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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.

Budgeting tips

A couple budgets together.
Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.
Woman using a calculator and examining financial documents
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.

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.

Latest articles

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Being scammed can have devastating effects on your finances. Here’s how to stop it.
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Protecting your financial data can help keep your money safe from fraudsters.
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The best bank and credit union for you will depend on your banking needs, but in general, the best banks offer accounts with low or no minimum balance requirements and don’t charge monthly fees — or [...]
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Keep fees in check when you shift money from one bank account to another.
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Compound interest is a powerful force for people who want to build their savings.
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Our top 5 picks scored highly for access, range of products and digital options.
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Interest is the price you pay to borrow money or the cost you charge to lend money.
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High-yield savings rates fluctuate over time. Let’s explore what causes that.
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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.
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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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Here’s how to boost your savings.
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Having multiple bank accounts has its perks but keeping them organized is key.
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A savings account is a useful financial tool for building a stable financial future.
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It’s easy to open a savings account. Just make sure you have this information handy.
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An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
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Here are 11 creative ways to save money, regardless of your financial goals.
People walking back and forth in front of Capital One Bank entrance.
A CFPB lawsuit claims Capital One underpaid savings account interest by $2 billion.
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If your New Year’s goal is to practice self-care, use these tips to stay on budget.
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