Discover how to build a CD ladder to strategically enhance liquidity and maximize interest. A step-by-step guide for balanced investing with certificates of deposit.

Miranda Marquit, MBA, is a freelance contributor to Newsweek’s personal finance team. She has an M.A. in journalism from Syracuse University and has been writing and podcasting about money since 2006.

A buddy of mine has what I call a beast-mode emergency fund. It's a full 12 months of living expenses (mine is more like three to four months). Looking for a secure place to grow your savings? See our ...