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Recession watch

Will the U.S. economy soon be in a recession? It's the trillion-dollar question that even experts don't know the answer to. Here's how to prepare for a potential downturn, and how one could impact you.

Insights from our expert analysts

“Economic uncertainty is a time for reducing debt and boosting savings, not the other way around.”

– Greg McBride, CFA

Do's and don'ts of saving during a recession

To help you navigate saving during a recession, we asked a number of experts what some of the most helpful things to do are, as well as some things you should try to avoid at all costs.
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Recessions & your money

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How might a recession affect the housing market?
A middle-aged couple looks out to the beach from their van
Here are some tips to help make sure your retirement savings are protected in the event of a recession.
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The once-booming labor market is starting to face some trouble.

Experts in all things finance

Our expert reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.

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Greg McBride

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Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

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Senior Economic Analyst

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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How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
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Here’s what to skip and what to buy — and how to tariff-proof your budget.
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Overwhelmed state unemployment offices have left Americans without aid for weeks, if not longer.
If you’re looking at HE loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
Jerome Powell, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, during the National Association of Business Economics (NABE) annual meeting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Borrowers often don’t notice small rate cuts, and a weakening economy could dull the relief.
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Auto rates will likely not decrease this year. Consider how to still save.
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
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Does the Fed interest rate affect car loans? Yes, it does: It has a domino effect that can raise or lower auto loan rates.
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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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Bank consolidation often leads to lower deposit rates. Here’s what the current merger boom means for your savings and how to respond.
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The right savings strategy could put that family vacation within reach.
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The amount of money you should save each month will vary based on your goals. Here’s what to know.
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Here’s what other banks have to offer that you might be missing out on at yours.
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Looking for a place to park your savings? Here’s why a MMA might be appealing.
Woman online banking with a tablet
How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
If you’re looking at HE loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
Jerome Powell, chairman of the US Federal Reserve, during the National Association of Business Economics (NABE) annual meeting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Borrowers often don’t notice small rate cuts, and a weakening economy could dull the relief.
A Black couple talk to a salesperson at a car dealership.
Auto rates will likely not decrease this year. Consider how to still save.
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
Exterior of Federal Reserve building
Does the Fed interest rate affect car loans? Yes, it does: It has a domino effect that can raise or lower auto loan rates.
Outside of the Federal Reserve building
The Federal Reserve just lowered interest rates for the first time in four years.
Federal Reserve Eccles Building illustration
Bankrate analyzed the Fed’s historic rate moves for clues on what might come next.
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