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Recession watch

Will the U.S. economy soon be in a recession? It's the trillion-dollar question that even experts don't know the answer to. Here's how to prepare for a potential downturn, and how one could impact you.

Insights from our expert analysts

“Economic uncertainty is a time for reducing debt and boosting savings, not the other way around.”

– Greg McBride, CFA

Do's and don'ts of saving during a recession

To help you navigate saving during a recession, we asked a number of experts what some of the most helpful things to do are, as well as some things you should try to avoid at all costs.
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Recessions & your money

Illustration of a person holding a house with a rain cloud over it
How might a recession affect the housing market?
A middle-aged couple looks out to the beach from their van
Here are some tips to help make sure your retirement savings are protected in the event of a recession.
Illustration of worker with a brief case
The once-booming labor market is starting to face some trouble.

Experts in all things finance

Our expert reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.

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Greg McBride

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Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

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Senior Economic Analyst

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The most common impacts include layoffs, furloughs and a reduction in hours or pay.
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Knowing a savings bond’s value can help you decide whether to hold it or redeem it.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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It just might be. But don’t forget the fundamentals of how home equity loans work.
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The Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the second consecutive meeting but this time by a smaller quarter of a percentage point.
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Does the Fed interest rate affect car loans? Yes, it does: It has a domino effect that can raise or lower auto loan rates.
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If you’re looking at HE loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
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Credit card interest rates have a high mark up over the prime rate. Why are card APRs so high?
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The Federal Reserve’s actions can influence student loan interest rates.
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