CD rates today are offering up to 5.06% on certificates of deposit, with high rates based on term lengths.CDs have fixed interest rates and early withdrawal penalties if accessed before the term ends.Different term CDs offer various rates: 3-month CD average rate is 1.3%, 6-month CD average APR is 1.82%, and 12-month CDs have a 1.87% APR.Two-year CDs provide rates up to 4.52%, while 5-year CDs offer the highest rate at 4.43%.Jumbo CDs require significant deposits, with current rates at 4.94% for a 6-month term and averaging 1.82%.Comparison shopping is crucial due to varying rates between banks; online banks often offer higher CD rates.To open a CD, you need to deposit a minimum amount, and early withdrawal penalties can impact your earnings.CDs provide stable returns compared to volatile stocks and bonds but lack the potential long-term growth of investments.Ensure deposits are insured by the FDIC or NCUA, providing up to $250,000 in coverage in case of bank failure.Certain CD types are excluded from average rate calculations by Curinos, impacting the reported rates.