What’s a strong 2-year (24 months) CD rate right now?  You’re looking at top rates of around 2 percent.  Yes, I know it sounds pathetic.  Most strong deposit earning checking accounts are still only 0.5% and most strong 1 year CDs are around 1.25%.  Although recent talk has been more hawkish from the Fed and friends, I tend to think that’s more political pandering and appeasement for the Tea Party.  The largest institution offering the 2% CD is American Express Bank, which offers the CD with no minimum deposit, which is rare among banks that are among the Certificate of deposit leaders.

Speaking of CD offers, I just noticed that IndyMac is offering some pretty attractive rates on short term CDs on its website.

IndyMac CD rates

3 Month          3.25%          3.30%
9 Month          3.92%          4.00%
10 Month        3.92%          4.00%
2 Year             4.16%          4.25%

These rates are extremely attractive when compared to the national averages and may be better than the previously mentioned OnBank offer if someone is looking for a smaller duration.