Finance news and advice from Bankrate.com Editorial team.

News & Advice
Fed keeps rate near zero in an attempt to encourage consumers and businesses to borrow.
Compare Rates
See rates from our survey of CDs, mortgages, home equity products, auto loans and credit cards.

Mortgages
Mortgage rates declined again, and experts are uncertain whether they'll go up or down in the future.

An egg and money in a bird's nest with at $1 bill in the background
These hassle-free plans are designed for businesses with fewer than 100 employees.
When you can't qualify for a regular credit card, other payment cards can help build your credit score.
auto
Most dealers aren’t really out to rip you off, but keep in mind that car dealerships are for-profit entities.
credit cards
A charge card usually must be paid in full each month and require an excellent credit score.
debt
Many with debt woes first opt for self-help, but these plights may be best aided by a financial fitness expert.
investing
Don't lose money. That’s the first rule of careful investing. Consider money market accounts to start.
retirement
Eventually, the feds want their share of your tax-deferred retirement funds. Make sure you withdraw correctly.
taxes
The earned income tax credit provides a break for lower and moderate wage workers.
Is your money safe?
or ? See your bank, thrift or credit union's star rating. Find one that's safe enough for you.
cds
Savers who dump low-yielding CDs before maturity may pay dearly, a Bankrate survey finds.
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Bankrate Advisers
Bankrate Blogs
Fed meets today, and for mortgage borrowers, there's more potential for bad news than good.
Capital One debuts two travel rewards cards with enhanced earnings rates.
The Federal Open Market Committee meets today and many wait to hear the statement.
Tax refunds are being held hostage by budget woes in several states.
The list of billionaires has a new tycoon at the top, knocking Bill Gates from his No. 1 spot.
Overnight Averages
Product Rate +/- Last week
30 yr fixed
5.01%
5.00%
15 yr fixed
4.36%
4.35%
5/1 ARM
3.93%
3.87%
View rates in your area:
Product Rate +/- Last week
30K HELOC
5.20%
5.20%
30K Home Equity Loan
8.06%
8.10%
50K HELOC
4.90%
4.90%
View rates in your area:
Product Rate +/- Last week
48 Mo Used Car
6.70%
6.91%
48 Mo New Car
6.58%
6.77%
36 Mo Used Car
6.89%
7.00%
View rates in your area:
Product Yield +/- Last week
6 Mo CD
0.99%
0.99%
1 Yr CD
1.41%
1.45%
5 Yr CD
2.87%
2.86%
Compare rates:
Product Rate
Low Interest Cards 10.00%
Balance Transfer Cards 15.72%
All Variable 13.75%
Compare rates:  
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mortgage
Fed meets today, and for mortgage borrowers, there's more potential for bad news than good.
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retirement
Follow those tips to kick-start your retirement savings.