Invest your money the secure way with a high yield share certificate
Rates as high as 4.15% APY2,8 with our 4-month special.
You’ve worked hard for your money. Your money should work just as hard for you. Our high yield share certificates offer competitive rates which help you earn the safe way.
Open My Certificate Find a BranchWhy choose a share certificate?
- High yield: Earn higher rates than traditional savings accounts and even some money markets
- Fully insured: Up to $250,000 by NCUA, additional amounts insured by MSIC
- Fixed rate: Rates are locked in at opening for the term of the certificate
Who is a certificate best for?
- Savers who do not need immediate access to funds
- Those with emergency funds beyond immediate cash needs
- Conservative investors seeking stable returns
- Retirees seeking stable earnings (See our IRA certificates)
- Parents saving for future education expenses
- Laddering strategies for predictable cash flow (Learn about laddering)
Current share certificate rates
| Type | Dividend Rate | APY2,8 | Min Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Month | .75% | .76% | $1,000 |
| 4 Month Special | 4.07% | 4.15% | $1,000 |
| 6 Month | 3.59% | 3.65% | $1,000 |
| 9 Month Special | 3.92% | 4.00% | $1,000 |
| 12 Month | 3.39% | 3.45% | $500 |
| 15 Month Special | 3.10% | 3.15% | $500 |
| 24 Month | 1.50% | 1.51% | $500 |
| 36 Month | 1.50% | 1.51% | $500 |
| 48 Month | 1.50% | 1.51% | $500 |
| 60 Month | 1.50% | 1.51% | $500 |
Certificate Calculator
FAQs
What is a share certificate?
A share certificate is a fixed-term savings product offered by credit unions that pays dividends for a set period of time. Similar to a certificate of deposit (CD), share certificates typically offer higher returns than traditional savings accounts in exchange for keeping funds deposited until maturity.
How does a share certificate work?
When you open a share certificate, your money is held securely for the duration of the term. You’ll earn dividends, which are compounded daily and posted monthly. Dividends can be transferred to another share account or mailed to you without penalty. Certificates are like savings accounts that earn higher rates because you agree to keep your money in the account for the selected term.
What is the difference between a share certificate and a certificate of deposit (CD)?
A share certificate is a similar product to a CD. The major difference is that they pay out dividends whereas CDs pay out interest. See our article Share Certificate vs. Certificate of Deposit (CD): What’s the difference? to learn more.
Can I withdraw before my term is up?
Share certificates help you earn such a high rate since the funds are “locked in” for the term. Early withdrawals may be made if needed, but a penalty will apply. Penalties are as follows:
- Certificates with terms of 1 year or less: 1 month’s dividends
- Certificates with terms of more than 1 year: 3 months’ dividends
What are the requirements to open?
- Must live, work, worship, or attend school in Essex, Middlesex, Suffolk, or Worcester County or be a current Webster First member
- Enrollment in Webster First Federal Credit Union membership required to complete certificate ownership
Comparing savings options
| Share Certificate | Money Market | Savings Account | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed rate | Yes | No | No |
| Access to funds | Limited | Flexible | Flexible |
| Typical yield | Higher | Moderate | Lower |
| Minimum balance to earn rate | Moderate | Higher balances earn higher rates | Lowest |
| Penalty for withdrawal | Yes | No | No |
| Open Now | Learn More | Learn More |
