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Best No-Penalty CD Rates April 2024

Certificates of Deposit (CDs) have traditionally been a cornerstone in the portfolio of conservative investors seeking stable returns. However, the rigidity of standard CDs, especially regarding early withdrawal penalties, can be a drawback for those requiring more liquidity. This gap in financial products led to the innovation of No-Penalty CDs, a variant offering greater flexibility.

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Ally Bank

Ally Bank
Highly Competitive Fixed Rates
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Pros

pros icon24/7 customer service

pros iconNo monthly maintenance fees

pros iconNo minimum balance requirements

pros iconZero overdraft fees

Cons

cons iconNo cash deposit

cons iconNo branch access

cons iconEarly withdrawal penalties

This website is an informative comparison site that aims to offer its users find helpful information regarding the products and offers that will be suitable for their needs. We are able to maintain a free, high-quality service by receiving advertising fees from the brands and service providers we review on this website (though we may also review brands we are not engaged with). These advertising fees, combined with our criteria and methodology, such as the conversion rates, our team of reviewer’s finding and subjective experience and product popularity, impact the placement and position of the brands within the comparison table. In the event rating or scoring are assigned by us, they are based on the position in the comparison table, or according to other formula in the event specifically detailed by us. See our How we Rate page and Terms of Use for information. The reviews, rating and scoring are provided “as-is” without guarantees or warranties regarding the information contained in our website, which shall not be considered as endorsement. We make the best efforts to keep the information up-to-date, however, an offer’s terms might change at any time. We do not compare or include all service providers, brands and offers available in the market.

  • No minimum Min. deposit
  • 4.55% Ally Bank No Penalty CD
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Synchrony

Synchrony

CD laddering
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Pros

pros iconVariety of CD terms

pros iconCompetitive rates

pros iconNo-Penalty and Bump-Up CDs each only have one term

pros iconNo minimum deposit

Cons

cons iconNo terms over 5 years

This online credit center that may be accessed directly through a website or through a mobile application (the “Site”), is provided by Synchrony Bank (“Bank”), the issuer of the retailer or dealer branded credit cards (including any retailer or dealer branded Visa, Mastercard®, American Express® or Discover cards) (each, respectively, a “Card”) or installment or other financing product which may be associated or used with this Site. In these terms and conditions, the term “Retailer” relates to each retailer/dealer/merchant that is associated with a Card account or financing product (in each case, an “Account”) and “you” or “your” means an individual that is the applicant or holder of an Account.
This Site may be used to obtain information about an Account, obtain and submit an application for an Account, to perform account servicing functions for an Account, which may include, without limitations, to view account summaries, make payments, review payment history, and view transaction history or to make purchases through a third-party site, using an Account. Bank may change, modify, remove, suspend, discontinue or terminate any aspect of this Site or service, including the availability of any features or content at any time without notice or liability. Bank, in its sole discretion, may also impose limits or restrictions on certain services, features or content, or terminate your access to parts or all of this Site or service without notice or liability.
The provisions herein are referred to as the “Terms and Conditions” and constitute an agreement between you and Bank. YOU ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT YOU HAVE READ THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS CAREFULLY, UNDERSTAND EACH OF THEM AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY ALL OF THEM. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND THE SYNCHRONY ONLINE PRIVACY POLICY (WHICH ALSO GOVERNS YOUR VISIT TO THE SITE AND WHICH IS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE INTO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS), AS AMENDED FROM TIME TO TIME, YOU MAY NOT USE OR OTHERWISE ACCESS THIS SITE AND SHOULD EXIT THE SITE. These Terms and Conditions apply exclusively to your access to and use of the Site and do not alter the terms and conditions of any other agreement you may have with Bank, including the Account agreement for your Account. Please note that these Terms and Conditions contain waivers by you of certain rights you may have against Bank and its affiliates.

  • No minimum Min. deposit
  • 4.50% No-Penalty CD 11 Months
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Marcus

Marcus
Low Minimum Deposit
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Pros

pros iconHigh APYs

pros iconLow minimum deposit

pros iconNo monthly fees

Cons

cons iconEarly withdrawal penalties

cons iconFDIC-insured only up to $250,000.

cons iconNot a liquid investment

Marcus’ Disclaimer: Your loan terms are not guaranteed and are subject to our verification of your identity and credit information. To obtain a loan, you must submit additional documentation including an application that may affect your credit score. The availability of a loan offer and the terms of your actual offer will vary due to a number of factors, including your loan purpose and our evaluation of your creditworthiness. Rates will vary based on many factors, such as your creditworthiness (for example, credit score and credit history) and the length of your loan (for example, rates for 36 month loans are generally lower than rates for 72 month loans. Your maximum loan amount may vary depending on your loan purpose, income and creditworthiness. For example, a $402 monthly payment is based on a $15,000 loan with a 12.99% APR and 48 monthly payments. Your verifiable income must support your ability to repay your loan. Marcus by Goldman Sachs is a brand of Goldman Sachs Bank USA and all loans are issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Salt Lake City Branch. Applications are subject to additional terms and conditions.​

  • $500 Min. deposit
  • 4.60% 13-Month No-Penalty CD
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What is a No-Penalty CD?

A No-Penalty CD, also known as a "liquid" or "breakable" CD, permits investors to withdraw their deposit before the maturity date without penalty. This feature distinguishes it from traditional CDs, where premature withdrawals typically result in a forfeit of a portion of the interest earned or, in some cases, part of the principal.

Detailed Features

  1. Withdrawal Flexibility: The primary feature of a No-Penalty CD is the option to withdraw funds without a fee before the term ends. This withdrawal, however, is often subject to a minimum holding period, such as seven days after account funding.
  2. Interest Rates: While rates are generally higher than savings accounts, they may be slightly lower than traditional CDs due to the added flexibility. For example, rates might range from 0.45% to 4.60%, depending on the term length and the institution.
  3. Minimum Deposit and Terms: These CDs usually have a minimum balance requirement of around $500. Terms can vary, with common durations being 7, 11, and 13 months.
  4. Security: Like other CDs, they are often FDIC or NCUA-insured, providing a safety net up to the applicable limits.

Pros and Cons of No-Penalty CD

Pros

  • Higher Interest Than Savings Accounts: They typically offer higher interest rates compared to regular savings accounts, making them an attractive middle-ground option.
  • FDIC/NCUA Insurance: They provide the same level of federal insurance as traditional CDs, ensuring security up to $250,000.
  • No Penalty for Early Withdrawal: This feature provides peace of mind and flexibility, especially in uncertain financial times.

Cons

  • Lower Rates Than Traditional CDs: The trade-off for flexibility is often a slightly lower interest rate.
  • Full Withdrawal Requirement: Most No-Penalty CDs require the withdrawal of the entire amount, not allowing for partial withdrawals.
  • No Additional Deposits: Once opened, additional funds cannot be added to the CD during its term.

How to Open a No-Penalty CD

Opening a No-Penalty CD involves several steps:

  1. Selecting a Financial Institution: Research and compare offerings from various banks and credit unions.
  2. Determining the Term Length: Choose a term that aligns with your financial goals and liquidity needs.
  3. Account Type Decision: Decide between a single or joint account based on your circumstances.
  4. Understanding the Fine Print: Carefully review the terms and conditions, focusing on interest rates, minimum deposit requirements, and withdrawal rules.

Top Financial Institutions Offering No-Penalty CDs

Ally_l
Ally
  • No minimum deposit to start saving
  • Earn more with competitive rates
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synchrony logo
Synchrony Bank
  • No minimum balance to open a CD account
  • Save more with a great CD rate
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OB_D_M_logo_Marcus
Marcus
  • Minimum deposit: $500
  • 10-Day CD rate guarantee
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Methodological Approach for Evaluation

When selecting the best No-Penalty CDs, various factors are considered:

  • Annual Percentage Yields (APYs): Higher APYs are preferred, as they indicate better returns on investment.
  • Minimum Balance Requirements: Products with lower minimum balances are more accessible to a broader range of investors.
  • Institutional Reputation: Consideration of the offering institution's financial stability and customer service record.
  • Digital Experience: Ease of account management and accessibility via online and mobile platforms.

CD Accounts That May be of Interest:

Conclusion

No-Penalty CDs offer a unique blend of security, higher interest rates, and flexibility, making them a valuable tool for investors seeking a low-risk savings instrument. They are especially suited for those who might need access to their funds on short notice but still want to earn competitive interest rates. As with any financial product, it's important to conduct thorough research and understand the specific terms and conditions before committing to a No-Penalty CD. This careful approach ensures that the chosen financial product aligns with individual financial goals and liquidity requirements.