Best CD rates today, Saturday, September 12, 2026: Lock in up to 4.35% APY with an 18-month CD

Today, September 12, 2026, financial experts advise locking in a high Certificate of Deposit (CD) rate. The Federal Reserve has kept interest rates steady throughout 2026, making it potentially the last opportunity to secure a competitive CD rate before potential increases. CD rates vary significantly among financial institutions, so it's crucial to compare offers from different banks.

Online banks and credit unions typically provide the best CD rates. Currently, the highest CD rate is 4.35%, offered on an 18-month CD by Marcus by Goldman Sachs. CD rates are determined by the Annual Percentage Yield (APY), which considers both the interest rate and the compounding frequency.

For example, a $1,000 investment in a one-year CD with a 1.52% APY, compounded monthly, would yield $1,015.20 by the end of the year. If the same investment was made in a one-year CD with a 4% APY, compounded monthly, the balance would increase to $1,040.74 after a year. The more money deposited, the greater the earnings. A $10,000 investment in a one-year CD with a 4% APY would result in a total balance of $10,407.42 upon maturity, generating $407.42 in interest.

When comparing CD options, consider factors beyond the interest rate. CD types include Bump-up CDs, allowing rate increases if market rates rise; No-penalty CDs, enabling early withdrawals without fees; Jumbo CDs, requiring larger deposits for higher rates; Brokered CDs, available through brokerage firms with potentially higher rates but increased risk and potential lack of FDIC insurance.

The article recommends considering 18-month CDs for a balance of returns and flexibility, and provides guidance on identifying the best CD rates across various terms.