A certificate of deposit (CD) is a savings account where you agree to leave your money untouched for a set period—anywhere from a few months to several years—in exchange for a higher interest rate than a regular savings account. Once you open a CD, you're locked into that term. If you withdraw the money before the term ends, you'll pay a penalty. Understanding how CDs work, what happens when your term is up, and how to avoid costly mistakes helps you make the most of this savings tool.
The articles here explain the mechanics of CDs: how interest compounds and gets paid out, what happens when your CD matures, whether you can withdraw money early and what that costs, and how to decide if a CD makes sense for your savings goals. You'll learn the real details behind CD terms, rates, and the rules that govern them.