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
Advertiser Disclosure Many of the offers that appear on this site are from companies from which The Motley Fool receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear) and may influence which products we write about, but our product ratings are not influenced by compensation. We do not include all companies or offers available in the marketplace.
    |    Accessibility Options

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.

All Topics Banks Insurance Personal Loans Brokerages Mortgages Credit Cards Cryptocurrency

Recent Articles

A woman sitting on her couch and looking over paperwork with a tablet open on the coffee table.
Oct. 9, 2023 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

I Bonds vs. Savings Account: Which Is Better?

I bonds and savings accounts both have attractive yields, but they are very different places to put money. Here's what to consider when choosing one.
A man looking upset while reading something on his phone.
Oct. 9, 2023 | By Kailey Hagen

Here's What Happens When You Spend More Money Than You Have in Your Bank Account

Spending more money than you have is known as an overdraft and it can be pretty costly. Here's what you need to know about them and how to avoid them.
College students studying on the grass in front of a large school building.
Oct. 7, 2023 | By Dana George

Here's How Much You Should Have in Savings if You're a College Student

It's no secret that college is expensive. Take a look at how much college students should have put away to keep afloat.
A homeowner looks worried as he reads through his household bills at the dining table.
Oct. 6, 2023 | By Emma Newbery

Afraid to Open Your Bank Statement? Here's How to Overcome That Fear

Many of us avoid checking our bank balances for a host of different reasons. Find out what you can do if you get anxious at the very idea of opening your bank statement.
Woman with glasses making calculations.
Oct. 6, 2023 | By Natasha Etzel

3 Reasons Why I'm Saving for the Holidays Starting Now

It's almost time to shop for the holidays, but it's not too late to start saving. Here's why it can be beneficial to save for holiday gift costs now.
A couple does their personal finances using a laptop and notebook.
Oct. 5, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

The 7% CD Is Here -- for Residents of This State

It wasn't that long ago that a 7% APY on a CD sounded like a pie in the sky. Read on to find out which credit union is offering this deal here.
Two people with suitcases checking into a hotel by swiping their phone on the payment reader with an employee behind the lobby desk.
Oct. 5, 2023 | By Natasha Etzel

Here's How I Easily Covered an Unexpected $400 Travel Expense -- and You Can Too

Unexpected situations while traveling can result in extra travel expenses. This strategy can help you prepare for unexpected travel costs before they occur.
A man pumping his fist in excitement while sitting on his couch and looking at something on his phone.
Oct. 4, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

1 Ridiculously Easy Way to Earn $100 on a $50 Deposit Right Now

Open a Fidelity Bloom account as a new customer and you can earn a sweet bonus. Learn the details here.
Man using his smartphone while laptop with data sits in the background.
Oct. 4, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

CD Rates Are on the Rise. Should You Buy Some Now?

CD rates are unbelievably high right now -- and could rise even higher. Find out here if a CD is the best investment for your money.
A sick person laying on their couch at home covered by a blanket.
Oct. 4, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

COVID-19 Is Costing Americans Thousands. Here's How Your HSA Can Cover the Costs

A health savings account can come in handy for all kinds of medical expenses. Keep reading to learn whether an HSA can defray the costs of COVID-19.
A person sitting at a sunny dining room table and typing on a laptop.
Oct. 4, 2023 | By Natasha Etzel

Why Your Checking Account Should Contain as Little Money as Possible

Do you keep all of your money in your checking account? Find out why you may want to stash your savings in a bank account that earns interest.
A pregnant person sitting on their couch and looking at their phone.
Oct. 3, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

3 Good Reasons to Put Money in Savings Instead of CDs

Higher interest rates have made both CDs and savings accounts extra attractive as of late. Learn why you might want to opt for savings over a CD, though.
A man sits at a table, holding a credit card and paying his bills online.
Oct. 3, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

Here's What Happens When You Have Too Many Debit Cards

A debit card can be an important part of your personal finances. Keep reading to learn the risks of having too many.
A parent watches their children put coins into a piggy bank at home.
Oct. 3, 2023 | By Dana George

Here's the Right Age for Your Child to Open a Bank Account

Helping your child open a bank account is one step in teaching them about money. Here's the best age to make it happen.
A smiling person holding a shopping bag and a phone while standing outside a store window filled with watches.
Oct. 3, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

Trying to Save Money? Use This Money Hack

Putting up roadblocks in your finances can be a good way to add to your savings. Read on to learn why.
An adult looks at something exciting on their laptop and pumps their fist in the air.
Oct. 2, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

This Checking Account Offers an Amazing 7.5% APY -- But There's a Catch

Checking accounts don't usually offer high interest rates, but this one does. Find out if it's right for your money.
Man sitting on sofa and using laptop at home.
Sept. 30, 2023 | By Cole Tretheway

3 Bad Reasons to Open a Savings Account

Did you know your bank can lower your savings account rate at any time? Read on to learn the right reasons to open a savings account.
Professionally dressed woman whispering in the ear of professionally dressed man.
Sept. 29, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

Here's How a $10K Withdrawal From Your Bank Could Cause You Financial Problems

Making a $10,000 withdrawal triggers your bank to file a report to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Unit. Learn how you can avoid problems here.
A young man working on a laptop from his couch with his dog sitting next to him.
Sept. 29, 2023 | By Lyle Daly

Here's Why I Open a New Bank Account Every Year

Most consumers open new bank accounts sparingly. Check out the reason why one personal finance writer does it on a yearly basis.
A person leaning against a railing in a busy city center while looking at a cell phone.
Sept. 25, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

4 Rules for Safer Online Banking

Online banking is a revolution, but it's not without risks. Learn how to keep your money safe while you bank online.
A woman looking at her finances with a laptop and phone.
Sept. 24, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

This Account Is a Terrible Place for Your Emergency Fund

It's certainly easy to leave your emergency fund where it's the most accessible. But learn why your checking account is no place for extra savings.
Three Students Walking Together Carrying Their Books And Laughing
Sept. 24, 2023 | By David Chang, ChFC®, CLU®

5 Bank Accounts That Waive Fees for Students

From student-exclusive accounts to bank accounts that waive fees, discover five banking options that will help you stay on budget as a student.
older couple smiling as they drive in a convertible
Sept. 24, 2023 | By David Chang, ChFC®, CLU®

Retiring in 5 Years? 10 Essential Steps You Need to Take

Retirement in five years may seem like a long way off, but it will be here before you know it. Make sure you take these steps to retire confidently.
A happy couple on a couch with receipts and a laptop.
Sept. 22, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

This High-Yield Savings Account Offers You a Chance to Win $1 Million

The PrizePool Savings App lets you win prizes on your savings. Learn how you can win $1 million in this savings account.
Man sits at counter with phone on laptop utilizing online banking.
Sept. 21, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

If You're Opening a New Bank Account, Make Sure Your Bank Has This One Thing

The right kind of bank account can be a very safe place for your money. Discover why it's worth finding an FDIC-insured bank.