Estimate your CD return from your deposit, APY, and term. Compare rates, explore early withdrawal penalties, and see a simple CD ladder.
Enter your deposit and APY to see your CD estimate.
Your CD at maturity
—
You earn — in interest.
Estimate only, not financial advice.
At the comparison rate, your interest changes by —.
Estimated amount after the penalty: —. Estimated penalty: —.
Compare terms
Compare interest across different CD terms.
| Term | Interest earned |
|---|
Try a simple CD ladder
Split your deposit across 12-, 24-, and 36-month CDs so portions mature each year.
| CD term | Amount allocated | Interest earned |
|---|
How this estimate works
APY already reflects a year’s compounding. This tool applies the APY to your deposit for the term you choose; actual bank terms, compounding, and penalties can vary.
How a CD calculator works
Enter a deposit, APY, and term. The calculator estimates the balance at maturity using the APY, then shows the interest above your original deposit.
What is APY?
Annual percentage yield shows the yearly return after compounding. It is different from a nominal interest rate, so APY is the best figure to compare CDs with the same term.
Withdrawing a CD early
Banks usually charge an early-withdrawal penalty, often expressed as months of interest. Check the specific CD disclosure before opening or closing an account.
What is a CD ladder?
A CD ladder splits money across different maturity dates. When one CD matures, you can use the cash or reinvest it at the rate then available.
How to use it
Enter your deposit
Use the amount you plan to put into the CD.
Add the APY and term
APY is the annual percentage yield quoted by the bank. Choose the CD term in months.
Read the estimate
See the estimated maturity balance and interest. Bank terms and penalties can differ.
Questions
What is a CD?
A certificate of deposit is a bank deposit account that generally pays a fixed return for a set term. Taking money out early can trigger a penalty.
How does a CD calculator work?
It applies the APY to your deposit for the number of months you choose, then shows the estimated interest and maturity balance.
How is CD interest calculated?
This calculator uses APY, which includes a year’s compounding. Your bank’s disclosure controls the actual interest method and timing.
What is APY?
Annual percentage yield is the yearly return after compounding. It helps compare deposit products consistently.
What happens if I withdraw money from a CD early?
Most CDs charge an early-withdrawal penalty. The amount depends on the bank and term, so check the account disclosure.
What is a CD ladder?
A CD ladder divides money among several maturity dates, giving you periodic access to funds while keeping other CDs invested.
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