Articles - Archived Expert Advice

CD Ladders

I've recently heard that something called a "CD ladder" may help me obtain a greater return on my portfolio. Can you tell me more about this, and is it something I can do through the Credit Union?

Absolutely! CD ladders can be set up through the Credit Union using share term certificates (STCs). A CD or STC ladder is a technique of purchasing several certificates with staggering maturity dates. For example, you can set up the ladder so you have certificates maturing on a monthly or annual basis. As each certificate matures, you can either put the money back into the ladder, or use the funds.

Follow this example of an annually-maturing STC ladder: Let's say you purchase five $1,000 STCs. The first STC will mature in 12 months, the second in 24, the third in 36, the fourth in 48, and the final certificate will mature in 60 months. After a year has passed, your 12-month STC has matured. If you don't need the funds, you can put the money back into the ladder by purchasing a new 60-month STC. From then on, you would purchase a new 60-month STC every year as your next certificate matures.

This technique allows you not only to lock in some higher rates associated with long-term STCs, but the short-term STCs mean you are able to take advantage of the market should rates rise. Additionally, you don't tie up all your money, and you are never more than a year away from at least some of it.

You can set up an STC ladder by visiting your local branch or through MemberConnect. The minimum to open a certificate is $250, and the interest rate is fixed during the term. If you have questions or need help, contact our Financial Wellness team at info@lgfcu.org or call 877.367.5428.