Image by PM Images/Getty Images; Illustration by Hunter Newton/Bankrate Mortgage rates reversed course to edge lower this week, with the 30-year fixed rate averaging 6.29%, down from 6.31% the previous week, according to Bankrate’s latest lender survey. Current mortgage rates Loan type Current 4 weeks ago One year ago 52-week…
The job market shouldn’t feel as broken as it does right now – and the data backs that up. The U.S. economy grew by the fastest pace in nearly two years last quarter, the stock market is on a tear and unemployment is still relatively low. Usually, that should mean…
Shock. Anger. Shame. And finally, hopelessness. The emotions that follow a car repossession can be overwhelming, but they often converge into one lingering question: “What do I do now?” As an insurance agent in 2009, I received this call more times than I can count, as the Great Recession resulted…
Selena Cooper, 25, is a federal worker in South Carolina. After the government shut down on Oct. 1, the office where she works was closed, and her paychecks stopped coming through. It didn’t take long before she found herself with an overdraft balance on her checking account and $4,000 in…
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The nation’s 75 million Social Security recipients will receive a 2.8% cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase in their benefits…
Historically Black colleges and universities are on the frontlines of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s new limits on parent…
The big new fees JPMorgan Chase is planning to charge some financial technology companies may well trickle down to consumers,…
With artificial intelligence beginning to eat away at many white-collar entry-level jobs, and the unemployment rate for recent college graduates…
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Key takeaways CDs earning 4% APY provide guaranteed returns with FDIC insurance up to $250,000 — making them one of the safest investments available. A $10,000 CD at 4% APY earns $400 in one year, while a 5-year CD at 4% APY generates $2,166 in…
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Practical Money Tricks That Lead to Real Treats Getting out of debt doesn’t happen overnight, but small, consistent actions can help you regain…
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The fundamental flaws in the way the Federal Reserve operates these days were on full display Wednesday when Jerome Powell talked to the…
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Ariel Skelley/Getty Images Key Takeaways Only 8% of Americans visited bank branches as their primary banking method in 2024, but 66% still value having branches in their neighborhoods. Physical branches offer unique services like safe deposit boxes, notary services, and large cash deposits that online banks can’t match. Face-to-face relationships…
Key takeaways Based on the 28/36 rule, you should aim to spend a maximum of $2,333 per month on your housing costs if you earn $100,000 each year. If you’re trying to budget for buying a home on a $100,000 salary, pay close attention to how much of your earnings…
Key takeaways To prepare for getting a mortgage, figure out what you can realistically afford, how much you’ll have saved for a down payment and if you need to improve your credit score before applying. Comparing offers from multiple lenders — at least three — could save you a significant…
Key takeaways Significant home renovations can impact the value of your home, and you may need to adjust your homeowners insurance accordingly. Adding square footage or valuable upgrades could increase your insurance premium. Renovations that reduce your risk of a claim, like a roof replacement or new security system, could…
StacieStauffSmith Photos/Shutterstock Key takeaways An easement is a legal right to use part of someone else’s property for a specific purpose, such as a shared driveway or utility access. Easements are typically documented in property records and often remain in place even if the property changes owners. Easements can be…
kelvn/GettyImages; Illustration by Hunter Newton/Bankrate The airport is usually not an enjoyable place to spend time, especially when delays spring up. You can easily spend an entire day at a crowded airport gate, shelling out significant money on food and drinks while you wait for your flight. Having airport lounge…
Key takeaways Wire transfers, third-party apps, ACH transfers and checks can all move money between banks. Wire transfers are fastest but most expensive, while ACH transfers are free but slower. Third-party apps like Zelle often balance speed and cost for everyday transfers. Your choice depends on how quickly you need…
Key takeaways If you want to boost your chances of getting a credit card, knowing where your credit score falls on the spectrum can help. If you have limited credit history or no credit, you may have to start your credit-building journey with a secured credit card. Keeping your credit…
Key takeaways Leasing a car requires less money upfront and has lower payments, but there are typically mileage restrictions and additional costs. Buying can mean more expensive monthly payments and long-term maintenance costs, but you have greater control over its use and lower costs in the long run. With leasing,…
Key takeaways Yes, most ATMs at major banks accept cash deposits, though not all machines have this capability. You can typically only deposit cash at ATMs owned by your bank or partner networks. Cash deposits usually become available within one business day, but some banks offer instant availability. Yes, you…
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