What Should You Do When Your CD Matures? Compare Every Option Before It Auto-Renews.

Free CD Maturity & Annuity Comparison

No account numbers, no obligation, and no sales pitch. Just a clear comparison of the options that may fit your situation.

Questions people ask first

What should I do when my CD matures?

You typically have a short grace period—often 7 to 10 days—to renew the CD, cash it out, move it to another bank, or reposition it into an alternative such as a fixed or fixed indexed annuity. Compare the renewal rate, your liquidity needs and the tax treatment before the window closes.

What happens if I do nothing when my CD matures?

Most banks automatically renew the CD into a new term at the current rate, which may be lower than what you locked in before. Once it auto-renews, withdrawing early usually triggers a penalty, so reviewing your options before the grace period ends matters.

Is an annuity better than a CD right now?

Neither is automatically better. CDs offer FDIC insurance within limits and simpler short-term access. Fixed and fixed indexed annuities can offer multi-year rate guarantees, tax-deferred growth and optional lifetime income, but have surrender periods. The right answer depends on your time horizon and how much liquidity you need.

Are annuities a good alternative when a CD matures?

For money you do not expect to need soon, fixed or fixed indexed annuities can be a premier option to compare because they may offer longer guarantees, tax-deferred growth or future income. They are not automatically better: CDs provide FDIC deposit insurance and may offer greater short-term access.

What is the difference between a bank CD and a fixed annuity?

A CD is a bank deposit with a stated term and FDIC insurance within applicable limits. A fixed annuity is an insurance contract whose guarantees depend on the issuing insurer's claims-paying ability and that commonly has a longer surrender period.

Will I pay tax if I move CD money into an annuity?

Interest already credited to a non-retirement CD is generally taxable. An annuity purchased with after-tax funds grows tax-deferred, but taxable gains are generally taxed as ordinary income when withdrawn. Ask a tax professional about your circumstances.

Can I access money in an annuity?

Many annuities allow limited annual withdrawals, but larger early withdrawals may trigger surrender charges and tax consequences. The comparison should preserve enough liquid money outside the annuity for foreseeable needs.

Should I move all of my CDs into an annuity?

Usually not without a broader review. The appropriate amount depends on liquidity, emergency reserves, time horizon, income needs and the strength of the insurer. Renewing some or all of the CD can remain the right choice.