Top CD Rates Fall to 4.51%, Best Offers in 6 Months to 21 Months

The top CD rate in the US is now 4.51% for a 6-month term from DR Bank, with 12 certificates offering at least 4.50% APY. Other notable offers include a 4.50% APY for 14 months and 21 months from PenAir Credit Union, guaranteeing the rate until 2027. Despite recent rate cuts, now is a good time to lock in a high CD rate before potential further Fed cuts this fall.

As of July 2025, the top 6-month CD rate in the US stands at 4.51% APY, offered by DR Bank. This rate is particularly attractive in the current economic climate, where recent rate cuts have led investors to seek guaranteed returns. DR Bank is not the only institution offering high-yield CDs; a total of 12 certificates are currently available with at least 4.50% APY, providing investors with a variety of options to consider.

Among the notable offers, PenAir Credit Union stands out with a 4.50% APY for 14-month and 21-month terms, both guaranteed until 2027. These terms offer longer periods of high yield, making them suitable for investors looking to lock in rates for a more extended period. Despite recent rate cuts, the current environment presents an excellent opportunity to secure a high CD rate before potential further Fed cuts this fall.

Investors should be aware of the early withdrawal penalties associated with CDs. DR Bank, for instance, charges 3 months of interest for early withdrawal, while other institutions may have more complex formulas or varying penalties. It is crucial to understand these terms before committing to a CD, as early withdrawal can significantly impact the overall return.

The table below outlines the top CD rates for a 6-month term, highlighting the APY, term, minimum deposit, and early withdrawal penalty for each institution:

| Institution | APY | Term (months) | Minimum Deposit | Early Withdrawal Penalty |
|---------------------|-----|----------------|------------------|--------------------------|
| DR Bank | 4.51% | 6 | $500 | 3 months of interest |
| Vibrant Credit Union| 4.50% | 6 | $5 | All earned interest |
| Northern Bank Direct| 4.50% | 6 | $500 | 6 months of interest |
| Communitywide Federal Credit Union | 4.50% | 6 | $1,000 | Complex formula; exercise caution |
| ableBanking | 4.50% | 6 | $5,000 | 3 months of interest |
| Paramount Bank | 4.50% | 7 | $1,000 | 3 months of interest |
| Presidential Bank | 4.50% | 7 | $1,000 | 6 months of interest |
| Pelican State Credit Union | 4.49% | 6 | $500 | 6 months of interest |
| Financial Resources Federal Credit Union | 4.49% | 13 | $500 | 6 months of interest |
| One American Bank | 4.45% | 6 | $500 | 3 months of interest |
| Pacific National Bank| 4.45% | 6 or 9 | $1,000 | 7 days of interest if withdrawal is made within 6 days of opening account; otherwise 1 month of interest |
| Limelight Bank | 4.45% | 6 | $1,000 | 3 months of interest |
| Bread Savings | 4.45% | 6 | $1,500 | 6 months of interest |
| Colorado Federal Savings Bank | 4.45% | 6 | $5,000 | 3 months of interest |
| Liberty Federal Credit Union | 4.45% | 7 | $1,000 | 3 months of interest ($50 minimum) |
| NASA Federal Credit Union | 4.45% | 9 | $10,000 | All earned interest up to 6 months |

Investors are encouraged to compare these rates and terms to find the best fit for their financial goals. It is essential to consider factors such as minimum deposits, early withdrawal penalties, and the institution's reputation when making a decision.

For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to visit the websites of the respective institutions or consult financial advisors. By doing so, investors can make informed decisions and take advantage of the current high CD rates.

References
[1] https://www.investopedia.com/the-best-6-month-cd-rates-8760603