Money Market vs. CD
CDs often pay more interest than money market accounts, but you have to lock your money away for a set period.
Money market account vs. CD: How to choose
Money market accounts and certificates of deposit are types of federally insured savings accounts that earn interest. But their rates and ease of access differ.
CDs generally offer higher rates and less access to your money. In fact, your money gets locked up for a set period of months or years. If you withdraw early, there is a penalty, such as a couple months of interest earned. (See more about CD basics.) It's worth noting that in today's interest rate environment, CDs and money market accounts both earn much lower rates than they did a few years ago. But money market account rates can drop (or increase) at any time, while CD rates are locked in.
Money market accounts generally offer more access and comparable rates to regular savings accounts. You can withdraw money six times a month. They generally have larger minimum balances and sometimes offer checks. MMAs differ from money market funds, which are a type of investment. (Learn more about how MMAs work.)
When to choose a money market account over a CD
You want flexibility to withdraw money regularly. MMAs have the same withdrawal restrictions as regular savings accounts — six per month, not counting in-person or ATM withdrawals (some banks may charge a penalty for going beyond six).
You’re looking for checking account-like perks. Some MMAs also offer debit cards, ATM access and check-writing abilities — features often reserved for checking accounts.
You prefer the balance of a solid rate plus easy access. Some MMAs stand out for a strong interest rate, though it's a good idea to compare with regular savings accounts.
» Ready to open an account? Here are NerdWallet’s picks for the best money market accounts
You can also compare money market account options below.
APY0.60% With $0 minimum balance | APY0.45% With $100 minimum balance | APY0.55% With $1 minimum balance |
BonusN/A | BonusN/A | BonusN/A |
When to choose a CD over a money market account
Your goal is to lock in a rate. CDs tend to have the highest yields among bank accounts. They carry little risk as investments and none of the fluctuating value that stocks have.
You don’t mind putting some funds out of your reach for months or years. A CD requires you to forgo any withdrawals until its term expires.
» Ready to dive in? See the best CD rates this month
You can also compare online CD options below.
1-year APY0.55% With $500 minimum balance | 1-year APY0.50% With $2,500 minimum balance | 1-year APY0.60% With $0 minimum balance |
3-year APY0.55% With $500 minimum balance | 3-year APY0.55% With $2,500 minimum balance | 3-year APY0.65% With $0 minimum balance |
5-year APY0.60% With $500 minimum balance | 5-year APY0.60% With $2,500 minimum balance | 5-year APY0.85% With $0 minimum balance |
Minimum Balance$500 Member FDIC | Minimum Balance$2,500 Member FDIC | Minimum Balance$0 Member FDIC |
When to choose a savings account instead
You want a wider pool of high-yield options than MMAs tend to offer. High-yield savings accounts, particularly those offered by online banks, generally have above-average interest rates. They can be a better deal than many MMAs and still keep your money within your reach.
You don’t want to worry about the higher minimum balance requirements that MMAs and CDs can have. Savings accounts tend to have the lowest opening and ongoing balance requirements among the three bank products. Many high-yield savings options don't have monthly fees, but some may still require a certain balance to earn a top rate.
Compare accounts
Once you’ve decided whether to put your money in a CD, money market account or savings account, you’ll want to look for banks or credit unions that offer the best rates. See our lists of best CD rates, best high-yield savings accounts and best money market options.
