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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.

Budgeting tips

A couple budgets together.
Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.
Young man working on finances at home. He has a laptop open and is using a calculator.
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.

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.

Latest articles

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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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Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 11, 2025.
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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.
illustration of money growing on trees
Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.
Calendar of 2023
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Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.
Young woman using a laptop with credit card while relaxing at home
Financial goals are measuring sticks that apply to any area of your money management skills that you’re looking to improve.
Mom preparing financial paperwork at home while her child draws next to her
Single people and young families tend to have significantly less saved.
Here’s how to boost your savings.
A couple budgets together.
Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.
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Giving money as a gift doesn’t have to be boring. Use this guide to personalize your monetary giving.
The Federal Reserve Building in downtown Washington DC, USA at night.
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The top high-yield savings accounts are currently earning APYs of 5 percent and greater.
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$10,000 high-yield savings vs. $10,000 money market account: Here’s which earns more
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Worried that your high-yield savings APY isn’t so high? Here’s how to stay on top.
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