Key takeaways Refinancing your auto loan can save you money by giving you new and better rates and terms, but it can also mean extending your loan term. To find the best new loan for your needs and ensure you’re saving money, it’s smart to use an auto loan calculator.…
Bankruptcy is a legal process to help individuals and businesses manage overwhelming debt. While it provides a path to financial relief, the decision to file bankruptcy requires careful scrutiny due to its lasting impact on credit, assets and future financial opportunities. The two most common types of bankruptcy for individuals…
Key takeaways Multiple estimates on labor and parts can help you pick the most affordable repair shop. Work with your insurance to see if it has any discounts or options for in-network mechanics. Consider alternatives like a credit card or personal loan if the cost to repair is more than…
Being a successful investor often sounds simple, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Still, investing is the best way to build wealth over your lifetime and ensure that you’re able to live the life you want to live. So it can make sense to learn from the best investors to…
Personal Finance
Wildfires in southern California have burned at least 47,000 acres in the Los Angeles area—the largest blaze, the Palisades Fire,…
Washington is abuzz over whether Congress will address President-elect Donald Trump’s ambitious policy agenda in one bill or two. But…
This founder built his brand on a simple idea: Forget about changing the world. Get rich doing mundane and even…
Millions of student loan borrowers face an uncertain future as a second Trump administration prepares to return to Washington. But…
Featured Articles
kate_sept2004/Getty Images If you’re looking to do your taxes on your own, you want to choose the right software to fit your needs. We analyzed the top online tax providers to help you find the best tax software for your budget and situation, so you…
Dept Managmnt
Key takeaways Zombie debt refers to old or expired debts you’ve either forgotten about or never knew about that debt collectors try to…
Banking
It was a close call for a dog named Max when fire raged through his Altadena neighborhood. The brindle-coated Corso mix hid, huddled…
Credit Cards
Key takeaways The Southwest Companion Pass is attainable by using Southwest credit card welcome bonuses to meet the 135,000-point requirement. Applying for a…
All News
As the winter months approach, the allure of snow-covered landscapes, holiday festivities, and cozy nights by the fireplace can be captivating. However, the colder season also brings its own set of challenges that can strain your finances if you’re not prepared. From heating costs to unexpected home repairs, winter can…
Key takeaways Existing-home sales in November 2024 rose 4.8 percent from a year ago, according to the National Association of Realtors. The nationwide median sale price was $406,100, up 4.7 percent from last year and the highest November median on record. Inventory in November was at a 3.8-month supply, down…
Daniel Balakov/Getty Images Funds focused on environmental, social and governance issues (ESG) have continued to have significant appeal in recent years, as institutions and individuals pay greater attention to the way their money is invested. Assets managed with ESG principles are expected to hit $40 trillion by 2030, according to…
Most people hope to retire one day, but many aren’t quite sure how to get there. Amassing enough money to retire is a rather daunting task, especially when you’re just starting out. But developing a plan and taking advantage of every savings opportunity can help ease the stress and set…
As a credit cards writer, it’s easy for me to think that everyone earns and uses credit card rewards as strategically as my team does. But it turns out that quite a few U.S. adults don’t have a rewards credit card. And for those who do, nearly a quarter didn’t…
The Federal Reserve’s Latest Dot Plot, Explained – And What It Says About Interest Rate Cuts
Key takeaways The Fed’s dot plot is a chart that records each Fed official’s projection for the central bank’s key short-term interest rate. The dot plot is updated every three months and is meant to provide insight into the Fed’s future rate decisions, with the caveat that Fed officials can’t…
Images by GettyImages; Illustration by Hunter Newton/Bankrate The Federal Reserve doesn’t set mortgage rates outright. But its decisions in setting interest rates do play a role in the percentages lenders offer would-be homeowners. And even if the Fed keeps things unchanged, mortgage rates can still fluctuate. So, overall, how do…
Richard Drury/ Getty Images; Illustration by Austin Courregé/Bankrate A mixed week for home equity rates. HELOCs continued their 2024 declines: The $30,000 HELOC (home equity line of credit) dropped one basis point to 8.52 percent — its lowest level in a year and a half, according to Bankrate’s national survey…
Key takeaways The Chase Freedom Unlimited® could be worth it if you’re looking to earn more Ultimate Rewards, don’t want to pay an annual fee and can take advantage of the earnings structure, welcome bonus and intro APR. The Freedom Unlimited works well as a cash back card, but it…
Key takeaways The Chase Freedom Flex® is a unique cash back credit card that doubles as a great travel rewards card for those who know how to best take advantage of it. With no annual fee and the ability to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for travel purchases, the Chase…