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How to open a certificate of deposit (CD)

Banking
Everything you need to know about opening an account.
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How to start saving (even if you’re starting from scratch)

Banking
Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
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How to transfer money from one bank to another: 4 ways

Banking
Keep fees in check when you shift money from one bank account to another.

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Bankrate Financial Analyst

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

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Senior Economic Analyst

Banking data studies

A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Over 1 in 4 workers are more worried about job security since 2025 began.
And elderly couple discussing HYSA options
Two-thirds of American savers say they’re earning rates below 4% APY. Here’s why.

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Latest articles

Bank teller with customer
These credit unions offer great rates and top-notch features — and many make it easy to join.
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Knowing your limit before making a purchase can help you make smarter decisions.
Cashier and customer at grocery store checkout
You can get a money order from many places. Here’s what you need to know.
person using mobile phone leaning on railing
A second-chance checking account is designed for those whose banking history may prevent them from opening a standard account. Applicants sometimes have past problems such as an unpaid negative balance [...]
Artistic rendering of a Bank building attached to unrealistically large chains
Linking bank accounts is a way to make it easier to transact between the two.
Young female customer talking to cashier at checkout in supermarket
Now that the U.S. Mint is done producing pennies, what happens to consumer prices?
Spend money, pay bills, write checks or make fund transfers with a checking account.
Woman using mobile phone at the bar
These accounts sound similar, but there are some key differences to know.
Woman online banking with a tablet
How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
Person looking at smartphone
The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
Image by GettyImages, Illustrated by Bankrate
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
Someone watering a plant that grows cash
Here’s how much $100,000 in a high-yield savings account can earn you.
A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Close up of someone hands holding and counting American dollar banknotes in her hand
Most people know they should save. But understanding why can make the habit stick. Saving isn’t just about “being responsible” — it’s about control, opportunity, and peace of mind. Here are seven [...]
Mother and daughter
A savings account is a good tool for teaching children financial basics and responsibility.
sleeping child and grandma rest on travel adventure for family bonding
Saving for your grandchildren can help to minimize the financial burdens they face down the road.
Man working on laptop and cellphone simultaneously
If you’ve been thinking of getting a longer-term CD, you may want to make a move.
Percent symbol with people holding money that is many dollar bills. Concepts of the banking system, rising interest rates, inflation, deflation, and savings.
Here’s how to proceed when your CD matures during falling rates.
woman working on a laptop
CDs can be a useful tool to save, but make sure to shop around for the right kind and bank for you.
Shot of a young businesswoman using a digital tablet outside of an office
Learn how you can lose money on a CD.
A father multi-tasks with his young son.
Savers, here are strategies to invest in CDs.
stacks of coin with dollar bill
A CD ladder lets savers benefit from higher rates without locking up all your money in long-term CDs.
Woman watering plants.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Woman Inserts Cash Into Wallet
If you think rates may rise again soon, a bump-up CD could be what you’re looking for.
Bank teller with customer
These credit unions offer great rates and top-notch features — and many make it easy to join.
Young woman calculating her finances while sitting with her laptop.
Investing with mutual funds is an easy way to build a diversified portfolio. Here’s what you need to know.
Woman using mobile phone at the bar
These accounts sound similar, but there are some key differences to know.
Woman online banking with a tablet
How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
Person looking at smartphone
The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
A couple works on their finances on a laptop in their kitchen.
With interest rates somewhat volatile, it’s important to shop around for the best money market mutual funds.
woman at ATM
Our top 5 picks scored highly for access, range of products and digital options.
woman depositing a check on her phone
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
Person reading credit card statement
Here are easy actions you can take to avoid the fee of get it waived.
A young woman is in the living room, she is using a laptop and credit card
Stop wasting time writing checks. Learn the faster, safer way to pay.
Planning, finance and couple with paper and laptop for budget
Here’s what you need to know about this high-yield checking promo.
The IRS has more than $1 billion in unclaimed tax refunds for 2021
Get your tax refund faster and more securely by setting up direct deposit. Learn how to avoid common mistakes.
Image by Getty Images, illustration by Bankrate
Electronic checks (eChecks) offer a digital alternative to traditional paper checks, allowing you to make payments directly from your checking account online. Learn how eChecks work, when to use them, [...]
person signing a check
Looking to save money when ordering checks? Consider getting them online instead. Here’s how.
A woman writes a check
A bounced check is something that should be avoided. Here’s what you need to know.