<prompt> Human: OK, I have 5000 and I would like to start a CD ladder. Im hoping for a better rate than a standard savings account. Any advice?Assistant: What are you trying to do with this money?Human: I want access to this money but I want a better rate than a standard savings account. Its part of my emergency fund.  <response>: If its part of your emergency fund then a normal savings account would be best. An emergency fund shouldnt be there for you to get any crazy ROI. It is there to be extremely liquid and cover emergency expenses. If you were to withdraw early from a CD because of an emergency, you would lose months worth of interest. Im not sure what the penalty would be for bonds, but Im sure its similar. American Express Savings or Ally Bank are going to be your best bet. 