Credit Union CD Rates are a great way to save for the future. Unlike savings accounts, which have variable rates that can fluctuate, CDs offer fixed rates with the ability to lock in the rate for a set period of time. They also tend to offer higher interest than savings accounts, so they can be a good investment for those who want a safe place to store money for the long haul.
Generally, banks and credit unions have different policies for CDs than they do for other types of savings products. Some offer lower minimum deposits, while others charge more for early withdrawals. In addition, some credit unions have strict membership requirements that can restrict access to certain groups, like the educational community.
How to Choose the Best Credit Union CD for You
Banks and credit unions offer different types of certificates, so it’s important to shop around to find the best deal. You’ll typically want to consider the annual percentage yield (APY) and the length of the term to match your financial goals. Depending on how much you’re willing to tie up, it may be worth opening multiple certificates of deposit with various terms.
Why You Should Open a Credit Union CD Instead of Savings Accounts
Banks can be stingy when it comes to paying interest on their savings accounts and deposit products, but credit unions often pay more than most brick-and-mortar financial institutions. This is due to the fact that credit unions don’t have to maximize profits for outside shareholders, and they don’t pay federal income taxes on their profits.
Another benefit of credit unions Credit Union CD Rates is their low cost of doing business. They don’t have to pay employees or rent out branches, so they can pass the savings along to members at higher rates than banks.
APY is the amount of interest you earn on your money, and it is calculated based on your balance. The more money you put into a CD, the higher your rate will be.
You can choose from a variety of terms from six months to five years. If you’re looking for a longer term, check out some of the credit unions that offer 10-year or longer CDs, which usually come with a higher interest rate.
The APYs for these CDs can be compared by visiting the individual credit union website. However, it’s worth noting that some of these rates may be tied to promotional offerings, so you should shop around to determine which ones have the best rates for your needs.
Some of these credit unions also offer Share Certificates, which have the same benefits as CDs, except that they earn dividends, too. APYs on these share certificates are also based on your balance.
If you’re comparing the rates on credit union share certificates against those of banks, it can be helpful to use an APY calculator to compare them on an apples-to-apples basis. The calculator can help you see which of the two offers a better rate for your goals.