Best CD rates today, Friday, September 18, 2026: Up to 4.40% APY return available with a 2-year CD

When seeking a safe location for your savings, a certificate of deposit (CD) could be an excellent option. Typically, CDs offer higher interest rates compared to regular checking and savings accounts. However, CD rates can differ significantly. Discover more about current CD rates and where to discover the best-yielding CDs. Below is an overview of some of the top CD rates currently available from our trusted partners: CD rates fluctuate considerably.

Generally, though, CD rates have been on a downward trend since the Fed reduced its key rate multiple times in the latter half of 2024 and again in 2025. Nevertheless, even with the Fed holding rates steady in 2026, certain banks are still providing attractive CD rates. The highest rate currently available is 4.40% APY, provided by Happen Bank for its 2-year CD.

When comparing these rates to the national average as of August 2026, the latter is considerably lower, emphasizing the significance of searching for the best CD rates before opening an account. Online banks and neobanks, which operate exclusively online, have lower operational costs than traditional brick-and-mortar banks. Consequently, they can transfer those savings to customers through higher interest rates on deposit accounts (including CDs) and reduced fees.

If you're searching for the best CD rates available today, an online bank is an excellent starting point. Nonetheless, online banks are not the sole institutions offering competitive CD rates. It's also advisable to explore credit unions. As not-for-profit financial cooperatives, credit unions distribute their profits to members, who are also shareholders.

While many credit unions have stringent membership criteria that limit eligibility to those affiliated with specific associations or residing in certain areas, there are numerous credit unions that accept virtually anyone as a member. The decision to invest in a CD depends on your savings objectives. CDs are regarded as a secure and stable savings option, as they do not incur losses (in most cases), are backed by federal insurance, and permit you to secure today's best rates.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Firstly, you must retain your funds on deposit for the entire term; otherwise, you will face an early withdrawal penalty. If you desire flexible access to your funds, a high-yield savings account or money market account might be a more suitable choice. Furthermore, although today's CD rates are elevated compared to historical standards, they do not match the returns you could achieve through investing your money in the market.

If your savings goal is long-term, such as retirement, a CD may not offer the growth necessary to meet your savings objective within a reasonable timeframe.