“Today’s top CD rates offer up to 4.50% APY on select short-term options, with many strong yields in the 4.00% to 4.27% range across various terms. Shorter durations like 6 to 7 months lead the pack, while longer terms hover in the high 3% to low 4% APY. Online banks and credit unions continue to dominate with the highest payouts, often requiring modest minimum deposits and FDIC or NCUA insurance up to $250,000.”
Best CD Rates Today – February 15, 2026
Certificate of deposit rates remain attractive for conservative investors seeking guaranteed returns amid ongoing economic uncertainty. While national averages for CDs sit well below 2% for most terms according to federal data, competitive offers from online-focused institutions and select credit unions deliver significantly higher yields. The landscape favors shorter maturities right now, as banks position themselves to attract deposits without committing to elevated rates for extended periods.
The highest yield available stands at 4.50% APY from Connexus Credit Union on a 7-month term, requiring a $5,000 minimum deposit. This standout rate appeals to those willing to commit funds for under a year while maximizing earnings. Early withdrawal penalties apply—typically three months of interest in this case—so liquidity needs should factor into the decision.
Close behind, no-penalty options provide flexibility. Climate First Bank offers 4.27% APY on a 6-month no-penalty CD, allowing depositors to access funds without forfeiting interest if circumstances change. This structure suits savers who want high yields but prioritize some access to capital.
For standard terms, several institutions cluster around the 4.00% to 4.15% APY mark:
Shorter terms (3-6 months): OMB Bank delivers 4.11% APY on a 3-month CD, while E*TRADE and Marcus by Goldman Sachs both post 4.05% APY on 6-month products with low or no minimums in some cases.
Around 7 months: Service Credit Union provides 4.15% APY.
1-year terms: Marcus by Goldman Sachs holds steady at 4.00% APY with a $500 minimum, backed by a 10-day rate guarantee that protects against drops between application and funding. Other players like E*TRADE offer up to 4.10% APY in this bucket.
Longer terms (2-5 years): Yields trend lower, often in the 3.70% to 3.95% APY range from providers like Synchrony Bank or Alliant Credit Union, reflecting expectations of stabilizing or declining rates over time.
Jumbo CDs (typically requiring $100,000+) show similar patterns, with top rates like 4.10% APY from Credit One Bank on 6-month and 1-year options, though standard CDs often match or exceed these without the higher deposit threshold.
Key Factors Influencing CD Rates in Early 2026
The Federal Reserve’s measured approach to rate adjustments has kept short-term yields resilient compared to longer ones. Banks are eager to lock in funding amid potential shifts in liquidity needs. Online banks, unburdened by branch networks, consistently lead with aggressive pricing.
Savers should weigh several elements when selecting a CD:
Term length — Shorter terms currently yield more due to the inverted rate environment.
Minimum deposit — Many top offers start at $500 to $5,000, making them accessible.
Early withdrawal penalties — These vary from 90 days’ interest on short terms to 6-12 months on longer ones; no-penalty CDs offer a hedge.
Insurance — All featured institutions are FDIC-insured (banks) or NCUA-insured (credit unions) up to $250,000 per depositor.
Compounding — Most calculate interest daily or monthly, boosting effective returns.
Top CD Offers Comparison Table (as of February 15, 2026)
| Term | Institution | APY | Minimum Deposit | Early Withdrawal Penalty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 months | Connexus Credit Union | 4.50% | $5,000 | 3 months interest | Top overall rate |
| 6 months | Climate First Bank | 4.27% | Varies | None (no-penalty) | Flexible access |
| 6 months | E*TRADE / Marcus by Goldman Sachs | 4.05% | $0 / $500 | 90 days interest | Low barriers |
| 3 months | OMB Bank | 4.11% | Varies | Varies | Short-term leader |
| 7 months | Service Credit Union | 4.15% | Varies | Varies | Competitive mid-short term |
| 1 year | Marcus by Goldman Sachs | 4.00% | $500 | 90 days interest | Rate guarantee feature |
| 1 year | E*TRADE | 4.10% | None | Varies | Strong online option |
Rates can fluctuate daily based on market conditions, so verify current offers directly with institutions before opening. For those building a portfolio, laddering CDs across terms can balance yield and liquidity.
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other advice. Rates are subject to change and may vary by location or eligibility. Always confirm details with the provider.
