Certificate Frequently Asked Questions

At First Tech, we offer share certificates, not traditional Certificates of Deposit (CDs). While both account types help grow your savings by locking in funds for a set period, there are key differences:

• Share certificates are offered by credit unions like First Tech and are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000.
• CDs are offered by banks and insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

With a share certificate, you commit to keeping your principal amount untouched for a specific term. Early withdrawals may result in loss of earnings and potential penalties. Our competitive rates and flexible terms are designed to help you reach your savings goals faster.

Learn more about share certificates and how they support your financial future.

What is a Certificate Ladder?

A certificate ladder is a smart savings strategy that helps you earn higher returns while keeping access to your funds. By spreading your investment across certificates with different maturity dates, you can take advantage of long-term rates without locking away all your money.

How it works: You divide your savings into multiple certificates with staggered terms—short-, medium-, and long-term. As each certificate matures, you reinvest it into a longer-term certificate. Over time, your ladder will consist entirely of high-yield, long-term certificates maturing at regular intervals.

Example: If you have $5,000 to invest, you could start with:

• $1,000 in a 12-month certificate
• $1,000 in a 24-month certificate
• $1,000 in a 3-year certificate
• $1,000 in a 4-year certificate
• $1,000 in a 5-year certificate

As each certificate matures, reinvest it into a new 5-year certificate. After five years, you’ll have a ladder of 5-year certificates maturing annually—giving you regular access to funds and maximizing your earnings.

Benefits:

• Higher yields from long-term certificates
• Regular access to funds through staggered maturities
• Flexible strategy that grows with your financial goals

 Explore our current certificate rates and terms
 Learn more about how laddering supports your savings goals

A share certificate is a secure savings option that allows you to earn dividends over a fixed period—known as the term—with minimal risk. It’s a great way to grow your savings while planning for future goals.

How it works:

• You choose a term length (typically between 6 months and 5 years).
• Your money stays in the account for the full term.
• You earn Annual Percentage Yield (APY)—the longer the term, the higher the potential yield.
• Early withdrawals may result in penalties or loss of earnings. ( See our Fee Schedule)

Why choose a share certificate?

• Guaranteed returns with competitive rates
• Flexible term options to match your goals
• Federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000

Share certificates are offered by member-owned credit unions like First Tech—not traditional banks. They’re designed to help you reach your savings goals  with confidence and clarity.

Explore our current certificate rates and terms
Learn more about how share certificates support your financial future

Yes—if you have a Bump-Up Certificate, you have the flexibility to request a rate increase when rates go up. This special certificate allows you to take advantage of rising rates during your term, helping you earn more on your savings.

Key Features of Bump-Up Certificates:

• Rate Increase Option: You can request a one-time rate bump during your term if rates rise.
• Additional Deposit: You may make one additional deposit  for every 12 months completed, or once per term depending on the product.
• Secure Growth: Your funds remain insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000.

This option is ideal for members who want the stability of a certificate with the flexibility to benefit from market changes.

View today’s certificate rates
See full disclosures and terms

At First Tech, there is no maximum balance limit for our Share Certificates—giving you the flexibility to invest as much as you'd like. However, there is a minimum opening deposit of $500 to get started.

Important Insurance Information:

• All deposited funds are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000 per member, per account type.
• Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are insured separatelyby the NCUA, also up to $250,000.

This means your savings are protected while you earn competitive dividends over your chosen term.

View our current certificate rates
See our Fee Schedule and full disclosures

Opening a Share Certificate online is simple and secure—whether you're already a member or just getting started.

If you're a First Tech member:

1. Log in to Online Banking.
2. Navigate to the “Open New Account” section.
3. Select Share Certificates and follow the prompts to complete your application.

If you're not yet a member:

1. Visit the Banking section on our website.
2. Select Share Certificates.
3. Complete the online application to join First Tech and open your certificate.

With competitive rates and flexible terms, our Share Certificates are designed to help you reach your savings goals with confidence.

Open a Share Certificate now
Explore current certificate rates and terms

At First Tech, our Share Certificates offer competitive, guaranteed returns with flexible term options to help you grow your savings securely.

All certificates require a minimum opening deposit of $500 and are federally insured by the NCUA up to $250,000.

Whether you're looking for short-term flexibility or long-term growth, our certificates are designed to help you reach your financial goals with confidence.

 View all current rates and terms
 Explore our certificate calculator