How it works
Amount per rung is total amount divided by number of rungs. Each rung matures in a different year, so one rung's principal matures each year, giving regular access to part of the money. The interest shown is a simple first-year illustration at the APY you enter on the full amount, not a full ladder projection with reinvestment — actual ladder returns depend on the rates available when each rung renews.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CD ladder for?
It balances return and access: longer terms usually pay more, but a ladder means some money frees up every year instead of all of it being locked away.
Is the APY on this page a bank's current rate?
No. Enter a rate you have actually been offered, and remember renewal rates will differ when each rung matures.