Wells Fargo CD Rates for 2026: Latest APYs and Terms

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If you already use Wells Fargo for checking or savings, opening a certificate of deposit (CD) at the same bank can feel like the easiest next step. CDs let you lock in a fixed rate for a set period of time, giving you predictable, FDIC-insured returns without stock market risk.

That convenience comes with a trade-off, though. Big national banks rarely pay the very highest CD rates on the market, and Wells Fargo is no exception. The bank’s Special Fixed Rate CDs are usually more competitive than its standard CD grid, but top-yield online banks and credit unions often still come out ahead.

Here’s how Wells Fargo CD rates stack up against the competition.

Current Wells Fargo CD Rates: Early 2026

Wells Fargo generally offers two main CD categories:

• Special Fixed Rate CDs (promotional terms)
• Standard Fixed Rate CDs

How Much Can You Earn With a Wells Fargo CD?

Here’s a simple example showing estimated earnings with a Wells Fargo CD: 

How Do Wells Fargo CD Rates Compare With Other Banks

Wells Fargo CD rates are competitive, especially if you can qualify for relationship rates. But how do they stack up against the competition? Here’s a look:

How To Open a Wells Fargo CD

Step 1: Choose your CD type and term

• Decide whether a Standard CD or Special Fixed Rate CD fits your goal.
• Use shorter terms (3-12 months) for near-term spending; longer terms (2-5 years) for medium-term savings.

Step 2: Check today’s rates for your ZIP

• Visit Wells Fargo’s CD and IRA rates page.
• Enter your ZIP code to see the exact APYs and minimums for your area.
• Confirm both standard and special rates match what you’ve listed in your article.

Step 3: Gather your information

You’ll typically need:

• Full name and date of birth
• Social Security number or taxpayer ID
• Home address and contact details
• An existing Wells Fargo account number or external bank information for funding

Step 4: Apply online, in the app or at a branch

• Existing customers can often open CDs directly from their online banking dashboard or mobile app.
• New customers may need to complete a full application and identity verification.
• IRA and jumbo CDs might require a banker’s help.

Step 5: Fund your CD

• Transfer money from a Wells Fargo checking or savings account.
• Or link an external bank and move funds electronically.
• Your rate is usually locked when the CD is fully funded.

Step 6: Set maturity instructions and reminders

• Decide whether the CD should auto-renew, roll into a different term or transfer to checking/savings at maturity.
• Add the maturity date and grace-period window to your calendar so you don’t accidentally roll into a new term at a lower rate.

Pros and Cons of Wells Fargo CDs

Pros

• FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor, per ownership category
• Special Fixed Rate CDs often pay more than standard Wells Fargo CD rates
• Easy to manage if you already keep your checking and savings at Wells Fargo
• Large branch and ATM network for in-person help
• Fixed, predictable returns that are insulated from stock market swings

Cons

• Standard CD APYs are often lower than what top online banks and credit unions offer
• Minimum opening deposits are typically higher than the $0-$1,000 minimums at many online banks
• Promotional terms are limited, so your ideal maturity might not be available as a “special”
• Early withdrawal penalties can significantly reduce or even wipe out interest if you need money before maturity
• Rates vary by ZIP and change frequently, so tables must be refreshed regularly to stay accurate

Is a Wells Fargo CD Right for You?

A Wells Fargo CD may be a good fit if you:

• Already bank with Wells Fargo and want one-stop convenience
• Prefer FDIC-insured, fixed-rate savings to market volatility
• Can qualify for a Special Fixed Rate CD that offers a decent promotional APY
• Value access to branches, ATMs and a familiar bank brand

You might want to look elsewhere if you:

• Are chasing the highest possible APYs and don’t mind using online-only banks or credit unions
• Have a smaller starting balance and need lower minimums or $0-minimum CDs
• Expect you might need to access funds early and don’t want to risk penalties
• Want specialized products like no-penalty or bump-up CDs that are more common at online banks and brokerages

If you choose Wells Fargo, a common strategy is to put the money you can truly lock up into a Special Fixed Rate CD, while keeping your emergency cash in a high-yield savings or money market account for flexibility.

More About Wells Fargo

• Wells Fargo Review
• Wells Fargo Hours and Holidays
• Wells Fargo ATM Limits
• Wells Fargo Savings Account Interest Rates
• Wells Fargo Bonuses and Promotions

Sarah Sharkey, Virginia Anderson, Allison Hache and Dawn Allcot contributed to the reporting for this article.

*Capital One interest rates accurate as of Jan. 1, 2026. See website for all current rates.

Rates are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other information on accounts is accurate as of Jan. 1, 2026. Rates may vary by location.

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.

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