Fed Hikes Bank Reserve Rate to 3.90%: Loans Feel It
Published Date: 9/30/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting September 17, 2026, banks and similar institutions get a higher interest rate—3.90%—on money they keep with the Federal Reserve. This 0.25% boost helps keep the federal funds rate steady, which affects loans and savings for everyone. The new rule kicks in officially on September 30, 2026, making it a win for banks and the economy.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Banks get higher interest on reserves
Starting September 17, 2026 (applicable) and formalized September 30, 2026 (effective), eligible depository institutions receive interest on reserve balances (IORB) at 3.90 percent. This is a 0.25 percentage point increase from the prior IORB of 3.65 percent.
IORB raised to support federal funds target
The Board says the 3.90 percent IORB rate (announced September 16, 2026 and applicable September 17, 2026) is intended to enhance IORB's role in maintaining the federal funds rate in the FOMC target range of 3.75 percent to 4.00 percent. The Board linked the rate change to the FOMC decision announced September 16, 2026.
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Key Dates
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