Best CD Rates Today: Lock in High Yields Before They Drop (September 2025)
Certificate of Deposit (CD) rates are currently attractive, but with the Federal Reserve having recently cut interest rates, this might be your last chance to secure high yields. As of September 2025, the highest CD rates hover around 4.45% APY. Here’s a comprehensive look at the best CD rates available today and how to find the best offers.
Top CD Rates Available Now
As of September 22, 2025, LendingClub offers the highest CD rate at 4.45% APY on its 8-month CD. These rates are significantly higher compared to national averages. Keep in mind that online banks and credit unions generally offer more competitive rates than traditional brick-and-mortar banks.
Featured CD Rates This Week (Sept. 20, 2025)
Here's a snapshot of some of the best CD rates available as of September 19, 2025. These CDs are all FDIC-insured, protecting deposits up to $250,000.
| Bank | Term | APY | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Climate First Bank | 8 Months | 4.54% | $500 |
| Brilliant Bank | 9 Months | 4.35% | $1,000 |
| United Fidelity Bank | 6 Months | 4.35% | $1,000 |
| United Fidelity Bank | 60 Months | 4.30% | $1,000 |
| Brilliant Bank | 15 Months | 4.30% | $1,000 |
Climate First Bank offers a short-term option with a low minimum deposit. United Fidelity Bank provides a longer-term, higher-yield choice. Synchrony Bank currently pays 4.25% APY on a 15 Mo. CD with $0 minimum deposit, which makes it a smart balance of rate and flexibility.
National Average CD Rates in September 2025
According to the FDIC, the highest national average interest rate for CDs is 1.70% for a 1-year term as of September 2025. While current rates are elevated compared to the average, they are beginning to decline due to the Federal Reserve's recent rate cuts.
Why Lock in a CD Now?
The Fed's recent rate cut on September 17 signals a potential decline in CD yields. Locking in a top rate now allows you to protect your savings from future drops and earn a guaranteed return. If you have money you won't need for a while, a CD can be a simple, low-stress way to put it to work.
A CD could make sense if you've already built an emergency cushion, your long-term goals are on track with investments, and you prefer steady, guaranteed growth.
CD Rates News and the Federal Reserve
CD rates are closely tied to the Federal Reserve's monetary policy decisions. When the federal funds rate changes, CD rates tend to follow. The federal funds rate currently stands at 4.00%-4.25% after the FOMC met Sept. 16-17, 2025. The Fed cut rates three times in 2024, and rates are expected to potentially dip further in the near future if the Fed reduces rates again when it meets in October and December.
How to Find the Best CD Rates and Accounts
Choosing a CD with a high APY and a term length that matches your financial goals is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Shop around: Compare rates from several banks, especially online banks and credit unions.
- Consider term length: Match the term length to your savings objectives.
- Minimum deposit: Verify you can meet the required initial balance.
- Penalties: Understand early withdrawal penalties.
- Deposit insurance: Confirm FDIC or NCUA insurance.
Opening a CD: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Shop around for rates.
- Decide how much to deposit. You usually can't add more later, and pulling money out early means penalties.
- Apply online or in person.
- Move your money. Transfer funds from checking or savings into your new CD.
- Mark the maturity date. Set a reminder so you'll know when your CD ends.
Types of Certificates of Deposit
Various types of CDs are available to meet different financial needs:
- Brokered CDs: Purchased through brokerage accounts, potentially offering higher APYs.
- Callable CDs: The issuing institution can terminate the CD early.
- Bump-up CDs: Allow you to request a higher APY if interest rates increase.
- No-penalty CDs: No penalties for early withdrawals, but may offer lower APYs.
- Jumbo CDs: Require a large minimum deposit and generally offer higher APYs.
- Variable-rate CDs: APY changes in response to prevailing interest rates.
Are CD Interest Rates Rising?
No, we entered a falling-rate environment in 2024. The September 2025 Fed rate cut will likely mean further CD rate drops. Adam Stockton from Curinos expects the Fed to decrease rates further, potentially landing in the 3% to 3.5% range.
CDs vs. Savings Accounts
A Fed rate drop can lead to lower rates for both savings accounts and CDs. Savings accounts offer variable rates and flexibility, while CDs offer fixed rates but limit access to funds until maturity.
How to Find High CD Rates
- Check out CDs at online banks or credit unions.
- Consider longer CD terms or a CD ladder.
Disclaimer
Please note that CD rate changes impact only new CDs, not existing ones. Rates are accurate as of the dates specified in the source articles. Always verify current rates directly with the financial institution.
