What is a Certificate of Deposit?

A CD is a savings tool where you deposit money for a fixed period and earn a guaranteed interest rate. It typically earns more than a regular savings account because you're committing your money for a set term. Your rate is locked from day one and never changes for the full term.

How much do I need to open a CD?

Minimum deposit amounts vary by term and product. Visit our Rates page for current minimums, or call us at 954.486.2728 and we'll help you find the right fit.

Can I add money to my CD after opening?

Standard CDs and Bump Rate CDs do not allow additional deposits until maturity. If you want to add money over time, consider a Wish Account or a savings account, then roll the balance into a CD when you're ready. Educator IRA CDs allow one addition per year ($500 minimum, not in the last 7 days before maturity).

What happens if I need my money before the term ends?

You can withdraw early, but a penalty applies. For CDs under 1 year, the penalty is 90 days of interest. For CDs of 1 year or more, it's 180 days of interest. We always recommend choosing a term you're comfortable committing to.

What is the Bump Rate CD?

It works like a standard CD, but with one bonus: if our rates go up during your term, you can call us at 954.486.2728 to bump your rate to the higher one. The new rate applies for the rest of your term. If rates don't go up, your original rate stays.

What is the Educator IRA CD?

It's an IRA certificate designed exclusively for educators. The unique benefit is that you can withdraw up to 20% of your balance every 12 months without a credit union penalty. Keep in mind that IRS tax penalties may still apply to IRA withdrawals — always consult your tax advisor.

What happens when my CD matures?

We'll notify you before maturity. You then have a 10-day grace period to renew at a different term, change your options, or withdraw your funds. If you don't take action, your CD auto-renews at the current rate for the same term. Promotional CDs renew at the standard non-promotional rate.

Are promotional CDs different?

Promotional CDs offer special rates for limited-time terms (like a 13-Month or 6-Month special). They work the same as standard CDs but may have slightly different early withdrawal penalties. When they renew, they renew at the standard rate. Check our Promotions page for current specials.

Is my CD federally insured?

Yes. Every dollar is federally insured up to $250,000 by the NCUA (National Credit Union Administration). CDs are one of the safest places to grow your money.

Where can I see current CD rates?

Visit our Rates page for the latest CD rates, terms, and minimum deposits — updated regularly. You can also view current rates in the rate table on this page.

Important Message: In observance of Independence Day, our offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, and Saturday, July 4, 2026. Our ATMs, Online Banking, and Call24 will remain available for your convenience.

Routing #:Routing Number: 267078299

ATMs & Locations Enroll in Online Banking Careers

English Español

Recent Searches

Notifications

13 Month Certificate of Deposit

Lock in BrightStar's highest CD APY with our 13 Month Smart CD. Guaranteed rate, NCUA insured up to $250,000.

13 Month Smart CD — Lock In Our Highest Rate

Want the best APY BrightStar offers? Our 13 Month Smart CD delivers our highest rate with a modest commitment — a guaranteed return that outpaces almost every other option.

13 Month Smart CD — Earn

4.00% APY*

Guaranteed fixed rate for 13 months

Our Top Rate. Locked In.

The 13 Month Smart CD is our top-tier certificate — the highest APY we offer, with just over a year of commitment. Perfect for members who want maximum yield without a multi-year lock-up.

✓ Guaranteed fixed rate for the full 13-month term
✓ NCUA insured up to $250,000
✓ Daily compounding, credited monthly
✓ Flexible options at maturity — renew, withdraw, or change terms

Why a 13 Month Smart CD?

Highest APY Available

Our top-tier CD rate — the best guaranteed yield BrightStar offers today.

Better Than a Multi-Year Lock

Get our best rate without committing 3+ years. Maximum yield with a modest term.

Zero Risk

Your deposit is federally insured by NCUA up to $250,000. Your rate is locked — no surprises.

Ideal For

Yield seekers — grab our highest guaranteed rate without a long lock-up

Rollover shoppers — move maturing savings into our top-tier rate

CD ladder builders — use the 13 Month Smart CD as the anchor rung of your ladder

13 Month Smart CD Questions, Answered

Find answers to common questions about our checking accounts and services.

Showing of questions

Can't find what you're looking for?
Contact us

No questions match your search

Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us

Important Disclosures

*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Rate = Dividend Rate. Rates shown are our best rates; are correct as of the effective date (07/01/26) shown and are subject to change or end without notice. Your actual rate(s) may vary depending upon a number of factors, including membership level, and length of certificate. Fees could reduce earnings on an account, a penalty will or may be imposed for early withdrawals. Ask a BrightStar Credit Union representative for details. Terms and conditions apply. Membership eligibility required. $500.00 Minimum on Certificate of Deposit. Federally insured by NCUA.