Best CD Rates Today, May 23, 2025: Up to 4.55% APY
Image source: Unsplash/The Motley Fool
KEY POINTS
- The best CD rate available today: 4.55% APY.
- If the Fed cuts the federal funds rate in the coming months, CD rates will decrease.
- A high-yield savings account is a good choice to maximize interest earnings without locking away your money.
The highest CD rate today is 4.55% for a 6-month term. There are also 4.50% APY CDs with terms of 6 to 10 months.
These rates likely won't last long, as the Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates this year. So if you're looking to lock in a high APY for several months, now is the time to act.
Here are some of the best CDs you can find today.
The best CD rates today, May 23, are 4.50% and above. Top offers include:
- United Fidelity Bank, 6 months: 4.55% APY
- United Fidelity Bank, 10 months: 4.50% APY
- OMB, 9 months: 4.50% APY
- Presidential Bank, 7 months: 4.50% APY
- ableBanking, 6 months: 4.50% APY
Special pick: Now could be one of the last chances to lock in a yield this high before rates start to fall. LendingClub's 14-month CD currently offers 4.10% APY with just a $500 minimum deposit. Check out LendingClub's 14-month CD here.
Data source: Issuing banks. Rates are accurate as of May 22, 2025.
Best CD Rates at Top Banks in May 2025
| Bank & CD Offer | APY | Term | Min. Deposit | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
APY:
4.10%
|
Term:
14 Months
|
Min. Deposit:
$500
|
Open Account for
On LendingClub's Secure Website. |
|
|
APY:
4.00%
|
Term:
1 Year
|
Min. Deposit:
$0
|
Open Account for
On Discover Bank's Secure Website. |
|
|
APY:
4.00%
|
Term:
6 Months
|
Min. Deposit:
$1
|
Open Account for
On Raisin's Secure Website. |
Unlike other banking products we evaluate, certificates of deposit (CDs) do not receive a star rating from us. This approach is due to the frequent updates in interest rates and terms associated with CDs. Instead, we highlight CDs on our best-of list pages based on their annual percentage yield (APY) and the fees associated with early withdrawals. Our top CD selections typically offer competitive APYs without complex qualification tiers, low early withdrawal penalties, reliable strong brand reliability, and user-friendly features.
Motley Fool Money focuses exclusively on standard CDs and does not review IRA CDs, bump-up CDs, callable CDs, or other specialized CD accounts.
Our aim is to maintain a balanced list featuring top-scoring products from reputable brands offering competitive APYs and standout features. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates bank accounts.
Unlike other banking products we evaluate, certificates of deposit (CDs) do not receive a star rating from us. This approach is due to the frequent updates in interest rates and terms associated with CDs. Instead, we highlight CDs on our best-of list pages based on their annual percentage yield (APY) and the fees associated with early withdrawals. Our top CD selections typically offer competitive APYs without complex qualification tiers, low early withdrawal penalties, reliable strong brand reliability, and user-friendly features.
Motley Fool Money focuses exclusively on standard CDs and does not review IRA CDs, bump-up CDs, callable CDs, or other specialized CD accounts.
Our aim is to maintain a balanced list featuring top-scoring products from reputable brands offering competitive APYs and standout features. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates bank accounts.
Should you open a CD?
If you're thinking about opening a CD, now could be a great time. With the Federal Reserve expected to lower rates later this year, some banks have already started trimming their top CD offers. Locking in a high APY now can help you secure steady returns before those rates drop.
CDs are low-risk, come with FDIC insurance up to $250,000 per person, per bank, and offer predictable growth. They're a solid choice if you want safety and stability. But if you're investing for the long haul and can handle more ups and downs, the stock market might be a better bet for higher returns.
How $10,000 in a CD could earn you $480
Your potential return on a CD depends on three factors: the APY, your deposit amount, and the term length.
For example, a $10,000 deposit into a 14-month CD with a 4.10% APY would earn roughly $480 in interest by the time it matures -- with virtually no risk of losing your principal.
Compare that to a traditional savings account, where rates are often much lower and can fluctuate over time. Locking in a top CD rate today, like LendingClub's 14-month CD, can help you maximize your returns before rates drop. See LendingClub's 14-month CD details here.
How to open a certificate of deposit
When you're ready, you can open a CD in just a few simple steps:
- Compare CD rates and terms. Look at different banks to find the best APY and term length that fits your goals. Online banks often offer higher rates than traditional banks.
- Decide how much to deposit. Choose an amount you won't need during the CD's term, since early withdrawals usually trigger penalties.
- Open the account. You can usually open a CD online or at a bank branch. You'll need to provide basic information like your ID and bank account details.
- Fund the CD. Transfer money from your checking or savings account into the CD. The term and interest rate are locked in once it's funded.
- Mark the maturity date. Keep track of when your CD matures so you can decide whether to withdraw your money or roll it into a new CD at that time.
Remember, each CD allows only one deposit. Plan your amount wisely. When you're ready, click here to explore the best CD rates and open a high-yield CD today.
High-yield savings accounts vs. CDs: Earn a top APY without locking up your cash
If you're after strong returns but want easy access to your money, a high-yield savings account could be a better fit than a CD. Here's why:
- No long-term commitment: You can add or withdraw funds anytime without penalties.
- Easy access: Transfers to and from other accounts are quick and simple.
- Low maintenance: Just deposit your money and let it grow -- no decisions needed when the term ends like with a CD.
- Rate flexibility: HYSA rates can go up or down, but many currently offer APYs that compete with top CDs.
In short, you don't have to lock up your cash to earn a great return.
One standout right now is SoFi Checking and Savings (Member FDIC). This top-rated account offers up to 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings with qualifying direct deposits. Even better: New customers can earn up to a $300 bonus with qualifying direct deposits! It's an easy way to boost your savings without locking up your cash. Click here to learn more.
Our Picks for the Best High-Yield Savings Accounts of 2025
| Product | APY | Min. to Earn | |
SoFi Checking and Savings
Member FDIC.
APY
up to 3.80%
Rate info
SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus with Eligible Direct Deposit or by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days or SoFi members with $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30-Day Evaluation Period can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. Members without either SoFi Plus or Qualifying Deposits, during the 30-Day Evaluation Period will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. If you have satisfied Eligible Direct Deposit requirements for our highest APY but do not see 3.80% APY on your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit arrives, please contact us at 855-456-7634. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet. See the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.
Min. to earn
$0
Open Account for SoFi Checking and Savings
On SoFi's Secure Website. |
up to 3.80%
Rate info
SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus with Eligible Direct Deposit or by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days or SoFi members with $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30-Day Evaluation Period can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. Members without either SoFi Plus or Qualifying Deposits, during the 30-Day Evaluation Period will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. If you have satisfied Eligible Direct Deposit requirements for our highest APY but do not see 3.80% APY on your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit arrives, please contact us at 855-456-7634. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet. See the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus.
|
$0
|
Open Account for SoFi Checking and Savings
On SoFi's Secure Website. |
American Express® High Yield Savings Account
Member FDIC.
APY
3.60%
Rate info
3.60% annual percentage yield as of May 23, 2025. Terms apply.
Min. to earn
$0
Open Account for American Express® High Yield Savings Account
On American Express's Secure Website. |
3.60%
Rate info
3.60% annual percentage yield as of May 23, 2025. Terms apply.
|
$0
|
Open Account for American Express® High Yield Savings Account
On American Express's Secure Website. |
Western Alliance Bank High-Yield Savings Premier
Member FDIC.
APY
4.30%
Rate info
The annual percentage yield (APY) is accurate as of May 2, 2025 and subject to change at the Bank’s discretion. Refer to product’s website for latest APY rate. Minimum deposit required to open an account is $500 and a minimum balance of $0.01 is required to earn the advertised APY.
Min. to earn
$500 to open, $0.01 for max APY
Open Account for Western Alliance Bank High-Yield Savings Premier
On Western Alliance Bank's Secure Website. |
4.30%
Rate info
The annual percentage yield (APY) is accurate as of May 2, 2025 and subject to change at the Bank’s discretion. Refer to product’s website for latest APY rate. Minimum deposit required to open an account is $500 and a minimum balance of $0.01 is required to earn the advertised APY.
|
$500 to open, $0.01 for max APY
|
Open Account for Western Alliance Bank High-Yield Savings Premier
On Western Alliance Bank's Secure Website. |
-
Sources
FAQs
-
The biggest downside of a certificate of deposit is the lack of liquidity. When you invest in a CD, your money is locked in for a fixed term, and withdrawing it early can result in loss of interest. This means you have less flexibility to access your funds if you need them before the CD matures.
-
Yes, but it usually comes with a penalty. If you take money out before the CD matures, you'll likely lose some or all of the interest you've earned -- sometimes even a bit of your original deposit, depending on the bank's rules.
-
It depends on your financial goals and when you'll need the money. CDs are best for funds you won't need right away, so only deposit what you can leave untouched until the CD matures.
Our Research Expert
Managing editor for Motley Fool Money. James has worked full-time for The Motley Fool since 2012. A longtime editor and former reporter, James oversees the production and quality of Motley Fool Money's editorial content.
We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Motley Fool Money is 100% owned and operated by The Motley Fool. Our knowledgeable team of personal finance editors and analysts are employed by The Motley Fool and held to the same set of publishing standards and editorial integrity while maintaining professional separation from the analysts and editors on other Motley Fool brands. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page. APYs are subject to change at any time without notice.