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Fixed-Rate Bonds Explained

Our guide to Fixed-Rate Bonds and how they work

A Fixed-Rate Bond is an investment whereby you are depositing money with your provider for a fixed term usually with a higher return of interest. In comparison, most regular savings accounts do not have a fixed term and tend to pay a much lower rate of interest.

A Fixed-Rate Bond offers a fixed rate of interest on a lump-sum for a set period of time. Fixed-Rate Bonds often offer a higher rate of interest due to the extended period of time that your money is deposited.

Fixed-Rate Bonds typically have set terms between one and five years. Usually interest is compounded annually and paid once the Bond reaches the end of term and matures. Most Fixed-Rate Bonds do not permit any withdrawals. If they do permit closure then many have a penalty for early closure, so it is important that you only invest money that you will not require access to during the fixed term.

You should also consider the future risks of rising rates when making a decision on the length of time you deposit your funds. Tying up your funds for an extended period of time means that if interest rates begin to rise you could run the risk of losing out on competitive rates. Alternatively, if rates go down you have the assurance of a fixed rate.

Shortly before your Bond matures your provider will write to inform you of the options available to you and request your instructions.

These options include:

/ Reinvesting your Bond for another fixed-term.

/ Having your funds repaid to you plus interest.

Our Sensible Savings Fixed-Rate Bonds are fixed-rate and offer competitive rates for either 1, 2 or 3 year terms.

Investing in a Fixed-Rate Bond

The amount that you can invest into a savings Bond can vary from each provider. You are usually required to deposit a lump-sum upon opening a Bond. Opening balance requirements vary.

It is important to note that once you make your deposit you cannot add to the existing balance. However, if you do wish to tie up any further lump-sums you do have the choice to open more than one Bond. With our Sensible Savings Fixed-Rate Bonds you are able to deposit a minimum of £5,000 and a maximum of £500,000, but are able to open multiple Bonds if you have larger sums to invest.

There is also likely to be a set period to fund your new Bond, this can range from 10-30 days so you must ensure your Bond is funded to prevent its closure.

Our Sensible Savings Fixed-Rate Bonds must be funded in 10 working days from the moment that you apply.

How interest is paid

The interest on a Fixed-Rate Bond will not change during the duration of the term. You will begin to earn interest on your savings the day you fund your account up until, but not including, the day it matures. Interest is paid with your capital once the Bond matures. For Bonds with a term of more than 1 year interest is compounded annually.

Interest on our Sensible Savings Fixed-Rate Bonds will start to be accrued as soon as you have completed your online application and we have received your funds. Alternatively, if you are making your deposit by cheque you will start to earn interest as soon as your cheque has cleared. Our Sensible Savings Fixed-Rate Bonds will continue to earn interest up to, but not including, the day before maturity date.

Are Savings Bonds Right for you?

If you are saving for a special occasion or would simply like a rewarding rate on your savings and you will not require any withdrawals before the end of the fixed term that is applicable to you, then a Fixed-Rate Bond could be right for you.