Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

This device is too small

If you're on a Galaxy Fold, consider unfolding your phone or viewing it in full screen to best optimize your experience.

Skip to main content

Motley Fool Money Articles

Learn more about applying the principles of money management to help stay in control of your finances.

Recent Articles

April 25, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

What Happens When You Apply for Too Many Credit Cards in One Year

Applying for too many credit cards in a short window can hurt your credit score and raise red flags with lenders. Here's what actually happens.
April 25, 2026 | By James McClenathen

This Simple Mistake Can Cost You $8 Every Time You Buy Groceries

Using the wrong card at the supermarket costs the average family hundreds a year. These two no-fuss rewards cards fix that fast.
April 25, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

Only Want One Credit Card? Pick One of These 3

Don't want to juggle multiple credit cards? These three award-winning picks do it all. Here's how to find the right one for you today.
April 25, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

4 Reasons You Can Get Denied for a Credit Card That Have Nothing to Do With Your Score

Think an 800+ credit score guarantees card approval? Here are four reasons you can still get denied for a card that have nothing to do with your score.
April 25, 2026 | By Jake FitzGerald

Here's the Smartest Way to Pay Off Credit Card Debt in 2026

A balance transfer card gives you up to 21 months at 0% APR to pay down debt interest-free. Here's how to use one the right way.
April 25, 2026 | By Jake FitzGerald

The $400 Financial Test That Millions of Americans Fail

Just 44% of Americans could cover a $400 emergency using only money from their bank account.
April 25, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

The Citi Strata Premier Is One of the Most Underrated Travel Cards Right Now

The Citi Strata Premier earns 3X points on groceries, gas, dining, and travel -- plus a $100 annual hotel credit that nearly offsets its annual fee.
April 25, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

The Costco Visa Earns 4%-5% Back on Gas -- Here's What That Adds Up to in a Year

The Costco Anywhere Visa earns up to 5% back on gas with no annual fee beyond your membership. Here's how much that's worth annually.
April 25, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

The Amex Gold Card Has $524 in Annual Credits. Here's How to Use Every Dollar

The Amex Gold Card comes with over $500 in potential annual credits. Here's how to actually use all of them year after year.
April 25, 2026 | By Jake FitzGerald

Top High-Yield Savings Accounts Offering up to 5.00% APY Right Now, April 25, 2026

The Fed cut rates a total of three times in 2025, but today's top high-yield savings accounts continue to offer up to 5.00% APY. Find out more.
April 25, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

Unlock 75,000 Bonus Points: The Best Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses This Week, April 25, 2026

Want to earn a whole bundle of points with one of the best travel cards out there? Here's why now's the time to apply for this elite Chase offering.
April 25, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

Travel Prices Are Spiking. These 3 Cards Could Save You $800+ This Year

Airfare prices are rising fast in 2026. These three travel credit cards can help offset the cost with welcome offers, everyday rewards, and built-in perks.
April 24, 2026 | By Jake FitzGerald

Here's What Happens When You Dispute a Credit Card Charge

Disputing a credit card charge triggers a formal process that usually ends in your favor. Here's what actually happens.
April 24, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

Is the Amex Platinum Worth It if You Don't Travel Much? Here's the Honest Answer

The Amex Platinum carries a steep annual fee, but non-travelers can still come out ahead -- if the right credits already fit their lifestyle.
April 24, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

5 Things Your Credit Card Probably Covers That You're Paying for Separately

Many credit cards include hidden perks like cellphone protection, rental car insurance, and travel credits. Here's what you might already be paying for twice.
April 24, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

Here's How to Get $800+ in Value From a $95 Annual Fee Credit Card

Learn how this $95 annual fee travel card can get you $800+ in value in your first year -- and whether the card's right for you today.
April 24, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

What 'Credit Utilization' Really Means -- and the Number You Should Never Cross

Credit utilization makes up 30% of your credit score. Here's what the ratio means, how to calculate yours, and how to keep it low.
April 24, 2026 | By Jake FitzGerald

Why I'd Never Keep More Than 6 Months of Expenses in a Savings Account

A savings account is the right home for your emergency fund. It's the wrong home for everything else.
April 24, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

I've Owned 5 Credit Cards in My Life. Here's the Only One That's a Must-Have

I've had a handful of credit cards over the years, but only one of them takes the cake. Here's what to know and how you can save with it.
April 24, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

Here's How Much the Average American Spends on Food Every Month (and One Savvy Way to Lower It)

Americans spend an average of $847 per month on food. The right rewards card can turn that everyday spending into real cash back year after year.
April 24, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

The Hilton Honors Surpass Has a Low Annual Fee. Here's What $150 Gets You

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card has an annual fee -- but offers plenty of value to make up for it. Here's how to know if it's right for you.
April 24, 2026 | By Jake FitzGerald

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Today, April 24, 2026: Earn up to 5.00% APY

High-yield savings accounts are still paying up to 5.00% APY following a total of three Fed rate cuts in 2025 and a pair of hold decisions so far in 2026.
April 24, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

Earn 3X on Dining and 20,000 Bonus Points: The Best No-Annual-Fee Cards This Week, April 24, 2026

Want to earn 3X points on dining, a solid welcome bonus, and more? Here's the no-annual-fee card worth getting, plus four other cards we love.
April 23, 2026 | By Joel O'Leary

Here's When a CD Ladder Actually Makes Sense -- and When It Doesn't

A CD ladder can smooth out your rates and free up cash regularly -- but it's not the right move for everyone. Here's when it works and when to skip it.
April 23, 2026 | By Ryan Wilcox

Here's What to Do When a Card's Annual Fee Is No Longer Worth It

Got a credit card that's not pulling its weight? Here's what to do about it -- and when canceling might not be the best idea.