Up to 4.20% APY: Best CD rates Nov. 19, 2025

The best CD rates currently provide an annual percentage yield of up to 4.20%. By funding a certificate of deposit today, you can secure a better rate for an extended period, contingent upon the term length that best aligns with your financial aspirations.

Today's top CD yields: Secure as much as 4.20%

Bread Savings provides the top CD rate at 4.20% for a six-month term. Newtek Bank also has a six-month CD with a 4.20% APY, though it demands a larger initial deposit. To assist readers in maximizing their CD returns, Coins2Day tracks the leading rates from major U.S. Banks. Below are the market's best CD rates:

Pro tip

Looking for the best CD to fit your investment needs? See rates from top institutions:
–Wells Fargo
–Capital One
–Chase
–Bank of America
–Discover Bank
–Northern Bank Direct
–Ally Bank
–Newtek Bank
–Popular Direct
–Citibank
–Sallie Mae Bank

Examine interest rates for Certificates of Deposit at leading national financial institutions.

It's not by chance if you don't recognize some or all of the organizations listed. Major financial institutions, such as Chase, PNC, and U.S. Bank, prioritize offerings like loans and credit cards over certificates of deposit. As a result, their CD rates often fall short when contrasted with those from smaller regional banks or online-only banks.

CD rates news 2025

For CD investors, it's crucial to grasp that market interest rates are heavily influenced by The Federal Reserve's policy choices, particularly adjustments to the fed funds rate. Keeping abreast of the Fed's interest rate strategy is essential for all certificate of deposit investors.

In 2024, the Fed implemented three rate cuts, concluding in December with fed funds set at 4.25%-4.50%. These reductions were aimed at bolstering the economy, as inflation started to recede following its pandemic-driven peak. Consequently, CD rates declined from their recent elevated levels.

During its meetings on September 16-17 and October 28-29, 2025, the Fed implemented two rate reductions. The current federal funds rate is set at 3.75%-4.00%. Certain Certificates of Deposit saw a decline in their rates shortly after these cuts were announced.

Just one more Fed meeting remains on the schedule for this year, slated for December 9-10. It's possible that CD rates will decline further should banks foresee another cut from The Fed.

The robust average CD returns seen in 2022 and 2023 stemmed directly from The Federal Reserve's interest rate increases following the pandemic. Between March 2022 and July 2023, the FOMC raised interest rates on eleven occasions, pushing the federal funds rate from zero to 5.25%-5.50%. This move by the central bank occurred as inflation surged at rates not witnessed since the 1980s.

Current CD rates remain close to their recent peaks. Individuals can lock in appealing rates for both shorter and longer certificate terms. Depositing a significant sum into your CD account allows for considerable interest earnings.

Historical CD rates

During the early 1980s, CD yields climbed to double-digit figures, a significant difference from current, more modest rates. By 2019, though, the annual percentage yield for a five-year CD had marginally surpassed 3.00%.

During the early 2020s, the highest rates generally stayed under 1.00% APY. More recently, rates have climbed considerably, with top deals exceeding 5.00% APY in 2024. For 2025, though, many rates have landed right around the 4.00% threshold.

How to get a good CD rate

To figure out what makes a good CD rate, you need to weigh the best rate you can find against how long you're comfortable keeping your funds deposited. 

For instance, investing a large sum in a five-year CD yielding 5.00% may not be a good choice if you need the money sooner or if you believe interest rates could start rising again. But generally speaking, rates that exceed the national average are considered worthwhile. 

Key factors to consider when comparing CDs include:

• Term length: Ensure it aligns with your savings goals and timeline.
• APY: Higher rates typically are offered for longer terms.
• Minimum deposit: Make sure you can meet the required initial balance.
• Penalties: Understand the costs associated with withdrawing funds before maturity.
• Deposit insurance: Verify that the bank is Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)- or National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)-insured for deposit protection.

Online banks often provide more attractive CD yields; however, be aware of any minimum deposit rules and associated charges. Opting for a bank instead of a brokerage might help you sidestep extraneous fees.

Explore what online banks have to offer.

Online banks and fintech firms typically provide better rates compared to major national banks. Big financial corporations mainly generate income through loan interest, service charges, and investments in securities.

In contrast, smaller financial institutions and digital fintech firms draw in clients by offering appealing APYs on savings. Furthermore, online banks generally have reduced operational expenses, enabling them to provide superior rates to their customers.

Set up a CD ladder

CD ladders offer an ideal solution for savers reluctant to lock up their money for long durations. Spreading your savings across certificates of deposit with varying maturity dates allows you to enjoy both immediate access to funds and more favorable long-term interest yields.

Imagine investing $3,000 across three Certificates of Deposit (CDs) with staggered maturity dates: one year, two years, and three years. When each CD reaches its maturity, you have the option to reinvest those funds into a new three-year CD. This strategy provides you with yearly access to your principal and any earned interest.

Cassie Bottorff, a former Coins2Day editor, developed a series focusing on daily CD rates. Glen Luke Flanagan, Editor of Evergreen Content, has since updated this edition.