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.
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Latest articles
Most online banks are secure and pay better yields than brick-and-mortar banks.
CDs come in many varieties, making it easy to find one that meets your needs.
As the Fed hints at lowering interest rates, here’s how to prepare when rates fall.
Bank account bonuses can be a rewarding way to earn some extra money for trying a new bank.
Switching banks can pay big. Follow these steps to choose a trustworthy new bank.
Keeping your savings in a bank down the street may seem like the obvious play, but there may be real downsides for doing so.
There’s a right way to handle old checks. The wrong way can cost you.
Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
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.
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.
Knowing how these accounts work, and how they differ, can help better your finances.
Compare the best high-yield savings rates as of September 9, 2025.
We look back at how banks handled rate cuts in 2024, and what to expect in 2025.
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information