I’m a freelance writer (check my credentials at www.martinspiration.blogspot.com) and I'm working on a new story for AARP The Magazine (print edition) on the following topic: Saving in cyberspace: The pros and cons of online savings accounts. With interest rates on bank savings accounts and CDs remaining paltry, many consumers are opting to salt away their dollars in online-only savings accounts, many of which promise better interest rates and charge lower fees because they don't have the overhead costs of maintaining brick-and-mortar facilities. This piece would explore why opening and maintaining an online savings account may be preferable, what to watch out for/avoid, and how to maximize your savings as well as online security. For this story, I’m looking to interview: a retirement-age homeowner (age 50 and up) who has opened an online savings account and is happy with it; as well as banking experts who can provide tips on what to consider/look for in an online bank. I can either conduct a phone or email interview (with the latter, you can type up responses to my questions below and email them to me). My deadline to complete all interviews is Friday, Oct. 16 by noon central time.
QUESTIONS:1. (FOR A HOMEOWNER AGE 50+): a. When and why did you decide to open an online savings account? With what online bank?b. What yield (savings interest rate) are you earning/have been earning?c. What do you like about the online bank you chose (features, perks, yield, no/low fees, etc.)? What is easy/simple about online banking? What do you wish was improved?d. Do you have any tips/suggestions you would give other consumers as to what to think about before choosing an online bank?e. What is your full name, age, city/state? 2. (FOR INDUSTRY EXPERTS): Who are the major players (names of prominent/reputable online banks offering online-only savings accounts)?3. Why should consumers consider putting their money into an online-only savings account? (e.g., low/no fees, special promotions, higher yields/rates, etc.)4. What are the pros and cons of saving via an online bank versus a brick-and-mortar-based bank?5. For those who may be skittish about banking online with an online savings account, how would you assure them (e.g., issues of simplicity, safety/security, etc.)?6. What tips should consumers follow when considering/choosing an online savings bank? Please cover aspects of researching/vetting the online bank, ensuring online security, maximizing benefits/yield, etc.7. What would you recommend they watch out for/avoid? What are the red flags?8. What are some realistic expectations here that you would caution consumers about?9. Are there any good resources (e.g., web sites, online tools, etc.) that you recommend consumers check out on this topic?10. Do you have any statistics/research findings/data that can help illustrate this topic? 11. Any other thoughts, comments, or tips you wanted to offer on this topic?12. What is your full name, title/company, and city/state location?
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