3 Little-Known CD Tricks That Could Earn You Hundreds More in October 2025
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I've been writing about savings accounts and CDs for years, and I still see people missing out on easy money. The truth is, you don't need to take on more risk to earn more money; you just need to know a few tricks that most savers never use.
If you're thinking about locking in a certificate of deposit (CD) before rates fall again, here are three ways to squeeze out extra returns that could add up to hundreds of dollars in interest.
1. Build a CD ladder instead of going all in on one term
Most people dump all their money into a single 12-month or 18-month CD. The problem is that when rates change, you're stuck.
A CD ladder solves that. You spread your deposit across multiple terms, say, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. That way, one CD matures every few months, giving you the option to reinvest at higher rates or access cash without breaking anything early.
Right now, the top 6-month CDs are paying around 4.00% APY, while 2-year CDs hover closer to 3.50%. Mixing the two could balance flexibility and yield, which could easily be worth a few hundred dollars more in earned interest.
Compare today's highest-paying CDs and start your ladder here.
2. Don't ignore online and regional banks
Big banks rarely compete on rates. They rely on convenience, not value. But many smaller institutions -- especially regional or online-only banks -- offer promotional CDs with rates that quietly blow the majors out of the water.
For example, while national banks might pay 1.00% or less, online players like LendingClub and Western Alliance have been paying closer to 4.00% APY or higher in recent months.
Even a 1% rate difference on a $25,000 CD means an extra $250 a year in your pocket. That's why it pays to look beyond your usual bank app.
Here's a selection of online banks paying top-tier APYs on CDs now:
Synchrony Online CD
On Synchrony Bank's Secure Website.
LendingClub CD
On LendingClub's Secure Website.
Discover® Bank CD
On Discover Bank's Secure Website.
3. Use "bump-up" or "step-up" CDs when rates might rise again
If you're worried about locking in a CD and missing out on future rate hikes, bump-up CDs are worth considering. These accounts let you request a one-time (or sometimes two-time) increase to your rate if the bank's standard CD rates go up during your term.
They usually pay a bit less upfront, but they buy you peace of mind. If the Fed reverses course or another round of inflation sparks higher yields, you can "bump" your CD's rate without penalty.
These accounts are pretty uncommon, which means they can be hard to find and have fewer term options.
Why it matters now
The Fed might be cutting rates again later this year, and once that happens, CD rates will follow. The top offers we see today -- those 4.00%-plus APYs -- could be gone within months.
If you want to lock in guaranteed returns while they're still high, these small moves can make a big difference. You don't have to gamble with your money.
Our Research Expert
Jake FitzGerald is a full-time Editorial Strategist and Personal Finance Writer at Motley Fool Money, leading content production and distribution while also writing about credit cards, bank accounts, and other financial products. He has more than a decade of experience editing and shaping financial content to give readers clear, trustworthy money advice. His work focuses on delivering practical insights that empower people to make smarter financial decisions. Off the clock, he’s a fan of college football tailgates and still loyal to his favorite putter -- despite what his short game suggests.