A certificate of deposit, or CD, is a financial product that banks and other financial institutions offer. It is a time deposit account that allows individuals to earn interest on their savings over a fixed period. CDs are a popular investment option for those who want a low-risk investment with a fixed rate of return.

How it works

When you open a CD, you deposit a certain amount of money for a fixed period. This period of time can range from a few months to several years. In exchange for depositing your money, the bank will pay you a fixed interest rate on your deposit.

The interest rate for a CD is generally higher than the interest rate for a savings account or a checking account. This is because the bank knows that it has your money for a fixed period and may use that money for its investments.

Once you have deposited your money in a CD, you may only withdraw it once it reaches maturity. You may be subject to a penalty fee if you withdraw money before the CD’s maturity date. This penalty fee can be a percentage of the interest earned or a flat fee.

Types of CDs

Depending on your investment goals and risk tolerance, you can choose from different types of CDs.

• Traditional CDs: These are the most common type of CD. They offer a fixed interest rate for a fixed period. The bank determines the interest rate, which is generally higher for longer-term CDs.

• Callable CDs: Callable CDs allow the bank to call back the CD before it matures. This means the bank may repay the principal and interest to the investor before the CD matures. Callable CDs generally offer a higher interest rate than traditional CDs but are riskier.

• Liquid CDs: These allow the investor to withdraw their money before the CD matures without penalty. However, the interest rate for a liquid CD is generally lower than a traditional CD.

• Jumbo CDs: Jumbo CDs require a minimum deposit of $100,000 or more. They offer a higher interest rate than traditional CDs because they require a larger deposit.

CD benefits 

• Low risk: CDs are considered to be a low-risk investment because they are FDIC-insured. This means that should the bank fail, the government will insure your investment up to $250,000.

• Guaranteed return: When you invest in a CD, you’ll know exactly how much interest you will earn over the life of the CD. CDs are a popular investment option for those who want a guaranteed return.

• Diversification: CDs may be used as part of a diversified investment portfolio. Diversifying your investments can spread your risk and potentially earn a higher return.

• Long-term investment: CDs are a good option for those who want to save money for a long-term goal, such as retirement. By investing in a CD with a longer term, you may earn a higher interest rate and potentially earn more money over time.

• Easy to understand: CDs are simple financial products that are easy to understand. You don’t need much knowledge or experience to invest in a CD compared to other investment options.

Interest earned on a CD is taxed as ordinary income. Even though the interest may be kept on deposit in the CD, it still has tax liability.

Call a trusted financial expert to learn more about CDs and how they could help you achieve your investment and savings goals.