Certificate of Deposit (CD) Calculator
Calculate the maturity value of a CD from deposit, rate, term, and compounding frequency.
- Last reviewed
- July 8, 2026
- Cost
- Free to use
- Data
- Runs in your browser
Maturity Value
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Interest Earned
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Effective APY
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Monthly Interest Equivalent
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Methodology
How this calculator handles inputs
This calculator uses the values you enter above and applies the formula explained in the guide below. Results update in the browser and are intended for quick planning, comparison, and sanity-checking.
- Use consistent periods, currencies, and units across inputs.
- Review any assumptions before using the result in a decision.
- Recalculate when rates, prices, tax rules, or business terms change.
Important note
This tool provides general planning information only. It is not tax, legal, financial, accounting, or investment advice. Check the current rules for your location and speak with a qualified professional before making a high-stakes decision.
Guide
How it works
Use this calculator to estimate the maturity value and interest earned from a certificate of deposit.
What this calculator does
The CD calculator estimates how much a fixed deposit may be worth at the end of its term.
It uses:
- initial deposit
- annual percentage yield
- CD term
- compounding frequency
CD Formula
A = P x (1 + r/n)^(nt)
Where:
- A = maturity value
- P = initial deposit
- r = annual rate
- n = compounding periods per year
- t = term in years
Example calculation
If:
- Initial deposit = 10,000
- APY = 4%
- Term = 2 years
- Compounding = monthly
Then:
- Maturity value = about 10,832
- Interest earned = about 832
- Monthly interest equivalent = about 35
The CD matures at about 10,832.
What is a CD?
A certificate of deposit is a time deposit that pays interest for locking money away for a set term. CDs often have early withdrawal penalties, so the term matters.
Why CD returns matter
- show the value of locking cash for a term
- compare CDs with savings accounts
- estimate interest before maturity
- support low-risk cash planning
When to use this calculator
- comparing CD terms and rates
- estimating maturity value
- planning cash needed on a future date
- checking the effect of compounding frequency
Common mistakes
- ignoring early withdrawal penalties
- comparing nominal rates instead of APY
- choosing a term longer than the cash need allows
- forgetting taxes can reduce net interest
CD vs high-yield savings
A CD usually locks money for a fixed term and rate. High-yield savings usually keeps money more accessible but may have a variable rate.
FAQs
What is a CD?
A CD is a time deposit that earns interest over a fixed term.
How do you calculate CD maturity value?
Multiply the deposit by one plus the periodic rate raised to the number of compounding periods.
What is a good CD rate?
A good CD rate is competitive for the term and high enough to justify reduced access to the cash.
What is the difference between a CD and a savings account?
A CD has a fixed term. A savings account is usually more liquid and may have a variable rate.
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