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Best 6-Month CD Rates of 2024

Review Updated
Matt Frankel, CFP®
Steven Porrello
Eric McWhinnie
Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures that our product ratings are not influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page. APY = Annual Percentage Yield. APYs are subject to change at any time without notice.

Six-month CD rates are a great way to maximize your short-term savings, especially if you can score a higher interest rate. Your money isn't tied up as long as with longer CD terms, giving you the flexibility to pivot your investing strategy as needed.

Here are our picks for the best 6-month CD rates, what to consider when choosing a CD, and alternatives that may offer better returns.

  • Our team of experts assessed 100+ banking institutions
  • We evaluate all banking institutions across the same 4 key criteria: annual percentage yield (APY), brand reputation, fees and minimum requirements, and additional perks
  • Our bank ratings are never influenced by our advertising partners
  • We strictly feature products that offer federal insurance and high customer satisfaction, keeping our recommendations unbiased

How to compare 6-month CD rates

Here are some other factors besides APY to consider when comparing 6-month CDs:

Compare the best 6-month CD rates

Rates as of Dec. 18, 2024
Best 6-Month Certificates of Deposits (CDs) of 2024 picks.
Bank & CD Offer APY Term Min. Deposit Next Steps
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

APY: 4.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Open Account for LendingClub CD

On LendingClub's Secure Website.

APY: 4.40% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

APY: 3.95% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 4.20% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.10% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.65% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.70% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 1 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.30% Term: 1 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.65% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: up to 2.01% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500 for Standard, $5,000 for Special
APY: 2.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.63% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.71% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 4.50% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

APY: 4.30% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.80% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.75% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 2.00% Term: 3 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

APY: up to 4.51% Term: 4 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500 for Standard, $5,000 for Special
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 5 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
APY: 4.90% Term: 5 Months Min. Deposit: 
APY: 5.50% Term: 5 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.70% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 4.15% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Open Account for CIT Bank CD

On CIT's Secure Website.

APY: 5.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.80% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 5.21% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
APY: 3.80% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 0.50% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: up to 2.01% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500 for Standard, $5,000 for Special
APY: 4.35% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.45% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.50% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 4.24% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.25% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: up to 4.91% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.20% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Valley Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.75% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.35% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.30% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.30% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.40% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.50% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 4.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $250.00
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.25% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.00% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.05% Term: 6 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.75% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Promotional CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.13% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: up to 4.26% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500 for Standard, $5,000 for Special
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.34% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Ponce Bank CDs
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.25% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
APY: 5.00% Term: 7 Months Min. Deposit: 
NASA Federal Credit Union High-Yield Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.99% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 4.25% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.80% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,500
APY: 4.00% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.30% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.30% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 4.00% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $250.00
APY: 4.10% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.65% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.50% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.35% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 5.30% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.80% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.50% Term: 9 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 5.31% Term: 10 Months Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 10 Months Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

APY: 3.50% Term: 11 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.04% Term: 11 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.75% Term: 11 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Huntington Bank Promotional CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.86% Term: 11 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 5.05% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Open Account for LendingClub CD

On LendingClub's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 5.05% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.40% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 0.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.10% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 4.40% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.10% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 1.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.42% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 5.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.37% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.30% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.60% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.40% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.51% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
APY: 4.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
Valley Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.50% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.20% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 3.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.85% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: up to 4.55% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.75% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.05% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.15% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

APY: 5.20% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 1 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
APY: 4.33% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union CD
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 5.00% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 5.15% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit: 
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 13 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Open Account for CIT Bank CD

On CIT's Secure Website.

NASA Federal Credit Union High-Yield Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.54% Term: 15 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.50% to 1.01% Term: 15 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 5.10% Term: 16 Months Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.70% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Open Account for CIT Bank CD

On CIT's Secure Website.

APY: 3.90% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.90% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.98% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 3.25% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.40% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.70% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.80% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
APY: 1.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.25% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.80% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 1.70% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 3.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.90% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 4.15% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.95% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.80% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 3.35% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.25% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Open Account for LendingClub CD

On LendingClub's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 2.45% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.25% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.15% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.50% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 1.5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 19 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 3.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 3.55% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
APY: 3.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

APY: 3.90% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.15% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 4.24% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.80% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Valley Bank CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.90% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.35% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 3.85% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
APY: 4.53% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.85% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.35% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.75% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 1.00% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: up to 2.25% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

APY: 3.55% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.40% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.93% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.90% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.90% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.75% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 3.75% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Open Account for LendingClub CD

On LendingClub's Secure Website.

APY: 3.50% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.10% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.70% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 2 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 25 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 25 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.50% Term: 30 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.40% Term: 30 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

APY: 3.50% Term: 30 Months Min. Deposit:  $0
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 35 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.75% Term: 35 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 1.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.60% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 2.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 3.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.60% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.65% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 2.75% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
APY: 3.77% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.60% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.25% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

APY: 3.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.25% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.35% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.40% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Open Account for LendingClub CD

On LendingClub's Secure Website.

APY: 3.25% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.35% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.44% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.80% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.50% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 4.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.40% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

APY: up to 2.45% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.60% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.75% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.80% Term: 3 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 1.75% Term: 37 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.80% Term: 45 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 1.61% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.25% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.55% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.40% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

APY: 2.25% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 3.62% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.40% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 3.80% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.40% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
APY: 3.60% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.55% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

APY: 4.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.25% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 3.85% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 1.50% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.34% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.35% Term: 4 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
NASA Federal Credit Union High-Yield Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 4.09% Term: 49 Months Min. Deposit:  $10,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 52 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.90% Term: 59 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.75% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
APY: 3.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 4.30% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Vanguard Brokered CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 5.35% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.40% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $2,500
Open Account for LendingClub CD

On LendingClub's Secure Website.

APY: 3.60% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 4.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.35% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.29% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
NASA Federal Credit Union Share Certificate
Federally insured by NCUA.
APY: 3.75% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
Open Account for

On Secure Website.

APY: 3.67% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.60% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: up to 3.55% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 3.00% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
APY: 1.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,500
APY: 3.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 2.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
Member FDIC.
APY: 4.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 3.50% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Member FDIC.
APY: 1.00% - 2.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $250.00
APY: 2.25% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $10,000
APY: 3.40% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

Member FDIC.
APY: 3.45% Term: 5 Year Min. Deposit:  $5,000
Member FDIC.
APY: up to 2.00% Term: 61 Months Min. Deposit:  $1,000
First National Bank Special CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 3.00% Term: 61 Months Min. Deposit:  $5,000 or $10,000, depending on term
Huntington Bank Standard CD
Member FDIC.
APY: 0.10% Term: 6 Year Min. Deposit:  $1,000
APY: 3.60% Term: 6 Year Min. Deposit:  $500
APY: 3.40% Term: 7 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

APY: 3.40% Term: 10 Year Min. Deposit:  $0
Open Account for Discover® Bank CD

On Discover Bank's Secure Website.

  • At Motley Fool Money, our certificates of deposit (CDs) ratings primarily focus on annual percentage yield (APY) and early withdrawal penalty fees. Our highest-rated CDs generally include competitive APYs without complex qualification tiers, low withdrawal fees, reliable brand trust and reputation, and ease of use.

    Motley Fool Money tracks just standard CDs, not IRA, bump up, callable, and other less popular CD accounts. CD rates displayed on this Best 6-Month CD Rates page are comprised of both the highest CD rates in Motley Fool Money's universe of tracked rates and featured placements from advertisers. Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list.

    Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates bank accounts.

A note from our head of product ratings, Robin Hartill, CFP®
Image of reviewer

The CD accounts we select maximize the earnings on your savings while providing security and predictability. Here's what we emphasize:

  • Competitive interest rates
  • Reasonable minimum deposit
  • Low fees and withdrawal penalties

These elements are critical to keeping your savings safe and compounding.

Reviews of the top 6-month CDs

Western Alliance Bank CD 6 Months (4.40% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: You can open a Western Alliance Bank CD with just $1. Western Alliance Bank's generous rates and that low minimum mean this could be a great bank to build your short-term CD ladder.
  • What you should know before opening an account: This CD is offered through the Raisin platform, not through Western Alliance Bank directly. Raisin only allows you to link one outside bank account to its platform, and when your CD term is up, that's where you'll transfer your principal and earnings.

Read our full Western Alliance Bank CD review

Quontic CD 6 Months (4.25% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: Quontic CDs can be opened in just three minutes, according to the bank's website -- and you only need $500 to do it.
  • What you should know before opening an account: For Quontic CDs with terms less than one year, you'll lose all the interest you've earned if you choose to withdraw your money early. This is a particularly harsh early withdrawal penalty, so avoid Quontic CD if you think you might need your money before six months are up.

Learn more on Quontic's website

Barclays Online CD 6 Months (4.00% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: Want to open a CD with no minimum amount of money? Barclays lets you -- so you can get started with CDs even as a beginning saver.
  • What you should know before opening an account: The Barclays 6-month CD has its best available term (and shorter terms in general are best at Barclays) -- look to this bank for a very short-term CD ladder.

Learn more on Barclays' website

LendingClub CD 6 Months (4.00% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: Concerned about banking safety? LendingClub pays close attention to security, protecting your data with 256-bit encryption.
  • What you should know before opening an account: LendingClub CDs require a very high minimum deposit to open ($2,500) -- but the high rates ensure you earn a sizable chunk of change.

Learn more on LendingClub's website

Sallie Mae CD 6 Months (3.95% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: Sallie Mae CDs offer a fully online experience along with high rates.
  • What you should know before opening an account: You'll have to open a Sallie Mae CD with a sizable deposit, so despite the short term, a 6-month CD from Sallie Mae might not fit into your CD ladder plans.

Read our full Sallie Mae CD review

Synchrony Online CD 6 Months (4.20% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: Want to make money on your CD? Synchrony Bank lets you withdraw your earned interest every month.
  • What you should know before opening an account: There's no required minimum deposit to open a Synchrony Online CD, so consider them for a CD ladder.

Read our full Synchrony Online CD review

Marcus by Goldman Sachs High Yield CD 6 Months (4.10% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: Unlike most CDs, you have up to 30 days after opening a Marcus by Goldman Sachs High Yield CD to add more money to the account.
  • What you should know before opening an account: There's a reasonable required minimum opening deposit for a Marcus by Goldman Sachs High Yield CD ($500) and a pretty broad selection of terms, so you could keep your CD ladder with this bank.

Read our full Marcus by Goldman Sachs High Yield CD review

Prime Alliance Bank CD 6 Months (4.65% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: You won't need to deposit a ton of money to open a Prime Alliance Bank CD, making them a good choice if you're hoping to ladder your CDs.
  • What you should know before opening an account: Prime Alliance Bank doesn't offer CD terms outside the commonly available ones, so look to other banks if you need unusual terms for your CD ladder.

Read our full Prime Alliance Bank review

Vio Bank High-Yield CD 6 Months (4.70% APY)

  • What we like about this 6-month CD: Vio Bank doesn't require a high minimum opening deposit, and the bank's shorter-term CDs offer the best rates.
  • What you should know before opening an account: If you withdraw some of your money early from a 6-month CD, you'll be penalized 1% of the amount withdrawn plus a $25 fee.

Read our full Vio Bank review

What is a 6-month CD?

A 6-month CD is a bank account that locks a deposit up for six months in exchange for a fixed interest rate. Like other CDs, six-month CDs usually come with an early withdrawal penalty, usually equal to three months of interest, which you pay if you cash out your CD early.

However, 6-month CDs have shorter maturity periods than other CD terms, which could reduce the risk of needing to withdraw funds early.

Who is it right for?

A 6-month CD is right for people who want to earn a decent interest rate but don't want their money tied up longer than six months.

How much can you earn with a 6-month CD?

How much you earn depends on your rate and how much you deposit into the CD. Let's look at some examples.

High-yield 6-month CDs

The best CDs have rates in the 4.50% to 5.50% range. To look at some actual numbers, here's what you'd earn with $1,000 in a high-yield 6-month CD based on the APY:

APY 4.50% 4.75% 5% 5.25% 5.50%
End balance $1,022.71 $1,023.99 $1,025.26 $1,026.54 $1,027.82
Total interest $22.71 $23.99 $25.26 $26.54 $27.82
Data source: Author's calculations.

At the low end, you're looking at a total interest earning of $22.71, which is great for just letting your money sit there.

(We assumed that the CD compounds monthly in these calculations. Some may actually compound daily, so you could maybe boost these totals by a few cents in that case.)

Average 6-month CDs

Now, above we looked at some of the best CDs. That's an important distinction to make, because many, many institutions are not going to offer you rates anywhere near this high.

An average 6-month CDs offers APYs as low as 0.03%. Stay away from these low-rate CDs. Here's how little $1,000 will grow in an "average" 6-month CD:

APY 0.03% 0.50% 1.00% 1.49% 2.50%
End balance $1,000.15 $1,002.50 $1,005.01 $1,007.47 $1,012.57
Total interest $0.15 $2.50 $5.01 $7.47 $12.57
Data source: Author's calculations.

Will 6-month CD rates increase in 2024?

No, it's unlikely 6-month CD rates will go any higher in 2024. In fact, CD rates have slowly dropped.

While the drops have been subtle, they could be more pronounced if the Federal Reserve decides to cut its federal funds rate, which is the primary reason CD rates have been at their highest in over a decade. If you're interested in investing in short-term CDs, it might be prudent to lock in a rate while they're still high.

Pros and cons

Opening a 6-month CD account can be a solid investment choice, but it also has its drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to opening 6-month CDs.

Pros

  • Higher rates: The best 6-month CD rates are higher than the average savings account rates. That's because banks reward CD customers with better rates for leaving their money untouched in the bank long term. However, 6-month CDs tend to have lower rates than longer-term CDs.
  • Fixed rates won't fall: CD rates are fixed, which gives them an advantage over savings accounts. If you lock in a high 6-month CD rate, you'll earn at that rate until your CD reaches maturity -- even if market rates drop.
  • Predictable returns: Customers can easily calculate exactly how much interest they will earn from any bank's CD simply by looking at the bank's 6-month CD rates.

Cons

  • Rates may rise: Having a fixed rate is great until you see rates start to rise. Even with short-term CDs, you will lose out on added savings if rates go up.
  • Penalties: Tying up your money in 6-month CDs may not seem like a big deal now, but a lot can happen in that time. The benefits of even the best 6-month CD rates will go out the window if you have to pay early-withdrawal penalties.
  • Inflation risks: Although this isn't a common problem with shorter CD terms, there's always the possibility your CD rate doesn't keep up with inflation. This is another reason it's a good idea to look for the best 6-month CD rates: The higher your rate, the better chance you have of outpacing inflation.

Alternatives to a 6-month CD

The best 6-month CD rates allow you to earn a fair amount of money in a short amount of time. However, other options might provide more flexibility or more growth. Here are a few alternatives to a 6-month CD to consider:

High-yield savings accounts

For high-yield interest while keeping your money accessible, try a high-yield savings account. The interest on these accounts can sometimes approach 6-month CD rates. Another plus: Savings accounts don't require you to leave your money untouched long term. However, keep in mind that savings account interest rates are not guaranteed for any specific length of time, and can certainly rise or fall significantly within a six-month period. 

Money market accounts

Money market accounts are similar to savings accounts, but they often come with extra features like an ATM card or check-writing privileges. They also feature high-yield savings rates that are comparable to the best CD rates. Money market accounts are a great way to build toward a savings goal, like a vacation or emergency fund.

Longer-term CDs

Typically, a longer CD term will offer a higher interest rate than even the best 6-month CD rates. But be careful: You could face hefty penalties if you need to withdraw funds early. Another option is to build a CD ladder. This strategy involves opening several CD accounts of varying lengths. CD ladders allow you to take advantage of higher rates without tying up all of your money long term.

Investments

If you are playing the long game, CDs are unlikely to earn as much interest as investing in stocks or a retirement fund. However, you won't see high returns on the stock market within six months -- you'll likely need to wait a few years. There's also a greater risk because stocks can fall dramatically in a short time. Investing is only a smart choice if you can let your money sit and grow long term.

Six-month CDs are one of the shortest CD terms available, but typically have higher APYs than the national savings rate. Whether a CD is right for you depends on your banking needs and whether you can commit to leaving your money alone for a set period.

To recap, the highest 6-month CD rates

Offer APY Min. Deposit
Quontic CD

On Quontic's Secure Website.

4.25% - 6 Mo. $500
Barclays Online CD

On Barclays' Secure Website.

4.00% - 6 Mo. $0
LendingClub CD

On LendingClub's Secure Website.

4.00% - 6 Mo. $2,500
4.40% - 6 Mo. $1
3.95% - 6 Mo. $2,500
4.20% - 6 Mo. $0
4.10% - 6 Mo. $500
4.65% - 6 Mo. $500
4.70% - 6 Mo. $500
APY = Annual Percentage Yield

Other CD term lengths to consider

Banks we monitor

  • Alliant, Ally, All America Bank, American First Credit Union, American Express National Bank, Arvest Bank, Aspiration, Axos Bank, B2 Bank, Bank of America, Bank5 Connect, Bank7, Barclays, Bask Bank, Betterment, Bluevine, BMO Bank, Bread Financial, Capital One, Carver Federal Savings Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, Chase, Chime, CIT, Citibank, Citizens, Citizens Savings Bank, Columbia Bank, Connexus Credit Union, Consumers Credit Union, Copper, Cross River Bank, Customers Bank, Discover® Bank, E*TRADEEdward Jones, EverBank, Fidelity, Fifth Third Bank, First Foundation Bank, First Internet Bank of Indiana, First National Bank, First Tech Federal Credit Union, Flushing Bank, Freedom Bank, Generations Bank, GN Bank, Golden 1 Credit Union, Greenlight, Harborstone Credit Union, HSBC, Huntington Bank, Ivella, Jenius Bank, Kabbage by American Express, KeyBank, Laurel Road, LendingClub, Liberty Bank, Liberty Federal Credit Union, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, Mercury, Municipal Credit Union, Mutual of Omaha, My Banking Direct, NASA Federal Credit Union, Nationwide Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, NBKC Bank, New York Community Bank, NexBank, Northpointe Bank, Novo, OceanFirst Bank, Old National Bank, ONE Finance, OneUnited Bank, Oxygen, Pacific Western Bank, PNC Bank, Ponce Bank, Popular Direct, Presidential Bank, Prime Alliance Bank, Quontic, Radius, Raisin, Redneck Bank, Regions Bank, Relay, Republic Bank of Chicago, Revolut, Salem Five Bank, Sallie Mae, Santander Bank, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, Simple, SoFi®, Synchrony Bank, TAB Bank, TD Bank, Third Federal, Truist Bank, U.S. Bank, UFB, Upgrade, USAA, Valley Bank, Vanguard, Varo Bank, Vio Bank, Wealthfront, Wells Fargo, Western Alliance Bank, and Zeta.

FAQs

  • Six-month CDs are a great way to get a taste of the CD world without commiting your money for a long period. They are also a great short-term CD option in a CD-ladder strategy.

  • A 6-month CD is worth it if you prefer the flexibility of a shorter CD term over the higher rate of a longer term.

  • After choosing a 6-month CD, you'll open an account and make an initial deposit, making sure to meet the minimum on your CD (if it has one). You'll then let your deposit grow over six months. Once the six months are over, your CD has matured, and you can withdraw your deposit plus interest. You can also reinvest your money into another CD or renew the 6-month CD at the same institution.