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What to Do With Extra Money

Here are all the best ways to make the most of extra money.

By Lyle DalyUpdated May 11, 2026 at 4:49 AM EST | Fact-checked by Frank Bass

Key Points

  • Paying off high-interest debt, such as credit cards, is like earning a 20% return.
  • Building an emergency fund of 3-6 months' expenses protects your investments.
  • Contributing more to retirement accounts like 401(k) or IRA offers tax benefits.

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