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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.
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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.

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

These expert tips can help keep your bank and financial accounts safe from hackers.
If you’re looking to become a better saver, here are some tips for setting savings goals.
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Understanding what determines CD rates can help you decide whether to get one.
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Traveling can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also comes with its share of challenges, especially when it comes to the financial aspect of your trip.
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These popular banks are available to speak with customers around-the-clock.
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Added benefits of banking with Citibank
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Depositing cash into someone’s account isn’t always possible, but there are options.
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Online banks come with incentives that you may not know about, and might make one the best choice for your needs.
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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.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 16, 2025.
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It’s a low interest rate environment, but there are ways to earn more on your money.
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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 [...]
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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.
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Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 12, 2025.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 11, 2025.
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