What type of account is characterized by having a specific maturity date and cannot have funds withdrawn early without penalty?

A time deposit is a type of account that is defined by having a fixed maturity date. This means that the account holder agrees to keep their funds in the account for a specified period, which can range from a few months to several years. Time deposits are typically associated with certificates of deposit (CDs) where the funds cannot be withdrawn before the maturity date without incurring penalties.

The penalties for early withdrawal serve to compensate the financial institution for the commitment it makes to keep those funds on deposit for a set term. As a result, the unique characteristics of time deposits offer higher interest rates compared to other accounts, incentivizing consumers to leave their money untouched for the agreed term.

In contrast, demand deposits and interest-earning transactions allow for more immediate access to funds, while savings accounts, although they may have restrictions, generally do not adhere to the rigid maturity schedule required of time deposits. Thus, time deposits are clearly distinguished by their fixed terms and early withdrawal penalties, making them the appropriate answer.