The survey, conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Countrywide Bank, FSB, the nation's third largest federal savings bank, shows that the majority of Americans who have both savings and checking accounts keep them at the same bank; they have never thought of having the accounts at separate banks, and have no automatic savings plan in place.

"Consumers are potentially leaving money on the table," says Pierre P. Habis, managing director for deposits and investment services at Countrywide Bank. "Serious savers view their savings accounts as 'one way' only, meaning they make more deposits than withdrawals. They succeed at this by keeping their transactional banking relationship at one bank and savings at another."

"We've found that if consumers' checking and savings are under the same roof, it's too easy to draw from that nest egg, and that's when savings stagnate," he adds.

So what are the three secrets of successful savers? Habis offers the following advice:

1. Separate

In the Harris survey, 71 percent of respondents said they keep their savings and checking accounts in the same bank. And 67 percent have never even considered separating their accounts. This, Habis says, can be a serious mistake.

Keep your primary savings and checking accounts at different financial institutions. This strategy may help you get the best rates, and will make it more difficult to dip into your savings - one of the worst saving mistakes people commit. Shop around for institutions that offer the best possible terms. It is possible that the institution that best meets your checking needs might not be suited for providing market-leading savings rates.

2. Automate

Sixty one percent of the respondents in the Harris poll do not automatically transfer or deposit a set amount into their savings on a regular basis. Paying yourself first is one of the hallmarks of a basic savings plan.  Habis recommends that consumers establish a savings plan, whereby a percentage of your income, or a set dollar amount, is automatically deposited into your savings account on a regular basis. "Start out by trying to allocate a small amount, perhaps even $20 per week to start, towards a high-yielding account," says Habis.

3. Shop for the Best Rate

If you're not sure what the annual percentage yield (APY) is on your savings account, how do you know if your money is working hard for you? According to the survey, 32 percent of adults with savings accounts don't know what the yield and corresponding interest rate is, and 45 percent know that it is less than 5 percent. To find the best rate, survey several banks and compare the APY on your savings accounts, money market accounts or certificates of deposit.

Avoid leaving money on the table by ensuring that your account has market-leading savings rates. Web sites such as www.bankrate.com help consumers identify the highest rates available in their market.

"As with any financial decision, consumers should carefully evaluate their options and fully understand the advantages and disadvantages before making a change," Habis says.  "Consumers can maximize their returns if they separate, automate and always seek the best rate."

Courtesy of ARAcontent
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