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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.
Learn more

Recessions & your money

Illustration of a person holding a house with a rain cloud over it
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

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Latest articles

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The Fed’s patience could be challenged as the U.S. economy comes roaring back to life.
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Here’s how to respond to lower rates if you’re in the market for a CD or savings account.
Close up of Treasury Department stimulus check
Those taxpayers could potentially see thousands of extra dollars when they file for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
Illustration of Capitol Hill rotunda and coronavirus stimulus checks
Most plan to spend their stimulus funds on necessities, not on shopping, dining or traveling.
Senior couple works on iPad
Individuals exempt from filing a tax return could be days away from receiving their payment.
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For the first time, adult dependents are eligible for a coronavirus stimulus check.
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But the U.S. economy should pick up speed, thanks to fresh fiscal stimulus.
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Experts warn the IRS may be hard-pressed to send out checks starting in July.
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Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.
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These joint checking accounts are ideal for sharing finances with another person.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Image by GettyImages, Illustrated by Bankrate
The APY percentage shows how much an account earns per year. Here’s what you need to know.
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You might not feel better about inflation because prices are still up post-pandemic.
Image of former St. Louis Fed president, Jim Bullard
Powell is concerned tariffs could lead to more inflation. This former Fed official has a different view.
Woman reaching in to the air for cash
Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
Bank of America at Times Square
Bank of America offers perks beyond basic banking, including museum passes, cash back deals and $300 new account bonuses.
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Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
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Credit card interest rates have a high mark up over the prime rate. Why are card APRs so high?
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
Design element including image of Jerome Powell
Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
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The Fed’s rate hold means loans costs are sticking. Here’s what it means for your business.
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Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
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The Fed has hit the pause button on rates. How will it affect the housing market?
If you’re looking at HE Loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
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