Popular Direct CD Rates and Features for 2025
Written by
Rudri Patel
Edited by
Elizabeth Constantineau
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Popular Direct offers eight different certificate of deposit (CD) terms ranging from three to 60 months. Here’s a look at current Popular Direct CD rates for September 2025:
| CD Term | Annual Percentage Yield (APY) | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | $10,000 | |
| 6 months | $10,000 | |
| 12 months | $10,000 | |
| 18 months | $10,000 | |
| 24 months | $10,000 | |
| 36 months | $10.000 | |
| 48 months | $10,000 | |
| 60 months | $10,000 |
Popular Direct CDs: Pros and ConsÂ
Every financial product has advantages and disadvantages, including Popular Direct CDs. Below is a closer look at both sides of the product.
Pros
- Competitive rates: Popular Direct offers great rates, especially when compared to the national average rates for CDs.Â
- FDIC insured: CD accounts at Popular Direct are insured, which gives savers peace of mind about their funds.Â
- Wide range of term lengths: With eight term lengths to choose from, savers can potentially set up a CD ladder with this bank.
Cons
- Poorly rated mobile app: Popular Direct’s mobile app has relatively low ratings in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
- High minimum deposit: You’ll have to have at least $10,000 on hand to open a new account.Â
- Early withdrawal penalty: If you need to get your funds out early, you’ll face a penalty.
How Much Can You Earn With a Popular Direct CD?
Here’s a simple example showing estimated earnings with Popular Direct CDs:
| Deposit Amount | Term Length | APY | Estimated Interest Earned* |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | 12-month | $390 | |
| $15,000 | 18-month | $886 | |
| $20,000 | 2 years | $1,590.42 | |
| $25,000 | 3 years | $3,040.56 |
How To Open a CD With Popular DirectÂ
Popular Direct is a digital-only banking option. To open a CD, you will need to complete an application online.
You will need a $10,000 minimum opening deposit to fund a Popular Direct CD. You will also need the following information to open your CD:
- Personal details, such as name, address, date of birth, Social Security number
- A valid form of identification
- An existing U.S. bank account to fund your CD
Once you open the CD, you will need to fund it with the minimum deposit.
How Do Popular Direct CD Rates Compare With Other Banks?
Popular Direct CD rates are competitive, but are they the best around? Here’s a side-by-side comparison.
| Bank | 1-Year CD Rate | 5-Year CD Rate | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Popular Direct | $10,000 | ||
| Ally Bank | $0Â | ||
| Capital One* | $0 |
Is a Popular Direct CD Right for You?
Popular Direct CDs are not the right fit for everyone. Here’s a rundown of when they might be best for you and when to skip.
Ideal For
- Existing Popular Direct CD customers
- Those who can afford the $10,000 minimum CD deposit
- Anyone wanting a competitive APY
Not Great For
- Anyone who finds the $10,000 minimum too high
- People who may need to withdraw funds early
- Individuals looking for in-person service
Tips for Getting the Best CD Rates
Want the best CD rates? Here are some tips that may help:Â
- Consider relationship banking perks: Some banks will offer better rates on CDs if you have an existing relationship or several accounts.Â
- Compare multiple terms: Research a few CD rates at multiple banks to find the best rate that works for you.Â
- Look for promotional or limited-time offers: Banks often offer promotional rates or special offers on their CDs. Check online for those offers.Â
- Use a CD laddering strategy if liquidity matters: Use CD laddering as a strategy so that you can have cash on hand when you need it.Â
Popular Direct CDs: FAQ
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Popular Direct CD rates and features.- What is the minimum deposit for a Popular Direct CD?
- Popular Direct requires a minimum of $10,000 to open a CD.
- Do I need a Popular Direct account to open a CD?
- You must have a Popular Direct account to open a CD.
- Can I open a CD online?
- Yes, Popular Direct allows you to open a CD online.
- What happens if I withdraw before the term ends?
- If you withdraw from your CD before the term ends, expect to pay a penalty. The penalty amount depends on when you decide to withdraw in the term.
- Are Popular Direct CD rates competitive in 2025?
- Rates are competitive. For a 3-month CD, you can earn a 4.30% APY.
Sarah Sharkey contributed to the reporting for this article.
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.
Rates are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other information on accounts is accurate as of Sept. 11, 2025.Â
*Capital One interest rates are accurate as of Sept. 11, 2025. See the website for all current rates.
