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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

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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

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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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JPMorgan raises recession probability to 50%. Learn five practical steps to protect your savings before economic conditions worsen.
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Credit card interest rates have a high mark up over the prime rate. Why are card APRs so high?
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A new credit card, timed right and used strategically, can help you fight high prices.
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.
Calm focused female freelancer in casual clothes revising reports while sitting on soft couch at table and using computer in light contemporary apartment
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?
Stylized image of Trump wearing a Maga hat pointing to the left above the Federal Trade building.
If the Fed’s independence is jeopardized, here’s what experts say it could mean for your wallet.
Family planting trees in a park.
Green banking is an environmental movement. There are a number of ways consumers can make adjustments to their banking to help the environment.
Older woman and child putting pennies in a jar
We all use our checking accounts for the basic purposes — direct deposit of our paychecks, paying monthly bills and making debit card purchases. And while usually you’re seeing money leave your checking [...]
Man using his tablet for online banking
Financial markets may drop lower, but APYs on high-yield savings remain high.
Women using digital tablet to check her finances at home office
Looking for a stable way to pay off your debts with money left to save? Read on.
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If you have over $25,000 in your savings account, consider these strategies.
young man falling out of the sky along with various household items and cash
You might not feel better about inflation because prices are still up post-pandemic.
Two women having takeout food at home
Knowing how fixed and variable expenses differ can help you improve your finances.
Man using credit card while online
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.
US-ECONOMY-FEDERAL RESERVE-RATE-POWELL
The Fed’s rate hold means loans costs are sticking. Here’s what it means for your business.
Calm focused female freelancer in casual clothes revising reports while sitting on soft couch at table and using computer in light contemporary apartment
Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
Banking_How-the-Fed-Rate-Affects-Housing_
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.
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.
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