What's a typical CD rate?

Top online banks offer 4-5% APY on short-term CDs (3-12 months) in 2026. Long-term CDs (3-5 years) typically pay slightly less, reflecting the bank locking in your money. Compare top online rates — they meaningfully exceed brick-and-mortar bank CD rates.

Early withdrawal penalty?

Most CDs charge a penalty of 3-12 months of interest if you withdraw before maturity. Always check the early-withdrawal terms before opening — if there's any chance you'll need the cash, a no-penalty CD or HYSA is usually better.

Buy CDs that mature in staggered intervals (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 years). As each matures, reinvest at the longest rung. You capture average rates over time and always have liquidity in the near term. Useful when you don't want to time the rate market.

CD Calculator

Project the ending balance of a Certificate of Deposit. Enter principal, APY, and term to see total interest earned and effective annual yield.

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