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
Essential reading
Additional savings tips
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Survey: More than 6 in 10 Americans say $1,400 stimulus checks won’t last three full months
Most plan to spend their stimulus funds on necessities, not on shopping, dining or traveling.
7 min read Apr 14, 2021 -
Stimulus checks: How adult dependents can claim their $1,400 payment
For the first time, adult dependents are eligible for a coronavirus stimulus check.
5 min read Apr 01, 2021 -
Child Tax Credit: When will your $3,000 (or $3,600) arrive and who’s eligible?
Experts warn the IRS may be hard-pressed to send out checks starting in July.
5 min read Mar 26, 2021 -
Coronavirus unemployment benefits: What to know about extended relief in next $1.9 trillion relief package
All federal coronavirus unemployment programs are set to be extended through Sept. 6.
3 min read Mar 10, 2021 -
Unemployment fraud is harming those with and without jobs. Here’s what to do if you’re a victim
Billions of dollars worth of wrongful unemployment payments have been paid out during the pandemic.
9 min read Mar 04, 2021 -
Sinking funds: What they are and how they might help you achieve your savings goals
Here’s how these funds can help you achieve your goals.
4 min read Feb 18, 2021 -
Senate backs Biden’s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief plan: Here’s what comes next for stimulus checks, unemployment benefits
Legislators will soon get to work on drawing up the next round of coronavirus relief.
4 min read Feb 05, 2021 -
College students may be able to collect up to $1,800 in stimulus payments, here’s how
Taking a close look at your tax status will be especially vital if you’re still in school.
5 min read Feb 04, 2021 -
Third stimulus check and COVID-19 rescue plan: How Biden’s first 100 days could impact your money
Carefully managing your finances will be crucial, even if more aid is around the corner.
7 min read Jan 20, 2021 -
$1,400 stimulus check and $400 weekly unemployment boost: Here’s what’s in Biden’s plan
Biden’s $1.9 trillion relief bill proposal comes during the pandemic’s biggest inflection point yet.
7 min read Jan 15, 2021 -
Second stimulus check and $300 unemployment bonus benefit: Here’s what’s in new round of COVID-19 aid
The deal comes just days before key CARES Act programs are set to expire.
5 min read Dec 21, 2020 -
The new year is the perfect opportunity for a new savings account
The new year calls for a new look at your old savings account.
2 min read Dec 18, 2020 -
Your $1,200 stimulus check: How to claim it before it’s too late
The deadline has recently been extended, but you’re still going to want to act fast.
3 min read Nov 06, 2020 -
A personal finance influencer shares 5 tips for building up your emergency fund during a pandemic
It takes work and a positive mindset, but an emergency fund can be there for you when you need it most.
3 min read Oct 06, 2020 -
Second stimulus check: Here’s why this new proposed round of $1,200 payments could be easier to get
The HEROES Act is back, but it could be a non-starter for some Republicans.
2 min read Oct 01, 2020 -
Biden or Trump? Plenty of young people remain undecided about who is best for their finances
In this election, many young voters remain unsure about at least one key issue.
6 min read Sep 17, 2020 -
Second stimulus check: How much money could you get?
The plan includes direct aid to taxpayers: $1,200 to individuals and $500 per child and dependent adult.
3 min read Sep 16, 2020 -
Do I have too much money in my emergency savings?
How much is too much? Here’s everything you need to know.
3 min read Aug 24, 2020 -
Survey: Nearly 3 times as many Americans say they have less emergency savings versus more since pandemic
The study shows that the number of Americans with less emergency savings has ballooned since the crisis began.
4 min read Aug 20, 2020 -
$4,000 travel tax credit? Here’s how the ‘Explore America’ stimulus proposal could fund your next vacation
Here’s what a proposed tax credit for travel could mean for you.
4 min read Jun 24, 2020