How do certificates of deposit work?

A certificate of deposit is a smart savings option that allows you to earn higher interest on your funds by leaving it on deposit for a specified period of time (or term). You choose the length of the term. At Needham Bank, CD terms range from three months to five years. Then, you deposit a minimum amount of money and leave it to grow for the duration of that term. When the term is up — in other words, when your CD reaches its maturity date — you’ll get your money back with interest!