There is a lot to know when it comes to filing taxes. Our complete guide for the 2024 tax year (filing in 2025) should help. How Much Do You Have to Make to File Taxes? Making more money is, in almost every way, a good thing. But it’s also true that the more money you […]
It’s that time of year again — tax season. Wondering where to start? Overwhelmed by advertising promises for tax prep help and wondering where to find free tax filing? Don’t dive in — or pay up — until you check out these options for filing your taxes for free. If you live in a state […]
You may be frantically searching for your tax forms, organizing your receipts, figuring out how much it’ll cost you to file and trying to remember the most recent updates to the tax code. Tax season can be stressful… to say the least. Thankfully, some smart software companies have made the process way easier — and, […]
The home-buying process can be a long one, and there are many different aspects of it that can be trying. Most people choose to work with a realtor who can help make the experience more positive for them, and they’ll be there to help guide you through the process. Still, you’ll want to know more […]
When you’re trying to buy a house, especially for the first time, it can feel like the deck is stacked against you. Having bad credit can spell difficulty in getting a traditional mortgage loan. But wouldn’t getting off the rent cycle treadmill be a first step to rebuilding your finances? What’s worse is that bad […]
Buying a home is the biggest financial decision many people ever make, so it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Whether you’re moving from a rental to your first house, looking to move out of your starter home or thinking about buying that forever piece of real estate, you’ll need to have a good […]
A house is likely to be the biggest purchase you ever make, which can make home buying equally terrifying and thrilling. If you’re preparing to buy your first home, take a deep breath, pour yourself a glass of wine and read these tips for first-time home buyers. The home-buying process is complicated and infuriating at […]
Since 2011, the average price of a house in the U.S. has more than doubled — rising from $176,000 in 2011 to $358,000 in 2022. Though home prices have recently dipped for the first time in more than a decade, inflation, growing student loan debt and high interest rates have made the dream of homeownership […]
Cryptocurrency is no longer a novelty. From our social media feeds to Super Bowl commercials, digital currency is increasingly mainstream. But some people remain hesitant about cryptocurrency because of its inherently risky and volatile nature. In this guide, we’ll explain how to invest in cryptocurrency, including where to purchase digital coins and the safest way […]
How you feel about investing in stocks depends on how comfortable you are with taking risks. You may love the idea of playing the stock market if you’re OK with taking chances. Who doesn’t dream from time to time about getting rich by picking the next Apple? But if caution is more your style, investing […]
You’ve probably heard that investing is one of the best ways to put your money to work. But if you’ve never put money in the stock market, the prospect can be overwhelming to say the least. What investments should you choose? How much money does it take to get started? And what kind of account […]
Regardless of where you are in life, you will likely need to open a bank account at some point. But what do you need to open a bank account, exactly? Whether you’re a total newbie or just haven’t opened one in a long time, the process of opening an account can be stressful — but […]
Over the last several decades, technological advances have revolutionized the way we bank. There are more options for where to do your banking now than ever before. If you are just now breaking away from your parents’ bank account or are considering leaving your current financial institution, the options for opening a new account can […]
If you’re looking for a way to finance large purchases or pay off debt without drowning in interest, 0% APR credit cards can be a game-changer. These cards offer a promotional period during which no interest is charged, giving you time to pay off balances or make purchases without worrying about interest fees. Whether you’re […]
Want to earn money just by making everyday purchases? Cash back rewards credit cards are a smart way to make your spending work for you. Whether you’re filling up your tank, stocking up on groceries, or grabbing dinner, a cash back credit card lets you earn a percentage back on everything you buy. In this […]
Balance transfer credit cards give borrowers a second chance at paying down their debts without the threat of predatory interest. If you’re struggling with high-interest credit card debt, a balance transfer credit card could be your financial lifesaver. These cards allow you to move existing debt from one or more credit cards to a new […]
Planning a trip? The best travel credit cards offer consumers rewards points or miles toward purchases like airfare, hotels and rental cars. Though some carry steep fees, the right card not only saves you money on foreign transaction fees but also offers rewards and perks that enhance your travel experience. And they might also come […]
In today’s world, using the right rewards credit card is one of the smartest ways to get more value from your everyday spending. Whether it’s cashback on groceries, points toward travel, or miles for your next adventure, rewards credit cards are designed to help you earn as you spend. But with so many options available, […]
You probably know that saving and investing are essential to retirement planning. But just as important to the equation: Social Security planning. It’s impossible to overstate the importance of Social Security to retirees. The truth is, Americans aren’t saving or investing enough for a secure retirement. Without Social Security, approximately 4 out of 10 people […]
Even if you’re young, it’s never too early to think about saving for retirement. If you have a job that offers a 401(k) savings plan, enrolling and contributing money will put you on your way to building a nice nest egg. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re already maxing out your 401(k) contributions — […]