John Puterbaugh leads Bankrate’s consumer finance watchdog and data reporting team. As a personal finance journalist, John is obsessed with empowering people to make better money moves in their everyday lives. John has nearly two decades of experience leading editorial teams in newspapers and other service journalism businesses.
Before Bankrate, John worked for CNET, NextAdvisor, and the Chicago Tribune, among others. John’s mission as a personal finance journalist is to help readers the same way he’d help his mom or close friends with a money question or challenge.
John lives in Charlotte, North Carolina with his wife and two children. When he's not working, John can be found at his kids' sporting events, running and cycling, playing soccer, or cooking something super complicated at home.
There’s a national housing shortage, yet buyers are in control in many markets. Here’s how to think about the housing supply in the U.S.
How to avoid impulse shopping and stick to a budget during the holidays.
Private health insurance costs will rise in 2026. Experts say you can still save.
Holiday stress and New Year reflection fuel a rise in divorce filings each January.
A cooling job market is leaving some homeowners without steady income. Learn how to continue paying your mortgage.
Bankruptcy is gaining popularity among younger generations. Here are some considerations before filing.
The government shutdown has led to food insecurity for SNAP recipients.
Premium travel cards continue to change, drifting out of reach for the average consumer.