If you’re looking for a smart and safe place for your money, you’re not alone. As a result, what’s traditionally been considered one of the least glamorous investment options is gaining attention and currently proving to be a popular option, according to Benchmark Federal Credit Union.

“Now is not the time for risky investments, and we’re seeing a substantial increase in the number of people who want to invest in Certificates (also known as CDs) at this time,” said Daniel J. Machon Jr., President and CEO of Benchmark Federal Credit Union, the only federal credit union to exclusively serve Chester County.

Long considered a “safe place” for money during challenging times, Certificates are seeing a surge due to stock market volatility, as well as continuing low interest rate earnings on savings accounts.

The key is to secure a short-term Certificate at the best rate, so your money isn’t locked up when the markets and interest rates change once again. Machon says Benchmark Federal Credit Union is offering the most competitive rate in Chester County on a short-term Certificate, with a one-year Certificate earning 1.00 percent APY, and an 18-month Certificate earning 1.50 percent APY.

“We are paying double what others are paying on Certificates, and it’s available to all who live, work, or worship in Chester County. It’s extremely attractive to folks who may be earning just .06 percent or lower on their savings accounts right now,” said Machon. “We’re urging folks to reach out to us before our Certificate Flash Sale ends on March 31.”

Some quick tips for securing the best Certificate:

• Make sure there are no setup fees, no maintenance fees and rates are fixed.
• Look for a low minimum. Benchmark FCU’s is $500.
• Check the penalty for early withdrawal. Depending on the details, you could still come out ahead if you withdraw your funds before maturity.

Interest rates are expected to rise this year. However, analysts say deposit rates paid to savers will rise at a much slower pace than borrowing costs, and Certificates will continue to be a profitable and safe option.

Benchmark FCU’s Certificates can be opened by phone at 610-429-1600 or by e-mail at memberservice@benchmarkfcu.net. More information is at www.benchmarkfcu.org.