A lot can happen in six months. That’s why, as we close out the first half of the year, it makes sense to check in on your financial life. “With inflation, I think people this year are more heavily impacted than they probably have been in many years leading up to this point,” says Jason … Continued
After the train wreck that was 2020, you may well question whether it’s worth trying to plan anything. But knocking off a few financial tasks early in the year can better prepare you for whatever 2021 has in store. File your tax return ASAP Filing your tax return early typically means getting your refund sooner. … Continued
Last year’s savings rates of 2% and higher have come and gone, but that doesn’t mean high-yield savings accounts disappeared. “There are high-yield savings accounts out there, but it’s all relative,” says Mike Schenk, chief economist for the Credit Union National Association. When the Federal Reserve cut its benchmark rate to nearly zero in March, … Continued
Probably the last thing you want to think about during a crisis is working on healthy financial habits like saving money. But if you’re able to save, you can make your eventual recovery easier. “Every time you put some [money] away, you’re looking out for your future self,” says Saundra Davis, founder and executive director … Continued
When I originally set out to write this column, I wanted to share the unexpected benefits of cutting back on my online shopping habit. At the beginning of the year, I set a personal challenge to reduce my online orders from several times a week (insert embarrassed emoji) to a few times a month. As … Continued
Your credit score makes a big difference in your life: It can help you qualify for credit cards or car loans, let you skip deposits on utilities, and even make car insurance more affordable. But that three-digit number is not who you are. While it’s easy to feel discouraged about a low score, it’s important … Continued
We’ve entered a new year and a new decade. Not surprisingly, this fresh start has probably brought new goals to mind — like money management. If you’re planning to start balancing your income and spending, here are four things to keep in mind before you dive headfirst into budgeting in 2020. 1. Budgets aren’t just a New … Continued
Christmas, Hanukkah and the holiday season have come and gone — likely taking quite a bit of your cash with them. You can’t magically make more money appear in your bank account. And it’s definitely too late to ask Santa for a check. But here are three of the next best things you can do. 1. Adjust … Continued
Reporting for jury duty. Standing in line at the DMV. Going to the dentist. Making a budget. What do all of these have in common? They’re activities you’d probably like to skip. And while budgeting certainly isn’t exciting, breaking down your spending can give you the ability to do things you enjoy. Here’s how to … Continued
Your wallet has a secret. Buried in your billfold, bound in a money clip, or stuffed in a pocket on your phone case are untapped benefits on credit and debit cards that could save you hundreds of dollars a year. Here are five money hacks hiding in plain sight. 1. Use a savings app Build savings … Continued