Bankrate Archives

View moreAuto ArchiveAuto

The federal funds rate and auto loan rates: When the Fed sets the federal funds rate, there's a trickledown effect on auto loan rates.
A graduate's guide to buying a car: Need some wheels to get to college or a new job? Consider these factors before buying.
Will a new car drive up my car insurance?: Your new ride is safer than your old heap. Here's why that's not likely to mean lower rates.

View moreBanking ArchiveBanking

Do online banks offer less safety?: Convenience and rates are among the reasons to choose between banking locally or online.
Does bank play keep-away with your interest?: Every bank is different, so check to determine how quickly your deposit starts earning money.
2012 list of failed banks: Read this list to find out information about every bank that has failed this year.

View moreCareer ArchiveCareer

$100,000 income: No big deal anymore: A six-figure income used to mean you had "made it." But inflation has dulled the shine.
How to laugh off a layoff and find a job: Don't hold a pity party. Follow these people and turn your job loss into a win.
HR secrets to acing your job interview: Stressing over the salary question or the callback? These tips will help you prepare.

View moreCDs ArchiveCDs

The federal funds rate and CD rates: When the Fed sets the federal funds rate, there's a trickledown effect on CD rates.
National CD rates for June 14, 2012: Here are the average CD rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks and thrifts.
CD rates for June 14, 2012: It was another sleepy week for deposit yields, with little movement.

View moreChecking ArchiveChecking

2012 list of failed banks: Read this list to find out information about every bank that has failed this year.
Look back at the word bank: Where did the word "bank" come from? This infographic puts it all on the table.
What does bank mean?: Do you know how financial institutions came to be called "banks"?

View moreCollege ArchiveCollege

Paying for college without second mortgage: There's more than one way to fund an education. Which method is right for you?
Pros and cons: The Stafford loan rate cap: President Barack Obama's "slow jam" aside, will the Stafford loan rate cap make a difference?
A graduate's guide to buying a car: Need some wheels to get to college or a new job? Consider these factors before buying.

View moreCredit ArchiveCredit

Are you liable for charged-off card debt?: A letter from a lawyer could mean you are being sued, but maybe not. Here's what to know.
A credible history of credit: Bankrate knows a thing or two about credit. Don't trust us? Read this infographic.
What does credit mean?: What if you could get a loan just based on trust and the honor of your word?

View moreCredit Cards ArchiveCredit Cards

The skinny on balance transfer credit cards: Yes, you get a low rate on a credit card balance transfer, but weigh these negatives first.
Best way to pay down $50K debt?: Paying the minimum amount could leave you in debt forever. Here's the way to pay it off feasibly.
National credit card rates for June 14, 2012: Here are the average credit card rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks and thrifts.

View moreDebt ArchiveDebt

Growing optimism for financial security: Why are Americans feeling optimistic about their financial security?
The skinny on balance transfer credit cards: Yes, you get a low rate on a credit card balance transfer, but weigh these negatives first.
Are you liable for charged-off card debt?: A letter from a lawyer could mean you are being sued, but maybe not. Here's what to know.

View moreHome Equity ArchiveHome Equity

Should you tap home equity for repairs?: Before tackling any home improvements, make sure you don't fall into these costly traps.
National home equity loan rates for June 14, 2012: Here are the average home equity rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks and thrifts.
National home equity loan rates for June 7, 2012: Here are the average home equity rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks and thrifts.

View moreInsurance ArchiveInsurance

Insurance for your stuff placed in storage: Don't worry about wars, but do see that items in storage are insured against threats.
6 surprising health insurance benefits: From health coaches to transplant travel: Explore the hidden coverage in your health insurance.
Will a new car drive up my car insurance?: Your new ride is safer than your old heap. Here's why that's not likely to mean lower rates.

View moreIRA ArchiveIRA

Using an IRA for a down payment, tax-free: You can withdraw money from an IRA to buy a house. But watch out for the tax bite.
Stay with 401(k) if employer doesn't match?: If your boss isn't contributing to your retirement account at work, maybe you shouldn't either.
Can't avoid taxes on a Roth IRA conversion: You can spread the income over two years, but it's too late to recharacterize a Roth IRA.

View moreMoney market ArchiveMoney market

4 questions for money market fund shoppers: High money market fund fees can ding low yields. This checklist will help you manage them.
3 dangerous debt management myths: Three dangerous debt management myths to avoid.
Keeping your money safe: Learn how the FDIC protects deposits and what you need to know to keep your investments secure.

View moreMortgage ArchiveMortgage

The federal funds rate and mortgage rates: When the Fed sets the federal funds rate, it impacts mortgage rates.
Chapter 4: Paperwork and fees: There's no way around the paperwork involved in a home purchase. Getting a head start may simplify the process.
10 questions for lenders: Here are the 10 key questions to ask at application time to help you find the best home loan.

View morePersonal Loan ArchivePersonal Loan

How do I: Decide to remodel or buy a new home?: Here's a guide to help you decide if you should remodel or buy a new home.
Shopping for a student loan: When you search multiple loan options, you could be damaging your credit report. Here's the best way to shop
Does it pay to play by the rules?: Everywhere you look, someone is being rewarded for bad behavior. Does it still pay to play by the rules?

View moreReal Estate ArchiveReal Estate

$100,000 income: No big deal anymore: A six-figure income used to mean you had "made it." But inflation has dulled the shine.
5 homebuying tips from Dad: Heed these nuggets of paternal advice whether or not you buy a home on Father's Day.
Can a VA loan be used to buy a short sale?: There are reasons why getting a VA loan isn't the easiest way for a veteran to buy a short sale.

View moreRetirement ArchiveRetirement

7 tips for the executor of an estate: Handling the affairs of the deceased doesn't have to be overwhelming if you're organized.
Tax penalty for delaying 401(k) distribution: The IRS might grant a reprieve to beneficiaries who are unaware of inherited 401(k) rules.
Forget 'If I had a million dollars.' I want $3M!: If you think you'll need $1 million to retire, plan ambitiously and aim for $3 million.

View moreSavings ArchiveSavings

$100,000 income: No big deal anymore: A six-figure income used to mean you had "made it." But inflation has dulled the shine.
Do online banks offer less safety?: Convenience and rates are among the reasons to choose between banking locally or online.
5 winning ways to grow a savings account: Smart money management starts with savings. Follow these tips to grow a cash cushion.

View moreSmall Business ArchiveSmall Business

Accounting snafu with S-corp distributions: You need to resolve two issues that arise with disproportionate distributions in an S-corp.
Why do I owe $16K on settled SBA loan?: Watch out when you settle an old small-business loan. You could also owe the IRS.
Work from home? Deduct your home office: Both the self-employed and an employee might get a tax deduction for having a home office, but there are rules.

View moreSmart Spending ArchiveSmart Spending

Growing optimism for financial security: Why are Americans feeling optimistic about their financial security?
9 ways to have thrifty theme park thrills: Make saving money your theme for a theme park vacation by sticking to these cost-cutting rules.
7 great bachelor party getaways: Sin City isn't the only venue for a bachelor party. These great options won't leave you broke.

View moreTaxes ArchiveTaxes

Can I deduct mortgage payments for rental?: You can't deduct mortgage payments, but you can take other tax breaks on rental property.
Capital gain exclusion tiny if home sells: If the rental amount doesn't cover your carrying costs, should you sell your home?
The skinny on paying estimated taxes: Besides the annual April tax deadline, some filers have to pay estimated taxes on a quarterly basis.

View morePlastic Rap ArchivePlastic Rap

Plastic Rap moves: Bankrate blogs have moved to a new, improved platform. Thanks for reading Bankrate.com!
'Free' credit reports: New disclosure requirements for "free" credit report advertising take effect on April 2, 2010.
New gift card rules: New restrictions on gift card fees and expiration dates take effect Aug. 22, 2010.

View moreMortgage Matters ArchiveMortgage Matters

Mortgage Matters moves and improves: Bankrate blogs have moved to a new, improved platform. Thanks for reading Bankrate.com!
Spring sales may bloom: Buyers have awoken from their winter sleep and are prowling areas studded with "For Sale" signs.
Good folks finally win?: A push to get servicers to reduce the principal of underwater borrowers sounds like a good idea.

View moreFed Outlook ArchiveFed Outlook

Fed blog moves: Bankrate blogs have moved to a new, improved platform.
Inflation low, Fed idle: Buckle your seat belts because the mortgage rate ride may get bumpy.
Fed holds off on changes: Buckle your seat belts because the mortgage rate ride may get bumpy.

View moreEye on the IRS ArchiveEye on the IRS

Tax blog moves: Bankrate blogs have moved to a new, improved platform.
California re-ups home tax credit: California reinstituted and expanded its homebuyer tax credit in the hopes of reviving its housing industry.
Health taxes, take 2: The health care reform tax provision tour continues. Here are five more new laws that show up in 2013.

View moreYour Wealth ArchiveYour Wealth

Luxury car sales rebound?: At the Detroit auto show, hopes are pinned on a good year for the luxury car market.
Forced philanthropy: Requiring highly-paid executives to donate to charity defeats the original intent of giving.
How we gave in 2009: Philanthropy suffered a precipitous drop last year, but there were some bright spots.

View moreBank Shots ArchiveBank Shots

Tools for tackling your debt: Use these calculators, work sheets and videos to learn how to become debt-free.
Bank names hide colorful history: What's behind a bank's name? Humor columnist Jay MacDonald finds out.
12 ways to show your bank some love: Humor columnist Jay MacDonald imagines a dozen new fees coming soon to a bank near you.

View moreBankruptcy Adviser ArchiveBankruptcy Adviser

Are you liable for charged-off card debt?: A letter from a lawyer could mean you are being sued, but maybe not. Here's what to know.
Can old bankruptcy hurt employment chance?: Hard times can befall us all. Unfortunately, they can affect your shot at landing a new job.
Why is this bankruptcy taking forever?!: Filing for bankruptcy can take time, especially if the attorney hits some snags along the way.

View moreBoomer Bucks ArchiveBoomer Bucks

How to benefit from Social Security: You can blindly apply for benefits. Or, you can be savvy and take a strategic approach.
Benefit from Social Security: Deciding when to begin drawing Social Security benefits is a personal one.
Fundamentals of retirement plans: Does your workplace offer a way to save for retirement? If so, take full advantage of it.

View moreCollege Money Guru ArchiveCollege Money Guru

Spending your IRA on child's college: Tap your IRA without reducing your child's need-based financial aid. Here's how.
Moving UGMA money into a 529 plan: Converting a UGMA account to a 529 means more need-based financial aid for college, and here's why.
529 plan: Moves to make now: Has your 529 plan been battered by the stock market turmoil? Here's what to do now.

View moreCredit Card Adviser ArchiveCredit Card Adviser

Close credit card accounts in divorce: Divorce is messy, but it can get messier if you don't cut the credit card connection cleanly.
Raise credit score with help from a friend: Becoming a user on someone else's credit card could raise your credit score. Find out how.
Baby steps to boost your credit score: Charging then paying off your plastic can help your credit score, but you'd better pay on time.

View moreDebt Adviser ArchiveDebt Adviser

Is there a legit company to fix credit score?: Until there's a business that can speed up time, good luck finding someone to fix your credit.
Best way to pay down $50K debt?: Paying the minimum amount could leave you in debt forever. Here's the way to pay it off feasibly.
How to pay huge medical bills on small income: The government, as well as your providers, might be able to help with your exorbitant medical bills.

View moreAsk Dr. Don ArchiveAsk Dr. Don

How the federal funds rate affects finance: When the Fed sets the federal funds rate, there's a trickledown effect on other rates.
The federal funds rate and mortgage rates: When the Fed sets the federal funds rate, it impacts mortgage rates.
The federal funds rate and auto loan rates: When the Fed sets the federal funds rate, there's a trickledown effect on auto loan rates.

View moreDriving for Dollars ArchiveDriving for Dollars

Car loans best in years for all borrowers: Even with a poor credit score, you can't beat these car loan rates. Here's what to expect.
Can you switch co-signers on a car loan?: After a failed trip down the aisle, the bank might not marry this ex's debt to another co-signer.
Get cash back when you return a leased car: Turning your leased car in to the dealer can bring some money your way. Here's how to get yours.

View moreInsurance Adviser ArchiveInsurance Adviser

Will a new car drive up my car insurance?: Your new ride is safer than your old heap. Here's why that's not likely to mean lower rates.

View moreReal Estate Adviser ArchiveReal Estate Adviser

Can a VA loan be used to buy a short sale?: There are reasons why getting a VA loan isn't the easiest way for a veteran to buy a short sale.
Buy a home or keep renting?: A middle-age renter wonders whether it makes sense to take a risk and buy a home.
Using an IRA for a down payment, tax-free: You can withdraw money from an IRA to buy a house. But watch out for the tax bite.

View moreTax Adviser ArchiveTax Adviser

Can I deduct mortgage payments for rental?: You can't deduct mortgage payments, but you can take other tax breaks on rental property.
Capital gain exclusion tiny if home sells: If the rental amount doesn't cover your carrying costs, should you sell your home?
Avoided marriage penalty but evaded taxes: If you fess up and file an amended tax return, you will owe taxes plus interest to the IRS.

View moreBasics ArchiveBasics

Chapter 4: Paperwork and fees: There's no way around the paperwork involved in a home purchase. Getting a head start may simplify the process.
10 questions for lenders: Here are the 10 key questions to ask at application time to help you find the best home loan.
Should you buy or rent?: Don't buy a house solely as an investment. Examine all the pluses and minuses of owning a home.

View moreExclusives ArchiveExclusives

Make the most of card bonus offers: With a credit card sign-up bonus, what you see is not always what you get.
4 warnings for high-yield checking chasers: Is high-yield checking an answer to low account rates? Yes, but there are strings attached.
High-yield checking rates still rockin': Rewards checking offers a higher return than other safe havens. Find out how much and why.

View moreFame and Fortune ArchiveFame and Fortune

Fame & Fortune: General Larry Platt: The "American Idol" star hopes his Web hit "Pants on the Ground" will put real dollars in his pocket.
Fame & Fortune: Queen Latifah: The first lady of hip-hop, Queen Latifah has become an even more familiar face in the movies.
Fame & Fortune: Ron Paul: A congressman and former presidential candidate, Ron Paul champions the abolition of the Fed.

View moreFinancial Literacy ArchiveFinancial Literacy

12 steps for victims of identity fraud: If you're a victim of ID theft, follow this program to reclaim your identity and restore your good name.
5 people with great jobs that pay well: Find out how these real people overcame the odds and networked their way into great jobs.
Building blocks for successful investing: Successful investing starts with knowledge. Here are the basics to get your portfolio on the right path.

View moreLife Stages ArchiveLife Stages

Growing optimism for financial security: Why are Americans feeling optimistic about their financial security?
Insurance for your stuff placed in storage: Don't worry about wars, but do see that items in storage are insured against threats.
Paying for college without second mortgage: There's more than one way to fund an education. Which method is right for you?

View moreNews Spotlight ArchiveNews Spotlight

Keeping your money safe: Learn how the FDIC protects deposits and what you need to know to keep your investments secure.
7 common holiday budget busters: Retailers are trying to get you to overspend this holiday season. Here are seven ways to make it easy for them.
State agencies that help you find unclaimed money: A listing of all the state agencies that help you find unclaimed money and property.

View moreSmart Spending ArchiveSmart Spending

Growing optimism for financial security: Why are Americans feeling optimistic about their financial security?
9 ways to have thrifty theme park thrills: Make saving money your theme for a theme park vacation by sticking to these cost-cutting rules.
7 great bachelor party getaways: Sin City isn't the only venue for a bachelor party. These great options won't leave you broke.

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Overnight Averages

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
30 yr fixed mtg	3.67%		3.62%
15 yr fixed mtg	2.80%		2.76%
5/1 ARM	2.60%		2.58%

View rates in your area:

Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
$30K HELOC	4.99%		5.00%
$30K home equity loan	6.17%		6.19%
$50K HELOC	4.56%		4.56%

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Product	Rate	+/-	Last week
48 month used car loan	2.93%		2.97%
48 month new car loan	2.44%		2.45%
36 month used car loan	2.87%		2.93%

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Product	Yield	+/-	Last week
6 month CD	0.45%		0.43%
1 yr CD	0.67%		0.63%
5 yr CD	1.24%		1.24%

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Product	Rate
Balance Transfer Cards	15.92%
Cash Back Cards	16.34%
Low Interest Cards	11.01%

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