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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

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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.

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It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
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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.
Rainy day and emergency funds differ but together provide a sound financial plan.
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Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.
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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.
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Financial goals are measuring sticks that apply to any area of your money management skills that you’re looking to improve.
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If you have over $25,000 in your savings account, consider these strategies.
Image by Getty Images, Illustrated by Bankrate
Tariffs could cost households $3,800 in 2025. Discover smart budgeting strategies to offset rising prices on consumer goods.
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Find the best high-yield savings account rate today.
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Saving money in the Midwest and South is easier than in the West and Northeast.
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How to find the best high-yield savings account in times of high inflation
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These simple moves can help you build a cash cushion.
Home Finances
Here’s how to earn more interest with a high-yield savings account.
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Interest is the price you pay to borrow money or the cost you charge to lend money.
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