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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 man fans out dollars.
July 18, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

Here's What Happens When Your Emergency Fund Is Too Big

Overfunding a savings account with emergency cash isn't always a safe idea. Learn what happens when you save too much.
A young adult sits cross-legged while typing on a laptop in their bedroom.
July 16, 2023 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

The Federal Reserve Could Raise Interest Rates Again This Month. Here's How It'll Impact Your CDs

CD interest rates aren't directly tied to the Federal Reserve's rate moves, but there is certainly a relationship. Read on to learn more.
A smiling man drinking juice and looking at his phone while sitting at the breakfast table in front of a bowl of cereal.
July 16, 2023 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

FDIC Insurance Limits Last Changed in 2008. Here's How to Get More Coverage if You Need It

Do you keep a lot of your money in bank accounts? Find out how to make sure you're protected from loss.
Man compares quotes from newspaper and tablet.
July 14, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

Here's What Happens When You Open a CD Instead of Invest in the S&P 500

CDs may not earn as much as the S&P 500 over long periods. But they do have advantages. Read on to learn what happens when you choose CDs.
A woman looking at her finances with a laptop and phone.
July 14, 2023 | By Lyle Daly

5 Things You Should Never Do With Your Bank Account

There are several common banking mistakes that can cost you money. Check out the things you should never do with your bank account to know what to avoid.
A woman wearing an apron and standing in her small pottery shop holding a clipboard.
July 13, 2023 | By David Chang, ChFC®, CLU®

Investing in Women- or Minority-Led Funds? This Major Bank Is, Too

Bank of America is investing over $500 million to support diverse and women entrepreneurs. Learn why, and the positive benefits it has on the community.
An older adult sitting crosslegged on the couch while typing on a laptop.
July 13, 2023 | By Jamie Matthews

My Bank Has Paid Me $188 in Passive Income Over the Last 4 Months. Are You Missing Out on Free Cash?

If your savings isn't generating you passive income, you're not maximizing your earning potential. Learn how to make the most of your emergency cash.
Woman sorting through mail at her mailbox.
July 12, 2023 | By Cole Tretheway

Bank of America to Pay $250 Million in Fines for 'Double Dipping on Fees.' Here's How to Get Your Money Back

Bank of America customers may be entitled to quick money. Find out whether you qualify and what you need to do.
Happy couple reviewing their bank accounts on a laptop and on paper at a desk
July 10, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

I'm Saving for a House. Here's Where I'm Keeping My Money

When it comes to bank accounts, you have options. Read on to learn where one writer is putting money for her future home purchase.
A woman with a check in hand puts numbers into a calculator
July 9, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

The Anatomy of a Check: What All Those Numbers and Spaces Are (and Why They Matter)

Paper checks have a lot of features. Read on for a breakdown of this payment method and how its various components work.
A worried young adult uses a laptop at home.
July 7, 2023 | By Kailey Hagen

3 Surprising Reasons Your Bank Can Close Your Account -- and What You Can Do About It

Though it's rare, banks can close your accounts if you're guilty of certain activities. Here's what you need to know.
A smiling young adult sitting in an armchair in a sunny room while looking at a phone.
July 6, 2023 | By Dana George

6 Huge Advantages of Banking Online

The majority of banks and credit unions offer online banking. Read on for six reasons why you should check it out.
Two smiling people sitting in their kitchen and looking at a laptop while one holds a phone.
July 5, 2023 | By Natasha Etzel

Overdraft Fees Are Finally Falling. Here's Why

While overdraft fees are still being charged by some banks, others are reducing these fees or getting rid of them. Learn why banks are making fee changes.
A couple meets with a financial advisor in their office.
July 4, 2023 | By Lyle Daly

How Much Money Should You Have in Your Savings Account?

It's possible to have too much money in your savings account. Find out why this is an issue and learn exactly how much you should have in your savings.
people waiting in line at a bank.
July 3, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

My Cashier's Check Was Stolen! What Now?

Losing track of a cashier's check can be a big deal indeed. Read on to learn about cashier's checks and what to do if yours is stolen or goes missing.
Two mature colleagues discuss while looking at a laptop in an office.
July 2, 2023 | By Natasha Etzel

Companies Are Now Offering This Perk to Get Their Employees to Save

If you struggle to prioritize your savings goals, you're not alone. Find out how some employers are helping staff save more money.
A person types on a laptop while sitting on the couch at home.
July 1, 2023 | By Kailey Hagen

Is a 5-Year CD a Smart Investment Right Now?

A five-year CD could earn you a high yield, but you'll have to lock your money away for a while. Here's how to know if this is the right move for you.
A bank manager helps a woman open up a new account.
June 30, 2023 | By Emma Newbery

Here's What Happens When You Open Your First CD

When you open your first CD, you'll fund your account and then leave it alone for a set period of time. Find out when opening a CD can make sense for you.
Man sits at laptop and appears to be in thought.
June 30, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

Are Savings Accounts 100% Risk Free? The Answer Is 'No' for These Scenarios

Savings accounts are trustworthy and secure enough to store savings, but they do have risks. Read on to learn how to protect yourself.
Two people show each other their phones while drinking coffee.
June 30, 2023 | By Cole Tretheway

Here's What Happens When Your Banking App Doesn't Accept Zelle

What's up with Zelle? It doesn't work with all popular banking apps. Find out how to accept payments from Zelle users.
A young man sitting on his couch with his laptop open and his dog sleeping next to him.
June 28, 2023 | By Steven Porrello

Here's Why a 4% Inflation Rate Is Good (and Bad) News for CDs

The Fed's interest rate hikes have been good for CD rates. Learn why a falling inflation rate could change that.
A worried woman sitting on her couch with her baby on her lap while she looks at her laptop.
June 27, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

Here's What Happens When You Live Without Emergency Savings

Living paycheck to paycheck with scant savings is a terrible position to be in. Keep reading to see how not having emergency savings can impact your life.
A person manages their home finances using documents and a laptop at their kitchen table.
June 26, 2023 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Worried Interest Rates Will Fall? One Smart Strategy to Get the Most Out of Your Savings

Savings accounts have high interest rates right now, but that might not always be the case. Try this to make the best of the situation.
A bank teller smiles to a customer from behind her desk.
June 26, 2023 | By Cole Tretheway

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen Thinks More Bank Consolidation Could Be on the Way. Here's What It Means for Your Money

There's a good chance your bank will merge with another. Find out how your personal banking experience could change in the process.
Man sitting at a desk reading documents
June 25, 2023 | By Lyle Daly

Why Graham Stephan 'Doesn't Spend Money'

Graham Stephan says he practices financial minimalism and doesn't spend money. Find out what he really means and how you could do the same.