This fee is usually small, but it’s one more hoop you have to jump through to get the CD.

Joining fees: All of the credit unions we include on our best CD lists are available nationwide, but sometimes you’re required to make a donation to an organization in order to join the credit union.

Anything you pay will reduce your earnings. That quote takes compounding frequency into account and helps you make an apples-to-apples comparison. The easiest way to compare rates is to use the annual percentage yield (APY), which banks typically provide for you. Pay careful attention to the features below.

As you shop among banks, find a CD that’s the best fit for your finances.