# Fifty thousand dollars in a five-year CD

> The Federal Reserve's rate hike opens a window for savers to lock in returns of over twelve thousand dollars.
- Title: Fifty thousand dollars in a five-year CD · CBS News | Shortify
- Summary: The Federal Reserve's rate hike opens a window for savers to lock in returns of over twelve thousand dollars. The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark…
- Keywords: certificate of deposit, federal reserve, interest rates, savings accounts, cd rates, news, Fifty, thousand, dollars, five-year, CBS News
- Source: CBS News — https://cbsnews.com/news/how-much-interest-can-50000-5-year-cd-account-earn-september-2026
- Author: Matt  Richardson
- Published: 2026-09-17T16:25:25+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: certificate of deposit, federal reserve, interest rates, savings accounts, cd rates, news
## Fed raises rates for first time since twenty twenty-three
The Federal Reserve increased its benchmark interest rate this week for the first time since twenty twenty-three. Higher central bank rates lead to higher rates on borrowing products and select savings accounts.
## CD rates already in low four percent range
Certificate of deposit accounts came with rates in the low four percent range before the Fed's latest rate hike was announced. Now CD rates could tick up yet again, giving savers more profitable options.
## Five-year CDs offer highest rates this September
Five-year CDs come with some of the highest interest rates available this September, ranging from four point three five percent to four point four five percent. These rates are more profitable than high-yield savings, money market and traditional savings accounts.
## Fifty thousand dollars earns over twelve thousand
A fifty thousand dollar five-year CD at four point three five percent earns eleven thousand eight hundred sixty-three dollars and eighteen cents. At four point four five percent, it earns twelve thousand one hundred sixty dollars and seventeen cents upon maturity.
## Rates lock in through twenty thirty-one maturity
CDs have fixed rates, meaning the high rate secured today will hold through a twenty thirty-one maturity date, no matter what happens to the interest rate climate during that time. This certainty appeals to savers seeking predictable returns.
## Early withdrawal penalties carry significant cost
A fifty thousand dollar five-year CD won't be the best idea for most savers unsure of their capacity to keep funds frozen for the full term. An early withdrawal penalty on such a large CD could be especially costly.
## Key takeaway

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate for the first time since twenty twenty-three, allowing savers to earn significant returns on five-year CD accounts.