Banking
Take the 52-week money challenge: What it is and how to do it
4 min read
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
Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.
If your discretionary income is low, you could pay $0 on your federal student loans.
Our guide tackles the basics of disposable income and how you can use it to budget.
Essential reading
How to start (and build) an emergency fund
11 min read
The best places to keep your emergency fund
6 min read
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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Latest articles
CDs and MMAs can pay competitive rates, but they have different drawbacks and benefits.
Learn how CD ladders and partial withdrawals can be used to fund emergency savings.
Withdrawing your money from a CD before the term ends can be costly.
It’s possible to leverage the money in your CDs to grow your emergency savings.
A CFPB lawsuit claims Capital One underpaid savings account interest by $2 billion.
Surveyed economists predict lower recession odds — but higher inflation — for 2025.
Expect savings and money market account yields to slide lower this year, but they still should outpace inflation, according to the latest forecast from Bankrate chief financial analyst Greg McBride. McBride [...]
Worried about losing money held at a bank? Here’s what to know about FDIC insurance.
An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.
Rainy day and emergency funds differ but together provide a sound financial plan.
Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.
Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.
Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.
Financial goals are measuring sticks that apply to any area of your money management skills that you’re looking to improve.
A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Here’s how to boost your savings.
Ready to open a savings account? Here’s what you’ll need to know.
An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
Keeping your savings in a bank down the street may seem like the obvious play, but there may be real downsides for doing so.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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