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When it comes to growing your money safely and predictably, few options rival the appeal of a 4-year certificate of deposit (CD). As of March 2025, these financial gems stand out by offering higher yields than most savings accounts and money market alternatives, all while locking in a guaranteed return. Pair that with the peace of mind that comes from choosing a federally insured account, and it’s clear why 4-year CDs are a top pick for savvy savers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best 4-year CD rates available right now, break down what makes them exceptional, and help you decide if they’re the right fit for your financial goals. Ready to dive in? Let’s uncover the top offers and calculate how much you could earn by the time your CD matures.
Top 4-Year CD Rates for March 2025: Your Guide to High Returns
The beauty of a 4-year CD lies in its ability to deliver a fixed, competitive annual percentage yield (APY) over a 48-month term. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, a business venture, or simply looking to diversify your portfolio, these accounts provide a secure way to grow your funds. Below, we’ve rounded up the best 4-year CD rates available as of March 2025, updated between March 17 and March 23. Each option is backed by institutions insured by the FDIC or NCUA, ensuring your money is protected up to $250,000 per depositor, per account category.
Bankrate’s Picks for the Top 4-Year CD Rates
| Institution | APY | Minimum Deposit | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| America First Credit Union | 4.20% | $500 | Wide range of terms, competitive rates, and specialty CDs like bump-rate and flexible options. |
| SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union | 4.15% | $500 | Serves California’s education community with tiered APYs based on deposit size. |
| Bread Savings | 4.00% | $1,500 | Online bank with high-yield products and a straightforward approach. |
| Popular Direct | 4.00% | $10,000 | High APY for serious savers, backed by a 130-year-old financial giant. |
| TAB Bank | 3.86% | $1,000 | Diverse banking options with competitive CD rates for various terms. |
| Marcus by Goldman Sachs | 3.75% | $500 | Offers a variety of CD types, including no-penalty and bump-rate options, with a low entry point. |
| Golden 1 Credit Union | 3.65% | $500 | One of the largest U.S. credit unions with flexible term options and reasonable minimums. |
| Alliant Credit Union | 3.65% | $1,000 | Nationwide membership with competitive yields and additional savings products. |
| First Internet Bank of Indiana | 3.60% | $1,000 | Pioneering online bank with solid CD offerings and no physical branches. |
| Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union | 3.51% | $1,000 | Texas-based with a broad network and multiple CD terms up to seven years. |
Note: Ally Bank’s 4-year CD is a “Raise Your Rate” option and may appear depending on current APYs.
These rates reflect the latest updates as of March 24, 2025, but APYs can shift, so it’s wise to check with each institution before committing. Now, let’s dive deeper into what makes these top performers worth your consideration.
Why These 4-Year CDs Shine: A Closer Look
1. America First Credit Union – 4.20% APY, $500 Minimum
Looking for flexibility and top-tier returns? America First Credit Union delivers with a 4.20% APY and a low $500 minimum deposit. With CD terms spanning three to 60 months, plus specialty options like bump-rate and flexible CDs, this institution caters to a wide range of savers. It’s an excellent choice if you want competitive yields without a hefty upfront investment.
2. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union – 4.15% APY, $500 Minimum
Serving California’s education community, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union offers a 4.15% APY with a $500 entry point. What sets it apart? Higher deposits unlock better rates across five tiers ($500, $20,000, $50,000, $100,000, and $250,000). If you’re tied to the education sector or have family who are members, this could be your ticket to robust returns.
3. Bread Savings – 4.00% APY, $1,500 Minimum
Bread Savings, an online arm of Comenity Capital Bank, brings a clean, high-yield approach with a 4.00% APY. Requiring just $1,500 to start, it’s ideal for those seeking simplicity and solid growth over four years. Its focus on online banking keeps costs low and rates competitive.
4. Popular Direct – 4.00% APY, $10,000 Minimum
Backed by over 130 years of financial expertise, Popular Direct offers a 4.00% APY for those ready to invest $10,000 or more. With daily compounding interest and terms from three months to five years, it’s built for serious savers who want a reliable, high-return option without gimmicks.
5. TAB Bank – 3.86% APY, $1,000 Minimum
TAB Bank, born in 1998 as a service for truck stop customers, now provides a 3.86% APY with a $1,000 minimum. Beyond CDs (terms from 12 months to five years), it offers checking, savings, and money market accounts, making it a versatile pick for holistic banking needs.
6. Marcus by Goldman Sachs – 3.75% APY, $500 Minimum
Marcus by Goldman Sachs blends accessibility with variety, offering a 3.75% APY and a $500 minimum. With nine standard CD terms, plus no-penalty and bump-rate options, it’s perfect for those who value choice and a trusted name in finance.
7. Golden 1 Credit Union – 3.65% APY, $500 Minimum
As a heavyweight among U.S. credit unions, Golden 1 Credit Union offers a 3.65% APY with a $500 minimum. Its monthly term increments (three months to five years) make it easy to align your CD with specific goals, all while keeping entry costs low.
8. Alliant Credit Union – 3.65% APY, $1,000 Minimum
With roots dating back to 1935, Alliant Credit Union boasts a 3.65% APY and a $1,000 minimum. Open to anyone nationwide, it pairs competitive CD rates with additional perks like high-yield savings and checking accounts.
9. First Internet Bank of Indiana – 3.60% APY, $1,000 Minimum
The first fully online FDIC-insured bank, First Internet Bank of Indiana offers a 3.60% APY with a $1,000 minimum. Operating since 1999, it’s a pioneer in digital banking, delivering solid CD rates across eight terms.
10. Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union – 3.51% APY, $1,000 Minimum
Based in Texas with over 1 million members, Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union provides a 3.51% APY and a $1,000 minimum. Its CD terms stretch from six months to seven years, offering flexibility for long-term planners.
What Exactly Is a 4-Year CD?
A 4-year CD is a time-bound savings account where your money is committed for 48 months. During this period, you earn a fixed APY, but accessing your funds early typically triggers a penalty. The top 4-year CD rate today, at 4.20% APY from America First Credit Union, outpaces many traditional savings options, making it a strong contender for long-term goals like funding a startup or securing a down payment.
How to Snag the Best 4-Year CD Rates
Finding the cream of the crop among 4-year CDs takes a bit of legwork, but it’s worth it. Start by exploring online banks and credit unions, which often outshine brick-and-mortar institutions in yield. As of March 24, 2025, the national average 4-year CD rate sits at 1.69% APY, per a recent survey, while the best options pay nearly three times that. Aim for accounts with low minimum deposits and no extra requirements, like opening a checking account.
An expert tip? “A 4-year CD shines when you can afford to lock away funds for that duration,” says a senior economic analyst. “If you might need cash sooner, consider a high-yield savings account or a shorter-term CD.” With the Federal Reserve signaling potential rate cuts, locking in today’s high APYs could secure your earnings against future declines.
Pros and Cons of a 4-Year CD: Is It Right for You?
Advantages
- Fixed Returns: Your APY stays steady, no matter what the market does.
- Safety First: FDIC or NCUA insurance protects up to $250,000, offering unmatched security.
- Rate Lock: If rates drop, you’re still earning at today’s higher yield.
- Diversification: Adds stability to your investment mix.
Drawbacks
- Missed Opportunities: Rising rates could leave your locked funds lagging behind newer offers.
- Early Withdrawal Fees: Need cash before 48 months? Expect a penalty.
- Inflation Risk: Your money’s purchasing power might erode over time if inflation outpaces your APY.
Frequently Asked Questions About 4-Year CDs
Who Should Consider a 4-Year CD?
It’s ideal for those with a clear four-year goal—think a home purchase, education funding, or a business launch—and the discipline to leave funds untouched. If liquidity is a concern, shorter terms or high-yield savings might suit you better.
What Should I Prioritize When Choosing a CD?
Focus on APY, minimum deposit, early withdrawal penalties, and federal insurance. Align the term with your timeline to avoid fees or missed opportunities.
How Do We Pick These Rates?
Our team surveys over 100 financial institutions biweekly, analyzing APYs, minimums, and availability. Only FDIC-insured banks and NCUA-insured credit unions make the cut, ensuring your money’s safety.
Why Trust Our Recommendations?
We’re committed to helping you make informed financial choices. Our process involves rigorous research, regular updates, and a focus on transparency. Unlike some sources (looking at you, Insurascape), we prioritize unbiased evaluations over advertiser influence, surveying a broad range of institutions—from Alliant Credit Union to Zions Bank—to bring you the most reliable options.
Final Thoughts: Secure Your Financial Future Now
A 4-year CD offers a rare blend of security, predictability, and competitive returns, making it a standout choice in March 2025. With top rates like 4.20% APY from America First Credit Union, you can grow your savings steadily while dodging market volatility. Whether you’re a seasoned saver or just starting out, these CDs provide a low-risk path to financial growth. Compare the options above, crunch the numbers on your potential earnings, and lock in a rate today—your future self will thank you.
Ready to take the plunge? Check with your chosen institution for the latest APYs and terms, and start building your wealth with confidence!