The best CD rates for January 2026: Earn up to 4.1% APY

If you’re looking for a safe place to park your money and still earn a decent return, a high‑yield certificate of deposit (CD) might be just the thing. By agreeing to keep your funds on deposit for a set period—whether six months, a year, 18 months, or two years—you can often lock in a higher interest rate than you’d find in a standard savings account.

To find the best options, we sifted through more than 400 data points, weighing factors such as annual percentage yield (APY), minimum opening deposit, customer service, and early‑withdrawal penalties. The result is a snapshot of the top rates available right now.

The highest six‑month CD offers a 4.10% APY, available through a credit union that requires a $1,000 minimum deposit. Membership is open to anyone, so it’s a fairly accessible choice. A few other institutions also have competitive six‑month rates—one community credit union and an online bank both give 4.05% APY with a modest $500 minimum, but they impose a 90‑day interest penalty if you pull the money early. A savings institution rounds out the list with a 4% APY, though its minimum is $1,500.

When it comes to one‑year CDs, many players in the market are offering around 4% APY. Minimum deposits vary widely: a community credit union and an online bank both require only $500, while a few larger banks ask for $2,500. One online bank is geared toward savers with bigger balances, setting the minimum at $10,000 to earn 4% APY.

For those willing to lock in a longer term, a two‑year CD is available from a credit union at 4.05% APY with just a $500 minimum deposit. An online bank also offers an 18‑month CD at 4% APY, again with a $500 minimum, making it a solid option for a mid‑term commitment.

All of these accounts typically compound interest daily, which can help your money grow slightly faster. Just be mindful of the early‑withdrawal penalties, which usually involve a few months’ worth of interest forfeited if you need to access your funds before the term ends.