How to use this CD calculator
- Enter a one-time deposit, nominal APR (%), term in months, and compounding frequency.
- Read maturity balance, interest earned, and APY (annual yield after compounding).
- Use quick presets (6 / 12 / 24 months) then adjust to match a quote.
- Copy link to share the same scenario when comparing offers or discussing with others.
- For ongoing deposits, withdrawals, or schedules, use the compound interest calculator; for rate conversion by frequency, use the APY calculator.
What this CD estimate models
A fixed rate, fixed term, single lump sum with interest reinvested each period—no adds or withdrawals mid-term. More frequent compounding raises maturity value slightly at the same nominal APR.
Example: $10,000 at 4.5% APR, 12 months, monthly compounding
After 12 monthly periods, maturity is about $10,459 (use the live calculator for exact cents)—roughly $459 interest. APY prints above 4.5% because twelve compounding periods are folded into one annual figure.
Nominal APR vs APY
Compare bank CDs on APY at the same compounding basis, or enter each quote’s APR and frequency here and compare maturity balances directly.
CD calculator vs compound interest
This page is for one deposit and one maturity date. The compound interest calculator handles multi-year flows, taxes, inflation, and exportable schedules. For two-point investment returns, see the CAGR calculator.
Planning vs your institution
Early withdrawal penalties, 360-day conventions, tiered rates, and rounding can differ. Use this page for planning and shopping—not as a legal account statement.
Frequently asked questions
What does this CD calculator model?
A fixed lump sum, fixed term, and maturity payout—no mid-term adds or withdrawals (no early-withdrawal penalty logic). For ongoing deposits, use compound interest.
How is APY different from the stated APR?
Nominal APR ignores how often interest compounds; APY folds frequency into one annual figure. More frequent compounding raises maturity value slightly at the same APR. Compare frequencies with the APY calculator.
Which compounding frequency should I pick?
Match the frequency on your quote or disclosure (daily, monthly, quarterly, etc.). When unsure, monthly is a reasonable first pass—confirm with the institution. Frequency changes compounding periods, not the nominal APR you type.
What are the term presets for?
One-click examples for common terms and sample rates—replace with your deposit, APR, and term from the bank. Use copy link below the form to share your adjusted scenario.
What if I add money over time?
CDs usually do not allow mid-term adds. For monthly saving plans, use future value or compound interest. Summarize past two-point returns with CAGR.
Will this match my bank statement exactly?
Not always—day-count, rounding, tiers, and penalties differ. Use for planning and shopping; statements govern at account open.
Are taxes modeled?
Interest tax is not modeled. Set a tax rate on the compound interest calculator for after-tax estimates.
Can I share my scenario?
Yes. Use copy link below the form to share the same numbers with someone else or keep the scenario for your records.