Budgeting basics

A budget is a spending plan that helps you understand how much money you're making and where you're spending it. A budget is the cornerstone of a strong financial plan.

Envelope budgeting

Zero-based budget

Create a home budget

Budgeting tips

A couple budgets together.

Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.

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If your discretionary income is low, you could pay $0 on your federal student loans.

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Our guide tackles the basics of disposable income and how you can use it to budget.

Essential reading

Calculate your savings

Use our Savings Calculator to help you quickly and accurately estimate the growth of your investment. Set a goal and figure out how much you need to save each month to hit the mark.

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Latest articles

Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 15, 2025.

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A tough mix of rising prices and weak hiring is leaving the Fed with no easy way out.

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Wire transfer fees can be expensive, but here are ways to send money for less.

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In this era of no-fee banking, pesky fees still exist. Here’s how to avoid them.

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Artifical intelligence (AI) is likely to reshape our lives in as big a way as the internet did in the 1990s and smartphones did in the 2000s (scary or exciting as that may be). That means changes to your [...]

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Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 12, 2025.

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Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.

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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.

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Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.

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An emergency fund is an essential part of a solid financial plan.

Rainy day and emergency funds differ but together provide a sound financial plan.

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It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.

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Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.

Calendar of 2023

Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.

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Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.

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Financial goals are measuring sticks that apply to any area of your money management skills that you’re looking to improve.

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Here’s how to save an extra $100 monthly with simple changes.

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These five banking apps can help you save money even on a tight budget.

A mid adult woman sits at the counter in her kitchen and uses a laptop computer for online banking while managing her personal finances.

Don’t wait for the next Fed meeting to see where rates go before opening a deposit account.

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A savings account can be a great tool to teach your child about money. Here are a few of our favorites.

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Consider a savings account with an APY above the inflation rate.

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For savers, here’s what to consider when the Fed lowers interest rates.

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Here are five ways automatic transfers can make growing your savings easy.

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Having multiple bank accounts has its perks but keeping them organized is key.

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