Updated November 6, 2026 from live rates
Where should I keep $500,000 from a house sale for 6 months?
For $500,000 needed in 6 months, the option that keeps the most today is Pibank Savings (4.40%): about $8,052 after tax by May 9, 2027, versus about $18 left in checking.
Every safe place for it, ranked by what it earns
| Option | Rate | Kept by May 9, 2027 | Access and protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pibank Savings Earns the most | 4.40% | $8,052 | Any time, 1–2 days to move. FDIC-insured to $250,000 per bank: about 2 banks for $500k |
| Treasury bills timed to your date | 4.19% | $8,006 | Locked until April 13, 2027; can be sold any day. U.S. government. No state tax |
| Treasury money fund (Vanguard) | 3.89% | $7,606 | Any business day. Holds U.S. Treasuries; not FDIC-insured. No state tax |
| No-penalty CD at Marcus by Goldman Sachs | 4.00% | $7,320 | Withdraw any time (after the first week at most banks). FDIC-insured to $250,000 per bank: about 2 banks for $500k |
| Leave it in checking | 0.01% | $18 | Same day. FDIC-insured |
After 22% federal and 5% state tax, at today’s rates. Locked options (Treasury bills, CDs) pay out at least a week before the date, with $25,000 kept ready; savings rates can change any time. FDIC insurance covers $250,000 per depositor per bank. Not personal advice.