Compare Fixed-Rate Deposits in Hungary

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16 live offers compared from 7 providers, from HUF 0. Updated daily.

What is a fixed deposit in Hungary?

A fixed deposit (lekötött betét) is a savings product where you lock a sum with a bank for a set term, from a month to several years, in return for a guaranteed interest rate. Unlike an instant-access savings account, the money is committed for the term, and withdrawing early usually forfeits some or all of the interest. Fixed deposits are typically held in forint, and became popular during the high-rate cycle when they offered attractive, certain returns.

How the Hungarian fixed-deposit market works

Banks set fixed-deposit rates in line with the MNB base rate and their own funding needs, so returns rose sharply during the recent high-inflation period and move with monetary policy. Rates often vary by term and by whether the deposit is new money, and some promotional offers pay a premium for shorter locks to attract fresh funds. The advertised rate is expressed as an EBKM, a standardised annualised indicator that makes offers comparable.

Benefits of a fixed deposit

Guaranteed return — The interest rate is fixed for the term, giving certainty regardless of rate movements.

Higher rates than instant access — Committing funds usually earns more than a flexible savings account.

Deposit protection — Covered by the OBA up to the EUR 100,000 equivalent per depositor per bank.

Discipline — Locking the money removes the temptation to dip into savings before the goal date.

How to choose a fixed deposit

Compare offers using the EBKM, not the raw rate, and match the term to when you will need the money, since early withdrawal typically costs your interest. Check whether the top rate applies only to new money or above a minimum amount, and what happens at maturity: many deposits auto-renew, sometimes at a lower standard rate. Weigh a longer lock for a higher rate against the flexibility of a shorter term or an instant-access account.

Leading providers in Hungary

OTP Bank, K&H Bank, UniCredit Hungary, Raiffeisen Bank Hungary, CIB Bank and Erste Bank Hungary all offer fixed deposits across a range of terms, and digital-first Gránit Bank frequently posts competitive online rates. Because rates and promotional conditions shift with monetary policy, comparing current EBKM figures across several banks at the moment you invest is the best way to secure the strongest return.

What a fixed deposit costs

There is normally no fee to open a fixed deposit; the real cost is the loss of flexibility and the interest penalty if you break the term early. Returns are quoted as EBKM, and interest is subject to personal income tax and social contribution tax unless held in a tax-advantaged wrapper, so compare net returns. Auto-renewal at a lower rate is a common trap, so note the maturity date and standard renewal terms.

Protections and regulation

Banks offering fixed deposits are licensed and supervised by the MNB, and deposits are guaranteed by the OBA up to the EUR 100,000 equivalent per depositor per institution. Providers must disclose the EBKM to enable fair comparison, along with the early-withdrawal terms and any auto-renewal conditions. Spreading very large sums across banks can keep more of your money within the guarantee limit.

Common questions

Can I access the money early? — Usually only by forfeiting some or all of the interest. Is a fixed deposit safe? — Yes, up to the OBA limit of the EUR 100,000 equivalent per person per bank. What is EBKM? — A standardised annualised deposit rate indicator for comparing offers. What happens at maturity? — Many deposits auto-renew, so check the renewal rate and diarise the end date.

Fixed-Rate Deposits in Hungary — FAQ