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Best 6-Month CD Rates of March 2024

Review Updated
Kevin Payne
Matt Frankel, CFP®
By: Kevin Payne and Matt Frankel, CFP®

Our Banking Experts

Eric McWhinnie
Check IconFact Checked Eric McWhinnie
Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures our experts’ opinions aren’t influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page. APY = Annual Percentage Yield

Six-month CD rates are a great way to maximize your short-term savings, especially if you can score a higher interest rate. Your money isn't tied up as long as with longer CD terms, giving you the flexibility to pivot your investing strategy as needed.

Here are our picks for the best 6-month CD rates, what to consider when choosing a CD, and alternatives that may offer better returns.

Ratings Methodology
Rates as of
Best 6-Month Certificates of Deposits (CDs) of 2024 picks.
Bank & CD Offer APY Term Min. Deposit Next Steps
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.05% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.23% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
APY: 5.30% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.76% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 5.10% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 5.15% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 5.05% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.95% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.20% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Freedom Bank High-Yield CDs from Raisin
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.06% Term: 1 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 1 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.00% Term: 1 Months Min. Deposit: 
APY: 3.00% Term: 2 Months Min. Deposit: 
APY: Up to 4.51% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 3.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Freedom Bank High-Yield CDs from Raisin
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.10% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.50% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit: 
APY: 3.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.31% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
APY: 2.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 4.90% Term: 5 Months Min. Deposit: 
All America Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.45% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.37% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
First Internet Bank of Indiana CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.22% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Generations Bank High-Yield CD from Raisin
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.21% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.30% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: Up to 2.51% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Valley Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.40% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Bask Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.50% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.25% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 3.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.80% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit: 
APY: 4.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit: 
APY: 4.35% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Freedom Bank High-Yield CDs from Raisin
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.10% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Fidelity CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.45% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 5.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.50% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Generations Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: Up to 5.05% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First Tech CD
APY: up to 4.91% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.20% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  Up to $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.01% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.00% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit: 
Huntington Bank Promotional CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.13% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.75% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: Up to 5.01% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 4.90% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 5.15% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 5.10% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
NASA Federal Credit Union High-Yield Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 5.55% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.30% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.25% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 4.97% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Freedom Bank No Penalty CDs from Raisin
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.10% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
APY: 4.45% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.10% Term: 10 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Generations Bank High-Yield CD from Raisin
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.31% Term: 10 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
APY: 4.90% Term: 11 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.75% Term: 11 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Huntington Bank Promotional CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.86% Term: 11 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.70% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
First Tech CD
APY: up to 4.55% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Bask Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.20% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.90% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.35% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Flushing Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.31% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 4.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 5.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 5.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
APY: 4.80% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.60% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 1.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Connexus Credit Union Share CD
APY: Up to 4.81 Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.71% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1
First Internet Bank of Indiana CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.35% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.95% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit: 
All America Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit: 
Generations Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.20% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Fidelity CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.45% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.65% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Freedom Bank No Penalty CDs from Raisin
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: Up to 4.80% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.40% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.76% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.55% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Valley Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
APY: 5.15% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.75% to 3.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.25% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit: 
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.33% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.65% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.25% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union CD
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 5.00% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.15% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit: 
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  Up to $10,000
NASA Federal Credit Union High-Yield Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 5.30% Term: 15 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 15 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Flushing Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.60% Term: 15 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 5.10% Term: 16 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.45% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
First Internet Bank of Indiana CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.07% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.60% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Fidelity CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 3.25% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.60% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.85% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Bask Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.60% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.75% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.40% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.55% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 4.90% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 1.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.10% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit: 
APY: 4.80% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.27% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit: 
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.30% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 19 Months Min. Deposit:  Up to $10,000
APY: 1.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.40% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
First Tech CD
APY: up to 2.25% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
All America Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit: 
Generations Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.24% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.25% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First Internet Bank of Indiana CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.85% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Connexus Credit Union Share CD
APY: Up to 4.56% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
Fidelity CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.40% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
APY: 4.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.40% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.20% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.30% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
APY: 4.30% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: Up to 4.30% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Bask Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.45% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Valley Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.20% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.65% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.25% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 4.40% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.20% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.20% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 25 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 25 Months Min. Deposit:  Up to $10,000
APY: 1.50% Term: 30 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.75% Term: 30 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 35 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 35 Months Min. Deposit:  Up to $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.75% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
First Internet Bank of Indiana CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.40% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.10% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
All America Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.30% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
First Tech CD
APY: up to 2.45% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 1.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
APY: 2.85% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.15% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.30% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.35% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
APY: 4.25% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Fidelity CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.35% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.15% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.10% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 1.75% Term: 37 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 45 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.20% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.90% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit: 
APY: 4.05% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.05% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.75% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 2.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.95% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.15% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
APY: 4.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.20% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.30% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.25% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Fidelity CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.90% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.15% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.90% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First Internet Bank of Indiana CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.54% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 1.61% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit: 
APY: 3.40% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
All America Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.49% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
NASA Federal Credit Union High-Yield Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.60% Term: 49 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 52 Months Min. Deposit:  Up to $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 59 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.15% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.80% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.75% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.90% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.10% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.10% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Fidelity CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.85% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.30% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
First Internet Bank of Indiana CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.59% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.75% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Republic Bank of Chicago CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 1.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.15% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.80% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit: 
APY: 3.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
First Tech CD
APY: up to 3.55% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 3.90% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.95% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
All America Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.49% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit: 
APY: 4.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.45% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
Salem Five Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 2.00% Term: 61 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 61 Months Min. Deposit:  Up to $10,000
APY: 1.50% Term: 6 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 6 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 6 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.75% Term: 7 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 3.75% Term: 10 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500

A deeper dive of our best 6-month CD rates

CIT Bank CD
Bottom Line

CIT is an online bank that offers very competitive rates on certain CD terms, including non-standard promotional terms. If those terms match your need and you have at least $1,000 to deposit (CIT's typical minimum for CDs), it could be a good match.

Minimum Deposit $1,000

6 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 13 Mo. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 4 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
5.00% 0.30% 4.65% 4.60% 0.40% 0.40% 0.50% 0.50%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Quontic CDs
Bottom Line

Quontic Bank offers CDs with terms ranging from six months to five years. It offers most of the terms one would expect, though it is missing a four-year CD, so it may not be ideal for those hoping to build a CD ladder. Its rates are competitive, especially on its longer term CDs, and its minimum deposit is more affordable than what you see with some other top banks.

Minimum Deposit $500

6 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
5.05% 4.50% 4.50% 4.40% 4.30%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Western Alliance Bank CD
Bottom Line

Western Alliance offers some of the highest APYs we've seen across short-term CDs, low $1 minimums, and relatively low withdrawal penalties without any additional fees. But you will need to look elsewhere for terms longer than one year.

Minimum Deposit $1

3 Mo. APY 5 Mo. APY 6 Mo. APY 9 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY
5.31% 5.30% 5.23% 4.97% 4.71%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Barclays Online CD
Bottom Line

Barclays offers competitive rates on most common CD terms with no minimum balance requirements. There are no monthly fees, so you likely won't lose money unless you try to withdraw your funds early. The only common CD term missing is a six-month CD -- in fact, there's no CD term less than one year, but those interested in building longer-term CD ladders will find plenty to like here.

Minimum Deposit $0

6 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 4 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
5.30% 5.00% 4.50% 4.00% 3.50% 3.50% 3.75%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
LendingClub CD
Bottom Line

LendingClub CDs don't skimp on interest, offering competitive APYs for all six of their CD terms, from six months to five years. They're also FDIC insured. One downside is that you'll need to commit at least $2,500 to open an account.

Minimum Deposit $2,500

6 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
5.00% 5.15% 5.00% 4.50% 4.30% 4.00%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Tab Bank CD
Bottom Line

Tab Bank CDs are available for an opening deposit of at least $1,000, but the APYs are competitive and terms offered are straightforward. You could easily build a CD ladder at Tab Bank.

Minimum Deposit $1,000

6 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 4 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
4.76% 4.76% 4.60% 4.25% 4.15% 3.95% 3.90%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Sallie Mae CD
Bottom Line

Sallie Mae may not be well-known for its banking services, but it offers CDs with competitive rates and the typically available terms. But the $2,500 required minimum deposit to open one will make them out of reach for many savers.

Minimum Deposit $2,500

6 Mo. APY 9 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
5.10% 5.15% 5.25% 4.90% 4.50% 4.00% 4.00%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Synchrony Online CD
Bottom Line

Perhaps one of the lesser-known names on the list, Synchrony is a full-line bank with a 90-year history. Synchrony's CDs are notable for competitive rates at most term lengths, plus low or no minimum deposits.

Minimum Deposit $0

6 Mo. APY 9 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 4 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
5.15% 4.90% 4.80% 4.50% 4.20% 4.15% 4.00% 4.00%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Marcus by Goldman Sachs High Yield CD
Bottom Line

Savers have the potential to create effective CD ladders through Marcus, as it provides competitive rates through the most common CD terms. The minimum deposit is $500 and withdrawal penalties are moderate compared with competitive banks.

Minimum Deposit $500

6 Mo. APY 9 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 4 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY 6 Yr. APY
5.05% 5.10% 5.15% 4.80% 4.40% 4.30% 4.20% 4.10% 4.00%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Prime Alliance Bank CD
Bottom Line

The rates on Prime Alliance Bank's CDs are decent enough, but you can find better. However, the relatively low $500 minimum deposit makes these more available to the everyday saver -- or someone looking to build a CD ladder.

Minimum Deposit $500

6 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 4 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
4.95% 4.95% 4.75% 4.50% 4.25% 4.00% 4.00%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield
Vio Bank High-Yield CD
Bottom Line

Want a competitive APY on a shorter-term CD? Look no further than Vio Bank -- and you can bring just $500 to open a CD there. Longer-term CD rates aren't so competitive, though.

Minimum Deposit $500

6 Mo. APY 1 Yr. APY 1.5 Yr. APY 2 Yr. APY 3 Yr. APY 4 Yr. APY 5 Yr. APY
5.20% 5.00% 4.50% 4.75% 3.50% 2.75% 2.75%
APY = Annual Percentage Yield

How to compare the best 6-month CD rates

Here are some other factors besides APY to consider when comparing 6-month CDs:

  • Minimum deposit: Some CDs have minimum deposit requirements, while others don't. As with other types of bank accounts, be sure you can meet the minimum requirements. This is especially important if you plan on constructing a CD ladder made up of various maturity terms. 
  • Fees: Most CDs don't charge monthly maintenance fees, but it's always good to check just in case. Getting one of the best 6-month CD rates is not as much of a financial victory if you're paying hefty fees.
  • Withdrawal penalties: Most financial institutions charge penalties if you withdraw money from a CD before it reaches maturity. Penalties vary from bank to bank and usually equal to a few months' worth of interest. Don't invest your money in a 6-month CD if you'll need the money within the next six months.
  • Compounding interest: Banks handle CD interest differently. Typically, interest compounds daily, weekly, or monthly. CDs with interest that compounds daily will earn you slightly more money over time. To be clear, this isn't a big difference, and is reflected in the APY you see when you open a new CD. 
  • Interest payouts: How does the bank pay interest? Does it pay monthly, quarterly, or annually? Do you have the choice between having interest paid directly to you or added to your account? Adding earned interest to your principal funds will maximize the benefits of snagging a high CD rate.
  • CD maturity: Many CDs will renew automatically following a grace period if you don't take action. You'll need to actively opt out at the end of your CD term, either by contacting your bank directly or withdrawing your funds during the grace period. Forgetting to do so means your money will be tied up -- often at different rate -- for another six months.
  • FDIC insurance: It might seem like a given, but always check that a bank is FDIC insured before opening a CD account. (Note: All of the CDs on our best-of list are offered by banks that are.) FDIC insurance means that your accounts are covered up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank, and in some cases banks offer even higher limits by partnering with other institutions.

Who is a 6-month CD right for?

A 6-month CD is right for people who want to earn a decent interest rate but don't want their money tied up longer than six months.

Pros and cons of 6-month CDs

Opening a 6-month CD account can be a solid investment choice, but it also has its drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to opening 6-month CDs.

Pros

Higher rates: The best 6-month CD rates are higher than the average savings account rates. That's because banks reward CD customers with better rates for leaving their money untouched in the bank long term. However, 6-month CDs tend to have lower rates than longer-term CDs.

Fixed rates won’t fall: CD rates are fixed, which gives them an advantage over savings accounts. If you lock in a high 6-month CD rate, you'll earn at that rate until your CD reaches maturity -- even if market rates drop.

Predictable returns: Customers can easily calculate exactly how much interest they will earn from any bank's CD simply by looking at the bank's 6-month CD rates.

Cons

Rates may rise: Having a fixed rate is great until you see rates start to rise. Even with short-term CDs, you will lose out on added savings if rates go up.

Penalties: Tying up your money in 6-month CDs may not seem like a big deal now, but a lot can happen in that time. The benefits of even the best 6-month CD rates will go out the window if you have to pay early-withdrawal penalties.

Inflation risks: Although this isn't a common problem with shorter CD terms, there's always the possibility your CD rate doesn't keep up with inflation. This is another reason it's a good idea to look for the best 6-month CD rates: The higher your rate, the better chance you have of outpacing inflation.

Alternatives to a 6-month CD

The best 6-month CD rates allow you to earn a fair amount of money in a short amount of time. However, other options might provide more flexibility or more growth. Here are a few alternatives to a 6-month CD to consider:

High-yield savings accounts

For high-yield interest while keeping your money accessible, try a high-yield savings account. The interest on these accounts can sometimes approach 6-month CD rates. Another plus: Savings accounts don't require you to leave your money untouched long term. However, keep in mind that savings account interest rates are not guaranteed for any specific length of time, and can certainly rise or fall significantly within a six-month period. 

Money market accounts

Money market accounts are similar to savings accounts, but they often come with extra features like an ATM card or check-writing privileges. They also feature high-yield savings rates that are comparable to the best CD rates. Money market accounts are a great way to build toward a savings goal, like a vacation or emergency fund.

Longer-term CDs

Typically, a longer CD term will offer a higher interest rate than even the best 6-month CD rates. But be careful: You could face hefty penalties if you need to withdraw funds early. Another option is to build a CD ladder. This strategy involves opening several CD accounts of varying lengths. CD ladders allow you to take advantage of higher rates without tying up all of your money long term.

Investments

If you are playing the long game, CDs are unlikely to earn as much interest as investing in stocks or a retirement fund. However, you won't see high returns on the stock market within six months -- you'll likely need to wait a few years. There's also a greater risk because stocks can fall dramatically in a short time. Investing is only a smart choice if you can let your money sit and grow long term.

Six-month CDs are one of the shortest CD terms available but typically have higher APYs than the national savings rate. Whether a CD is right for you depends on your banking needs and whether you can commit to leaving your money alone for a set period.

To recap, the best 6-month CD rates

Offer APY Min. Deposit
5.00% - 6 Mo. $1,000
5.05% - 6 Mo. $500
5.23% - 6 Mo. $1
5.30% - 6 Mo. $0
5.00% - 6 Mo. $2,500
4.76% - 6 Mo. $1,000
5.10% - 6 Mo. $2,500
5.15% - 6 Mo. $0
5.05% - 6 Mo. $500
4.95% - 6 Mo. $500
5.20% - 6 Mo. $500
APY = Annual Percentage Yield

Other CD term lengths to consider

Our CDs methodology

At The Motley Fool Ascent, certificates of deposit (CDs) are rated on a scale of one to five stars, primarily focusing on annual percentage yield (APY) and early withdrawal penalty fees. Our highest-rated CDs generally include competitive APYs without complex qualification tiers, low withdrawal fees, reliable brand trust and reputation, and ease of use.

The Ascent tracks just standard CDs, not IRA, bump up, callable, and other less popular CD accounts. CD rates displayed on this Best 6-Month CD Rates pages are comprised of both the highest CD rates in The Ascent’s universe of tracked rates and featured placements from advertisers. Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list.

See our full Ratings Methodology here.

Banks we monitor

  • Alliant, Ally, All America Bank, American First Credit Union, American Express® National Bank, Arvest Bank, Aspiration, Axos Bank, B2 Bank, Bank of America, Bank5 Connect, Bank7, Barclays, Bask Bank, Betterment, Bluevine, BMO, Bread Financial, Capital One, Carver Federal Savings Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, Chase, Chime, CIT, Citibank, Citizens Bank, Citizens Savings Bank, Columbia Bank, Connexus Credit Union, Consumers Credit Union, Copper, Cross River Bank, Customers Bank, Discover® Bank, E*TRADEEdward Jones, EverBank, Fidelity, Fifth Third Bank, First Foundation Bank, First Internet Bank of Indiana, First National Bank, First Tech Federal Credit Union, Flushing Bank, Freedom Bank, Generations Bank, GN Bank, Golden 1 Credit Union, Greenlight, Harborstone Credit Union, HSBC, Huntington Bank, Ivella, Kabbage by American Express, KeyBank, Laurel Road, LendingClub, Liberty Bank, Liberty Federal Credit Union, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, Mercury, Municipal Credit Union, Mutual of Omaha, NASA Federal Credit Union, Nationwide Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, NBKC Bank, New York Community Bank, Northpointe Bank, Novo, OceanFirst Bank, Old National Bank, ONE Finance, OneUnited Bank, Oxygen, Pacific Western Bank, PNC Bank, Ponce Bank, Popular Direct, Presidential Bank, Prime Alliance Bank, Quontic, Radius, Raisin, Redneck Bank, Regions Bank, Relay, Republic Bank of Chicago, Revolut, Salem Five Bank, Sallie Mae, Santander Bank, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, Simple, SoFi, Synchrony Bank, Tab Bank, TD Bank, Third Federal, Truist Bank, U.S. Bank, UFB, Upgrade, USAA, Valley Bank, Vanguard, Varo Bank, Vio Bank, Wealthfront, Wells Fargo, Western Alliance Bank, and Zeta.

FAQs

  • Six-month CDs are a great way to get a taste of the CD world without commiting your money for a long period. They are also a great short-term CD option in a CD-ladder strategy.

  • A 6-month CD is worth it if you prefer the flexibility of a shorter CD term over the higher rate of a longer term.

Our Banking Experts