MECU Auto-Build CD

MECU Auto-Build CD Review

MECU Auto-Build CD are offered by MECU, a credit union founded in 1936 and based in Baltimore, MD. MECU Auto-Build CD are available in 1 state across the USA.

Key Takeaways

• Small selection of CD account types. MECU auto build CD only offers IRA and traditional CDs.
• Very high annual percentage yield (APY). This account offers an annual percentage yield of up to 0.55%, which is much higher than the national average for a certificate account.
• Small minimum initial deposit. You only need $25 to open an account.
• Limited selection of share certificate terms. MECU auto build CD only offers two share certificate terms. This limits your options when trying to set up a certificate ladder.

Pros & Cons of MECU Auto-Build CD

MECU Auto-Build CD FAQ

Are share certificates from MECU federally insured?

Yes, your share certificates are insured up to $250,000 per share owner for each account ownership category. The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), a federal agency, administers the insurance fund and regulates federally insured credit unions. The fund is backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.

What is the difference between CDs and Share Certificates?

Certificates of Deposit (CDs) and Share Certificates are both deposit accounts where your money can grow at a fixed rate for a predetermined period of time. Both are low-risk and federally insured products designed to give you a better rate on your deposits than typical savings accounts. The main difference between them is that CDs are offered by for-profit banks, whereas Share Certificates are offered by member-owned, not-for-profit credit unions.

What types of share certificates does MECU offer?

• Traditional share certificates. These share certificates pay a fixed interest rate if you deposit a fixed amount of money for a specific term. Once the maturity date arrives, you have the option of cashing out or automatically renewing the share certificate for another term.
• IRA share certificates. An IRA share certificate is a type of IRA that consists entirely of share certificates. In general, you can invest in share certificates in any IRA, but MECU auto build CD offers a share certificate that is specifically for retirement.

What rates does MECU offer on its share certificates?

MECU auto build CD offers an APY starting at 0.15% and ranging up to 0.55%. APY stands for annual percentage yield and shows the interest rate paid by the share certificate after taking into account compounding.

What is the minimum deposit to open a share certificate account with MECU?

MECU auto build CD require a minimum deposit of $25 to open an account.

What is the grace period for MECU auto build CD?

There is a 7-day grace period for MECU auto build CD. A grace period is a period of time during which you can withdraw the money in your share certificate without paying an early withdrawal penalty. A grace period starts the day after a share certificate’s maturity date, or the final day a share certificate is opened. Standard share certificates renew automatically at the same term if you don't withdraw your money after the 7-day grace period. Note that the new share certificate rates probably won’t be the same as the original.

What types of fees, such as early withdrawal penalties, does MECU charge?

Financial institutions don't typically charge many fees on share certificates. However, most charge a fee if you choose to withdraw your money before the term ends.

MECU does not charge an early withdrawal fee.