TheMoneyCraze

3 picks · editor's ranking

Best CD Rates of 2026

A certificate of deposit locks in a fixed rate for a set term. You give up access to the money until the CD matures — or pay an early withdrawal penalty — in exchange for a rate that won't fall if savings rates do.

CDs work best for money you're sure you won't need before the term ends.

Last reviewed October 22, 2026

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Our picks at a glance

PickBest forAPYAction
1Barclays 12-Month CDBest 1-year CD4.50%Visit site — Barclays 12-Month CD (opens in a new tab)
2Sallie Mae Bank 12-Month CDBest for larger deposits4.50%Visit site — Sallie Mae Bank 12-Month CD (opens in a new tab)
3Synchrony 13-Month CDBest just-over-a-year CD4.40%Visit site — Synchrony 13-Month CD (opens in a new tab)
#1Best 1-year CD

Barclays 12-Month CD

Barclays Bank Delaware, Member FDIC

Best for: Locking in a rate for a year

A top one-year rate with no minimum deposit.

Min. to earn APY
$0
Monthly fee
$0
Term
12 months
  • No monthly fee
  • No minimum to earn APY
Show pros & cons
  • Fixed rate for the full term
  • No minimum deposit
  • Early withdrawal penalty
  • Money is locked up for a year

APY

4.50%

Reviewed Oct 22, 2026

#2Best for larger deposits

Sallie Mae Bank 12-Month CD

Sallie Mae Bank, Member FDIC

Best for: Larger deposits

The same top rate for savers with $2,500 or more.

Min. to earn APY
$2,500
Monthly fee
$0
Term
12 months
  • No monthly fee
Show pros & cons
  • Competitive fixed rate
  • Automatic renewal option
  • $2,500 minimum deposit
  • Early withdrawal penalty

APY

4.50%

Reviewed Oct 22, 2026

#3Best just-over-a-year CD

Synchrony 13-Month CD

Synchrony Bank, Member FDIC

Best for: A just-over-a-year CD with no minimum

A strong 13-month rate with no minimum, from a bank with many term options.

Min. to earn APY
$0
Monthly fee
$0
Term
13 months
  • No monthly fee
  • No minimum to earn APY
Show pros & cons
  • No minimum deposit
  • Fixed rate
  • Early withdrawal penalty

APY

4.40%

Reviewed Oct 22, 2026

APYs are variable (except CDs) and can change at any time. Rates shown were published by each bank on the review date. Promotional rates may require qualifying activity and expire after a set period. Deposits are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, per ownership category.

How we compare accounts

Our methodology

We review each provider's published terms and compare them on what matters most. Rankings are editorial: partners can't pay for a better position, and any sponsored link is labelled. Terms change, so every entry shows the date it was last reviewed.

01

Rate

The APY you can realistically earn — and what it takes to earn it.

02

Fees & minimums

Monthly fees, minimum deposits and the balance needed for the top rate.

03

Access

Linked checking, ATM networks, branches and how easy it is to move money.

04

Safety

FDIC insurance and the clarity of promo terms and conditions.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

What happens when a CD matures?

You typically get a grace period to withdraw the money or move it. If you do nothing, many banks automatically renew it for the same term at the current rate.

Are CDs better than high-yield savings?

A CD locks in a rate; savings keeps your money accessible. If you might need the money soon, savings is usually the better fit.

Keep comparing

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of 2026Compare all accounts

Before you decide

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