Certificate Accounts
A certificate works the same way that a certificate of deposit, or CD, does at other financial institutions. All of our certificate accounts feature a higher interest rate than most savings accounts and none of the risk of the stock market, making them a very safe way to invest.
Certificates earn more than most savings accounts and are less risky than investing in the stock market.
Whether you're looking to invest $500 or much more, we have certificate accounts to fit your goals.
Terms for our certificates range from 6 to 60 months so you can choose the accounts that best suit your plans
If you have $100,000 or more to invest, higher interest rates may be available to you.
Certificate Account
A certificate account guarantees that your money will earn a certain interest rate for the entire length of the certificate. We have a range of terms for both short-term and long-term savings goals. Certificate accounts have no fees, though there is a penalty for early withdrawal. For minimum opening deposit and rate information, see rate table below.
IRA Certificate Account
An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) Certificate combines the guaranteed dividends of a certificate account with the tax advantages of an IRA. We have a range of terms for both short-term and long-term retirement savings goals. For minimum opening deposit and rate information, see rate table below.
IRA Accumulation Certificate Account
Ascend's IRA Accumulation Variable Rate Certificate is a 12-month certificate that's a little different from most certificate accounts. Instead of locking in an interest rate, this certificate’s rate varies with the market allowing you to take advantage of any increases in the interest rate. You can also make additional deposits at any time. For minimum opening deposit and rate information, see rate table below.
Member's Advantage Certificate Account
The Member’s Advantage certificate account is a 15-month fixed-rate certificate offered to qualified Ascend members. This certificate is unlike other certificates in that during the term, you can make one additional deposit of at least $1,000. And if interest rates increase during the term, you can choose a one-time rate increase. For minimum opening deposit and rate information, see rate table below. To qualify for this account, you must be using at least two of the following services:
- Active Direct Deposit/Automatic Deposit
- Active Online Bill Pay User
- Active Checking Account
- Active Debit Card
- Existing Loan (Open with Balance)
- Active Credit Card
- Receiving Statements Electronically
- Active Online Banking User
- Active STAR User
- Combined IRA Balances of at least $10,000
- Active ATM Card User
- Certificate Account
- Health Savings Account
Regular and/or IRA Share Certificate
| Term | Minimum Deposit | APY |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Months | $500 | 0.50% |
| 12 Months | $500 | 0.61% |
| 18 Months | $1,000 | 0.70% |
| 24 Months | $1,000 | 0.75% |
| 36 Months | $1,000 | 0.85% |
| 48 Months | $1,000 | 0.90% |
| 60 Months | $1,000 | 0.95% |
| Jumbo 6 Months | $100,000 | Negotiable |
| Jumbo 12 Months | $100,000 | Negotiable |
IRA Accumulation Share Certificate
| Term | Minimum Deposit | APY |
|---|---|---|
| 12 Month IRA Variable | $5 | 0.90% |
Member's Advantage Share Certificate
| Term | Minimum Deposit | APY |
|---|---|---|
| 15 Months | $1,000 | 0.60% |
Rates effective February 24, 2021
Legal Disclosures and Additional Information
Share Certificate Accounts and Individual Retirement Account Share Certificates - Certificate rates are normally established each Wednesday. Fees and/or other conditions may reduce earnings on the account. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. If you have any comments or requests, please email or call 800-342-3086. Our Truth-In-Savings Account Disclosure offers detailed information regarding the nature of these accounts.
- When will dividends post to certificates?
Dividends for certificates are credited monthly.
- Can I withdraw from my certificate early without penalty?
No. Withdrawals are allowed on each of our certificate types, but they come with a penalty. Visit our Rates Dashboard for current rates and fees.
- Can I change the type or term of my certificate after it has been opened?
For members under age 59 ½, the type and term of a certificate cannot be changed unless the certificate is at maturity or during the grace period. Ascend does offer to our IRA holders who are age 59 ½ or older or who are disabled the opportunity to perform a one-time per calendar year movement of an IRA certificate.
Don't see the question you're looking for?
There are two different ways to open an Ascend certificate.
In Person
Click below to schedule an appointment with a financial center nearest you.