Glossary

Notice account

By Fredrik Filipsson, cofounder of Business Bank Index
Reviewed by Morten Andersen
Definition

A notice account is a savings account that requires the holder to give a set period of notice, such as 30, 60, or 90 days, before withdrawing funds, often in exchange for a higher interest rate.

Information as of 8 February 2026Last reviewed 8 February 2026

General information, not financial, legal, or tax advice. Verify current terms and eligibility with the provider before applying.

A notice account is a savings account that lets a business earn interest while requiring advance notice before a withdrawal. The notice period, commonly 30, 60, or 90 days, starts when the business requests the money, and the funds become available once it ends.

How a notice account works

A notice account sits between an instant access savings account and a fixed term deposit. A business can usually pay money in and earn interest, but to take money out it must give the provider a set number of days notice. The notice period, often 30, 60, or 90 days but sometimes shorter or longer, begins when the withdrawal is requested, and the funds are released when it ends. In exchange for this delay, notice accounts often pay a higher rate than instant access accounts, current as of 8 February 2026.

Notice account and other savings options

An instant access account allows withdrawals at any time, usually at a lower rate. A fixed term deposit locks funds for a set term and typically does not allow withdrawals until maturity. A notice account is a middle option, giving a higher rate than instant access while keeping some flexibility, provided the business can wait out the notice period.

Why it matters to a business

A notice account can suit a business that holds a cash reserve it does not expect to need at short notice. The notice period means the money is not suitable for unexpected or emergency costs. Rates are often variable and can change, minimum deposits vary, and deposit protection depends on the country and institution, so confirm current terms with the provider.

Frequently asked questions

What is a notice account?
A notice account is a savings account that requires a set period of notice, such as 30, 60, or 90 days, before you can withdraw funds. It often pays a higher rate than an instant access account in return.
How long is the notice period on a notice account?
Notice periods vary by product and can range from about seven days to 180 days or more, with 30, 60, and 90 days common. The period starts when you request a withdrawal. Check the specific term with the provider.
Can I withdraw money immediately from a notice account?
Usually not. You generally must give the agreed notice before funds are released. Some providers allow earlier access only with a penalty, if at all, so confirm the rules with the provider.
Do notice accounts pay more interest than instant access accounts?
They often do, because the notice period gives the provider more certainty over the deposit. Rates are frequently variable and can change, so compare current rates before deciding.

Definitions, fees, features, and eligibility change and vary by region. This page was last reviewed on 8 February 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before applying.

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