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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

A young woman sitting on the floor with a calculator, laptop, and notebook.
Jan. 24, 2025 | By James McClenathen

Why I'm Not Opening Any CDs in 2025 -- Even With Rates Over 4%

There are better places for me to put my money than CDs. Find out what they are and what makes them great.
Couple using laptop and calculator together smiling.
Jan. 17, 2025 | By James McClenathen

Forget CDs, Even With Rates Over 4%. Here's Where to Put Your Money Instead

Certificates of deposit offer decent interest rates right now. But for most people, there are two better alternatives. Find out what they are.
Two people lounging next to a luxury pool surrounded by palm trees while typing on a laptop and tablet.
Dec. 11, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

3 Little-Known Ways to Get a High Net Worth

If your net worth is going up, that's a sign you're doing well financially. Learn about a few little-known ways you can increase your net worth.
A stylish young woman celebrating and throwing confetti in the air.
Dec. 10, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

This Is the Most Underrated Financial New Year's Resolution

If you lack emergency savings, it's worth prioritizing for 2025. Keep reading to find out how.
A pile of bills
Dec. 9, 2024 | By Steven Porrello

3 Reasons to Switch Banks in December 2024

Don't stay with a bank that isn't treating you well. Learn three reasons to make the switch in December 2024.
A wad of folded dollar bills
Dec. 9, 2024 | By Dana George

The 5 Best Places for Retirees to Keep Their Cash

One concern in retirement is how to protect your assets, including cash. Here are five places where your money will be safe.
A man sitting at a sunny desk and looking up something on a laptop.
Dec. 8, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Savings Account or CD: Which Is the Better Place for Your Savings Right Now?

Both types of accounts can help you grow your wealth, but they each have drawbacks too. Here's how to decide which is right for you.
A glass jar full of bills and coins
Dec. 8, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

3 Better Investments Than a HYSA Now That Rates Have Dropped

High yield savings accounts were great places to park money for a while, but their days are numbered. Find out where you should put your money now.
A woman sitting at a sunny table and writing in a notebook.
Dec. 8, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Make These 4 Moves With Your Savings Account Before 2025

Here comes another new year -- is your savings account ready? Read on for four key steps to take between now and the ball drop.
A person holding a bunch of dollar bills in front of their face
Dec. 7, 2024 | By Robin Hartill, CFP

I Just Inherited Over $200K. Now What?

Inheriting $200,000 or any amount can be a game-changer, but it can also be overwhelming. Follow these steps if you're getting an inheritance.
A man wearing a medical mask and taking money out of an ATM on the street.
Dec. 7, 2024 | By Dana George

Why Are More Banks Closing Local Branches?

The number of local bank branches is quickly shrinking. Find out why it's happening.
A pile of currency bills
Dec. 6, 2024 | By Brittney Myers

Banks Are Closing Local Branches. Here’s What That Means for You

If it feels like you're seeing fewer local bank branches, you may be right. This is what's going on, and how it could impact you.
A pile of bills
Dec. 2, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

I'm Retiring With $400,000. Am I in Good Shape?

Is $400,000 enough to retire comfortably? The short answer is that it depends. Find out more here.
A smiling person sitting at a table in a coffee shop and looking at a phone in their hand
Nov. 29, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Here's Why I Keep a Savings Account That Only Pays 0.01% APY

High-yield savings accounts are all the rage, for good reason. But read on to see why even a low-APY savings account can improve your finances.
A pot of change with a plant growing out of it
Nov. 29, 2024 | By Robin Hartill, CFP

Have $5,000 in Your Checking Account? Here Are 3 Better Places to Keep Your Cash

Checking accounts offer convenience, but the interest rates are pitiful. If you've got extra money in your checking accounts, consider these three alternatives.
Man sits at laptop and appears to be in thought.
Nov. 26, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Should You Open a 5-Year CD in 2025?

With a 5-year CD, you could earn a fixed rate on your money until 2030. Explore the pros and cons to see if this is the right option for your savings.
Two men in thought looking at a laptop screen together.
Nov. 25, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Smart Investors Are Avoiding 12-Month CDs, Even With Rates at 5%. Here's Why

Short-term CDs have the highest rates right now, but they're probably not the wisest investment for you. Here's why and where to invest instead.
Two young adults wearing loungewear use their devices and a pad of paper to discuss finances.
Nov. 24, 2024 | By Kristi Waterworth

Here's What Will Happen if You Put $5,000 in a 6-Month CD Today

It's a surefire way to guarantee a steady interest return, even when interest rates are dropping across the board. Read on to learn more.
A person sitting at an office desk and looking at a cell phone with a contemplative expression.
Nov. 24, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

CDs vs. I Bonds: What's the Better Place for Your Cash?

CDs have higher yields, for now. Which is the better choice for you? Find out more here.
A person sitting at a desk in front of an open laptop and glancing out the window to his left.
Nov. 23, 2024 | By Lyle Daly

Are CDs a Good Investment for 2025?

CDs are a safe investment that earn a fixed interest rate. See if they're worth getting in 2025 or if you should find another place for your money.
A pile of money with a seedling growing out of it
Nov. 23, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

Why I Said 'No' to CDs and 'Yes' to Better Investment Opportunities

I'm an investor getting a late start, and CDs just don't cut it for me. Keep reading to learn why I'm opting for stock market investing instead.
Well-dressed couple walking through greenery drinking champagne.
Nov. 22, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

3 Banking Habits of Millionaires

You don't need to win the lottery to become a millionaire. With time and careful spending, many of us can build wealth. Find out how with these banking practices.
A red piggy bank against a yellow background
Nov. 19, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

How to Pick a Savings Account for Your Emergency Fund

It's important to have money saved for unforeseen expenses. But where should you put it? Learn the best places here.
A couple counts dollar bills together at home.
Nov. 19, 2024 | By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

Are You Saving Enough? See How You Compare to the Average American's Savings

Find out where your savings stand compared to others. Explore averages by age and household, and learn tips to grow your balance.
A hand holding a rolled up wad of bills
Nov. 19, 2024 | By Emma Newbery

How High Could CD Rates Go in 2025?

Experts believe CD rates will go down rather than up in 2025 --but they're not always right. Find out what factors might send savings rates back to record highs.