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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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Losing a cashier’s check is much different than losing a personal check.
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Knowing your financial needs and goals can help you choose where to keep your money.
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Wondering what to do when it comes to saving during a recession? Here’s what the experts have to say.
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The highest savings account rate has dipped ahead of next week’s Fed rate decision.
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When mortgage rates stay stubbornly high, smart buyers pause and grow their savings instead. Here’s why this strategy pays off big.
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Saving money isn’t just about cutting costs. Sometimes, it’s about reframing how you spend your time. Here’s how one mindset shift helped me avoid impulsive purchases and grow my savings with less [...]
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Most savers aren’t moving money despite 4 percent rates being available. This inertia could cost thousands in lost interest income.
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Fed officials indicate that interest rates will remain steady at its next meeting.
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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.
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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.
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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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
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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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Interest is the price you pay to borrow money or the cost you charge to lend money.
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