To calculate your earnings from a CD, you’ll need to use the following formula: A = P(1+R/N) (NT). Some may require higher or lower opening deposits. However, most institutions will require a minimum deposit between $500 and $1,000. There is no set minimum across the board. The minimum balance for a CD will depend on your financial institution.

What is the minimum balance for a certificate of deposit? Why is a certificate of deposit considered a safe investment?Ĭertificates of deposit are considered safe investments so long as they are helped by FDIC- or NCUA-insured financial institutions which insure your deposits up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank, for each account ownership category or up to $250,000 per share owner, per insured credit union, for each account ownership category. To avoid early withdrawal penalties or potentially forfeiting any interest earned on the funds in your CD, you want to be sure that you won’t need access to your money before your CD’s maturity date. Frequently asked questions In which situation would a certificate of deposit (CD) be the best banking choice?Ī CD may be the best banking choice for you if you are saving for a long-term goal with a specific timeline in mind. We’ll walk you though how to build a CD ladder.

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