Best 3-Year GIC Rates In Canada May 2024

Contributor

Updated: May 3, 2024, 9:49am

Courtney Reilly-Larke
editor

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Editorial Note: Forbes Advisor may earn a commission on sales made from partner links on this page, but that doesn't affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

In periods of financial uncertainty, three-year GICs (Guaranteed Investment Certificates) serve as a solid investment choice. The main reason? These GICs can secure your capital at a predetermined interest rate or annual percentage yield (APY) for a three-year duration, ensuring that you receive both the earned interest and your initial investment back at the end of the term.

GIC terms can vary from as short as 30 days to as long as 10 years—so a three-year GIC is a middle-of-the-road option for many investors. With a fixed-rate three-year GIC, your interest rate remains the same over the three-year term, guaranteeing you a stable return, regardless of market fluctuations. With market-linked GICs, you earn interest that fluctuates with the performance of a particular stock market, potentially offering higher returns—but no guaranteed interest.

Today, there are a plethora of three-year GIC choices. To help you find some of the best places to put your savings, Forbes Advisor Canada looked at hundreds of three-year GICs to identify the top options available to you.

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Best 3-Year GIC Rates Currently Available in Canada*

  • Wealth One Bank of Canada – 5.00%
  • Oaken Financial – 4.80%
  • EQ Bank – 4.80%
  • Hubert Financial and Ideal Savings – 4.70%
  • Achieva Financial – 4.60%
  • MAXA Financial – 4.60%
  • Outlook Financial – 4.50%

*Rates are non-redeemable and non-market-linked. Current as of May 3, 2024.


Best 3-Year GICs In Canada For 2024

We compared 504 GICs at 43 financial institutions to find some of the best options available. Learn more about why we picked each GIC, the pros and cons and the rate details.


TD Canadian Banks GIC (RSP, RIF, RESP)

TD Canadian Banks GIC (RSP, RIF, RESP)
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Term

3 years

TD Canadian Banks GIC (RSP, RIF, RESP)

APY

10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Term

3 years

Why We Picked It

Opting for the TD Canadian Banks GIC within RSP, RIF or RESP accounts is a prudent choice if you are seeking a balanced mix of security and potential growth. With a guaranteed minimum interest return of 10% and the possibility of reaching up to 25%, this GIC offers a competitive edge. Its link to the S&P/TSX Bank Index allows investors to tap into the financial performance of Canada’s banking sector, with the added advantage of being housed within tax-advantaged accounts, enhancing the overall investment return.

Pros & Cons
  • Guaranteed minimum 10% return with up to 25% potential
  • Available in RSP, RIF and RESP accounts
  • Low minimum deposit requirement
  • Principal protection and CDIC eligibility
  • Not cashable before maturity, except under specific conditions for RESP and RIF
  • Dependency on market performance for maximum returns
  • Interest is only paid at maturity
Details

The TD Canadian Banks GIC for RSP, RIF and RESP accounts is particularly attractive if you are looking to leverage retirement and education savings plans. By aligning the investment with the performance of Canada’s strong banking sector, it provides you with a growth opportunity that traditional fixed-income investments rarely offer. The low entry point of $500 ensures that even investors with modest portfolios can take advantage of this product. Furthermore, the structure of this GIC, designed for tax-advantaged accounts, means that the returns are maximized in a tax-efficient manner, making it a smart choice if you are planning for retirement or education funding.

TD Canadian Banks GIC (Non-registered and TFSA)

TD Canadian Banks GIC (Non-registered and TFSA)
4.7
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Term

3 years

TD Canadian Banks GIC (Non-registered and TFSA)

APY

10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Term

3 years

Why We Picked It

The TD Canadian Banks GIC for non-registered accounts and TFSAs is an attractive investment option due to its link with the S&P/TSX Bank Index, reflecting the performance of major Canadian banks. This GIC guarantees a minimum 10% return, with the potential to reach up to 25%, combining security with the opportunity for significant growth. The principal is protected and the investment is CDIC eligible, making it a secure choice if you are looking to benefit from the financial sector’s performance without direct stock market exposure.

Pros & Cons
  • Guaranteed minimum 10% return, with a potential for up to 25%
  • Linked to the performance of leading Canadian banks
  • Eligibility for CDIC insurance
  • Accessible minimum deposit requirements
  • Non-cashable before maturity
  • Maximum return depends on market performance
  • Interest is compounded annually and paid at maturity
Details

The TD Canadian Banks GIC within non-registered accounts and TFSAs is an excellent option for investors looking to capitalize on the banking sector’s robustness without incurring the volatility of direct stock investments. With terms suitable for a variety of registered accounts and a non-registered option, this GIC is flexible enough to fit diverse investment strategies. The guaranteed minimum return offers a solid base, while the link to the S&P/TSX Bank Index allows investors to potentially exceed traditional GIC returns, making it a standout choice in the three-year GIC category.

TD U.S. Top 500 GIC (RRSP, RRIF, RESP)

TD U.S. Top 500 GIC (RRSP, RRIF, RESP)
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Term

3 years

TD U.S. Top 500 GIC (RRSP, RRIF, RESP)

APY

7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Term

3 years

Why We Picked It

The TD U.S. Top 500 GIC for RRSP, RRIF and RESP accounts offers a unique investment opportunity by linking returns to the S&P 500 Index, a benchmark that represents the stock performance of 500 of the largest companies listed on stock exchanges in the United States. This GIC not only provides a guaranteed minimum return of 7% but also offers the potential to achieve up to 20% based on the index’s performance. It’s an attractive option if you are looking to diversify your portfolio with exposure to the U.S. stock market, ensuring that your principal amount is secure.

Pros & Cons
  • Guaranteed minimum return of 7%, with the potential to reach up to 20%
  • Exposure to the performance of the top 500 U.S. companies
  • Eligible for CDIC insurance
  • Minimum deposit of $500
  • Not cashable before maturity, except for specific situations like RESP or RIF payments
  • The maximum return depends on the U.S. stock market’s performance
  • Interest and any bonus returns are paid at maturity, with no option for periodic interest payments
Details

The TD U.S. Top 500 GIC within RRSP, RRIF and RESP accounts is designed for investors seeking to tap into the growth potential of the U.S. stock market without directly investing in stocks. With a term of three years, it’s a medium-term investment that offers a blend of stability and potential growth. This GIC is especially suitable for retirement accounts like RSPs and RIFs, as well as education savings plans like RESPs, providing a secure yet growth-oriented investment option. The minimum deposit requirement makes it accessible to a wide range of investors, offering a strategic way to diversify and grow their portfolios with a link to international markets.

RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC

RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC

APY

10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

Why We Picked It

The RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC offers a compelling blend of security and potential high returns, linked to the performance of the S&P/TSX Banks Index. This GIC guarantees a 10% return, with a possibility of reaching up to 25%, providing an excellent growth opportunity while ensuring your principal is fully protected. Ideal for investors seeking the growth potential of equities without the associated risks, this GIC stands out for its balance of safety and potential high yield within the Canadian banking sector.

Pros & Cons
  • Guaranteed minimum return of 10%, with up to 25% potential
  • Tied to the robust performance of the Canadian banking sector
  • 100% principal protection at maturity
  • Available for a wide range of investment accounts
  • CDIC insured
  • Not cashable before maturity
  • Maximum returns are contingent on market performance
  • Interest plus any potential bonus is paid only at maturity
Details

The RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC is an innovative financial product that offers investors exposure to the Canadian banking sector’s performance with a safety net. The three-year term is an attractive middle ground for investors looking for medium-term investments that can outperform traditional GICs while maintaining capital security. This GIC is suitable for investors who prefer to have their principal protected while still having the opportunity to benefit from the financial market’s potential upside. It’s a smart choice if you wish to diversify your portfolio with a product that offers a minimum return guarantee, along with the excitement of variable market-linked growth potential.

RBC Canadian Utilities MarketSmart GIC

RBC Canadian Utilities MarketSmart GIC
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 30%

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

RBC Canadian Utilities MarketSmart GIC

APY

7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 30%

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

Why We Picked It

The RBC Canadian Utilities MarketSmart GIC offers an appealing blend of security and growth potential, linking returns to the S&P/TSX Capped Utilities Sector Index. This GIC is perfect for anyone seeking the growth potential of equities while ensuring the preservation of their principal. With a guaranteed minimum return of 7% and the possibility of reaching up to 30% based on the utilities sector’s performance, this GIC stands out for investors looking to tap into the utilities market’s potential without direct exposure to stock market volatility.

Pros & Cons
  • Guaranteed minimum return of 7%, with the chance to earn up to 30%
  • Exposure to the utilities sector
  • 100% principal protection at maturity
  • Can be included in various savings plans
  • Eligible for CDIC insurance
  • Non-cashable before maturity
  • The return depends on the market performance of the utilities sector
  • Maximum potential return is capped at 30%
Details

The RBC Canadian Utilities MarketSmart GIC is an innovative financial product that allows investors to benefit from the performance of the Canadian utilities sector. This three-year GIC is an excellent choice if you are looking to diversify your investment portfolio with a product that offers a higher potential return than traditional GICs—while maintaining capital protection. The return is based on the performance of the S&P/TSX Capped Utilities Sector Index, offering a direct link to the utilities market’s performance. This GIC is suitable for investors who are looking for a mix of stability and potential growth in their investment choices, providing a smart option for medium-term financial planning.

RBC North American MarketSmart GIC

RBC North American MarketSmart GIC
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

9.5% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 25%

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

RBC North American MarketSmart GIC

APY

9.5% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 25%

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

Why We Picked It

The RBC North American MarketSmart GIC stands out by offering a unique blend of security and growth potential, linking its returns to the performance of a diversified basket of 20 prominent North American companies. This GIC is an excellent choice for investors who want to participate in the equity market’s potential upside without risking their principal. With a minimum guaranteed return of 9.5% and the possibility of achieving up to 25% based on the performance of the equity basket, it offers a compelling mix of stability and growth potential.

Pros & Cons
  • Guaranteed minimum return of 9.5%, with up to 25% potential return
  • Exposure to a diversified portfolio of leading North American companies
  • 100% principal protection provides a secure investment
  • Available for various savings plans
  • CDIC eligible
  • Returns depend on the performance of the North American equity market
  • Not cashable before maturity
  • The maximum return is capped
Details

The RBC North American MarketSmart GIC is designed for investors looking to diversify their portfolio by gaining exposure to a broad range of sectors across North America without direct investment in the stock market. This three-year GIC combines the safety of a traditional GIC with the growth potential of the equity market, making it an attractive option for medium-term investors. The returns are linked to an equally weighted basket of 20 companies, offering balanced exposure to various industries while reducing sector-specific risks. This GIC is an ideal investment solution if you are seeking to blend the security of guaranteed returns with the potential for higher market-driven gains.

CIBC Market Mix GICs (3 years)

CIBC Market Mix GICs (3 years)
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

Up to 30% based on market performance

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Terms

3 years

CIBC Market Mix GICs (3 years)

APY

Up to 30% based on market performance

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Terms

3 years

Why We Picked It

CIBC Market Mix GICs offer a unique investment opportunity by linking returns to a global portfolio of indices, including the EURO STOXX 50, S&P/ASX 200 and S&P 500. This approach allows investors to tap into the growth potential of major global markets while ensuring 100% principal protection. With a maximum return potential of 30% and a minimum guaranteed return, these GICs are a smart choice if you are looking to diversify your portfolio internationally without the risk of losing their principal.

Pros & Cons
  • Potential for high returns up to 30% based on the performance of major global indices
  • Access to international markets offers broader diversification
  • Suitable for various registered accounts
  • CDIC eligible
  • Returns depend on market performance
  • Investment is locked in for 3 years
  • No periodic interest payments; return is calculated at maturity
Details

The CIBC Market Mix GIC is designed for investors looking for growth opportunities beyond Canadian borders with the security of a GIC. By investing in a mix of indices representing Europe, Australia and the U.S., these GICs provide balanced exposure to global markets. The participation rate of 120% enhances the potential for returns, although the maximum is capped at 30%. This GIC is an excellent choice if you are aiming for higher growth without risking your principal, making it a smart addition to a diversified investment portfolio.

RBC Canadian Market-Linked GIC

RBC Canadian Market-Linked GIC
4.5
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

Variable

(linked to the S&P/TSX 60 Index)

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

RBC Canadian Market-Linked GIC

APY

Variable

(linked to the S&P/TSX 60 Index)

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$1,000

Terms

3 years

Why We Picked It

The Canadian Market-Linked GIC offers investors a unique opportunity to participate in the potential growth of the Canadian equity market without risking their principal. By linking returns to the S&P/TSX 60 Index, investors can benefit from market upswings while enjoying the security of a GIC. This product is ideal for those looking to diversify their portfolio and step beyond traditional fixed-rate GICs without sacrificing the guarantee of their original investment.

Pros & Cons
  • Potential for higher returns linked to the Canadian stock market’s performance
  • 100% principal protection
  • Participation in a broad market index (S&P/TSX 60 Index)
  • Available for various registered accounts
  • CDIC eligible
  • Variable returns, dependent on market performance
  • No periodic interest payments; return is calculated at maturity
Details

The Canadian Market-Linked GIC is structured to provide investors with a way to gain exposure to the Canadian stock market’s potential returns while maintaining the security of a traditional GIC. The return calculation method, based on the average performance of the S&P/TSX 60 Index over the term, offers a balanced approach to capturing market gains. This GIC is particularly suited to investors seeking market-related growth opportunities but who are cautious about direct stock market investment. It’s an innovative financial product that aligns with the goals of investors looking for growth, security and market participation in their investment portfolios.

CIBC Canada Bank 10.5% Minimum at Maturity Market Return GICs (3 years)

CIBC Canada Bank 10.5% Minimum at Maturity Market Return GICs (3 years)
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

Variable

(minimum 10.5%, up to a maximum of 18%)

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Terms

3 years

CIBC Canada Bank 10.5% Minimum at Maturity Market Return GICs (3 years)

APY

Variable

(minimum 10.5%, up to a maximum of 18%)

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Terms

3 years

Why We Picked It

The CIBC Canada Bank Market Return GICs stand out for their innovative approach to combining the security of a GIC with the growth potential of the Canadian banking sector. By linking returns to the Solactive Canada Bank 40 AR Index, this GIC offers a unique opportunity to benefit from the performance of the top Canadian banks. With a guaranteed minimum return of 10.5% and the potential to reach up to 18%, these GICs offer an attractive balance between risk and reward, making them an excellent choice for investors looking to diversify their portfolio.

Pros & Cons
  • Guaranteed minimum return
  • Potential to earn up to 18.00%
  • Direct exposure to the performance of leading Canadian banks
  • Eligible for various registered accounts
  • CDIC insured
  • Variable interest rate based on the market performance
  • Access to funds is restricted until maturity
  • No periodic interest payments, with all returns paid at maturity
Details

This CIBC Canada Bank Market Return GIC allows investors to engage with the financial sector without direct exposure to market volatility. The GIC is linked to the Solactive Canada Bank 40 AR Index, which includes the largest and most stable Canadian banking institutions. This provides a clear path for investors to gain from the banking sector’s potential growth while enjoying the security and predictability of a GIC. It’s a strategic choice for anybody seeking to blend the stability of GICs with the dynamic nature of equity markets, especially in a sector as pivotal as banking.

CIBC Canadian Financials Market Return GICs (3 years)

CIBC Canadian Financials Market Return GICs (3 years)
4.5
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

APY

Variable

(up to 30% based on the Solactive Canada Bank Index performance)

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Terms

3 years

CIBC Canadian Financials Market Return GICs (3 years)

APY

Variable

(up to 30% based on the Solactive Canada Bank Index performance)

Minimum Deposit Requirement

$500

Terms

3 years

Why We Picked It

CIBC’s Canadian Financials Market Return GICs merge the stability of a GIC with the growth potential of the Canadian banking sector, as measured by the Solactive Canada Bank Index. This GIC is an excellent choice for investors seeking exposure to the financial sector without sacrificing the security of their capital. With a potential return of up to 30%, this GIC offers an enticing blend of safety and performance, ideal for anyone looking to benefit from the stability and potential growth of Canada’s major banks.

Pros & Cons
  • Potential for up to 30% return
  • 100% principal protection
  • Direct exposure to the financial sector via the Solactive Canada Bank IndexSuitable for a range of registered accounts
  • CDIC eligibility
  • Return is market-dependent
  • No interim interest payments
  • Funds are locked in for three years
Details

The CIBC Canadian Financials Market Return GICs offer an innovative way for investors to participate in the financial performance of Canada’s banking sector with the added security of a GIC. By linking the return to the Solactive Canada Bank Index, investors have a unique opportunity to benefit from the market’s potential growth while ensuring their principal amount is fully protected. This GIC is especially appealing for anybody looking to diversify their portfolio with a product that offers higher return potential than traditional fixed-rate GICs, all within a secure investment.

Best 3-Year GICs In Canada For 2024


Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) Forbes Advisor Rating Annual Percentage Yield Minimum Deposit Requirement Term
TD Canadian Banks GIC (RSP, RIF, RESP)
10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $500 3 years
TD Canadian Banks GIC (Non-registered and TFSA)
10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $1,000 3 years
CIBC Canada Bank 10.5% Minimum at Maturity Market Return GICs (3 years)
Variable (minimum 10.5%, up to a maximum of 18%) $500 3 years
RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC
10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $1,000 3 years
RBC North American MarketSmart GIC
9.5% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 25% $1,000 3 years
TD U.S. Top 500 GIC (RRSP, RRIF, RESP)
7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $500 3 years
RBC Canadian Utilities MarketSmart GIC
7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 30% $1,000 3 years
CIBC Market Mix GICs (3 years)
Up to 30% based on market performance $500 3 years
RBC Canadian Market-Linked GIC
Variable (linked to the S&P/TSX 60 Index) $1,000 3 years
CIBC Canadian Financials Market Return GICs (3 years)
Variable (up to 30% based on the Solactive Canada Bank Index performance) $500 3 years

Methodology

To create this list, Forbes Advisor Canada analyzed 504 guaranteed investment certificates (GICs) across 43 financial institutions, including a mix of traditional brick-and-mortar banks, online banks and credit unions. We ranked each account on nine data points that included annual percentage yield, minimum deposit requirements, (low, medium and high) customer service, compound interest schedule, available terms and availability.

The following is the weighting assigned to each category.

  • APY: 50.68%
  • Minimum Deposit Requirement: 13.15%
  • Minimum Deposit Requirement Low: 4.67%
  • Minimum Deposit Requirement Medium: 3.67%
  • Minimum Deposit Requirement High: 2.67%
  • Customer Service: 5.67%
  • Compound Interest Schedule: 8.15%
  • Available Terms: 5.67%
  • Availability: 5.67%

GIC with higher APYs rose to the top of the list. Minimum deposit requirements of $10,000 or higher affected scores negatively. Investments with daily compounding interest schedules were scored higher than those with monthly or quarterly schedules. To appear on this list, the GIC must be nationally available.


More 3-Year GIC Rates Available in Canada


Bank/Credit Union Rate Availability
Peoples Trust 4.65% Nationwide
Motive Financial 4.65% Not in Quebec
LBC Digital 4.70% Quebec
ICICI Bank 4.75% Nationwide
Alterna Bank 4.15% Ontario
Meridian Credit Union 4.25% Ontario
Simplii Financial 4.25% Nationwide
Canadian Tire Bank 4.03% Nationwide
Tangerine Bank 5.00% Nationwide
Motusbank 3.25% Nationwide

Current as of May 3, 2024.


What Is a 3-Year GIC?

A three-year Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) in Canada is a secure investment vehicle where you can invest a sum of money for a specific period—in this case, three years. When you invest in a three-year GIC, you agree to lend your money to a financial institution for three years and, in return, earn interest at a predetermined or variable rate throughout this period. At the end of the term, you get back your initial investment (the principal), along with the interest you earned.

There are two main types of three-year GICs: fixed-rate and market-linked. With a fixed-rate GIC, you are guaranteed a specific interest rate over the three-year term, providing you with a predictable return. With market-linked GICs, your interest is tied to the performance of a particular stock market index, which offers you the potential to earn interest at a higher-than-average rate—if that stock market rises.


Pros and Cons of a 3-Year GIC

Pros:

  • Security: Both fixed-rate and market-linked three-year GICs offer a high level of security, with a guaranteed return of the principal amount at the end of the term.
  • Predictable returns: Fixed-rate GICs allow you to know exactly how much interest you will earn, helping make financial planning and budgeting more accurate.
  • Potential for higher returns: Market-linked GICs can offer higher returns if the linked market performs well, providing an opportunity for you to benefit from market upswings without direct exposure to risk (in other words, the chance of losing part or all of your principal).

Cons:

  • Limited liquidity: You are typically unable to access the money you put into a three-year GIC during the term without facing penalties, which can be a significant drawback in case of an unexpected need for cash.
  • Fixed returns: The interest from fixed-rate GICs might be lower than what could potentially be earned from other types of investments that carry higher risk.
  • Uncertain returns: The returns on market-linked GICs are not guaranteed and depend on the volatility and performance of the associated market, which can introduce a level of unpredictability to the investment’s outcome.

How to Find the Best 3-Year GIC Rates

Here’s how to find the best three-year GIC rates:

1. Compare options: Thoroughly research and compare the rates, terms and conditions offered by different financial institutions for both types of three-year GICs to identify the best fit for your financial situation and goals.

2. Online platforms: Use online platforms that provide comprehensive comparisons of GIC rates from a range of banks and credit unions, simplifying the process of finding the best rate available.

3. Financial advisors: Engaging with a financial advisor can provide personalized advice and insights based on your specific financial situation, helping you choose the right GIC option that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.

4. Negotiation: Always be prepared to negotiate with financial institutions, leveraging your investment amount or customer loyalty to secure a more favourable interest rate.

5. Understand the terms: It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions associated with the GIC—especially with market-linked GICs where the process for determining the return can be complex—to ensure that the investment aligns with your expectations and financial goals.

By following steps, you can more effectively navigate the options available for three-year GICs, making an informed decision that balances your need for security and potential returns.


Compare the Best 3-Year GICs


GIC APY Minimum Deposit Term Length
CIBC Canada Bank 10.5% Minimum at Maturity Market Return GICs (3 years) Variable (minimum 10.5%, up to a maximum of 18%) $500 3 years
TD Canadian Banks GIC (RSP, RIF, RESP) 10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $500 3 years
TD Canadian Banks GIC (Non-registered and TFSA) 10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $1,000 3 years
RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC 10% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $1,000 3 years
RBC North American MarketSmart GIC 9.5% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 25% $1,000 3 years
TD U.S. Top 500 GIC (RRSP, RRIF, RESP) 7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return $500 3 years
RBC Canadian Utilities MarketSmart GIC 7% Guaranteed Minimum Interest Return with a maximum potential of 30% $1,000 3 years
CIBC Market Mix GICs (3 years) Up to 30% based on market performance $500 3 years
RBC Canadian Market-Linked GIC Variable (linked to the S&P/TSX 60 Index) $1,000 3 years
CIBC Canadian Financials Market Return GICs (3 years) Variable (up to 30% based on the Solactive Canada Bank Index performance) $500 3 years

Alternatives to 3-Year GICs

Canadians seeking alternatives to three-year Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) in Canada have several options to consider, each with its own risk profile, liquidity level and potential for returns. Here are some key alternatives:

Shorter-Term GICs

You can opt for GICs with shorter durations, such as one-year or two-year terms. These GICs offer a quicker return of your principal and interest, albeit potentially at lower interest rates compared to longer-term GICs.

  • How you benefit: Greater flexibility and access to funds in a shorter time frame.
  • What to consider: Typically, shorter-term GICs offer lower interest rates than GICs locked in for longer periods.

High-Interest Savings Accounts

High-interest savings accounts (HISAs) offer a “liquid” savings option, allowing you to access your money at any time. While HISA interest rates are usually lower than those of GICs, they offer greater flexibility.

  • How you benefit: Immediate access to funds without penalty and interest income is usually higher than standard savings accounts.
  • What to consider: Interest rates can fluctuate based on market conditions and are typically lower than GICs.

Bond Products

Bonds are essentially loans that investors give to companies or governments, which they pay back with interest over a set time. Investors can choose from many types of bonds, including government, corporate and municipal bonds.

  • How you benefit: Bonds provide regular interest income and are generally considered safer than stocks, especially government bonds.
  • What to consider: Bonds may offer lower returns compared to stocks and are subject to interest rate and credit risk.

The Stock Market

Investing in the stock market involves purchasing shares of publicly traded companies. While this can offer higher returns, it comes with higher risk due to market volatility.

  • How you benefit: Potential for significant capital appreciation and dividends.
  • What to consider: High volatility and risk, as the value of stocks can fluctuate significantly in a short period due to market fluctuations.

Each of these alternatives comes with its own set of features that cater to different investor profiles, risk tolerances and financial goals. You should consider your investment horizon, risk appetite and the need for liquidity when choosing between these options and three-year GICs.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which Canadian bank has the highest GIC rate?

  • Highest minimum guaranteed rate: CIBC offers the highest minimum guaranteed rate at 10.5% with its CIBC Canada Bank 10.5% Minimum at Maturity Market Return GICs.
  • Fixed rates: TD and RBC both offer the highest fixed rate at 10%, via the TD Canadian Banks GIC and RBC Canadian Banking MarketSmart GIC.
  • Variable rates: CIBC, through both the CIBC Market Mix GIC and CIBC Canadian Financials Market Return GIC, offer up to a 30% potential return, the highest variable rate in the market-linked GIC category.

What is the interest rate on a 3-Year GIC?

The interest rate on a three-year GIC in Canada can vary significantly. As of May 2024:

  • Fixed rates: 3.25% to 5.00% on a regular 3-year GIC.
  • Variable rates: Minimum guaranteed rate of 10.5% to a maximum potential return of 30% on 3-year market-linked GIC​​.

Who pays the best GIC rates in Canada?

In terms of fixed rates, the highest is 10% offered by TD and RBC GICs. For variable rates, the highest potential rate is up to 30% with CIBC’s GICs.

Which bank is best for GICs in Canada?

Determining the “best” bank for GICs in Canada depends on your preference for fixed versus variable returns and your risk tolerance. CIBC offers the highest potential return—up to 30%—making it an attractive choice for investors seeking market-linked GICs. For fixed returns, TD and RBC offer competitive rates at 10%.


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