Budgeting basics

A budget is a spending plan that helps you understand how much money you're making and where you're spending it. A budget is the cornerstone of a strong financial plan.

Envelope budgeting

Zero-based budget

Create a home budget

Budgeting tips

A couple budgets together.

Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.

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Understanding discretionary income can help you with your budgeting strategy.

Our guide tackles the basics of disposable income and how you can use it to budget.

Essential reading

Calculate your savings

Use our Savings Calculator to help you quickly and accurately estimate the growth of your investment. Set a goal and figure out how much you need to save each month to hit the mark.

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CDs Savings Accounts MMAs Checking Accounts

Latest articles

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Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.

Woman watering plants.

Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.

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Stagflation is an economic “super villain,” bringing high inflation and unemployment.

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Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.

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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.

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These simple moves can help you build a cash cushion.

Image of Jerome Powell and Donald Trump side by side above the Federal Reserve building.

Lower rates won’t fix trade uncertainty, and credit could still be tight.

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Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.

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It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.

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An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.

Mother and daughter shopping for vegetables

These simple moves can help you build a cash cushion.

Calendar of 2023

Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.

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Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.

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Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.

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Rainy day and emergency funds differ but together provide a sound financial plan.

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It’s possible to negotiate a higher-yielding savings account at your bank.

Teller at brick-and-mortar bank

Keeping your savings in a bank down the street may seem like the obvious play, but there may be real downsides for doing so.

BIPOC woman meeting with female financial advisor

Finding the right savings account consists of comparing rates, fees and more.

couple at pharmacy

These are the key differences between an FSA and an HSA, and how to choose the right one for you.

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Learn why you need to check your APY.

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Take control of your money and build a six-figure financial foundation. Here’s how.

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Start saving today with these saving accounts with no minimum deposit required.

A woman works on her laptop.

Here’s everything you need to know about savings accounts.

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