Core Insights - The Federal Reserve has cut its federal funds rate three times in 2025, making it a critical time for investors to lock in competitive CD rates before potential further declines [1] - The highest CD rate currently available is 4% APY, offered by Marcus by Goldman Sachs for a one-year CD [2] CD Rates Overview - Best CD rates are generally found in shorter terms of around one year or less, with online banks and credit unions leading in competitive rates [2] - The amount of interest earned from a CD is determined by the annual percentage rate (APY), which reflects total earnings after one year, factoring in the base interest rate and compounding frequency [2] Interest Earnings Examples - An investment of $1,000 in a one-year CD at 1.61% APY would yield a total balance of $1,016.22 after one year, including $16.22 in interest [3] - Conversely, a one-year CD at 4% APY would grow the same $1,000 investment to $1,040.74, resulting in $40.74 in interest [3] Deposit Impact on Earnings - Increasing the deposit amount in a CD significantly enhances potential earnings; for example, a $10,000 deposit in a one-year CD at 4% APY would result in a total balance of $10,407.42, yielding $407.42 in interest [4] Types of CDs - Various types of CDs offer different benefits, which may include accepting a slightly lower interest rate for added flexibility [4] - Bump-up CDs allow for a one-time request to increase the interest rate if the bank's rates rise during the term [4] - No-penalty CDs permit early withdrawal without penalties, while Jumbo CDs require higher minimum deposits (typically $100,000 or more) and may offer higher rates [4] - Brokered CDs are purchased through a brokerage and can provide higher rates or flexible terms, but may carry more risk and lack FDIC insurance [4]

Find out how much you could earn by locking in a high CD rate today. A certificate of deposit (CD) allows you to lock in a competitive rate on your savings and help your balance grow. However, rates vary widely across financial institutions, so it’s important to ensure you’re getting the best rate possible when shopping around for a CD. The following is a breakdown of CD rates today and where to find the best offers. Overview of CD rates today Historically, longer-term CDs offered higher interest rates t ...