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Find out which banks are offering the best CD rates right now. If you're looking for a secure place to store your savings, a certificate of deposit (CD) may be a great choice. These accounts often provide higher interest rates than traditional checking and savings accounts. However, CD rates can vary widely.
Learn more about where CD rates stand today and how to find the best rates available.
CD rates are relatively high compared to historical averages. That said, CD rates have been on the decline since last year when the Federal Reserve began cutting its target rate. The good news is that several financial institutions offer competitive rates of 4% APY and up, particularly online banks.
Today, Thursday, August 20, 2026, the highest CD rate is 4.30%. This rate is offered by Synchrony Bank on its 16-month CD.
Here is a look at some of the best CD rates available today from our verified partners:
The Federal Reserve began decreasing the federal funds rate in light of slowing inflation and an overall improved economic outlook. It cut its target rate three times in late 2024 by a total of one percentage point.
Back in December, the Fed announced its third rate cut of 2025. However, it's now unlikely the Fed will cut rates again in 2026. So far this year, the Fed has left rates unchanged, and a rate increase is growing more likely before the year's end.
The federal funds rate doesn't directly impact deposit interest rates, though they are correlated. When the Fed lowers rates, financial institutions typically follow suit (and vice versa). So now that the Fed has lowered rates and kept them low, CD rates are trending lower again. That's why now may be a good time to put your money in a CD and lock in today's best rates.
The process for opening a CD account varies by financial institution. However, there are a few general steps you can expect to follow:
Research CD rates: One of the most important factors to consider when opening a CD is whether the account provides a competitive rate. You can easily compare CD rates online to find the best offers.
Research CD rates: One of the most important factors to consider when opening a CD is whether the account provides a competitive rate. You can easily compare CD rates online to find the best offers.
Choose an account that meets your needs: While a CD's interest rate is a key consideration, it shouldn't be the only one. You should also evaluate the CD's term length, minimum opening deposit requirements, and fees to ensure a particular account fits your financial needs and goals. For example, you want to avoid choosing a CD term that's too long, otherwise you'll be subject to an early withdrawal penalty if you need to pull out your funds before the CD matures.
Choose an account that meets your needs: While a CD's interest rate is a key consideration, it shouldn't be the only one. You should also evaluate the CD's term length, minimum opening deposit requirements, and fees to ensure a particular account fits your financial needs and goals. For example, you want to avoid choosing a CD term that's too long, otherwise you'll be subject to an early withdrawal penalty if you need to pull out your funds before the CD matures.
Get your documents ready: When opening a bank account, you will need to provide a few pieces of information, including your Social Security number, address, and driver's license or passport number. Having these documents on hand will help streamline the application process.
Get your documents ready: When opening a bank account, you will need to provide a few pieces of information, including your Social Security number, address, and driver's license or passport number. Having these documents on hand will help streamline the application process.
Complete the application: These days, many financial institutions allow you to apply for an account online, though you might have to visit the branch in some cases. Either way, the application for a new CD should only take a few minutes to complete. And in many cases, you'll get your approval decision instantly.
Complete the application: These days, many financial institutions allow you to apply for an account online, though you might have to visit the branch in some cases. Either way, the application for a new CD should only take a few minutes to complete. And in many cases, you'll get your approval decision instantly.
Fund the account: Once your CD application is approved, it's time to fund the account. This can usually be done by transferring money from another account or mailing a check.
Fund the account: Once your CD application is approved, it's time to fund the account. This can usually be done by transferring money from another account or mailing a check.
Read more: Step-by-step instructions for opening a CD
The best CD rates for August 2026: Earn up to 4.25% APY
We identified the best CD rates and accounts available today based on interest rates, fees, and more. See our top picks across 6-month, 1-year, 18-month, and 2-year terms.
Best 1-year CD rates for August 2026: Lock in up to 4.1% APY for the next 12 months
Compare today's best 1-year CD rates, see which banks offer the highest yields, and learn how to lock in a guaranteed return on your savings.
Best 18-month CD rates for August 2026: Earn up to 4.25% APY
18-month CDs offer a balance of solid returns and flexibility. Find out which banks and credit unions are offering the top 18-month CD rates.
Best 6-month CD rates for August 2026: Earn up to 4.15% APY
A 6-month CD allows you to lock in a guaranteed rate on your savings without tying up your money for an extended period. See which banks have the best 6-month CD rates today.
CD rates are going up. Here's why — and how to find the best rates.
Are CD rates expected to go up at all this year? Here's what the experts think about where CD rates are headed in 2026.
Best 2-year CD rates for August 2026: Lock in up to 4.25% through 2028
A 2-year CD allows you to lock in a guaranteed rate on your savings for the next 24 months. See which banks have the best 2-year CD rates today.
