Our December APY Checkpoint shows that 12-month CD rates experienced the largest month-over-month shifts across standard CD terms, based on APY benchmarks as of December 15, 2025.
Despite these changes, 12-month CDs remain an attractive short-term, higher-yield option, with the top 10% of available APYs currently reaching 3.90%.
“As projected, APYs have slightly decreased for standard term CDs in response to the FOMC’s most recent rate cut,” said Mary Grace Roske, Head of Marketing & Communications at CD Valet. “However, opportunities still abound; we currently track over 2,500 CD rates that are at or above 4.00%, and savers can now look to the long end of the yield curve to secure greater returns. It’s been a while since the longer-term rates have been a real draw for savers.”
CD Valet is the most robust source of real-time CD market data, offering a secure online insured-deposit marketplace that connects savers to financial institutions to compare and open FDIC- or NCUA-insured CDs with the best rates and terms nationwide. The APY Checkpoint is a real-time tool that helps consumers instantly see how their CD rate compares against the market, based on the over 40,000 rates in the marketplace from more than 5,000 banks and credit unions nationwide.
CD Valet’s December APY Checkpoint revealed the following for standard term CDs:
| APY Checkpoint Category | 12-month CD | 24-month CD | 36-month CD | 48-month CD | 60-month CD |
| Top 10% APY | 3.90% | 3.65% | 3.60% | 3.60% | 3.65% |
| Top 25% APY | 3.65% | 3.39% | 3.29% | 3.30% | 3.39% |
| Median APY | 3.20% | 2.99% | 2.78% | 2.78% | 2.88% |
Source: CD Valet 12/15/2025
“Based on current APY benchmarks, 60-month CDs now offer APYs equal to or better than 24-, 36-, and 48-month CDs. Those wanting to lock in a strong rate now should secure a 12-month or shorter CD while those seeking the greatest long-run return available now should consider opening a 60-month CD,” Roske continued.
CD Valet currently displays 4,482 CDs with a term length of 60-months, with APYs as high as 4.44%.
About CD Valet
CD Valet is a CD marketplace that features verified CD rates from federally insured banks and credit unions nationwide. With tens of thousands of CD offers tracked across the country, CD Valet gives savers a clear view of top rates and helps them explore higher-yield CD options with reliable returns.
Visit www.cdvalet.com to see today’s top rates and check out our Best CD Rates by State Map to maximize earnings on savings.
