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.

Not having success with your savings? A budget can make things a little easier.

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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

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

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.

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You might not feel better about inflation because prices are still up post-pandemic.

Woman reaching in to the air for cash

Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.

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These seven banks and credit unions offer competitive rates on CDs for businesses.

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Here’s how to save money and get the most bang for your buck.

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

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Consider these important factors before investing in bonds and CDs.

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

Illustration of construction workers on a roof

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

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

Calendar of 2023

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

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

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

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Should you let these fintechs automate your budgeting?

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You may have to do some research, but it’s not hard to find a decent savings account rate.

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Working with less can keep women from saving, investing and growing wealth.

A woman does her budgeting.

The amount of money you should save each month will vary based on your goals. Here’s what to know.

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These options are great places to stash money from a bonus, inheritance and more.

A young man imagining a piggy bank made out of cash. Looks slightly like origami

Ready to open a savings account? Here’s what you’ll need to know.

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Here’s how to use cash to help you stay within your budget each month.

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Many households have too little saved to survive job loss or other emergencies.

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Use these strategies to keep your deposits safe when they top FDIC limits.

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