<ul data-eligibleForWebStory="true">Best CD rates today reach up to 4.94%. Federal Reserve expected to lower rates.CDs offer fixed interest for set period but have withdrawal penalties.Rates vary by CD term lengths, with highest rates for 6-month and 1-year CDs.Comparison with various banks and types of CDs can help maximize returns.Federal insurance protects CD investments from bank failures up to $250,000.