Best CD rates today, September 16, 2025: Lock in up to 4.45% APY today

Group 1 - The current trend shows a decline in deposit account rates, but competitive returns on certificates of deposit (CDs) can still be locked in, with the best CDs offering rates above 4% [1][2] - As of September 16, 2025, the highest CD rate available is 4.45% APY, offered by LendingClub for an 8-month CD, while short-term CDs (6 to 12 months) generally offer rates around 4% to 4.5% APY [2] - Historical trends indicate that CD rates have fluctuated significantly due to economic events, with rates falling to around 1% APY for one-year CDs by 2009 after the financial crisis [3][4] Group 2 - The Federal Reserve's policies have greatly influenced CD rates, with ultra-low rates prevailing from 2009 until a gradual increase began in 2015, followed by a drop during the COVID-19 pandemic [5][6] - Post-pandemic, the Fed raised rates 11 times between March 2022 and July 2023, leading to higher APYs on savings products, including CDs [6] - By September 2024, the Fed started cutting the federal funds rate, resulting in a decrease in CD rates from their peak, although they remain high by historical standards [7] Group 3 - Traditionally, longer-term CDs offered higher interest rates, but currently, the highest average CD rate is for a 12-month term, indicating a flattening or inversion of the yield curve [8] - When selecting a CD, factors such as goals, type of financial institution, account terms, and inflation should be considered to ensure the best fit for individual needs [9]