Banking
Take the 52-week money challenge: What it is and how to do it
4 min read
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
Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.
If your discretionary income is low, you could pay $0 on your federal student loans.
Our guide tackles the basics of disposable income and how you can use it to budget.
Essential reading
How to start (and build) an emergency fund
11 min read
The best places to keep your emergency fund
7 min read
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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Latest articles
Compare prices on paper checks before you place your next order.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Here’s everything you need to know about the specialty consumer reporting agency.
Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks to decide if a credit union is right for you.
Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.
Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
This type of account can offer a low-risk way to earn a high yield.
A money market account is like a parking spot for cash, but with a few guardrails.
Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.
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.
It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.
Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.
Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.
Financial goals are measuring sticks that apply to any area of your money management skills that you’re looking to improve.
How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
The best account to save your money will vary by your goal.
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
Here’s how much $100,000 in a high-yield savings account can earn you.
A majority (81%) of Americans did not increase their emergency savings this year
Most people know they should save. But understanding why can make the habit stick. Saving isn’t just about “being responsible” — it’s about control, opportunity, and peace of mind. Here are seven [...]
A savings account is a good tool for teaching children financial basics and responsibility.
Saving for your grandchildren can help to minimize the financial burdens they face down the road.
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