Rates checked November 4, 2026
CD ladder builder
Choose how much to invest and which terms you want. We show the best bank for each rung today, what the ladder earns, and when each CD matures.
Set up your ladder
Average rate across the ladder
4.50% APY
Interest by the last maturity
$535.63
Money back first
3-month
Your rungs, with the best bank for each today
| Term | Bank | APY | Deposit | Interest | Matures |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-month | Bank5 Connect | 4.30% | $6,666.66 | $70.54 | |
| 6-month | LendingClub | 4.40% | $6,666.66 | $145.09 | |
| 12-month | EagleBank | 4.80% | $6,666.68 | $320 |
Each rung gets an equal share. Interest compounds at the quoted APY until the CD matures, before taxes. Rates are what each bank lists today; confirm the rate, minimum and early withdrawal penalty before you open one.
Questions about CD ladders
What is a CD ladder?
A CD ladder splits your money across CDs with different terms, such as 1, 2 and 3 years. One CD matures every so often, so part of your money is free to use or reinvest while the rest keeps earning a fixed rate.
Is a CD ladder worth it when rates are not rising?
It still gives you regular access to cash without paying an early withdrawal penalty. The tradeoff is that you may give up some rate. Compare the average rate of your ladder with the best single CD on the CD rates page before you decide.
How does this builder pick the bank for each rung?
It splits your total evenly across the terms you choose and, for each rung, takes the highest rate from banks whose stated minimum deposit fits that rung. A bank that does not state a minimum can still be chosen, and the table flags it.
Do I need to open every CD at the same bank?
No. Each CD is a separate account, so you can use a different bank for each rung. Opening several accounts means more logins and paperwork, so some people keep a ladder to two or three banks.
What happens when a rung matures?
Most banks give a grace period of a week or two to withdraw or switch before the CD renews on its own. The calendar file sets a reminder for each maturity date so you do not miss it.
General information only. Rates change often; confirm the rate, minimum deposit and early withdrawal penalty with each bank before you open a CD. SwitchWize is not a bank and does not give financial advice.