Why Are Certificates Becoming So Popular?

Share Certificates, also known as certificate accounts or certificates among many credit unions, are investment accounts that yield higher returns than traditional savings accounts. They offer a spectrum of financial perks with very little downside. Keep reading to find out if adding a Certificate to your savings plan is right for you.

What is a Certificate?

Most credit unions and banks offer three primary savings and investment accounts:

• Traditional savings accounts
• Money market accounts
• Certificates

Among the three, certificates generally offer the greatest yields. However, there is a tradeoff in exchange for earning higher dividends. With a Certificate, your money is locked in, meaning you cannot access or withdraw your funds (without incurring a penalty). While this account characteristic might seem like a drawback, it’s often a blessing in disguise because it forces you to save money.

How Does a Certificate Work?

Because your money is locked in for a designated period, Certificates are broken up into varying terms. For example, you’ll often see certificates displayed in the following fashion:

Characteristics of Certificates:

• While terms vary by the financial institution, they typically range from six months to five years.
• Generally, the longer the term, the higher the rate of return you will earn.
• Your funds are locked in during your term. You can access your funds, but you will be required to pay a penalty. This penalty can vary among institutions. Patriot offers a competitively low penalty. Ask for more details.
• Most Certificates require a minimum deposit, such as $1,000. Patriot offers two Continuous Saver Certificate options designed for building the minimum deposit that only requires a $25 deposit to open.

Advantages of Certificates:

• There is essentially no risk when investing in Certificates. Your account is either federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) or the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to $250,000.
• With guaranteed returns, they are an excellent alternative to the rollercoaster ride in the stock market.
• Dividend rates are generally fixed, meaning you’ll know exactly how much your investment will return over the life of its term.
• In an emergency, you can withdraw funds from your account quickly and easily. However, depending on the financial institution, you’ll likely incur either an early withdrawal fee or forfeit a portion of the earnings on your account.
• Certificates force you to save money by locking in your funds until the end of your chosen term. You cannot dip into this account for frivolous spending like you could with a traditional savings or money market account.
• When lenders are low on funds to loan out, they will often raise money through Certificate promotions. Consequently, you might be able to score a much higher rate than current market returns through bonus incentives.

Drawbacks of Certificates:

• Your money is locked in during your term. If other investment opportunities come up, interest rates rise, or you need access to your funds, you cannot withdraw the money without incurring a fee or penalty.
• Inflation causes interest rates to rise. If your money is locked into a long-term certificate, you could lose out on rising interest rates.

Wise Ways to Use Certificates:

Certificates are versatile investment accounts that can earn a good return with no risk. While the higher dividends are nice, it’s the fact that your money is locked in that helps so many members. By being forced to save, you’re more likely to achieve your financial goals.

Here are several strategies for using certificates to your advantage:

• Diversify Investments: A well-diversified investment portfolio is a winning strategy for any investor. Adding Certificates to your portfolio during a rising rate environment will yield strong dividends without the market risk.
• Conservative Investments: If you’re nearing retirement, it might be time to tone down your risk tolerance and move toward a more conservative investing approach. Certificates will yield favorable dividends without unnecessary market risk.
• First-Time Investments: Certificates are a great first step if you’re ready to start investing but don’t have the stomach for potential market losses just yet. They teach you not to touch your money for extended periods and let it grow through compound interest.
• Mid-Range Financial Goals (1 to 5 Years): Because your funds are locked in, Certificates are the perfect way to save for future financial goals, such as:
  • A down payment or closing costs on a new home.
  • A college fund for your child.
  • A dream vacation for your family.

We’re Here to Help!

While no one enjoys periods of high inflation, there are opportunities in everything. Right now, yields are climbing higher, and certificates are making a strong comeback. These popular accounts might be the perfect tool to help boost your investment returns without added risk.

If you want to learn more about certificates or are ready to open an account, we’re here to help. Please stop by any of our ten convenient branch locations or call 888-777-9982 to speak with a team member today.