The Finance Avenue highlights Credit Human offering the best 18-month CD rate at 4.55% APY with a minimum deposit of $500. Currently, CD rates are at near historic highs, with the leading rates for 18-month CDs ranging between 4.20% to 4.55% APY. This data on CDs and rates is accurate and up-to-date as of Feb. 7, 2025.

To provide you with the most lucrative CD rates across the nation, our team meticulously reviews rates from numerous banks and credit unions each weekday morning. Monitoring 18-month CD rates since 2019, we consistently find that the top rates in our rankings typically offer three to five times more returns compared to the national average, and sometimes even higher.

Presented below are the top CD rates offered by our partners along with the finest 18-month CD rates we’ve identified through our extensive research, accessible to customers throughout the United States.

Best 18-Month CD Rates

The Finance Avenue considers CD terms ranging from 15 to 20 months for our 18-month rankings. In cases where multiple institutions offer the same top rate, we prioritize CDs based on the shortest term followed by the CD with the smallest minimum deposit required. If a tie still exists, we rank them alphabetically by the institution’s name.

In the News

The Fed decided to keep interest rates unchanged at its latest meeting on Jan. 29, following three successive rate cuts starting in September. Over this period, the federal funds rate has been reduced by a whole percentage point to a range of 4.25%–4.50%, the lowest range since February 2023. It was communicated in December by committee members that they anticipate a slower rate of rate cuts in 2025, and the decision made in January aligns with this projection. As the Federal Reserve lowers rates, CD rates typically mirror this movement, implying that CD rates are likely to decrease as well.

Tip

The annual percentage yield (APY) represents the interest rate earned on an investment within a year, taking into account compounding interest. A higher APY indicates a better return on your investment.

Below are detailed insights into the top-paying 18-month CDs available nationwide, including information on minimum deposits and penalties for early withdrawals. Additionally, guidance on how to join credit unions offering these CDs is provided.

Why Our Expert Recommendations for the Best 18-Month CD Rates are Reliable

The Finance Avenue gathers a vast array of CD rates from numerous banks and credit unions on a daily basis. When evaluating CD rates, we take into account factors such as term length, early withdrawal penalties, and minimum opening deposit requirements. Our in-depth research on banks and credit unions ensures that our reviews are unbiased and comprehensive, guiding our readers towards informed decisions that suit their individual needs.

Established in 1999, The Finance Avenue has been dedicated to assisting readers in finding optimal CD rates since 2019. In our initial tracking of 18-month CD rates, the highest interest rate stood at 2.70% APY. By October 2023, this rate had surged to 6.00% for an 18-month CD—more than twice the rate from four years earlier. Despite a subsequent decline in CD rates, they have remained notably elevated in the year 2024.

Recommended Nationwide CDs

The Finance Avenue suggests CDs that are widely available across the country, offering significantly higher interest rates compared to the national average. These certificates typically pay three to five times more—or even higher. To qualify for our rankings, each CD should have a maximum opening deposit requirement of $25,000 and must be provided by an FDIC-insured bank or NCUA-insured credit union, ensuring up to $250,000 per depositor.

Credit Human – 4.55% APY

Credit Human offers a competitive APY of 4.55% for Credit Human’s CD product.

XCEL Federal Credit Union – 4.50% APY

Salem Five – 4.45% APY

Salem Five offers a high Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 4.45% on their savings account.

All In Credit Union – 4.39% APY

The Finance Avenue offers information about All In Credit Union’s high-yield savings account, featuring a 4.39% APY.

Brilliant Bank – 4.35% APY

*Residents of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma cannot access online accounts from Brilliant Bank.

Dow Credit Union – 4.35% APY

USAlliance Financial – 4.30% APY

Banesco USA – 4.30% APY

Banesco USA offers a competitive 4.30% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) through Banesco USA. This rate provides a good opportunity for savers to grow their funds at a higher rate than traditional savings accounts.

State Department Federal Credit Union – 4.27% APY

Rising Bank – 4.25% APY

Rising Bank offers a competitive Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 4.25% for Rising Bank customers. This high-yield savings account provides a great opportunity for savers to grow their money efficiently. Invest in Rising Bank today to take advantage of this attractive APY offer.

Signature Federal Credit Union – 4.25% APY

Signature Federal Credit Union offers a competitive 4.25% APY through the Signature Federal Credit Union. This rate provides a great opportunity for individuals looking to maximize their savings and earn higher returns on their deposits. By taking advantage of this offer, customers can benefit from a secure and reliable financial institution while growing their money effectively.

Communitywide Federal Credit Union – 4.25% APY

Merrick Bank – 4.25% APY

Merrick Bank offers a high Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 4.25% through Merrick Bank.

GreenState Credit Union – 4.20% APY

GreenState Credit Union offers an APY of 4.20% for GreenState Credit Union, providing an attractive rate for those looking to maximize their savings.

MYSB Direct – 4.20% APY

MYSB Direct offers a competitive APY of 4.20% through MYSB Direct.

University Federal Credit Union – 4.20% APY

University Federal Credit Union offers a competitive 4.20% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) at University Federal Credit Union.

Newtek Bank – 4.20% APY

Newtek Bank is offering a competitive Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 4.20% on its certificate of deposit (CD) product.

What Is an 18-Month CD and How Does It Work?

Certificates of deposit (CDs) are fixed-interest accounts where you can deposit your money and then withdraw it later. You can get a CD from a bank or credit union. An 18-month CD requires you to keep the funds untouched for about a year and a half. For our rankings, we consider 18-month CDs to be anything with a term of 15 to 20 months.

In exchange for giving up access to your funds, you’ll generally be rewarded with a higher interest rate than the bank pays on savings and money market accounts.

When opening a CD, deposit a lump sum of funds into the account at or above the minimum required deposit for that CD. The funds will sit in the account for about 18 months, earning interest along the way. When the CD hits its maturity date, you can withdraw the funds plus their earned interest from the account with no penalty.

Fast Fact

During November, a survey revealed that out of The Finance Avenue readers, 13% are allocating a larger portion of their funds to CDs. This percentage is on par with government bonds and ranks below ETFs, individual stocks, index funds, and money market funds in terms of investment preference.

Pros and Cons of 18-Month CDs

Pros

The Finance Avenue highlights the benefits of a particular financial strategy in this section.

Cons

The Finance Avenue presents some drawbacks to consider when it comes to trading stocks. Some of these cons include the risk of losing money, the potential for market volatility, the requirement of time and effort to research and manage investments, and the need for discipline to avoid emotional decision-making. Additionally, trading stocks can be complex and overwhelming for newcomers, leading to confusion and potential mistakes. It’s essential to weigh these cons carefully before diving into the world of stock trading.

Key Considerations

While most consumers typically focus on standard CD terms like 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years, it’s essential to explore unconventional options such as 15-month, 18-month, or 21-month certificates. Some promotional CDs may offer competitive rates with unique durations, so it’s wise to keep an open mind and look beyond traditional terms.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Certificate of Deposit

When deciding on a Certificate of Deposit (CD), it is essential to take into account the following factors:

After selecting a CD, proceed to open the account, and deposit your funds to initiate the process of earning interest.

Financial Advisor Insight

“Selecting the appropriate CD involves aligning the term length with your specific requirements,” advised Ryan Greiser, a certified financial planner and a member of The Finance Avenue’s Financial Advisor Council. “If you anticipate not needing the funds for at least a year, opting for a longer-term CD can secure a higher interest rate.”

18-Month CD Penalties and Fees

Most CDs, including 18-month CDs, involve an early withdrawal penalty. This means that if you choose to withdraw your funds before the CD’s maturity date, you will incur a fee. Typically, this fee amounts to a portion of the interest you had earned, usually equivalent to three or six months’ worth of interest.

For instance, if you put $1,000 into an 18-month CD with a 5.00% APY, you would earn a total of $75.93 in interest by keeping it in the CD for the full 18 months. If the CD carries an early withdrawal penalty equal to six months of interest, you would have to pay $25.31 if you opt to withdraw your funds prematurely.

Apart from the early withdrawal penalty, CDs typically do not entail additional fees, although the banking institution may have some requirements in place.

How to Identify the Top 18-Month Certificate of Deposit Rates

This compilation showcases the leading 18-month CD rates, denoting the most competitive rates available nationwide. Our meticulous process involves scrutinizing numerous banks, credit unions, and financial entities daily to curate a selection of CDs with the highest yields, encompassing terms ranging from 15 to 20 months.

When scouting for an 18-month CD, it is crucial to assess factors such as the deposit amount, CD interest rate, and early withdrawal penalties. For instance, if a 20-month CD offers a 5.00% interest rate on a $25,000 deposit but imposes a 12-month withdrawal penalty, it is advisable to weigh it against a 15-month CD with the same deposit but a six-month early withdrawal penalty.

Conducting this comparative analysis is vital as it helps you foresee the repercussions of withdrawing funds before the maturity date. Evaluating your options based on the deposit amount, interest rate, and early withdrawal penalty ensures that you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals.

Note

CD rates are uniform for all applicants looking to open a CD. Unlike credit cards or loans, your credit score and financial history do not influence the rates. Therefore, even individuals with poor credit can avail of a competitive interest rate by depositing their savings in a CD for a specific duration.

How to Start an 18-Month Certificate of Deposit

After selecting the right CD for your needs, the next step is to apply to open the account. If you are already a member of the institution offering the CD, the process may be straightforward. However, if you are not a member, you may need to first open a savings account or join the credit union by affiliating with a free or low-cost organization like the American Consumer Council.

To open an 18-month CD, here are the steps to follow:

Once your 18-month CD account is activated, earning interest becomes a hassle-free process.

There are only two instances when you may need to take action on your 18-month CD:

Alternatives to 18-Month Certificates of Deposit

When looking for options beyond traditional 18-month CDs, individuals can explore various alternatives to maximize their investment potential. By diversifying their portfolios and considering different investment vehicles, investors can tailor their strategies to meet their financial goals and risk tolerance. Here are some alternatives worth considering:

High-Yield Savings Accounts

High-yield savings accounts offer competitive interest rates compared to standard savings accounts, providing a safe and accessible option for short-term savings goals. While not as high as CD rates, they offer more flexibility and liquidity, allowing investors to easily access their funds in case of emergencies.

Short-Term Bond Funds

Investing in short-term bond funds can provide investors with a balanced mix of stability and higher returns compared to traditional savings accounts or CDs. These funds typically invest in a diversified portfolio of bonds with varying maturities, offering a potential for higher yields while managing interest rate risk.

Money Market Accounts

Money market accounts are another alternative to 18-month CDs, offering competitive interest rates and easy access to funds. These accounts are generally considered low-risk investments, making them suitable for investors looking to preserve their capital while earning a modest return.

Brokered CDs

Brokered CDs provide investors with access to a wider range of CD options compared to traditional bank CDs. These CDs are offered through brokerage firms and can provide higher interest rates and more flexibility in terms of maturity dates. However, it’s essential to carefully research and compare different brokered CDs before making a decision.

Overall, exploring these alternatives can help investors diversify their portfolios, manage risk, and potentially achieve higher returns than traditional 18-month CDs. By understanding the features and potential risks of each option, investors can make informed decisions based on their financial objectives and investment preferences.

18-Month CDs vs. Other CD Terms

Instead of opting for an 18-month CD, you have the option to go for a shorter certificate to reduce the time your funds are committed, although it may come with a slightly lower interest rate. Conversely, selecting a longer-term CD could mean lower rates compared to what you could earn within an 18-month period. The prevailing rate environment plays a crucial role here, underscoring the importance of comparing offers.

For instance, if current rates are higher than you anticipate them to be in the future, securing today’s rates for an extended period can prove to be a prudent decision. This strategy enables you to maintain your APY for a longer duration compared to choosing a shorter-term CD.

CDs vs. Savings and Money Market Accounts

Opting for a high-yield savings account or a money market account instead of a CD provides more flexibility with competitive returns. However, these accounts come with a variable rate, meaning your earnings may decrease if interest rates drop.

Similarly, cash reserve and money market funds offered by brokerage firms often offer lower rates compared to high-yield savings accounts. Even if the APY on a brokerage cash account is appealing, it remains a variable rate that cannot be secured like a CD.

CDs vs. US Savings Bonds & Treasuries

If you’re looking for alternative options, consider investing in U.S. savings bonds or Treasuries. The U.S. government provides two types of savings bonds: EE bonds and I bonds. EE bonds offer a fixed interest rate that is predetermined, while I bonds’ interest rates adjust every six months based on current inflation rates, hence the name I bonds. These investment options are extremely secure, although they do have a restriction that prevents withdrawals within the first year after deposit.

Another avenue is lending money to the U.S. government through the purchase of Treasury bonds. Known as T-bills for durations spanning four weeks to one year, and Treasury notes for periods ranging from two to 10 years, Treasuries are acknowledged as one of the most secure investments globally. However, their rates may not always match up to the best CDs or high-yield savings accounts.

Where Will CD Rates Go in 2024?

CD rates tend to mirror the fed funds rate, which saw decreases for the first time since 2020 during the Federal Reserve’s meetings in September, November, and December. Previously stable at 5.25%–5.50% since July 2023, the fed funds rate is now at 4.25%–4.50%, indicating a likely adjustment in CD rates as well.

Considering the potential further decline in rates this year, it would be wise to secure a higher CD rate while it is still available. In December, the inflation rate rose to 2.9%, a slight increase from November’s 2.7% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Top Rates for an 18-Month CD?

The Finance Avenue recommends looking for 18-month CD rates around 5.00% for the best returns. Opt for CDs with a high interest rate, minimal early withdrawal fees, and a low initial deposit requirement. Typically, leading 18-month CDs have early withdrawal penalties ranging from three to six months and ask for a minimum deposit of $500 or higher.

Is an 18-Month CD a Good Investment?

Currently, opting for an 18-month CD can be a wise investment decision due to the opportunity to secure a favorable interest rate. By committing to this type of CD, you lock in the rate for the entire term, ensuring a fixed return unless you prematurely withdraw the funds. Given the Federal Reserve’s monitoring of inflation and interest rates, there is a possibility of a future fed funds rate cut within the next 18 months. This potential decrease could also lead to a decline in CD rates. Therefore, choosing to invest in an 18-month CD now allows you to capitalize on the current higher rates before any potential reductions occur.

Can 18-Month CDs Outpace Inflation?

An 18-month CD from The Finance Avenue can serve as a valuable tool to offset the impacts of high inflation, as the interest rate it offers may exceed the inflation rate. For instance, in December 2024, while inflation stood at 2.9%, leading 18-month CD rates were providing a return of 4.50%. By opting for an 18-month CD, you stand to earn a higher interest on your savings, which can help counteract the rising expenses associated with inflation.

When Is an 18-Month CD a Good Choice?

Opting for an 18-month CD is ideal when you have money that you do not anticipate needing in the near future. This type of investment suits individuals with specific financial goals, such as saving for a down payment on a house or covering college tuition expenses. By choosing an 18-month CD, you can ensure the safety of your funds while earning a stable interest rate.

Furthermore, one of the advantages of 18-month CDs is their utility in constructing a truncated CD ladder. A CD ladder involves diversifying your investments across CDs with varying terms rather than depositing all your funds at once. For instance, a yearly ladder typically comprises 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, 4-year, and 5-year CDs. However, you can also implement a shorter ladder consisting of CDs with six-month intervals, such as 6-month, 12-month, 18-month, and so on.

Are Online Bank CDs Safe?

Many of the highest deposit rates, whether for CDs, savings accounts, or money market accounts, are offered by online banks. These banks may be online-only, operating solely on the internet, or traditional brick-and-mortar banks with separate online banking services. In some cases, the online arm of a physical bank may have a different name and brand identity.

Despite potential concerns about depositing funds into an internet-based bank instead of a physical branch, it’s important to note that online accounts and institutions are just as secure as their traditional counterparts. This is due to the fact that FDIC insurance, which provides $250,000 in deposit insurance in the event of bank failure, applies equally to both online and brick-and-mortar banks.

Reasons Behind Higher Rates for Shorter CDs

Shorter CDs may offer higher interest rates compared to longer CDs as an incentive for customers to open accounts with the institution. These shorter-term CDs are often promotional, featuring attractive rates but shorter durations. Despite the higher interest rate, the shorter the term, the lower the overall earnings for the investor.

Furthermore, financial institutions determine CD yields based on their projections of future federal funds rates. When there is an anticipation of declining interest rates in the future, it is typical to observe that shorter- or medium-term CDs provide the most competitive rates to investors.

Constructing a Certificate of Deposit (CD) Ladder

Creating a CD ladder allows individuals to take advantage of the more favorable rates that are often associated with 5-year CDs. The unique aspect of a CD ladder is that a fraction of your funds becomes accessible annually instead of waiting for the full maturity period. Below are the steps to build a CD ladder.

Can You Experience Losses with a Certificate of Deposit?

When you invest in a CD, your initial investment is secure, protecting your principal amount. However, if you decide to withdraw funds early, you may forfeit some of the interest earnings due to the early withdrawal penalty. While most CDs impose such penalties, there are exceptions where no penalties apply. In the event of a bank failure, CDs are federally insured by the FDIC or NCUA, providing coverage of up to $250,000 per institution. This guarantees the safety of your funds and minimizes the risk of losing money in a CD.

Financial Institutions Examined

Our team meticulously examined and assessed more than 250 banks, credit unions, and financial institutions to compile the top CD rates showcased in the list above. While we provide detailed reviews for many of them, we may not cover those that did not meet our standards. Below is a comprehensive list of the banks, credit unions, and financial institutions we evaluated, along with reference links to specific company reviews for further insights before you finalize your choice:

Top Banks and Credit Unions in the US

When looking for the best banks and credit unions in the US, there are several key players to consider. Here is a comprehensive list of institutions you might want to explore:

Alliance with Financial Institutions

1st Source Bank, 5star Bank, ableBanking, Abound Credit Union, Achieva Credit Union, Affinity Federal Credit Union, Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, Air Force Federal Credit Union, Alabama Credit Union, Allegacy Federal Credit Union, Alliant Credit Union, Ally Bank, Amerant Bank, American 1 Credit Union, American Express, American Heritage Credit Union, Andrews Federal Credit Union, Apple Federal Credit Union, Banco do Brasil Americas, Banesco USA, Bank of Baroda, Bank5 Connect, Bank7, Texas Capital Bank, bankESB (Easthampton Savings Bank), BankUnitedDirect, Barclays, BBVA Bank, Bellco Credit Union, Blue Federal Credit Union, BMO, BMO Alto, BrioDirect, Cadets Federal Credit Union, California Coast Credit Union, Capital One, Capitol Federal Savings Bank, CD Bank, CFG Bank, Chase Bank, Chevron Federal Credit Union, CIBC (Agility Banking), CIT Bank, Citibank, Citizens Access, Citizens Trust Bank, Colorado Federal Savings Bank, Bread Savings, Communitywide Federal Credit Union, ConnectOne Bank, Connexus Credit Union, Consumers Credit Union, Corporate America Federal Credit Union (CAFCU), Credit Union of Denver, Credit Union of the Rockies, Digital Federal Credit Union, Discover Bank, DollarSavingsDirect, Dover Federal Credit Union, Dow Credit Union, Evergreen Bank Group, RocklandTrust Bank, Elements Financial, EmigrantDirect.com, Liberty Federal Credit Union, Fidelity Investments, Financial Partners Credit Union, Financial Resources Federal Credit Union, First Financial Credit Union, First Financial Northwest Bank, First Internet Bank, First National Bank of America, First Technology Federal Credit Union, Fort Bragg Federal Credit Union, Garden Savings Federal Credit Union, Georgia Banking Company, Georgia’s Own Credit Union, GreenState Credit Union, Greenwood Credit Union, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, GTE Financial, Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company, Hanscom Federal Credit Union, Heritage Bank, Hiway Federal Credit Union, Home Loan Investment Bank, Home Savings Bank, Hope Credit Union, HSBC Direct, Hughes Federal Credit Union, Hyperion Bank, Ideal Credit Union, iGObanking, Interior Federal Credit Union, Justice Federal Credit Union, Kinecta Federal Credit Union, KS State Bank, La Capitol Federal Credit Union, Lafayette Federal Credit Union, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Langley Federal Credit Union, Latino Community Credit Union, Limelight Bank, Live Oak Bank, Luther Burbank Savings, MYSB Direct, MAC Federal Credit Union, Main Street Bank, MainStreet Bank, MapleMark Bank, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, Market USA Federal Credit Union, Matadors Community Credit Union, MECU Credit Union, Merrick Bank, Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, Mills42 Federal Credit Union, Mountain America Credit Union, MTC Federal Credit Union, MutualOne Bank, My Banking Direct, My eBanc, My Savings Direct, NASA Federal Credit Union, Nationwide by Axos Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, nbkc, NexBank, North Country Savings Bank, Northern Bank Direct, Northfield Bank, Northpointe Bank, Nuvision Federal Credit Union, Oklahoma Central Credit Union, One American Bank, OneUnited Bank, Pacific National Bank, Paramount Bank, PARDA Federal Credit Union, Partner Colorado Credit Union, Patelco Credit Union, Pen Air Federal Credit Union, PenFed Credit Union, People’s Credit Union, First Service Credit Union, Pinnacle Federal Credit Union, Popular Direct, Premier America Credit Union, Presidential Bank, FSB, Prime Alliance Bank, PSECU (Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union), Quontic Bank, Quorum Federal Credit Union, Rising Bank, Merrimack Valley Credit Union, Salal Credit Union, Sallie Mae Bank, Santa Clara County Federal Credit Union, Signature Federal Credit Union, Spectrum Credit Union, SRP Federal Credit Union, State Bank of India Chicago, State Bank of India New York, State Bank of Texas, State Department Federal Credit Union, Summit Credit Union, Sun East Federal Credit Union, Superior Choice Credit Union, Synchrony Bank, TAB Bank, Teachers Federal Credit Union, Technology Credit Union, The Federal Savings Bank, Third Federal Savings & Loan, EverBank, TotalBank, Transportation Federal Credit Union, TruStone Financial Credit Union, UNIFY Financial Credit Union, Expedition Credit Union, United States Senate Federal Credit Union, United Texas Bank, University Federal Credit Union, US Bank, USAlliance Financial, USPS Federal Credit Union, Velocity Credit Union, VeraBank, Vio Bank, Virtual Bank, WebBank, Webster Bank, Wells Fargo, Western Vista Credit Union, Wings Financial Credit Union, XCEL Federal Credit Union, BankPurely, Umbrella Bank, giantbank.com, CapEd Credit Union, Zeal Credit Union, Finworth, Coastal1 Credit Union, Service Credit Union, National Cooperative Bank, Premier Members Credit Union, Bank of America, Flagstar Bank, 1st MidAmerica Credit Union, INOVA Federal Credit Union, Genisys Credit Union, Ivy Bank, Heartland Credit Union, Luana Savings Bank, Spectra Credit Union, Workers Credit Union, Credit Human, EFCU Financial, Poppy Bank, Credit One Bank, Vibrant Credit Union, CFBank, Department of Commerce Federal Credit Union, Seattle Bank, Crescent Bank, Pima Federal Credit Union, Cross River Bank, USAA, Great River Federal Credit Union, Brilliant Bank, Merchants Bank of Indiana, LendingClub, Chartway Credit Union, First Central Savings Bank, AgFed Credit Union, North American Savings Bank, Pelican State Credit Union, First Community Credit Union, Bask Bank, Skyla Credit Union, SkyOne Federal Credit Union, 3Rivers Federal Credit Union, Utah First Credit Union, Pasadena Federal Credit Union, Magnifi Financial, AloStar, Primis Bank, Farmers Insurance Federal Credit Union, Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union, Veridian Credit Union, Republic Bank, Salem Five Direct, All In Credit Union, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, Self-Help Federal Credit Union, Forbright Bank, Jovia Financial Credit Union, Sun Canyon Bank, Fortera Credit Union, Partners 1st Federal Credit Union, SouthEast Bank, American Bank, Newtek Bank, CBC Federal Credit Union, Vanguard, All America Bank, Amalgamated Bank, Citizens State Bank, AmBoy Direct, Republic Bank of Chicago, Oklahoma Community Credit Union, BluPeak Credit Union, Valley Direct, Bayer Heritage Federal Credit Union, First Harvest Credit Union, Orion Federal Credit Union, Wellby Financial, FedChoice Federal Credit Union, CoVantage Credit Union, Choice First Bank, Sandia Area Federal Credit Union, OMB Bank, Minnequa Works Credit Union, Securityplus Federal Credit Union, Bank of South Texas, T Bank.

How We Identify the Top 18-Month CD Rates

On a daily basis, The Finance Avenue monitors and analyzes the interest rate information from over 200 banks and credit unions that offer CDs nationally. This process involves ranking the highest-paying certificates across various terms. To be featured in our rankings, financial institutions must be federally insured (FDIC for banks, NCUA for credit unions), have a minimum initial deposit limit of $25,000, and not set a maximum deposit below $5,000.

Furthermore, banks must have a presence in at least 40 states. When it comes to credit unions, we exclude those that require a donation of $40 or more to a specific charity or organization for membership, in cases where individuals do not meet other eligibility criteria such as residency or occupation.

Your Guide to Certificates of Deposit

The Finance Avenue / Alice Morgan

The Finance Avenue. “Open Market Operations.”

The Finance Avenue. “Statement from the Federal Reserve’s FOMC.”

The Finance Avenue. “Minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee.”

Credit Human. “Our History.”

XCEL Federal Credit Union. “Our Story.”

Salem Five Bank. “About Us.”