One of the main barriers savers encounter when looking for interest-bearing accounts is the requirement to have their salary paid directly into the account. However, in 2026 there are several competitive alternatives that do not impose this condition. We analyze them for you with real, up-to-date data.
Why look for an account without a payroll?
Many self-employed workers, freelancers, retirees, or simply people who do not want to change their main bank are excluded from the best banking offers. Accounts without a direct deposit requirement eliminate this barrier: anyone can open them and start generating returns from day one.
The best interest-bearing accounts without a payroll in 2026
1. Trade Republic — 2.02% APR
The German platform (with a banking license) offers 2.02% APR on the available balance with no conditions, no fees, and no payroll requirements. The money is available instantly. Guaranteed by the German Deposit Guarantee Fund up to €100,000.
Point to note: the interface is investment-oriented; the interest-bearing account is a secondary product. Recommended if you already use or are interested in investing in stocks/ETFs.
2. MyInvestor — 2.10% APR (12 months)
2.10% APR for the first 12 months for new customers, no paycheck required. After that, it drops significantly. Spanish FGD guarantee up to €100,000. Full account with card, Bizum, and access to investment funds.
Ideal for: switching during the first year and then evaluating alternatives.
3. Bankinter Digital — 2.15% APR (6 months)
The highest offer on the market for new customers: 2.15% APR for the first 6 months. No payroll required, no maintenance fees. After the promotional period, the rate drops to the standard rate (currently much lower).
Bankinter is a Spanish bank with FGD coverage up to €100,000. A solvent bank with a long history.
4. Openbank — variable
Santander's digital bank offers interest on the balance, although the current conditions are less competitive than the previous three. Its main advantage is the backing of the Santander Group and its operational strength.
Quick comparison
| Bank | APR | Period | Payroll | FGD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bankinter Digital | 2.15 | 6 months (new customers) | Not required | Spain — €100,000 |
| MyInvestor | 2.10% | 12 months (new customers) | Not required | Spain — €100,000 |
| Trade Republic | 2.02 | Indefinite | Not required | Germany — €100,000 |
| Openbank | Variable | No limit | Not required | Spain — €100,000 |
What happens after the promotional period?
This is the critical point that many savers overlook. Accounts with the best initial APR (Bankinter, MyInvestor) are temporary offers. When the period expires:
- The rate can drop to almost 0%
- You can switch to another institution (without penalty, the money is always yours)
- Or you can stay if the updated rate is still competitive
Trade Republic is the only permanent option that has no limited period, although its APR reflects the current market rate (adjusted to the ECB).
How much can you earn? Practical example
With €10,000 in an account at 2.10% APR for 12 months:
- Gross interest: €210
- Income tax withholding (19%): €39.90
- Net interest: €170.10
Compared to €0 in a traditional non-interest-bearing checking account. The difference is real and significant.
Recommended profile for each option
- You want the highest return in the first year: Bankinter Digital (2.15% × 6m) → MyInvestor (2.10% × 12m)
- You want simplicity with no expiration dates: Trade Republic
- You want everything in a comprehensive Spanish bank: MyInvestor or Openbank
- You are self-employed/freelance: any — none require a paycheck
Conclusion
There's no excuse for leaving your money idle in 2026. With interest-bearing accounts available from day one and guaranteed by the European FGD, earning between 2% and 2.15% APR is easy and risk-free. The optimal strategy: use the promotional offer with the highest APR, and when it matures, evaluate whether there is a new, better offer or whether to keep the permanent account with the best rate available at that time.