The most important thing in brief
- How it works: Fixed-term deposits are investments with
fixed interest rates throughout the entire term, which can range from one
month to ten years.
- Interest income: The larger the investment amount, the
higher the interest rate, and the longer the term, the higher the interest
income. Savers can often earn higher interest rates on fixed-term deposits
in other European countries than at German banks.
- Deposit protection: Fixed-term deposits are covered by the
EU-wide deposit guarantee scheme. This protects deposits up to €100,000 per
investor and bank.
How much do fixed-term deposits earn?
At WeltSparen, you currently receive up to 3.15% interest per
annum on your fixed-term deposits. Fixed-term deposit interest rates depend on
the base rate and the deposit rate of the European Central Bank (ECB).
Term (Months) |
Maximum Interest Rate (p.a.) |
3 |
2.50% |
6 |
2.55% |
9 |
2.57% |
12 |
2.67% |
24 |
2.80% |
36 |
2.85% |
48 |
2.80% |
60 |
2.90% |
120 |
3.15% |
Since the interest rate on fixed-term deposits remains constant throughout the entire term,
investors can calculate exactly what profit they will make at the end of the term. Interest
rates generally increase with longer terms. Comparing fixed-term deposit interest rates can
help you find current fixed-term deposit offers with the best conditions.
May Update: Continue to benefit from attractive interest rates
Last updated: May 5, 2025
The inflation rate in the European Union (EU) is currently 2.10% (as of May 2025).
Interest rates in the eurozone therefore continue to benefit from the high level of the
European Central Bank's (ECB) key interest rates. The deposit rate is currently 2.25%
(as of May 2025), after the ECB announced its seventh interest rate cut since the
interest rate turnaround in April 2025.
Although the recent interest rate cuts are affecting interest rates on savings accounts,
interest rates may still be attractive for savers. It may be worthwhile to look beyond
Germany's borders: Fixed-term deposit interest rates can be higher in other EU countries
than in Germany. At WeltSparen, savers receive attractive interest rates on fixed-term
deposits in Germany and other EU countries – even for short terms. For example, if you
invest your money for a fixed term of one year, you can earn up to 2.67% interest per
annum. For longer-term investments, fixed-term deposits with a term of five years offer
up to 2.90% interest per annum.
Compare fixed-term
deposits now
What Is a Fixed-Term Deposit?
A fixed-term deposit is a type of savings account where a specific amount of money is
invested for a set period at a fixed interest rate.
This makes it a fixed-interest investment. One key advantage is that savers
know from the beginning exactly what return to expect.
In general, the longer the term, the higher the interest rate—and therefore
the return.
Typically, the money cannot be accessed before the end of the agreed term.
Once the term ends, the investor receives the original amount along with the earned
interest.
While fixed-term deposits are less flexible than overnight accounts, they
often offer more attractive interest rates.
For long-term savings goals, a fixed-term deposit account may be the ideal option.
How to achieve the highest return with fixed-term deposits
- Fixed-term deposit returns depend on three components: the investment
amount, the
duration, and the interest rate. The more you invest over a longer
period at
attractive interest rates, the higher the return.
- However, returns are always relative, since inflation reduces the real
value
of your savings. The aim of fixed-term investing is often to counter
inflation
rather than to grow wealth significantly.
- Whether compound interest is applied depends on the specific offer,
which can
influence the total return.
- With the laddering strategy, savers can open multiple fixed-term
accounts
with staggered maturities. This allows for regular reinvestment and taking
advantage
of the best available interest rates.
Do fixed-term deposits offer compound interest?
Fixed-term deposits generally operate without compound interest, as interest is only
calculated at the end of the term. However, in exceptional cases, there are fixed-term
deposits that offer compound interest. Information on this can be obtained from the
respective bank and in the fixed-term deposit account details. It may be worthwhile to
consider compound interest when comparing fixed-term deposits to find the best offer for
you.
Fixed Deposit Amount |
€2,500 |
€13,000 |
€75,000 |
Term |
2 years |
3 years |
2 years |
Interest Rate |
3.30% p.a. |
3.45% p.a. |
3.45% p.a. |
Profit at Maturity |
€165 |
€1,345.50 |
€5,175 |
Amount You Receive |
€2,665 |
€14,345.50 |
€80,175 |
Fixed-Term Deposit Comparison: Choosing the Right Term
Fixed-term deposits are available with durations ranging from a few months to several years.
In general, the longer the term, the higher the interest rate.
However, this principle typically only applies up to around five years.
Beyond that, longer terms do not currently offer significantly higher interest
rates (as of May 2025).
The interest rates for fixed-term deposits are influenced by the European Central Bank’s key
interest rate.
In periods where the ECB is raising rates, short-term deposits of 12 months
or less can be a smart choice,
allowing investors to quickly reinvest in new, more favorable offers as they become
available.
In June 2024, the ECB initiated its first rate cut in years.
If the base rate continues to fall or remains low, it might be wise to lock in
current interest rates for a longer period
before they decline further. In this scenario, choosing a fixed-term deposit of 2 years or
more could be beneficial.
Since funds are only accessible after the term ends, it's advisable to invest only the
amount you won’t need access to during that time.
Short-Term Fixed Deposit for Three Months
A three-month fixed deposit allows savers to invest capital for a short period while
benefiting from a fixed interest rate.
Currently, rates of up to 2.50% p.a. are available.
The interest rate is generally slightly higher than overnight savings
accounts but usually lower than those of long-term fixed deposit offers.
This type of investment can be ideal if rising interest rates are expected in the
near future and you plan to reinvest later at better conditions.
It’s also useful for managing larger cash reserves—allowing you to invest a portion at a
better rate while keeping liquidity through an overnight account.
To further increase flexibility, laddering fixed deposits with staggered
maturities ensures that part of your funds becomes available each month.
Plan Flexibly and Secure Interest with a Six-Month Fixed Deposit
A six-month fixed deposit is a great option for those who want to invest funds for a short
but manageable period.
Currently, interest rates of up to 2.55% p.a. are available.
With fixed-term deposits, interest rates remain constant throughout the
term, allowing for reliable financial planning.
A six-month term can be especially useful when major purchases are planned
and you want your money to earn interest until then.
It’s also a smart choice in times of fluctuating interest rate markets,
offering flexibility to react to changes in rates.
In most comparisons, six-month fixed deposit rates tend to be higher than those for
three-month terms.
Invest Mid-Term with a One-Year Fixed Deposit
A one-year fixed deposit allows savers to tie up their capital for a mid-term period while
earning attractive interest.
Currently, rates of up to 2.67% p.a. are available.
This type of investment can be ideal when major expenses—such as buying a home,
renovating a property, or purchasing a new car—are planned for about twelve months from now.
In most cases, interest rates for one-year fixed deposits are higher than those for
six-month terms, making it a strong option for balancing returns and flexibility.
Compare fixed deposits for 1
year
Invest Long-Term with Fixed Deposits from Two to Ten Years
Fixed-term deposits with durations between two and ten years allow for long-term
investment of capital at attractive interest rates.
This term is especially suitable for financial assets that can be set aside for the long
term, such as:
- Reserves for retirement planning
- Planned major investments in a few years
These fixed deposits can serve as a low-risk addition to long-term financial
planning—for example, to balance stock-based investments like funds or ETFs.
Since the interest rate is fixed for the entire term, it remains stable regardless of market
fluctuations.
In most comparisons, longer durations offer better rates, making long-term fixed
deposits an appealing option for earning consistent returns.
Laddering Strategy – Spread Your Savings & Benefit from Higher Rates
The so-called laddering strategy involves distributing your investment across multiple
fixed-term deposit accounts with staggered maturities—for example, one, two, and three
years.
This approach provides a degree of flexibility, allowing savers to respond to rising
interest rates as each deposit matures.
When a term ends, the funds can be reinvested with the bank offering the most attractive
rates.
Compared to locking all funds into a single three-year term, this method can lead to
higher overall returns.
By using the laddering strategy, a portion of the investment becomes available at regular
intervals, which can be used for unexpected expenses.
If all the money is tied up in a single fixed deposit, access is only possible at the end of
the term.
That’s why the laddering strategy is well suited for investors who want to stay
flexible and take advantage of the best current fixed deposit rates.
How Safe Is a Fixed-Term Deposit?
Fixed-term deposits are considered a low-risk form of investment. Within the EU, they
are protected by the statutory deposit guarantee scheme.
Funds held in a fixed deposit account are insured up to €100,000 per investor and
bank.
If the deposit guarantee fund is based in a foreign currency, protection is provided in that
currency, and the coverage amount may depend on the current exchange rate.
The deposit guarantee ensures that savings up to a certain limit are protected even in the
event of a bank's insolvency.
In addition to the legal guarantee, many banks also contribute to private deposit
protection funds, which may offer coverage above €100,000.
In our fixed deposit comparison, you can check the deposit protection level of each partner
bank with a single click.
Who Should Consider a Fixed-Term Deposit?
Fixed-term deposits are often best suited for risk-averse investors. Regardless of
interest rate fluctuations, they offer stable returns over the entire term.
This type of investment is ideal for savers who can afford to set aside part of their
savings for a few months or years in exchange for an attractive fixed return.
It can also be a solid option for preserving wealth or as part of a retirement
savings strategy.
How Does Fixed-Term Investing Work with WeltSparen?
With WeltSparen and its partner banks across Europe, savers gain access to established
financial institutions with proven expertise.
Since 2013, the platform has provided investors with a simple and fast way to access free
fixed-term and overnight deposit accounts, along with a range of additional
investment opportunities.
Security
Raisin Bank holds a full German banking license and is supervised by BaFin
(Federal Financial Supervisory Authority).
The bank is also subject to the German Deposit Guarantee Act.
WeltSparen’s partner banks are authorized by the relevant supervisory authorities in
their respective countries to conduct banking activities.
Additionally, all partner banks located within the EU and Norway are registered as
cross-border credit institutions by the Financial Market Authority (FMA).
Requirements for Opening a Fixed-Term Deposit Account
A fixed-term deposit account can be opened with WeltSparen under the following
conditions:
- Must be of legal age (18 or older)
- Acting in your own name
- Residence in Germany
- Reference account with a bank based in the EU
- Valid email address
What Documents Are Required to Open a Fixed-Term Deposit Account?
The documents required to open a fixed-term deposit account depend on the specific
requirements of each partner bank.
Depending on the country’s regulations, the application can usually be uploaded directly via
WeltSparen’s online banking platform.
Some banks may also require the original signed application by post.
In addition, a copy of your ID is required.
If this was not already provided during the identification process, it can be uploaded as a
scanned copy in your online banking area.
Further details about the necessary documents can be found in the respective product
information sheet.
What Is the Minimum Deposit for Fixed-Term Accounts?
There are no legal regulations specifying a minimum or maximum amount for fixed-term
deposits.
The minimum deposit depends on the bank’s individual offer and usually ranges between
€500 and €10,000.
Therefore, it’s important to check the conditions of each offer carefully when comparing
fixed-term deposit accounts.
How Are Fixed-Term Deposit Earnings Taxed?
Interest earnings from fixed-term deposits count as capital income. As such, they are
subject to a flat tax of 25%,
plus a 5.5% solidarity surcharge and, if applicable, church tax.
The flat tax is automatically withheld by the bank and paid to the tax office. Since 2009,
savers benefit from a savings allowance,
which defines the tax-free portion of capital income. As of 2025, up to €1,000 per person
per year is tax-free, or €2,000 for jointly assessed couples.
To apply this exemption, you must submit an exemption order (Freistellungsauftrag) to your
bank.
This allowance can also be split across multiple banks.
Some countries additionally impose a withholding tax on interest income, with rates
varying from 0.00% to 35.00% depending on the country.
This tax is withheld directly by the foreign bank and remitted to the local tax authority.
Whether your fixed-term deposit is subject to a withholding tax can be seen at a glance in
our deposit comparison tool.
Benefit from the Best Rates in Our Fixed-Term Deposit Comparison
Fixed-term deposits are a classic and low-risk investment option that can offer
attractive returns at any time.
In our fixed deposit comparison, interest rates primarily depend on the term duration
and the creditworthiness of the issuing country.
At WeltSparen’s partner banks, interest rates of up to 3.15% p.a. are currently
available.
Compare fixed deposits now
FAQs about fixed-term deposits
With fixed-term deposits, you can invest a fixed amount at the beginning
of the term. This amount is invested for a fixed period at a fixed
interest rate. Therefore, it is generally not possible to use a
fixed-term deposit account as a form of regular savings, such as a
savings plan.
Early termination of a fixed-term deposit account is usually not
possible. Fixed-term deposits are invested for a specific period of time
and are not accessible during this time. In exceptional cases, the bank
may agree to a temporary termination. However, this may incur additional
fees and a reduction in the fixed-term deposit interest rate.
The rules regarding term extensions for fixed-term deposits can vary
from bank to bank. For example, some fixed-term deposits offer automatic
term extensions (prolongations). If savers do not inform their bank that
they do not wish to extend their investment, the bank may reinvest the
money. The term will then be extended by the same amount. The fixed-term
deposit will only increase by the interest earned.
If one of our partner banks offers automatic term extensions, this can
be deactivated with one click in WeltSparen online banking. Savers will
be notified of the extension at the beginning of their fixed-term
deposit and reminded again in good time before the end of the term.
At the end of the term, savers have several options. The most suitable
option depends on their individual investment goals. The following
options are available:
✓ Reinvest the amount with the same or another partner bank at the
current interest rate (Prolongation)
✓ Pay out the investment including interest income
In many European countries, fixed-term deposit rates are often
higher than in your home country,
making it worthwhile to invest abroad and benefit from better
interest returns.
Thanks to the EU-wide deposit guarantee, savings are protected
up to €100,000 per investor and bank.
Countries outside the EU—such as the United Kingdom and Norway—also
offer legal deposit protection schemes.
WeltSparen focuses on fixed-term deposit offers from abroad to provide
the best available rates in our comparison.
When the money is invested in euros, there is
no exchange rate risk.
However, the situation is different with a foreign currency account. Since exchange
rates between the euro and other currencies can fluctuate,
there is a risk of loss in value. If the euro gains
value during the term, the payout may be reduced.
On the other hand, a profit is also possible if the
euro weakens.
The exchange rate at the time of payout ultimately
determines the outcome.
Opening a fixed-term deposit for children can be worthwhile if the
invested funds are not needed for the next several
years.
After the term ends, the money can be used for important milestones like
driving school, university, or vocational training.
Compared to traditional savings books or overnight accounts,
fixed-term deposits for children typically offer better interest
rates.
The child can only access the funds after the term has expired, which is
why the laddering strategy may also be beneficial here.
It allows partial amounts to become available at intervals, while any
reinvestments can take advantage of the best current
rates available in our fixed deposit comparison.
Note: The content on this page is for general informational purposes
only and does not constitute tax advice.
For detailed information or individual clarification of tax-related questions, we
recommend consulting a tax advisor or another person qualified under § 2 StBerG.