Wells Fargo CD Rates and Terms for 2025

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Wells Fargo is considered one of the “Big Four” banks in the U.S., alongside JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America and Citi®. Like many big banks, it’s known for offering a wide array of financial services, including consumer and business accounts, home and auto loans, credit cards and certificates of deposits (CDs). 

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

Current Wells Fargo CD Rates: September 2025 

Wells Fargo offers standard, special and relationship rates for their CDs.

CD Term Standard APY Relationship APY Minimum Deposit 
3 months $2,500
4 months (Special Fixed Rate CD) $5,000
6 months $2,500
7 months (Special Fixed Rate CD) $5,000
11 months (Special Fixed Rate CD) $5,000
1 year $2,500

Pros and Cons of Wells Fargo CDs

Although Wells Fargo CDs offer a number of benefits, it’s also important to consider the drawbacks of these accounts. Breaking down the pros and cons can help you decide how a Wells Fargo CD may fit into your savings strategy.

Pros

  • FDIC-insured
  • Lots of convenient branch locations across the U.S. 
  • Special rate for existing customers
  • Online and mobile banking to monitor accounts

Cons

  • Can find higher rates with neobanks and online banks
  • Early withdrawal penalties
  • $2,500 to $5,000 minimum opening deposit

How Much Can You Earn With a Wells Fargo CD?

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

Deposit Amount Term Length APY Estimated Interest Earned*
$2,500 3 months $9.32
$5,000 4 months $65.80
$6,000 7 months $130.24
$7,000 1 year $140.00 
*Earnings shown are estimates and may vary based on your account type and the bank’s compounding method. 

How To Open a CD With Wells Fargo  

If you already have a Wells Fargo account, you can log in and follow the instructions to open a CD. 

Consumers who don’t have an existing Wells Fargo account can also start the process online to open an account. However, you’ll need to have a few pieces of information available, including the following:

  • Social Security number
  • Valid identification such as a driver’s license
  • A way to fund your CD

During the application process, you’ll select the type of CD you want and its term length. You can fund your CD using any of the following:

  • A transfer from an existing Wells Fargo account
  • A transfer from an external bank account at another financial institution
  • A check or money order sent by mail or taken to your local Wells Fargo branch

After funding your CD, it will begin accruing interest.

Good To Know

About one month before your CD matures, Wells Fargo will send you a reminder notice with the maturity date. Once it matures, you’ll have a seven-day grace period to take action. During this time you can:

  • Close the CD
  • Change the term
  • Make additional deposits

If you don’t act within the seven days, your CD will automatically renew at the standard rate available at that time.

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:

Bank 1-Year CD Rate 5-Year CD Rate Minimum Deposit 
Wells Fargo N/A $2,500
First Horizon $1,000
Popular Direct $10,000
Ally Bank $0 
Capital One* $0

Is a Wells Fargo CD Right for You?

Wells Fargo CDs aren’t the right fit for everyone — here’s who they work best for and who might want to consider other options.

Ideal For

  • Existing Wells Fargo customers 
  • Investors who want short-term savings
  • Individuals who prefer in-person banking 

Not Great For

  • Savers with limited funds  
  • Long-term investors seeking higher returns
  • Those requiring frequent access to funds

Tips for Getting the Best CD Rates

Looking to lock in the highest possible CD rate? These tips can help you make the most of your Wells Fargo CD.

  • Consider relationship banking perks: Having a long-term relationship with Wells Fargo or multiple accounts may help you secure a higher CD rate. 
  • Compare multiple terms: Research different options for CDs among several banks. 
  • Look for promotional or limited-time offers: Check for promotional rates or special offers on CDs. You can look up this information online or ask in person for those offers. 
  • 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. 

Wells Fargo CDs: FAQ

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Wells Fargo CD rates and features.
  • What is the minimum deposit for a Wells Fargo CD?
    • Wells Fargo requires a minimum of $2,500 to open a CD.
  • Do I need a Wells Fargo account to open a CD?
    • No, you do not need a Wells Fargo account to open a CD.
  • Can I open a CD online?
    • Yes, Wells Fargo allows you to open a CD online.
  • What happens if I withdraw funds 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 in the term you decide to withdraw funds.
  • Are Wells Fargo CD rates competitive in 2025?
    • Yes, rates are competitive for existing customers or if you get a special rate CD. Standard rates are not as competitive as rates at other banks.

More About Wells Fargo

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

*Capital One interest rates accurate as of Sept. 11, 2025. 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 Sept. 11, 2025. 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.

Our in-house research team and on-site financial experts work together to create content that’s accurate, impartial, and up to date. We fact-check every single statistic, quote and fact using trusted primary resources to make sure the information we provide is correct. You can learn more about GOBankingRates’ processes and standards in our editorial policy.

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