savings accounts also have no monthly maintenance fees. Inactivity or excess withdrawal fees can apply to regular savings (for example, more than six certain withdrawals per month, per federal Reg D guidelines, might incur a fee or account conversion – this applies to all savings/money market accounts universally). Leaders Credit Union is very fee-conscious; we aim to keep member fees minimal and clearly disclosed.
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NCUA Insurance: Every account is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration up to $250,000 per depositor (and potentially higher coverage with different account ownership types). This insurance is backed by the U.S. Government, exactly like FDIC insurance for banks. So your money is safe here, even as it earns high yields. You’ll see the NCUA badge on our site and marketing – rest assured, we meet and exceed all safety and soundness standards as reflected in our strong financial health ratings. Leaders Credit Union has been thriving since 1957 (depositaccounts.com).
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Rate Changes: All our savings products (except fixed-term certificates) have variable rates. This means the APY can change over time at our discretion and based on economic factors. When you open an account, the current rate is not locked in permanently (again, except certificates which are locked for their term). We commit to keeping our rates among the best in the area. If there is a change, it will be reflected in your account’s disclosures and on our website. Always refer to our official rate sheet or contact us if you have any questions about current rates.
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Promotional Conditions: If any special conditions apply (such as “new money only” or limited-time offers), we will note them. Currently, our Forward Plus and certificate special do not require new money – existing members can transfer funds from elsewhere in the credit union and still get the high APY. This is a big difference from some banks’ promotions that require money not currently on deposit. We want all members, new or long-standing, to benefit from high yields. The Fast Forward Savings (5.00% APY⁴ on first $5,000) is a separate account with its own rules (requires $20 monthly deposit and no withdrawals to earn) – that one is aimed at helping new savers build a habit. If interested, you can ask us about it or read more on our site, but for most savers looking for the best return with flexibility, Forward Plus is the go-to.
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Early Withdrawal (Certificates): As mentioned, withdrawing a certificate early incurs a penalty. For our 11-month special, the penalty is typically 90 days of interest (if you withdraw principal before 11 months). Longer-term certificates often have 180 days interest penalty for early withdrawal. These penalties are in place to discourage breaking the term early, as rates are based on keeping funds deposited for the full term. However, you will never lose your initial principal – even if you withdraw very early, the penalty would just be taken from the interest earned (or from principal if interest isn’t sufficient). Upon maturity, there’s a grace period (usually 5 business days) where you can withdraw or change the certificate with no penalty.
If you have any questions about these details or need clarification on how our accounts work, please contact us – we’re here to help make everything clear and straightforward.
How We Compare to Other Banks (Memphis & National)
You might be wondering, “Are these really the best rates around?” We encourage everyone to compare – and we’re confident that Leaders Credit Union offers one of the best packages of rate + service you’ll find. Here’s a quick comparison of our high-yield savings to other institutions commonly used in Memphis:
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Leaders Credit Union – Forward Plus Savings: 3.50% APY² (no minimum balance, available to all members). No fees, no tier limit. – This is our rate as of today, and it’s among the highest you can get in a liquid account locally.
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Regions Bank: LifeGreen Preferred Savings – up to 3.50% APY with $100k+ (3.00% if $10k+) . Regular savings is much lower. – Regions is a big regional bank; they’ve introduced higher-yield tiers likely to compete with credit unions. They match our 3.50% APY² only at very high balances. Plus, Regions may charge fees if you don’t meet certain balance or checking account requirements. At Leaders, no such strings – every member enjoys our best rate. (bestcashcow.com)
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First Horizon Bank: Savings Account – roughly 0.85% APY at best for large balances (and as low as 0.25% for standard tiers) – This is one of the largest banks in Memphis. Clearly, their yields are not in the “high yield” category. If you’ve been with big banks, moving to Leaders CU can literally earn you 10x to 15x more interest on your savings overnight (bestcashcow.com).
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National Online Banks: Online-only banks sometimes offer savings APYs in the 4.00% – 4.50% APY range. These can fluctuate; for instance, many online banks have lowered rates over 2025 (some dropping from ~5% down to ~4%). – Yes, a few online banks might edge out our 3.50% APY² by a percentage point. However, consider the trade-offs: those banks have no local presence, some have clunky customer service or inconvenient requirements, and they are not investing back into your community. Leaders Credit Union's approach is to remain very competitive while providing far more personal service and trust. And unlike some teaser rates online, our rates tend to be stable – we’re not doing bait-and-switch. In fact, our 3.50% APY² has held steady while some online competitors have seesawed and introduced conditions. We want you to feel confident keeping your money local. (bestcashcow.com)
In summary, Leaders Credit Union is positioned at the top of the pack for Memphis savers looking for the best banks with high rates. You might find a slightly higher APY here or there, but when you factor in ease of use, no gimmicks, and the benefit of local, member-focused banking, we believe we offer the best overall value. And don’t just take our word for it – Forbes named us the #2 credit union in Tennessee in 2025, the only one from West Tennessee on the list (yourleague.org). Our commitment is to continue earning that trust by giving you great rates and great service every day.
(Data sources: Rate comparisons gathered from public information and rate aggregators in Nov 2025. Always verify current rates with each institution.)
Quick FAQs about High-Yield Savings at Leaders Credit Union
Q: What is a “high-yield” savings account?
A: A high-yield savings account is simply a savings account that pays a significantly higher interest rate (yield) than a typical savings account. There’s no strict definition of “high-yield,” but generally these accounts are at the top tier of rates available nationwide. They work just like normal savings accounts (funds are liquid, you earn interest periodically) but because the rate is higher, you earn more on your balance. Leaders Credit Union’s Forward Plus is a helpful example – at 3.50% APY² it outpaces typical accounts (many banks pay under 0.5%). High-yield accounts are great for growing your money safely. Keep in mind that “high” is relative to the market; rates can change. Our goal is always to keep our rates as high as possible while maintaining the safety of your deposits.
Q: How often do savings rates change?
A: Rates on variable savings accounts (like Forward Plus High Yield) can change at any time. If market interest rates are moving (for example, if the Federal Reserve changes benchmark rates), we evaluate and may adjust accordingly. In stable periods, we may leave rates unchanged for many months. For instance, our Forward Plus high-yield rate has remained at 3.50% APY² since 10/01/2025, through the present. We will always list the effective date of the current APY on our disclosures.
Q: How does Leaders Credit Union protect my savings? Is it safe?
A: Absolutely – your savings are extremely safe here. Leaders Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration), which means your deposits are insured up to $250,000 per member (and possibly more with joint accounts or IRA accounts, etc.). This protection is the same level that banks have with FDIC insurance – it’s backed by the U.S. government. In our 65+ year history, we have a rock-solid track record of financial stability. In addition to insurance, we employ robust security measures: encryption in digital banking, fraud monitoring, and strict privacy practices. When you deposit money with Leaders, it’s as safe as it would be at any large national bank – but you have the added assurance that we’re member-owned. We adhere to all regulations regarding liquidity and capital. Also, because we are local, if you ever have concerns or questions, you can walk into our branch or call and talk to a real person who will address them. Peace of mind is a top priority. (Fun fact: Credit unions often have some of the lowest default rates and highest capital ratios in the industry – we truly safeguard our members’ funds diligently.)
Q: How do I join Leaders Credit Union and open an account?
A: It’s easy! To join, you simply need to meet our membership eligibility (basically living, working, or worshipping in our service area or joining a related foundation which we can facilitate for you). You can become a member and open a savings account online in just a few minutes. There’s a one-time $25 membership share purchase (this represents your share of ownership in the credit union) – think of it as opening balance that remains in your base savings account. This is not a fee; it’s your money and is refundable if you ever leave. Once a member, you can open additional accounts (Forward Plus savings, checking, loans, etc.) easily. For the Forward Plus High-Yield Savings, specifically, you can select that product during your online application or in person. No minimum deposit is required to open Forward Plus, though of course funding it with a decent amount will start your earnings. The online application will guide you through personal info (name, address, ID verification, etc.), eligibility qualification (like selecting that you live in Memphis, for example), and funding options (you can transfer from an external bank or mail a check/deposit later). If you prefer, you can also visit our Bartlett or Arlington (Memphis) branches or any other Leaders Credit Union branch to join in person – we’d love to meet you! Once open, you’ll get online banking access and can manage your accounts digitally. And remember, as a member you’re not just a member–you are part of a community that works together for financial well-being.
Q: Are there any strings attached to the 3.50% APY² – like do I have to also open a checking account or use my debit card X times?
A: No strings – the 3.50% APY² on Forward Plus High-Yield Savings is straightforward. Unlike some banks’ “rewards checking” or savings accounts, we do not require any monthly transactions, direct deposits, or additional accounts to qualify for that rate. You simply need to be a member (so have that primary share $25 and membership status) and open the Forward Plus account. Then just deposit your money and let it earn. We don’t force bundled packages or gimmicky requirements for our savings rates. Our philosophy is that your savings should earn you a great return without jumping through hoops. The Forward Plus savings has no transaction or account relationship requirements. Just high interest, plain and simple.
Q: Can I really trust a credit union as much as a bank?
A: Yes – in fact, many people find they trust credit unions even more. We are regulated, insured, and examined just like banks. The key difference is our ownership structure: we are owned by our members (you), not stockholders. This means all decisions are made in the best interest of providing value to members, not maximizing profit. Practically, that means higher savings rates, lower loan rates, and fewer fees. Service-wise, credit unions like Leaders often rank at the top for customer satisfaction. We are deeply invested in our communities. For example, we have programs for financial education, and we support local causes in Memphis and West Tennessee. When you call us, you get a human who cares. Forbes and other independent evaluators consistently recognize credit unions in their “best” lists for these reasons – as noted, we’re #2 in Tennessee per Forbes (yourleague.org). Security-wise, your money is just as safe here as with any bank, thanks to NCUA insurance. And technologically, we offer the same modern conveniences (mobile apps, online banking, mobile check deposit, etc.). If you’ve never used a credit union, you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised by the combination of personal touch and competitive offerings. Your deposits fuel loans to other members in the local economy, creating a beneficial cycle. So by choosing Leaders Credit Union, you’re not only getting a great rate, you’re also contributing to the financial well-being of your neighbors and community. That’s trust you can feel good about.
Have other questions not covered here? We're always happy to help! Reach out to us directly via phone or chat.
Ready to Earn More? Next Steps
Leaders Credit Union is ready to be your financial champion for life on your savings journey. When you’re earning more interest, you’ll reach your goals faster – and we love to see our members be the hero of their financial story. Here are a few ways to get started or learn more:
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🔒 Open a High-Yield Savings Account: Our online application is quick and secure. Open an Account Now and start enjoying 3.50% APY² earnings. Whether you’re new to Leaders or an existing member, you can open the Forward Plus account easily.
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🤝 Speak to a Financial Champion: Still have questions or want personalized guidance? Contact Us to speak with one of our financial champions (that’s what we call our team members, because we champion your financial goals!). We can walk you through comparisons, help you decide how to allocate your savings, or assist with the opening process. You can also visit our Bartlett or Arlington branch and talk to a representative in person.
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💡 Explore All Savings Options: We offer more than just what’s covered here. Perhaps you’re interested in a Youth Savings account for your child, or an IRA savings/certificate for retirement – check out All Our Savings Accounts for a menu of options. We have a Fast Forward Savings (for developing a savings habit with 4.00% APY on small balances) and Future Leader Savings (for kids, with high interest rates on the first $500 to get them started). Each is designed for different needs, but all share the goal of helping you earn more.
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🏆 Why Choose Leaders: We know you have choices in Memphis for your banking. We invite you to learn more About Leaders Credit Union – our history, mission, and member benefits. As a not-for-profit, our success is measured in member satisfaction. We’re honored to have earned trust across West Tennessee and accolades like Forbes’ #2 Best-in-State Credit Union in Tennessee (yourleague.org). When you choose us, you’re not just a number – you’re part of something bigger, a cooperative that cares.
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📍 Visit or Join: If you want to see us face to face, come by our Bartlett or Arlington branch in the Memphis area. Or if you’re reading this from elsewhere in Tennessee, find a branch or ATM near you. We even have a co-op network that gives you surcharge-free ATMs around the city (including at many local 7-Eleven stores and other credit unions). Access to your money is never a problem with Leaders Credit Union.
We’re excited to help you earn more on your savings and achieve your financial goals. Let’s grow your savings together!
Trust and Accreditation:
Leaders Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA, so your deposits (up to $250,000) are protected by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.
Forbes ranked Leaders Credit Union as the #2 Best Credit Union in Tennessee (2025) – a testament to our commitment to member satisfaction and excellent rates (yourleague.org). We are the only credit union from West Tennessee on that list, highlighting our dedication to serving the Memphis and surrounding community with top-notch banking services.
Leaders Credit Union is a local, member-owned financial cooperative founded in 1957 and now serving over 85,000 members (depositaccounts.com). When you join, you become an owner – enabling us to offer better savings rates and lower fees than many banks. We’re one of the healthiest credit unions in the region, with an “A” health rating and strong growth, which means we’ll be here for you now and in the future.
Join Leaders Credit Union today and let us be your financial champion for life. Your goals are our goals – and with our high-yield savings options, we’ll help you reach them faster. Together, we’ll earn more and achieve more. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and the greater Memphis community.
This page is updated periodically to ensure information remains current.
Still have questions? Visit our Help Center.
Disclosures
1. - APY = Annual Percentage Yield.
2. - Forward Plus High Yield Savings: 3.50% APY effective 10/01/2025. This account offers the flexibility of no minimum opening balance requirement and no minimum to earn dividends. Maintaining a minimum balance is unnecessary to avoid service charges. Interest accrual extends up to a maximum of five million dollars.
3. - Term share certificates closed before maturity are subject to early withdrawal penalties. Certificates may be used as collateral for low-interest loans.
4. - Fast Forward Savings: 5.00% APY effective 03/01/2024. In order to qualify to receive interest for the month, the member must not withdraw from the account and have at least one (1) deposit for at least $20 (not including the interest from the account). If the member withdraws from the account, the member will not receive interest for the month. One FREE withdrawal per month, additional withdrawals are subject to a $5 fee. Account limited to one per membership.
Your savings are federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government.


