How much interest can an 18-month CD account earn now?

MoneyWatch: Managing Your Money How much interest can an 18-month CD account earn now? We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. .chip { background-image: url('/fly/bundles/cbsnewscore/images/chip-bgd/chip-bgd-moneywatch.jpg'); } By Matt Richardson Matt Richardson Sr. Managing Editor, Managing Your Money Matt Richardson is the senior managing editor for the Managing Your Money section for CBSNews.com. He writes and edits content about personal finance ranging from savings to investing to insurance. Read Full Bio Matt Richardson May 27, 2026 / 12:57 PM EDT / CBS News Add CBS News on Google Interest earnings with an 18-month CD could be significant if savers lock in a high rate now. Pla2na/Getty Images With inflation surging, elevated interest rates causing borrowing costs to remain higher and rising oil prices, millions of Americans are looking for ways to protect and grow their money right now. And a certificate of deposit (CD) account is often one of the better ways to accomplish both goals. This account comes with a competitive, fixed interest rate that will hold throughout any market instability. That will allow savers to precisely determine their interest earnings while simultaneously protecting their principal. And CD accounts are FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per account, adding another layer of much-needed financial protection right now. But CD accounts aren't perfect, either. To earn the big return on their money, savers will need to commit to leaving the funds untouched through the maturity date or risk having to pay an early withdrawal penalty to regain access. Understanding this, an 18-month CD account may be worth serious consideration now. Returns on this account can still be substantial, but the term won't be so lengthy as to prevent you from shifting your savings strategy next year. In the interim, however, you'll earn a high rate of return and protect your money...