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5 common mistakes to avoid while opening a CD

5 common mistakes to avoid while opening a CD

A certificate of Deposit or CD is a type of savings account option that many explore for financial security. CDs are known for their guaranteed and stable returns, making them a great investment for those who want to play it safe. Banks and credit unions offer them for a specified maturity period at interest rates. However, one can make some rookie mistakes when dabbling in such an investment. One can avoid these pitfalls while opening a CD.

Opening fee-based account
Banks often need one to have a checking account before applying for a CD. However, these banks also have a cost associated with opening a checking account. According to statistics from 2022, the national average return rate of CDs ranges from 0.03% to 0.39%. However, CD rates keep changing, and some banks are providing even 5% APY as of October 2023.

A fee-based account can reduce the returns extensively. For instance, if one takes the national average return rate, say Chase Total Checking, which charges a monthly fee of $12, one may end up paying more in fees than one might earn in returns. To avoid this, ask the representative of the bank if there is a minimum deposit requirement that can help you waive the fee. This way, one can save more money and gain returns.

Neglecting to shop around
Most amateur investors who are new to the CD savings method do not compare rates that are available for CDs. According to some reports, the best rates are available with various banks depending on the investment’s tenure. The higher the investing period, the higher the return. Therefore, it is advised to keep looking for different rates across the market. Ask for referrals, read reviews, and compare rates among banks, credit unions, or other credible financial institutions. This way, one can choose the competitive rate and meet the personal financial goals. Some of the options include:

  • Total Direct Bank – Three to six months
  • Credit Human – 1 year to 18 months 
  • Newtek Bank – 2 years
  • Luana Savings Bank – 3 years 
  • Wellby Financial – 4 years 
  • Farmers Insurance Federal Credit Union – 5 years 
  • Apple Federation Credit Union – 10 years

When it comes to opening a new account, here are some of the best rates available as of October 2023 for investors.

  • CIT Bank offers an Annual Percentage Yield( APY) of 5% and a minimum $1,000 deposit. There are no account opening fees; it’s a six-month CD investment, and there is daily compounding interest.
  • BARCLAYS offers 5.50% APY for 12 months with zero minimum deposit. 
  • American Express National Bank asks for a minimum of $1 and 5% APY. There are no fees, and customers can use the 24/7 post-sale service to clear any concerns or queries.
  • Discover requires a minimum deposit of $2,500, with an APY of 4%. Its investment plan has a duration of five years, and there are no monthly fees, which can result in significant savings. Investors can also lock in their CD rate to guarantee their returns.

Opening long-term CDs during rate hike
When interest rates are on the rise, it may not be the best time to invest in a long-term CD. This is because if an investor locks in an interest rate of, say, 0.50% APY, and in a couple of months, the interest rate increases to 0.75%, they miss out on the opportunity to earn that extra 0.25%. Therefore, experts advise that when rates are increasing, it is better to opt for short-term CDs rather than long-term ones.

Opening a CD when in debt
Many people may consider opening a CD account as a quick fix to pay off their debt. However, this approach may not be the best financial choice. If the interest rate on the existing debt is higher than the interest rate the CD can earn, then it might not be a sound decision to open a CD. Before making any financial decisions, it is best to calculate and compare the potential benefits of different options to pay off the debt as quickly as possible.

Overlooking early withdrawal penalties
Always check for terms and conditions before investing in a CD. This saving method has a maturity withdrawal period, and in many cases, there are penalties for early withdrawal if the CD is set to a particular tenure. These penalties may vary from one bank to another, so it is imperative to read the fine print or speak to the sales executive in detail about any uncertainties.

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