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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.

Budgeting tips

A couple budgets together.
Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.
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If your discretionary income is low, you could pay $0 on your federal student loans.
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Our guide tackles the basics of disposable income and how you can use it to budget.

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.

Latest articles

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Early access to direct deposited funds can make managing your budget a bit easier.
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These credit unions offer great rates and top-notch features — and many make it easy to join.
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The most impressive banks make it easy to interact both on old and new channels.
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Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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Looking to use Zelle for a transfer? Here are the Zelle limits at various banks.
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Planning for retirement? Here’s what you need to know about IRA CDs.
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These are the 10 largest credit unions in the United States based on assets.
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Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
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Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.
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An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.
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It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
Rainy day and emergency funds differ but together provide a sound financial plan.
Calendar of 2023
Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.
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Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.
Illustrated by Bankrate
Paying medical expenses with pre-tax dollars is smart, but budgeting is key.
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Top APYs on high-yield savings are above 4%, despite a recent U.S. credit downgrade.
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Top high-yielding savings accounts continue to handily outpace inflation.
Focused young woman entering banking credit card information in computer application, making household payments online, booking flight tickets or hotel, purchasing goods or confirming transaction.
APYs on high-yield savings accounts remain competitive after Fed rate decision.
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A new Bankrate analysis shows mothers earned 31 percent less in wages than fathers in 2023.
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JPMorgan raises recession probability to 50%. Learn five practical steps to protect your savings before economic conditions worsen.
Image by Getty Images, Illustration by Bankrate
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
Image by Getty Images, Illustration by Bankrate
Learn six practical ways to safeguard your finances amid economic uncertainty, from strengthening banking security to finding better rates.
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