The first bell of the new school year is about to ring, and many parents are searching for money-saving tips on essential back-to-school supplies. Saving money this year is being made more challenging than usual by high inflation ( 8.5% as of July 2022 ). The National Retail Federation predicts that families will spend record amounts on school supplies to ensure their children have what they need...

Many people are looking for lower-cost entertainment options, and we’re here to help. But unfortunately, record inflation and predictions of a coming recession can put a damper on your entertainment plans. After paying those pesky living expenses, many U.S. households have little left to splurge on amusement park tickets, a new movie release, or other favorite pastimes. But a forecast of heavy...

Record inflation can put the freeze on holiday travel plans. As temperatures drop, so do your hopes of vacationing in a winter paradise or driving cross-country to visit relatives. High airline ticket, gasoline, and lodging prices might have you nixing your plans for a merry holiday season. Don’t despair! It’s time to thaw your financial concerns and make traveling more affordable this winter...

While most people know that saving money is key to a comfortable financial future, many fail to do it regularly. Whether because of a lack of discipline, a recent bout of unemployment, or another money emergency, growing a hefty savings balance is often necessary to weather a financial storm without using credit cards or loans. Regardless of your circumstances, now is an excellent time to kick...

When volatile markets negatively affect, retirement accounts, you might feel uneasy about your investments. It’s natural to question whether you should change your saving strategy to preserve gains or exit the market altogether. While circumstances vary, there are six things investors can do to stay on track toward achieving their retirement savings benchmark. 1. Review your asset mix. Recent...

There is one constant in life: change. And that includes tax laws. U.S. taxpayers can expect annual federal tax code adjustments just about every year. For tax year 2023, there are at least 60 tax provisions to be aware of as you prepare your finances for the new year. Here are a few changes that will likely affect most taxpayers filing their federal income tax return in 2024. Higher standard...

U.S. households are feeling the squeeze of inflation on their wallets, and many are considering auto loan refinancing to help ease the financial pressure. But with rising interest rates, paying off an existing auto loan with a new one may not be a smart move. While the new loan could provide immediate relief, it could also cost more over the long term. Weigh the pros and cons of an auto loan...

If you and your special someone are getting serious, you might be discussing the next steps of your relationship. For some, this means exchanging vows. For others, it means a wedding of finances. Either way, merging money can be a delicate topic that one or both partners hope to avoid. But having a heart-to-heart about finances is necessary for the long-term happiness of the relationship. Here are...

As outdoor temperatures drop, utility bills are expected to heat up the finances of households across the country. The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts a sharp uptick in the amount it will cost to heat your home this winter. But higher bills, whether due to increased fuel costs, colder temperatures, or both, don’t have to freeze your budget. Here are four practical ways to save...

Setting goals is an important step toward creating a secure financial future. Goals provide clear direction by requiring you to focus on a specific money target. While goals can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, having both short-term and long-term goals is essential to successful financial planning. Short-term goals are typically achieved in a year or less, while long-term goals...