4.45% APY
12 months
N/A
$2,500
Sallie Mae Bank stands out as the top choice because it offers some of the highest rates in the market, making it an attractive option for savers looking to maximize their returns. With a range of terms available, it caters to different savings strategies, including CD laddering.
Pros:
- Competitive APY
- Variety of terms
Cons:
- Higher minimum deposit
4.10% APY
9 months
N/A
$500
What sets Marcus by Goldman Sachs apart is its straightforward approach to high-yield CDs, offering competitive rates with a low minimum deposit requirement. This makes it accessible for a wider range of savers looking to earn interest without incurring additional fees.
Pros:
- No monthly fees
- Low minimum deposit
Cons:
- Limited promotional rates
4.35% APY
5 years
N/A
$0
The standout feature here is Synchrony Bank's no minimum deposit requirement, making it an excellent choice for those who want to start saving without a large upfront investment. Their competitive rates for longer terms also provide a solid option for savers looking to lock in their earnings.
Pros:
- No minimum deposit
- Competitive long-term rates
Cons:
- Potential early withdrawal penalties
4.55% APY
12 months
N/A
$50
NASA Federal Credit Union shines for its high APY offerings, especially for those looking for a low minimum deposit to start saving. However, potential customers should be aware that membership is required to access these competitive rates.
Pros:
- High APY
- Low minimum deposit
Cons:
- Membership required
4.35% APY
12 months
N/A
$100
Quorum Federal Credit Union offers a competitive APY on its certificate accounts, making it a strong contender for savers. The requirement for membership may be a barrier for some, but the attractive rates and flexible terms can make it worthwhile.
Pros:
- Competitive rates
- Flexible terms
Cons:
- Membership required
Did you know?
Top certificate of deposit (CD) rates often sit on 6- to 18-month terms. A CD ladder spreads maturity dates so you can reinvest when compound interest moves without locking every dollar for five years.
Final Words
In conclusion, October 2026 presents a variety of attractive CD options, with top providers like Sallie Mae Bank, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, Ally Bank, and Capital One offering competitive rates. As you consider your investment choices, be sure to compare the terms and yields to find the best fit for your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best CD rate in October 2026 is offered by Sallie Mae Bank at 4.45% APY for a 12-month term.
Sallie Mae Bank offers a 12-month CD with a minimum deposit of $2,500.
Marcus by Goldman Sachs offers a CD rate of 4.10% APY for a 9-month term with a minimum deposit of $500.
Other competitive CD providers include Synchrony Bank, which offers a rate of 4.35% APY for a 5-year term with no minimum deposit.
Certificates of deposit (CDs) are time deposits offered by banks that pay a fixed interest rate over a specified term, typically with higher rates than regular savings accounts.
Generally, longer-term CDs offer higher interest rates compared to shorter-term CDs. However, they also require you to lock in your money for a longer period.
Withdrawing money from a CD before it matures usually incurs an early withdrawal penalty, which can reduce your interest earnings.
Most CDs do not allow additional deposits after the initial investment; however, some special types of CDs, like bump-up or add-on CDs, may allow for additional contributions.
Compare CD Rates
Summary of all rates from our cd rate pages. Click column headers to sort.
| Provider ↕ | Rate ↓ | Term ↕ | Min Deposit | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NASA Federal Credit Union | 4.55% APY | 12 months | $50 | Learn more |
| BTG Pactual Bank | 4.50% APY | 5 years | $500 | — |
| Popular Direct | 4.50% APY | 5 years | $10,000 | — |
| Bread Savings | 4.50% APY | 5 years | $1,500 | — |
| Sallie Mae Bank | 4.50% APY | 5 years | $2,500 | — |
| EagleBank | 4.45% APY | 1 year | $1,000 | Learn more |
| DR Bank | 4.45% APY | 1 year | $500 | Learn more |
| Quorum Federal Credit Union | 4.35% APY | 1 year | $100 | Learn more |
| Synchrony Bank | 4.35% APY | 5 years | $0 | — |
| Sallie Mae | 4.30% APY | 1 year | $2,500 | Learn more |
| Vibrant Credit Union | 4.25% APY | 6 months | $5 | Learn more |
| CFG Bank | 4.22% APY | 1 year | $500 | Learn more |
| Happen Bank | 4.20% APY | 6 months | $500 | Learn more |
| Accordia Bank | 4.20% APY | 6 months | $1,000 | Learn more |
| Marcus by Goldman Sachs | 4.10% APY | 9 months | $500 | Learn more |


