Certificate of Deposit (CD) Calculator
Calculation Summary
Ending Balance:
Total Interest Earned:
What is a CD Calculator?
A Certificate of Deposit (CD) calculator is a specialized financial tool designed to help you estimate the future value of a fixed-term investment. Unlike standard savings accounts, CDs typically offer higher interest rates in exchange for leaving your funds untouched for a specific period of time.
How to Use the CD Calculator
- Initial Deposit: Enter the starting amount of money you plan to place in the CD.
- Annual Percentage Yield (APY): This is the effective annual rate of return. Bank rates change frequently, so check current market rates.
- Term: Define how long your money will be "locked" in the account (e.g., 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years).
- Compounding Frequency: Select how often interest is added to your principal. Most modern banks compound interest daily or monthly.
Why CDs Are a Secure Investment
Certificates of Deposit are favored by conservative investors because they are generally insured by the FDIC (for banks) or NCUA (for credit unions) up to $250,000. They provide a guaranteed rate of return, making them ideal for short-to-medium-term financial goals where capital preservation is key.
Example Calculation
If you invest 10,000 in a 24-month CD with a 5.00% APY compounded monthly:
- Total Interest: Approximately 1,049.41
- Final Balance: Approximately 11,049.41
By using this free CD calculator, you can compare different bank offers and term lengths to maximize your passive income potential.