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Banking Articles

From get out of debt strategies to advice on improving your savings returns, we've got recommendations to help you make smarter banking decisions.

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Recent Articles

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Sept. 28, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Even With Interest Rates Dropping, High-Yield Savings Accounts Still Hold This Major Edge Over the Top CDs

Savings account rates are already dropping with more Fed cuts expected. But here's why it's worth leaving your money alone anyway.
A red piggy bank against a yellow background
Sept. 28, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

4 Money-Savings Moves I Wish I Had Made in My 20s

Are you looking for tips to save more money? Making small changes can help. Here are some savings strategies I wish I made earlier.
A bank manager helps a woman open up a new account.
Sept. 27, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

4 Signs It's Time to Switch Your Bank

Sometimes, you just have to say goodbye -- to your bank. Here are a few ways to tell you need a new financial institution.
Mature man at desk looking off in thought.
Sept. 27, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Should You Open a CD Before the Fed Cuts Rates Again?

The Fed is widely expected to keep cutting rates. Find out how it could impact CDs.
A smiling person lying on a bed while searching on a laptop.
Sept. 27, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

3 Reasons It's Never a Bad Time to Open a CD

CD rates will likely become less attractive soon -- but that doesn't mean they aren't worth considering. Learn how CDs can be great savings tools here.
A smiling young adult sitting in an armchair in a sunny room while looking at a phone.
Sept. 27, 2024 | By Jamie Matthews

My Savings Account Rate Fell After the Fed Rate Cut. Here's What That Means for My Savings Plans

My savings account APY took a dip less than 24 hours after the Fed interest rate cut last week. Find out why that doesn't change my overall savings goals.
A smiling man drinking juice and looking at his phone while sitting at the breakfast table in front of a bowl of cereal.
Sept. 26, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

2 Reasons Not to Open a High-Yield Savings Account -- and Why They're Wrong

Putting your cash into a high-yield savings account is an easy way to earn passive income. Read on for some HYSA myth-busting.
A glass jar tipped over with coins falling out
Sept. 24, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

Waited Too Long to Get the Best CD Rates? Here's Another Route to Great Passive Income Returns

You don't need CDs to have great passive income potential. Check out this other option.
A group of friends sitting in the sun on the deck of a lakefront cabin.
Sept. 24, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

2 Ways Millennials Are Winning at Saving Money

We killed department stores, the diamond industry, and chain restaurants. But read on to learn about millennials' amazing savings habits.
A young adult uses their phone while leaning against a brick wall in a city.
Sept. 24, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

The Fed Cut Rates but Is Just Getting Started -- Here's What CD and Savings Account Interest Rates Could Do in 2025

The Federal Reserve typically cuts or raises rates in a cycle, not all at once. See why this is important for your finances.
A glass jar tipped over with coins falling out
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Here's What Happens When You Cash Out Your CD Early

Cashing in a CD early will result in a penalty. But it could make financial sense to do it. Learn what to expect when you cash out your CD early.
A couple talking to a bank officer at a desk.
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

All the Safest Banks Have This Key Feature. Does Yours?

Hackers aren't the only danger to your bank account funds. Here's a key protection you need to make sure your money stays safe.
A red piggy bank against a yellow background
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

Is $5,000 Too Much to Keep in Your Checking Account?

Checking accounts are best for transactions, not savings. Find out if keeping $5,000 in your checking account is stopping you from becoming wealthier.
A young businessperson does paperwork in coffee shop and checks their phone.
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Locking In a 5% CD Rate Now? Here's Why You Might Regret It Later

High-yield CDs are great, but they're not always your best option. Read on to discover a few times it pays to skip them.
A stack of coins against a yellow background
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

Are CDs Still a Good Investment After the Fed Rate Cuts?

CD rates have fallen slightly, but they're still a good choice in certain scenarios. Find out whether CDs are the best choice for your money.
A young man sits at his desk and looks over his investment accounts.
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Chris Neiger

Why Low-Risk CDs Might Be Your Riskiest Investment

Putting too much money in a CD could leave less to invest in the stock market. Read on to find out why the market is a better long-term option.
A person holding a bunch of dollar bills in front of their face
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

3 Signs You Should Skip CDs Despite the 5% Rates

The current high rates mean everyone is pushing CDs. But these signs may mean CDs aren't right for you.
A pot of change with a plant growing out of it
Sept. 23, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Here's Why I'm OK With My Savings Account Interest Rate Dropping

Bank account rates are expected to drop soon. Find out why I'm still holding onto my savings account, even though I know it'll take a hit.
A pile of money with a seedling growing out of it
Sept. 22, 2024 | By Robin Hartill, CFP

Move Over, CDs. There's a Better Place to Put Your Money Now

Keeping money in a CD is safe, but your returns are limited. Find out why investing in S&P 500 ETFs using your Roth IRA is a better way to build wealth.
A red piggy bank against a yellow background
Sept. 22, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Can You Get Paid for Switching Banks?

You can switch banks online in minutes, skipping the trip to a branch in most cases. Here's how you can even get paid to do it, if you choose the right account.
A green background with jester cap logos and a credit card image overlayed
Sept. 22, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

3 Times You Should Always Use Your Debit Card

Almost 50% of Americans carry a balance on their credit card. Find out how that's just one scenario where your debit card might trump credit.
A pot of change with a plant growing out of it
Sept. 22, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Are CDs Worth Buying Now That Rates Are Being Cut?

The Fed just cut rates for the first time since 2020. Find out what it means for CDs.
A young woman taking a picture of a check.
Sept. 21, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Top 4 Things to Look for in a New Bank

Joining a new bank can do wonders for your finances. Read on for a few factors not to overlook when you're picking one out.
A pile of currency bills
Sept. 21, 2024 | By Natasha Etzel

Should You Move Money Out of Savings Now That Rate Cuts Are Here?

Despite recent cuts to the federal funds rate, you should still keep your savings in the bank. Find out how much savings accounts APYs may change.
Two people holding shopping bags take money from an ATM machine while out on the town.
Sept. 21, 2024 | By Danielle Antosz

Here's How Much Money You Can Make in a Year Just by Switching Banks

Did you know you could come out ahead by $1,000 a year if you switched banks? Check out how lower fees and sign-up bonuses can add up to a solid payday.