Compare Short-Term CD Rates To Get The Most Growth At The Least Amount Of Time.
Short-term certificates of deposit (CDs) offer fixed interest rates and terms of 1 to 18 months, making them ideal for those seeking predictable returns with minimal time commitment. You’ll receive your initial deposit plus interest at the end of the term. Since these CDs provide relatively quick access to funds, they can be a valuable tool for savers who need liquidity but still want to benefit from interest rates higher than those of standard savings accounts.
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 or credit unions on Raisin, as most of the accounts on their platform require only $1 to open, allowing you to spread your risk across several financial institutions rather than having all your eggs in one basket.
Reasons to Compare CD Rates
When it comes to short-term CDs, comparing rates across banks and credit unions ensures you’ll find the best interest rates available to maximize your savings. Here are key reasons to shop around:
- Maximize Interest: Higher rates mean more earnings, especially within a limited term.
- Term Flexibility: Terms from 1 to 13 months offer tailored liquidity, whether you need funds soon or have a bit more time. Other popular terms are 5, 7, 10, and 9 months.
- Alternative Options: If you’re age 60 or saving for retirement, consider a CD annuity as a way to enjoy potentially higher interest rates and added liquidity benefits.
At The Annuity Expert, we aim to get you the highest interest rates to grow your savings. Working with our advisors and brokers offers peace of mind and guidance in choosing the CD product that’s truly worth it—before you buy.
Benefits of Jumbo CDs
- Higher Interest Rates: Banks and credit unions tend to offer better rates on larger deposits.
- FDIC and NCUA Insurance: Jumbo CDs are generally insured up to federal limits, ensuring peace of mind.
- Fixed, Predictable Returns: Unlike market-based investments, CDs provide guaranteed returns.
Expert Tip: Exploring CD Annuities
For savers aged 60 and above or focused on retirement, CD annuities offer a unique alternative that combines stability with enhanced interest rates, while adding liquidity features that traditional CDs may lack. This option is especially useful if you seek both higher returns and flexibility with your savings.
Why Compare Short-Term CD Rates With a Broker?
Short-term Certificates of Deposit (CDs)—ranging from 1 month to 1 year—are ideal for savers who want guaranteed returns without locking up money for too long. But not all short-term CD rates are created equal. Rates vary widely across banks, credit unions, and insurers. As a licensed broker, The Annuity Expert helps you cut through the noise and secure the highest available short-term CD rate based on your deposit amount, timeline, and goals.
We do the shopping for you—for free.
What We Do for You
✅ Compare Rates From 100+ Financial Institutions
We search national banks, local credit unions, and insurer-issued CDs to uncover the most competitive yields.
✅ Unbiased CD Recommendations
We’re not tied to one company. Our only goal is to help you earn the highest interest on your short-term savings.
✅ Tailored to Your Term
We help you find the best rates for popular durations like:
- 1-month CDs
- 3-month CDs
- 6-month CDs
- 9-month CDs
- 12-month CDs
✅ Check Early Withdrawal Penalties
Not all CDs are equal. We compare not only rates, but also the fine print—so you don’t lose money for needing access sooner.
✅ Help You Consider Annuity Alternatives
We’ll tell you when a short-term MYGA (Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity) pays more interest than a CD and offer side-by-side comparisons.
✅ Assist With Transfers and Rollover Funding
Have funds in a savings account, brokerage, trust, or IRA? We’ll help you move the money securely and penalty-free (when applicable).
Who Should Use a Short-Term CD?
✔ Savers looking to park cash for 1 year or less
✔ Retirees waiting for interest rates to rise before locking in long-term
✔ Investors transitioning between strategies or accounts
✔ People building an emergency fund with a fixed maturity date
✔ Individuals waiting for a home purchase, tuition, or a large future expense
Who Shouldn’t Use a Short-Term CD?
✘ People needing immediate liquidity—opt for a high-yield savings account instead
✘ Investors with a 2–5 year horizon—longer-term CDs or MYGAs offer better returns
✘ Those seeking tax-deferred growth—consider annuities or IRAs instead
Why Choose The Annuity Expert?
As brokers, we provide an online, no-obligation comparison service to ensure you’re getting the best rates available. Let us help you navigate CD and annuity options to achieve your financial goals efficiently and effectively.
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