Budgeting basics

A budget is a spending plan that helps you understand how much money you're making and where you're spending it. A budget is the cornerstone of a strong financial plan.

Envelope budgeting

Zero-based budget

Create a home budget

Budgeting tips

A couple budgets together.

Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.

Woman using a calculator and examining financial documents

Understanding discretionary income can help you with your budgeting strategy.

Our guide tackles the basics of disposable income and how you can use it to budget.

Essential reading

Calculate your savings

Use our Savings Calculator to help you quickly and accurately estimate the growth of your investment. Set a goal and figure out how much you need to save each month to hit the mark.

Explore banking products:

CDs Savings Accounts MMAs Checking Accounts

Latest articles

Woman watering plants.

Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.

Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office

Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.

family financial planning

Here’s how to boost your savings.

Money next to flashing sirens

New Bankrate data shows the economy is making it harder for Americans to save.

man using an atm

ATMs are useful for depositing money, checking your balance, and more, but be aware of possible issues that may arise.

Elderly woman connected to the internet at home

Here are ways to save money and improve financial health in times of inflation.

Young Asian woman using smartphone while relaxing on armchair, checking her bank account via online banking and managing her finances. Online personal banking. Wealth management. Digital banking habits. Smart banking with technology

Know the two major benefits of opening a CD now, even as interest rates decline.

Cropped shot of a businessman using his computer in his home office

Find out which CD term is best for your financial goals in a lower rate environment.

Illustration of construction workers on a roof

An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.

Mother and daughter shopping for vegetables

These simple moves can help you build a cash cushion.

Calendar of 2023

Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.

illustration of money growing on trees

Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.

young woman smiling on city sidewalk

Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.

Man using cell phone in living room

It’s important to find the right home for your emergency savings.

Young man choosing oranges in the supermarket

Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.

Mechanic uses force to unlock bolt

Rainy day and emergency funds differ but together provide a sound financial plan.

Side view of man jogging in city

If you’re looking to become a better saver, here are some tips for setting savings goals.

Happy woman reacting to news from her laptop

Here are five ways automatic transfers can make growing your savings easy.

Whimsical illustration of a hand putting a quarter into a miniature but realistic high end safe. As if it were a piggy bank

Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.

Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office

Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.

family financial planning

Here’s how to boost your savings.

Money next to flashing sirens

New Bankrate data shows the economy is making it harder for Americans to save.

Elderly woman connected to the internet at home

Here are ways to save money and improve financial health in times of inflation.

man sitting on the couch at home working on his laptop

Having multiple bank accounts has its perks but keeping them organized is key.

The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information