HYSA vs CD Calculator 2026
Enter your deposit and time horizon to see exactly which earns more — a high-yield savings account or a certificate of deposit. Includes rate-drop scenarios and break-even analysis.
Rates shown are examples as of 2026. Verify current rates before depositing.
Your numbers
CDs don't allow ongoing contributions.
Over 1 year at current rates
CD earns $78.06 more
The CD locks in 4.75% — the HYSA would need to hold above 4.75% for the full term to match it.
High-Yield Savings Account
Rate held at 4.00% for full term
Certificate of Deposit (1 year)
WinnerRate locked at 4.75% · Funds unavailable until maturity
Break-even analysis
The CD wins unless HYSA rates drop more than 0.00% during your 1 year timeline.
To match the CD's guaranteed earnings, a HYSA would need to average at least 4.75% for the full term (current: 4.00%).
Early CD withdrawal penalty estimate (6 months of interest): $239.86. Avoid withdrawing early — it can erase most of your earnings.
Earnings across all CD terms
HYSA at 4.00% vs CD at 4.75% · Deposit $10,000.00
| Term | HYSA interest | CD interest | Better choice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 months | $100.33 | $119.22 | CD |
| 6 months | $201.67 | $239.86 | CD |
| 1 year(selected) | $407.42 | $485.48 | CD |
| 2 years | $831.43 | $994.53 | CD |
| 3 years | $1,272.72 | $1,528.29 | CD |
| 5 years | $2,209.97 | $2,674.81 | CD |
CD rate used for each term is the same 4.75%you entered above. In practice, CD rates vary by term — check your bank's current rate sheet before committing.
What if HYSA rates change?
HYSA earnings under 4 rate scenarios vs the locked CD return of $485.48 over 1 year
Rates stay same
HYSA interest: $407.42
vs CD
Rates drop 0.50%
HYSA interest: $381.51
vs CD
Rates drop 1.00%
HYSA interest: $355.66
vs CD
Rates drop 1.50%
HYSA interest: $329.86
vs CD
Choose HYSA when
- ✓You need access to funds within the year
- ✓You expect rates to stay flat or rise
- ✓You have ongoing deposits to add monthly
- ✓You want an emergency fund with yield
- ✓You're saving for a goal less than 6 months away
Choose CD when
- ✓You can lock funds for the full term
- ✓The Fed is expected to cut rates
- ✓You want a guaranteed return with no surprises
- ✓You're building a CD ladder for periodic access
- ✓Your HYSA rate is below the best available CD rate
Compare today's rates
Frequently asked questions
Is a CD better than a HYSA right now?
CDs offer higher guaranteed rates but lock your money in for the full term. HYSAs offer flexibility but rates can change. The right choice depends primarily on whether you need access to your funds during the term.
Can HYSA rates change?
Yes — HYSA rates are variable and follow the Federal funds rate. When the Fed cuts rates, HYSA rates typically drop within weeks. CDs lock in today's rate for the full term, protecting against rate cuts.
What happens if I withdraw from a CD early?
Most CDs charge an early withdrawal penalty, typically 3 months of interest for terms under one year and 6 months of interest for one-year terms and longer. No-penalty CDs exist but offer slightly lower rates.
Methodology: Interest calculated using monthly compound interest formula — principal × ((1 + APY/12)^months − 1). Monthly HYSA contributions compound each month. Rate-drop scenarios simulate the HYSA rate falling by the selected amount at the midpoint of the CD term. Early withdrawal penalty estimate assumes 3 months of interest for terms under 1 year and 6 months for 1-year terms and above.
Rates shown are illustrative examples as of 2026. Actual rates vary by institution and change without notice. Verify current rates directly with your bank or credit union before depositing. Interest income from both HYSAs and CDs is taxable as ordinary income in the year earned.
Verified by the WalletGrower Editorial Team. See our methodology and editorial disclosure.