The best 1-month CD rates reach approximately 4.00%–4.25% APY in September 2026. But a 30-day CD is a niche product — not all banks offer it, the interest earned is modest, and strong alternatives exist. Here’s what to know before you search for one.
Rates shown are as of September 2026 and change frequently. Verify the current rate directly with the institution before opening.
Best 1-Month CD Rates (September 2026)
| Institution Type | Approximate 1-Month APY |
|---|---|
| Online banks (top offers) | 4.00%–4.25% |
| Credit unions | 3.50%–4.10% |
| Brokered CDs (Fidelity, Schwab) | 3.90%–4.20% |
| Traditional big banks | 0.01%–0.25% |
Not all banks offer 1-month CDs — it’s one of the least commonly offered terms. Brokered CD platforms aggregate short-term CDs from multiple institutions and are often the best source for 30-day terms.
How Much Does a 1-Month CD Actually Earn?
| Deposit | APY | Interest Earned (30 days) |
|---|---|---|
| $5,000 | 4.10% | ~$17 |
| $10,000 | 4.10% | ~$34 |
| $25,000 | 4.10% | ~$84 |
| $50,000 | 4.10% | ~$168 |
| $100,000 | 4.10% | ~$335 |
Figures use the APY compounding convention over a 30-day (1/12 year) period. The absolute interest amounts are small at typical deposit levels. The value of a 1-month CD is less about the dollar amount earned and more about locking in a guaranteed rate when you know exactly how long you’re parking money.
1-Month CD vs. Money Market Account vs. 4-Week T-Bill
| 1-Month CD | Money Market Account | 4-Week T-Bill | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rate (Sept 2026) | 4.00–4.25% APY | ~3.80%–4.30% APY (variable — verify current rate) | Verify current yield at TreasuryDirect.gov |
| Rate fixed? | Yes — for 30 days | No — changes daily | Yes — set at auction |
| Federal taxes? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| State taxes? | Yes | Yes | No |
| Access to funds | At maturity only | Any time | At maturity (28 days) |
| Minimum | Varies ($0–$1,000) | $0 at most online banks | $100 |
The 4-week Treasury bill is a strong competitor for 30-day money — it typically pays a comparable yield, has no state income tax on interest (valuable in high-tax states like California and New York), and can be purchased directly at TreasuryDirect.gov. Check the current 4-week bill yield before comparing, since it’s set weekly at auction. For amounts of $10,000+, the T-bill’s state tax exemption often makes it a competitive alternative to a 1-month CD.
When Does a 1-Month CD Make Sense?
A 1-month CD is worth considering when:
- You have a specific date in 30 days when you’ll need the money (closing on a home, tax payment, tuition)
- A competitive rate is available and you want to lock in the guaranteed APY
- You prefer an FDIC-insured product over T-bills for simplicity
- You’re using a brokered CD platform that offers easy access to short-term terms
It’s less useful when:
- You don’t have certainty you’ll hold to the 30-day maturity (the early withdrawal penalty risk)
- A money market account at the same institution pays a comparable rate with no lockup
- You’re in a high-tax state where the T-bill’s state tax exemption is meaningful
3-Month vs. 1-Month CDs
If you’re uncertain about your exact timeline, a 3-month CD is almost always a better fit than a 1-month CD:
- Top rates are comparable or higher (3-month top rates run roughly 3.90%–4.25% as of September 2026)
- You earn more total interest over the longer term
- More banks offer 3-month CDs than 1-month CDs, giving you better rate options
The 1-month term is the right choice only when you have a genuine 30-day timeline and a competitive rate available.
Related Articles
- 3-Month CD Rates 2026
- 6-Month CD Rates 2026
- Best CD Rates of 2026
- CDs vs. Treasury Bills 2026
- High-Yield Savings vs. CD
The content on Wealthvieu is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions. Full disclaimer · Editorial policy