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Best 1-Year CD Rates for 2026
1-year CDs remain one of the most popular terms — long enough to earn a meaningfully higher rate than a savings account, short enough to keep your money accessible on a predictable timeline.
Top 1-Year CD Rates
| Bank | 1-Year APY | Min. Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Marcus by Goldman Sachs | ~4.90% | $0 |
| Capital One | ~4.80% | $0 |
| Ally Bank | ~4.85% | $0 |
| Synchrony Bank | ~4.95% | $0 |
Why 1-Year CDs Are Popular
A 1-year term is long enough to earn a meaningfully higher rate than a savings account, while avoiding the multi-year commitment of longer CDs. It's a natural fit for goals roughly a year out, or for savers wanting to reassess rates annually.
What to Check Before Opening
Confirm the exact APY directly with the bank (rates shift with market conditions), check for any minimum deposit, and understand the early withdrawal penalty — typically around 3 months of interest for a 1-year term.
How to Get the Best Rate
Compare at least 4-5 providers before committing, since 1-year rates can vary meaningfully between banks even in the same rate environment. Online banks consistently outperform traditional brick-and-mortar banks on this term.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 1-year CD is a solid choice if you want a fixed rate for a moderate commitment. It's especially appealing if you expect rates to fall, since it locks in today's rate for a full year.
Most banks give a short grace period (7-10 days) to withdraw or renew. If you take no action, many auto-renew at the current rate — set a reminder to compare rates before that happens.