Current top CD rates for February 28, 2026 (highest account offers 4% APY)

Maximize Your Earnings with Today’s Top CD Rates

Discover how much you could potentially earn by securing a high-yield certificate of deposit (CD) now. With the Federal Reserve having reduced its benchmark rate three times in 2025, this may be one of your final opportunities to lock in a competitive CD rate before rates decrease further. Since CD rates can differ significantly between banks and credit unions, it’s essential to compare offers to ensure you’re getting the most favorable rate available.

Current CD Rate Highlights

Below, you’ll find an overview of today’s CD rates and guidance on where to locate the most attractive deals.

Short-term CDs—typically those with terms of a year or less—often feature the highest rates right now. Online banks and credit unions are especially known for providing the most competitive CD rates.

As of February 28, 2026, the leading CD rate stands at 4% APY, available from Marcus by Goldman Sachs on their 1-year CD product.

Here are some of the standout CD rates you can take advantage of today:

Estimating Your CD Interest Earnings

Your potential earnings from a CD are determined by the annual percentage yield (APY), which reflects your total return over a year, factoring in both the base interest rate and the frequency of compounding (CDs typically compound interest daily or monthly).

For example, if you deposit $1,000 into a one-year CD with a 1.55% APY and monthly compounding, your balance would reach $1,015.61 after one year—yielding $15.61 in interest.

If you instead choose a one-year CD with a 4% APY, your balance would grow to $1,040.74 in the same period, earning you $40.74 in interest.

The more you invest, the greater your returns. For instance, depositing $10,000 into a one-year CD at 4% APY would result in a total of $10,407.42 at maturity, meaning you’d earn $407.42 in interest.

Exploring Different Types of CDs

While the interest rate is a key factor when selecting a CD, it’s not the only consideration. There are several types of CDs, each offering unique features and benefits. Sometimes, you may need to accept a slightly lower rate in exchange for added flexibility. Here are some popular CD options beyond the standard variety:

• Bump-up CD: This CD allows you to request a higher rate if your bank’s rates increase during your term, though you’re typically limited to one rate increase.
• No-penalty CD: Also called a liquid CD, this option lets you withdraw your money before the CD matures without incurring a penalty.
• Jumbo CD: These CDs require a substantial minimum deposit (often $100,000 or more) and may offer higher rates, though the gap between jumbo and standard CD rates is currently minimal.
• Brokered CD: Purchased through a brokerage rather than directly from a bank, brokered CDs can provide higher rates or more flexible terms, but they may involve greater risks and might not be FDIC-insured.