Here are five questions that can help you calculate the amount you should keep in an emergency savings fund. 1. What are my expenses? Many people mistakenly believe they must save half a year’s worth of paychecks to build a solid emergency fund. But the amount you need to sock away could be far less. If you need to tap into the fund, it’s unlikely that you’ll be in a position to continue spending...

Fraudsters are upgrading their tactics, but so are we. That’s why we’ve launched Advanced Device Security , a powerful new way to safeguard your account. This advanced tool ensures that only you can authorize changes to your account. Here’s how it works and why you should enable it. Stay One Step Ahead of Fraudsters Cybercriminals are always evolving their tactics to gain access to financial...

It might seem impossible to save money while simultaneously reducing debt. The challenge becomes particularly daunting when high-interest debt repayments take up the majority of your income. However, building a financial cushion and keeping overall debt to a minimum is vital for maintaining financial stability. Fortunately, these six strategies can help you achieve your goals. 1. Create a detailed...

Understanding basic federal tax rules could help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Whether you’re filing your taxes solo or hiring a professional, these five strategies can help you optimize your tax return for the 2024 tax year. 1. Understand Your Filing Status Your tax filing status determines your tax bracket, standard deduction amount, and eligibility for specific tax credits. Selecting...

College graduates often feel overwhelmed when their student loan payments kick in, especially while juggling new career responsibilities and living expenses. Without a solid plan for handling student loan debt, you might struggle to make payments, damage your credit score, or have to postpone other financial goals. Use these practical tips to design a plan that balances your student loan...

When buying or leasing a new car, a crucial type of coverage called gap insurance could protect you from unexpected financial loss. Also known as Guaranteed Asset Protection, this optional coverage provides relief during two of the most devastating scenarios car owners can face - when their vehicle is totaled or stolen. Here’s what you should know about gap insurance. How Gap Insurance Works Gap...

In the wake of natural disasters like the recent California wildfires and South Carolina hurricanes, victims face numerous challenges, including the risk of falling prey to scams. At the same time, generous individuals looking to help those in need must navigate a landscape riddled with fraudulent charities. Here’s how to protect yourself as a disaster victim and make informed decisions when...