Banking
Take the 52-week money challenge: What it is and how to do it
4 min read
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
Bankrate offers 18 ideas for stretching your budget to save money.
If your discretionary income is low, you could pay $0 on your federal student loans.
Our guide tackles the basics of disposable income and how you can use it to budget.
Essential reading
How to start (and build) an emergency fund
11 min read
The best places to keep your emergency fund
7 min read
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.
Explore banking products:
Latest articles
Being able to open a checking and savings account can help build financial security.
Taxes on CD interest aren’t always clear-cut. Here’s what you need to know.
A joint bank account can make financial life easier for those sharing finances.
Here’s how to determine the amount to put in savings — and what to do with the rest.
As the Fed holds interest rates steady, savers still have time to lock in top rates.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of Aug 8, 2025.
If you’re looking to save with a credit union, here are the top rates available.
Save more by zapping unwanted expenses with a ‘cancel everything’ mindset.
Monthly budgets are popular because many expenses, such as rent and bills, occur monthly.
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.
It’s important to find the right accounts for your emergency savings.
Here’s a helpful guide to how much you need in savings over the course of your life.
Use this challenge to stash more cash toward your savings goals.
Creating a timeline is a useful way to plan and meet all your financial goals.
Financial goals are measuring sticks that apply to any area of your money management skills that you’re looking to improve.
It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — a main line of defense against unfair banking practices — has been dramatically scaled back under the Trump administration. In May 2025, Congress overturned [...]
Check out Bankrate’s savings picks to help you start off on a long financial future.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 15, 2025.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 12, 2025.
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 11, 2025.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 10, 2025.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information