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
Essential reading
Additional savings tips
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National average money market account rates for July 2024
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
2 min read Jul 18, 2024 -
How I built a six-figure net worth on a five-figure salary
Take control of your money and build a six-figure financial foundation. Here’s how.
6 min read Jul 19, 2024 -
Best business savings accounts for 2024
Here are some of the best savings accounts you can sign up for as a business owner.
8 min read Jul 18, 2024 -
What is the average interest rate for savings accounts?
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
3 min read Jul 18, 2024 -
I’m a personal finance reporter — here’s how I did a mid-year financial checkup in under an hour
A mid-year checkup is the most effective way to ensure my finances are on track.
7 min read Jul 16, 2024 -
The average American household budget
Americans spent nearly $74,000 in 2022 just to keep their households running.
9 min read Jul 09, 2024 -
Emergency fund amount: How much should you have in emergency savings?
The amount varies by individual, but there are guidelines.
7 min read Jul 08, 2024 -
Pay off debt or save? Expert tips to help you choose
Here are scenarios for when each choice – paying down debt or saving – makes more sense.
8 min read Jul 08, 2024 -
Meet ALICE: 29% of American households who earn above poverty level but don’t have enough to make ends meet
Barely above the poverty line, ALICE households struggle to make ends meet.
5 min read Jun 28, 2024 -
17 legitimate ways to get money fast
Here are some places to look for a source of funds.
6 min read Jul 01, 2024 -
Study: Women can miss out on over $500,000 in career earnings — just by being mothers
A new Bankrate analysis shows mothers earned 31 percent less in wages than fathers in 2023.
11 min read Jun 27, 2024 -
12 simple ways to make $100 fast
Even earning as little as $100 in extra income here and there can give you added spending money.
5 min read Jun 25, 2024 -
What you should (and shouldn’t) store in a safe deposit box
Some items are good candidates for storage in a safe deposit box, but others aren’t.
6 min read Jun 24, 2024 -
5 big financial mistakes new college graduates should avoid
Don’t let these financial mistakes prevent you from reaching your financial goals.
4 min read Jun 24, 2024 -
Top high-yield savings accounts are now beating inflation. Here’s why that’s important
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
6 min read Jun 20, 2024 -
Bankrate’s 2024 Annual Emergency Savings Report
If you’re struggling to pay off debt and build savings, you’re not alone.
12 min read Jun 21, 2024 -
Check or calculate the value of a savings bond online
Knowing a savings bond’s value can help you decide whether to hold it or redeem it.
3 min read Jun 17, 2024 -
‘Soft saving’ and how it could impact savings and retirement
Learn how the ‘soft saving’ trend could affect your savings and retirement.
4 min read Jun 16, 2024 -
Cashless cash stuffing provides the best of both budgeting worlds
This crafty form of budgeting helps you manage your cash without hoarding it.
3 min read Jun 03, 2024 -
Best savings accounts for new college grads
Check out Bankrate’s savings picks to help you start off on a long financial future.
6 min read Jun 03, 2024