Certificates of deposit (CDs) are one of the most reliable short-term savings instruments, especially for those who want guaranteed returns should rates fall. In form of 22 April 2026The best 12-month CD rates reach Up to 4.15% APY (annual percentage yield), many banks and credit unions are still offering yields well above the national average 1.53%according to FDIC.
Over the past several weeks, many banks and credit unions have been raising their 12-month CD rates.
Now may be the best time to lock in a guaranteed rate. If you want to earn predictable returns over the next year, these are the best CD rates available today.
💰Today’s Best 12-Month CD Rates at a glance
Here are the best bank and credit union savings account rates today:
1. Credit One Bank – Credit One Bank is offering a Jumbo CD at 4.15% APY, but it requires a minimum deposit of $100,000 to open.
2. Finworth – Finworth is a division of INSBANK and is currently offering 12 month CDs at 3.95% APY with a $50,000 minimum deposit.
3. Live Oak Bank – Live Oak Bank is currently offering a 12-month CD at 3.90% APY with a minimum deposit starting at $2,500. Read more about Live Oak Bank here.
4. Navy Federal Credit Union – Navy Federal CU is currently offering Regular 12-Month Share Certificates with a $1,000 minimum at 3.70% APY. If you have $100,000, you can get a Jumbo Share Certificate for 3.75% APY. Read our full Navy Federal Credit Union review here.
5. Alliant Credit Union – Alliant Credit Union offers short-term and long-term CDs with competitive APYs. Now you can get 3.75% APY on 12 Month CD Option! And you can also earn up to 3.80% APY on Jumbo CDs. Read our full Alliant Credit Union review.
You can find the full list of the best 12-month CDs here>>
How does a 12 month CD work?
A 12-month certificate of deposit pays a fixed interest rate for one year in exchange for keeping your money on deposit until maturity. If you make an early withdrawal, the bank charges a penalty – usually 90 days’ interest.
CDs attract savers who prefer guaranteed, short-term returns. While high-yield savings accounts offer flexibility, CDs can secure higher fixed returns for a set period of time, which can be helpful if rates are expected to decline.
For example, a $25,000 CD at 4.00% APY earns about $1,000 a year, compared to about $383 based on today’s national average 12-month CD rate.
What to know before opening a CD?
Certificates of deposit operate differently from savings accounts. Make sure you understand what you are getting:
- Short Term Goals: Ideal for saving for tuition, a wedding or a home down payment within a year.
- Rate Protection: A CD locks in your APY, so you’re protected from rate cuts.
- Ladder Strategy: Combine a 12-month CD with a longer term (24- or 36-month) to capture higher rates while maintaining liquidity.
- Security:
Protects up to FDIC or NCUA insurance $250,000 per depositor, per institution.
Before opening an account, make sure you understand all the terms:
- Minimum Deposit: Some banks require $1,000 or more to open.
- Withdrawal Terms: Review penalties before handing over funds.
- Renewal Policy: Many CDs automatically renew at maturity unless you opt out.
- Rate Guarantee: Confirm if your rate is locked at the time of application or funding.
- Online Entry: Make sure the bank allows easy transfers and e-statements.
How we track and verify rates
At The College Investor, our editorial team reviews CD rates daily from more than 30 banks and credit unions across the country. We verify each APY directly from official rate disclosures and regulatory filings.
Available to U.S. consumers only, covers FDIC- or NCUA-insured institutions.
Our rankings are editorially independent – ​​compensation does not influence placement. Although we may earn referral fees when you open an account through some links, our reviews and recommendations are based solely on yield, reach, and overall customer experience.
questions to ask
Are 12 month CDs safe?
Yes. CDs are federally insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution.
Can I withdraw my money early?
Yes, but you have to lose some interest, usually three months’ interest.
Is CD income taxable?
Yes. Interest earned is subject to federal income tax and state tax in some states.
What happens when a CD matures?
You will usually have a 7 to 10 day grace period to withdraw or renew your funds.
Is now a good time to open a CD?
Rates remain near their cycle highs, so it may make sense to lock in a short-term CD ahead of a potential cut.
