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.

Not having success with your savings? A budget can make things a little easier.

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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.

Explore banking products:

CDs Savings Accounts MMAs Checking Accounts

Latest articles

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The short answer is yes, but policies vary from bank to bank.

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

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

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illustration of money growing on trees

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

young woman smiling on city sidewalk

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

Illustration of construction workers on a roof

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

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

Calendar of 2023

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

Young man choosing oranges in the supermarket

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

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

Woman having coffee and texting on her phone at home

Should you let these fintechs automate your budgeting?

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Many of these options are flexible to your schedule.

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Giving money as a gift doesn’t have to be boring. Use this guide to personalize your monetary giving.

The Treasury building/

The best time to cash in savings bonds depends on an investor’s life circumstances.

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The best savings accounts for teenagers offer competitive rates and charge no fees.

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The top high-yield savings accounts are currently earning APYs of 5 percent and greater.

A man works on his laptop.

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

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Maintaining good money habits can be the difference between achieving your financial goals and falling short.

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Recent Bankrate data shows that young people are the ones most optimistic about their finances.

The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information