Best Money Moves to Make Before Dec 31, 2025

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Best Things to Do With Your Money Before Dec 31, 2025 Best Things to Do With Your Money Before Dec 31, 2025 TL;DR Summary December 31 is a hard cutoff for many U.S. tax, credit, and banking rules. A short year-end checklist can still prevent avoidable taxes, fees, and interest. Most actions are about timing and review—not making risky financial moves. In the United States, December 31 carries unusual weight in personal finance. Many financial rules follow the calendar year, not personal circumstances. Miss the deadline, and the opportunity is often gone for good. That’s why searches for “before December 31” surge every year. People are not chasing complex strategies—they are trying to avoid losses caused by timing. This checklist focuses on realistic, last-window reviews that may still make a difference before 2025 ends. 1) Review Tax Moves Locked to the 2025 Calendar Year Some tax-related actions are tied strictly to ...
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Best Online CD Rates in 2025: Top Yields from Digital Banks

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Top Certificate of Deposit (CD) Rates 2025: 6-Month, 12-Month, and 18-Month Comparison

Meta Description: Discover the top CD rates for 6-month, 12-month, and 18-month terms in 2025. Learn current averages, rate trends, and smart savings strategies for U.S. depositors.

1️⃣ Overview

Certificates of Deposit (CDs) remain one of the most stable and predictable savings options for U.S. consumers in 2025. As the Federal Reserve maintains its cautious stance on interest rate adjustments, CD yields continue to reflect both inflation trends and the demand for secure short-term investments. Many online banks and credit unions now offer competitive APYs across 6-, 12-, and 18-month terms, providing flexibility for savers seeking guaranteed returns without market risk.

2️⃣ 6-Month CD Rates

As of late 2025, leading online institutions offer some of the best short-term yields:

Bank / InstitutionAPYNotes
Popular Direct4.35%Minimum $10,000 deposit
Alliant Credit Union4.30%Online account required
Marcus by Goldman Sachs4.25%No-penalty CD option available

The national average 6-month CD rate reported by the FDIC is around 1.40% APY, meaning online banks are offering nearly three times the national average.

3️⃣ 12-Month CD Rates

One-year CDs remain the most popular fixed-term option in 2025. Typical yields range between 4.60% – 5.00% at top online banks:

  • Barclays Online CD — 4.85% APY
  • Discover Bank — 4.75% APY
  • Capital One — 4.70% APY

According to NerdWallet, 12-month CDs offer the best balance between yield and liquidity for those seeking moderate-term growth.

4️⃣ 18-Month CD Rates

The 18-month CD has become increasingly popular in 2025 for savers who want higher returns without committing to long maturities. Average top-tier APYs range between 4.90% – 5.10% according to Bankrate.

InstitutionAPYTerm
CFG Bank5.10%18 months
Bread Savings4.95%18 months
PenFed Credit Union4.90%18 months

5️⃣ Strategies to Maximize CD Earnings

To make the most of your CD portfolio in 2025, consider these strategies:

  • CD Laddering: Split deposits among 6-, 12-, and 18-month terms for steady liquidity and reinvestment opportunities.
  • Compare Online vs. Traditional Banks: Online banks often offer 2–3× higher APYs.
  • Watch Early Withdrawal Penalties: Opt for no-penalty CDs if flexibility is important.
  • Ensure FDIC or NCUA Coverage: Keep balances within the $250,000 insurance limit per depositor.

FAQs

Q1. What are the best CD rates in 2025?
A1. The top CD rates range from 4.30% to 5.10% APY depending on the term and institution.

Q2. Are CDs a safe investment in 2025?
A2. Yes. CDs are FDIC- or NCUA-insured up to $250,000 per depositor, offering secure fixed returns.

Q3. Should I wait for higher rates?
A3. With potential Fed rate cuts in 2026, locking in mid-term CDs now may help secure higher yields before they decline.

Conclusion

In 2025, CD rates remain at some of their highest levels in recent years. Whether you prefer the flexibility of a 6-month CD or the stability of an 18-month option, laddering strategies can balance liquidity and income. As the rate environment evolves, fixed-term CDs continue to serve as a low-risk cornerstone in a diversified savings plan.

References

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