Compare the Best 36-month CD Rates Online.
A 3-year Certificate of Deposit (CD) locks in your savings for 36 months, offering a fixed interest rate over the entire term. CDs are issued by banks and credit unions, providing a low-risk option to grow savings with guaranteed returns. When comparing 3-year CD rates, remember that rates and terms vary, so it’s worth it to shop around to secure the best interest rate before you buy.
The following table displays the best interest rates from 454 banks and credit unions. Sort by rate or filter by term.
Our Favorite Certificates Of Deposit
As of October 2026, we recommend any of the banks and credit unions at Raisin because most of the accounts on their platform only require $1 to open an account, which allows you to spread your risk among several financial institutions rather than having all your eggs in one basket.
Why Compare 3-Year CD Rates?
- Maximize Savings Growth: Finding the best interest rates ensures you make the most of your savings over three years, boosting your returns.
- Protection from Rate Changes: A fixed-rate shields you from potential interest rate declines during the 36-month period, keeping your growth steady.
- Higher Interest Opportunities: Banks and credit unions offer varying rates, and some have special offers that can help you earn more interest.
Why Work With a Broker to Find the Best 3-Year CD?
Most people shop for CDs based on whatever rates show up first in search engines. But that’s a mistake. Many of the best rates are offered by lesser-known banks and credit unions that don’t spend on advertising—or are only available through brokers like us.
At The Annuity Expert, we compare the top 3-year CD rates from hundreds of institutions nationwide to help you:
- Earn the highest fixed interest possible
- Avoid hidden fees or early withdrawal traps
- Access exclusive broker-only rates
- Choose institutions that are FDIC– or NCUA-insured
We’re not a bank. We’re an independent brokerage that works for you—not the financial institutions. That means our only goal is finding the best fit for your savings.
What We Can Do For You
✅ Compare Bank & Credit Union Rates Side-by-Side
We shop hundreds of 3-year CD options in one place. You’ll never have to bounce between websites again.
✅ Help You Avoid Common CD Mistakes
Some CDs have fine print that locks your money in or hits you with harsh penalties. We flag the red flags and explain your options in plain English.
✅ Offer Broker-Exclusive CD Rates
Some institutions only offer their best rates to brokered clients. We give you access to those.
✅ Make Sure You’re FDIC or NCUA Covered
We only recommend CDs backed by federal insurance—up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution.
✅ Offer Alternative Savings Solutions If Needed
If you want better growth or more flexibility, we’ll help you compare 3-year fixed annuities (MYGAs) too. In many cases, MYGAs outperform CDs while offering the same guarantees.
What Makes a 3-Year CD Unique?
A 3-year CD is a sweet spot for many savers. It’s long enough to offer higher yields than short-term CDs, but short enough that your money isn’t tied up forever.
Best Use Case:
- You want a guaranteed return and don’t need the money for the next 36 months.
- You expect rates to fall and want to lock in today’s yield.
Pros
✔ Higher yields than savings accounts or short-term CDs
✔ Simple and predictable returns
✔ FDIC or NCUA insured
Cons
✘ Penalties for early withdrawal
✘ May underperform annuities with the same or better safety
✘ Not tax-advantaged
Who Should Use a 3-Year CD?
You’ll Benefit If:
- You’re retired or nearing retirement and want short-term income growth
- You have idle cash in a money market or low-yield savings account
- You want to ladder CDs or annuities as part of a larger savings strategy
- You prefer federally insured solutions over market investments
It’s Probably Not Right If:
- You need liquidity before the 3-year term ends
- You want tax-deferred growth (consider a MYGA inside an IRA instead)
- You want a higher yield with more flexibility (a fixed annuity may be better)
CD Alternatives to Consider
If you’re age 60 or older or saving for retirement, consider a CD annuity as an alternative.
CD annuities often provide higher interest rates with added liquidity, which can be advantageous in retirement planning. Our brokers can offer guidance, aiming to find you the best rate options online and without any obligation.
Why Choose The Annuity Expert?
At The Annuity Expert, we provide a no-obligation online comparison of top CD rates from banks and credit unions. Our goal is to connect you with the highest rates available, ensuring that your savings grow efficiently and that your choice is truly worth it.
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