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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.
Learn more

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.

About Bankrate
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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Latest articles

Bankrate's Financial Security Poll for October
The solid U.S. economy will not last forever and many Americans are unprepared.
Group of people running in New York City.
Survey finds too many of us are not budgeting and struggling to stay afloat.
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell hosts news conference following interest-rate decision.
Here’s what the U.S. central bank decided to do with interest rates.
Fed Chairman Jerome Powell speaks to journalists at a June 19 press conference
How much of a rate cut can we expect from the Fed?
Signs in the window of a Sears store advertise its closing.
The major concern about the U.S. economy: How much longer will the expansion last?
The Federal Reserve Eccles Building in Washington, D.C.
The July rate cut is likely just the beginning, Bankrate’s latest economists’ poll finds.
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks to journalists at a news conference following the Fed's June 19 interest rate decision.
The Fed’s move is a win for borrowers and a wake up call for savers.
Federal Reserve Eccles Building
Here’s everything you need to know about this unique type of easing from the Fed.
Mature woman helps her daughter study for exam
High-yield savings rates fluctuate over time. Let’s explore what causes that.
woman depositing a check on her phone
There are several ways to deposit a check — some are simpler than others.
Young Woman Depositing Check With Smartphone
The amount of time for a check to clear can vary from check to check.
Coworkers discussing a project
Here’s how to find the credit union that will best fit with your financial needs.
Two professionals discussing a money order
Completing a money order requires just a few simple steps. Here’s how.
Person reading credit card statement
Here are easy actions you can take to avoid the fee of get it waived.
Woman using a calculator
How many bank accounts are too many? Use the rule of two hours to find out.
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
Home decorated for autumn
It just might be. But don’t forget the fundamentals of how home equity loans work.
Fed Chair Powell Holds News Conference Following FOMC Rate Decision
This Fed communication tool is important, but be cautious when interpreting it.
Jerome Powell, chair of the US Federal Reserve, speaks during a news conference following a Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting.
Uncertainty over President Donald Trump’s policies is keeping the Fed on the sidelines, at least for now.
New Friends Walking on University Campus
The Federal Reserve’s actions can influence student loan interest rates.
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
US-ECONOMY-FEDERAL RESERVE-RATE-POWELL
The Fed’s rate hold means loans costs are sticking. Here’s what it means for your business.
If you’re looking at HE Loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
Calm focused female freelancer in casual clothes revising reports while sitting on soft couch at table and using computer in light contemporary apartment
Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
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