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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.
Young man working on finances at home. He has a laptop open and is using a calculator.
If your discretionary income is low, you could pay $0 on your federal student loans.

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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Branch banking is rapidly changing with the rise of automation and fintech.
Jerome Powell at Fed meeting
Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said the U.S. central bank is in no rush to adjust rates.
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You just sent money to a stranger. So, how do you get it back?
Man with shopping bags
The U.S. economy expanded at a slower pace in the fourth quarter of 2018, but came in well ahead of estimates.
Jerome Powell at Fed meeting
Powell faced criticism from Democratic congressmen for his positive evaluation of the job market despite a period of slow pay gains.
Jerome Powell speaks at Federal Reserve
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell delivered a positive assessment of the U.S. economy that nonetheless faces some risks.
Federal Reserve building
Will the Federal Reserve raise borrowing costs two times in 2019, as it initially anticipated? That’s a question even the officials on the inside can’t answer.
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It could save you time when switching accounts and even inspire you to build a bank of your own.
Person shopping at grocery store choosing oranges in the supermarket
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.
An image of a pink piggy bank standing on top of a green and white striped rocket with smoke coming out of the end of the rocket.
Here’s everything you need to know about high-yield savings accounts.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Illustrated by Bankrate
Big banks pay just 0.01% APY while online banks offer 4% or more. Your $10,000 could earn over $800 more over two years.
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The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
A woman and daughter work together
A savings account can be a great tool to teach your child about money. Here are a few of our favorites.
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High-yield savings rates fluctuate over time. Let’s explore what causes that.
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The top high-yield savings accounts are currently earning APYs of 5 percent and greater.
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Savers can stash their cash in a brokerage these days to rack up returns.
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