CD Calculator – Estimate Certificate of Deposit Earnings
Calculate the maturity value of a certificate of deposit.
About the CD Calculator
What is the CD Calculator?
A CD calculator shows what a certificate of deposit will be worth at maturity, given the deposit, APY and term.
Why use this calculator?
CDs offer fixed, insured returns in exchange for locking your money for a set period. Comparing the maturity value across terms helps you choose the best fit.
How to use it
- Enter the amount you will deposit.
- Enter the annual percentage yield and the term in months.
- Choose the compounding frequency.
Formula
Maturity value = deposit × (1 + APY/compounding)^(compounding × years).
Early withdrawal typically incurs a penalty, so confirm the term before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between APY and interest rate?
The APY includes the effect of compounding, so it is always at least as high as the nominal rate and is the better number for comparison.
Are CDs safe?
CDs at insured institutions are covered up to the insurance limit, making them very low risk, though they may lag inflation.
How much should I save each month?
A common guideline is 20% of income, but the right number depends on your goals. Work backwards from your target amount and time frame.
What is an emergency fund and how big should it be?
It is cash set aside for unexpected expenses. Most planners suggest three to six months of essential living costs.
Where should I keep short-term savings?
High-yield savings accounts and money-market funds are typical because they are liquid and low risk, even if returns are modest.
What is the rule of 72?
Divide 72 by your annual interest rate to estimate how many years it takes to double your money. At 6%, that is about 12 years.
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes. Every calculator on this site is completely free, with no hidden fees, no subscriptions and no limits on how many times you can use it.
How accurate are the results?
We use standard, widely accepted formulas and calculate in your browser using double-precision arithmetic. Results are rounded for readability, so treat them as reliable estimates rather than a guarantee. Real-world factors can vary the true figure.
Can I add this calculator to my own website?
Yes. Open this calculator page and use the "Add to your website" box in the sidebar to copy a ready-made iframe snippet, then paste it into any HTML page.
Does it work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The layout is fully responsive, so it works on desktops, laptops, tablets and mobile phones, and every input adapts to touch screens.