CD vs Savings Account — Which Is Better for Your Cash?

FeatureHigh-Yield SavingsCertificate of Deposit
Interest Rate4-5%4.5-5.5%
AccessAnytimeLocked for term
Early WithdrawalNo penalty3-12 months interest penalty
Best ForEmergency fundMoney you will not need for 6-60 months

CD Ladder Strategy

Split $10,000 into 5 CDs: $2,000 each at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 year terms. As each matures, reinvest at 5-year rate. This gives you access to money annually while earning higher long-term rates.