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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

Smiling woman at bank handing over paperwork.
Sept. 23, 2022 | By Dana George

4 Times a Variable APR Makes Sense

A loan with a variable interest rate can be risky if the rate goes up. Here, we cover the few occasions when it can make sense to opt for a variable APR.
A man talking on the phone while sitting in front of his laptop at a coffeeshop.
Sept. 21, 2022 | By Dana George

6 Reasons It's Time to Switch to a Credit Union

The number of credit unions in the U.S. is increasing. Here's why now may be the time for you to take advantage of all a credit union has to offer.
A parent and child count dollar bills and coins from a jar in their kitchen.
Sept. 19, 2022 | By Dana George

5 Reasons Now Is the Right Time for Your Child to Open a Bank Account

Kids are like sponges, soaking up whatever is set before them. Here's why teaching them about banking while they're young is so valuable.
A patient sitting on the table in an exam room and speaking with the doctor.
Sept. 18, 2022 | By Ashley Maready

2 Reasons to Max Out Your HSA

Did you know that health savings accounts, or HSAs, have some really cool benefits? If you have one, here's why you should contribute as much money as you can.
A couple sits in their living room, smiling as they look at a laptop.
Sept. 14, 2022 | By Dana George

How One Minority-Owned Bank Has Outsmarted Payday Lenders

It can seem that businesses care only about their bottom lines. Here is one bank that outsmarted payday lenders to protect its customers.
A bride and groom raising their hands and cheering while walking down the aisle after their wedding.
Sept. 10, 2022 | By Natasha Etzel

Why Broke Millennial's Erin Lowry Says Newlyweds Should be 'Skeptical' About Joint Banking

Before walking down the aisle, you should discuss your finances. Should you get a joint bank account with your sweetie? Here's what one financial guru thinks.
A person looks concerned at their financial documents and laptop.
Sept. 9, 2022 | By Dana George

ChexSystems Making Your Life More Difficult? Here's What You Can Do

Once there are negative remarks on your ChexSystems report, it can be difficult to open a new account. Keep reading to learn how it can be done.
A woman looking at her finances with a laptop and phone.
Sept. 8, 2022 | By Charlie Pastor, CFP®

Here's Why Tori Dunlap Recommends SoFi's High-Yield Savings Account

Read on to see how high APY, no minimums, and cash back make this high-yield savings account fit for a financial feminist.
Bank teller assisting a customer with cash transaction.
Sept. 8, 2022 | By Ashley Maready

I've Been Doing Business With the Same Big National Bank Since College. Here's Why

Online-only banks are the wave of the future, but big name-brand banks have perks too. Learn why one writer keeps a lot of her money with one.
Bank teller assisting a customer with cash transaction.
Sept. 4, 2022 | By Dana George

4 Reasons to Sign Up for Overdraft Protection -- Today

Americans spend billions of dollars each year on overdrafts. Here, we cover four additional reasons to add overdraft protection to your bank account.
Baby fist-pumping and dad smiling with his arms open in the background
Sept. 1, 2022 | By Ashley Maready

Live in California? Here's How to Get a Bank Account and More Than $1,000 for Your Kid's Education

College is expensive. But one state is taking steps to help students pay for higher education. Read on to learn how the Golden State is investing in kids.
A mature couple sitting at a kitchen table with papers, a laptop, and a calculator.
Aug. 30, 2022 | By Lyle Daly

Retirement Planning Is a 'Juggling Act,' Says Suze Orman. Here Are the 3 Biggest Risks

Retirees face several potential issues that can eat into their savings. Learn the risks so you can improve your retirement planning.
A smiling person opening their mail while standing in the kitchen.
Aug. 30, 2022 | By Dana George

Steps to Take When Your Bank Makes a Mistake

Banks are not perfect. Here, we outline what you should do if you find a mistake with your account.
Man with glasses using laptop looks away appearing to be in thought.
Aug. 28, 2022 | By Kailey Hagen

These Bank Accounts Offer APYs Over 3.00%. Here's Why You Should Stay Far Away

Bank accounts with high APYs mean more money for you. But there's one high-earning bank account you should stay away from. Read on to learn more.
A woman holding her mail while standing in her kitchen.
Aug. 27, 2022 | By Kailey Hagen

Switching Banks for a Checking Account Bonus? 3 Things You Need to Know

Many banks now offer checking account bonuses to draw in new customers. Here's what you need to know before you make the switch.
A smiling man working on a laptop in a room full of plants.
Aug. 27, 2022 | By Kimberly Rotter, AFC®

The Economy's in a Rough Spot, but Doing This With Your Savings Can Make It Easier

Old school banks pay next to nothing in interest. Here's an easy thing you can do with your savings to get more dollars into your pocket.
A group of young adults sitting at a table in a sunny bar enjoying beers and chatting.
Aug. 27, 2022 | By Natasha Etzel

4 Savings Mistakes I Made in My 20s (And How to Avoid Them)

Making financial mistakes is not uncommon, especially for young adults. One writer shares the savings mistakes she made in her 20s so you can learn from them.
A couple withdraws money from an ATM machine.
Aug. 26, 2022 | By Natasha Etzel

4 Ways to Avoid ATM Fees

Extra costs like ATM fees can negatively impact your personal finances. Find out how to avoid paying expensive ATM fees.
Woman and daughter looking at art in a museum.
Aug. 24, 2022 | By Ashley Maready

Want to Check Out a Museum? This Bank Can Make Your Visit Free

One of the biggest banks in the country gives a lot back to cultural institutions. Read on to find out how you can soak up some knowledge and fun on its dime.
Two people holding shopping bags take money from an ATM machine while out on the town.
Aug. 23, 2022 | By Brittney Myers

Have an ATM Card from a Credit Union? Don't Make this Mistake When You Travel

For a country that loves tech, the U.S. has actually been slow to upgrade its payments technology. Here's how that could be a problem abroad.
A woman sitting at a table in a cafe window and typing on a laptop.
Aug. 22, 2022 | By Natasha Etzel

This Is the One Bank Account Everyone Should Have, According to Tori Dunlap

Saving for the future is a must. But it matters where you keep the money that you save. Find out what type of bank account Tori Dunlap recommends for everyone.
A woman sitting at a table in a cafe window and typing on a laptop.
Aug. 21, 2022 | By Ashley Maready

Savings Account Rates Aren't Keeping Up With Inflation. Here's What to Do About It

Inflation is eating away at your saved cash. Read on to find out how to make it hurt less.
Happy couple reviewing their bank accounts on a laptop and on paper at a desk
Aug. 19, 2022 | By Natasha Etzel

Bank of America Overdraft Fees Fell 90% Since Last Year. This Is Why.

Overdraft fees can negatively impact your finances. Here's how and why Bank of America recently reduced these fees.
A smiling young adult sitting in an armchair in a sunny room while looking at a phone.
Aug. 18, 2022 | By Lyle Daly

This Bank Account Pays 5% Interest -- With a Catch

Varo Bank offers a savings account with an extremely high APY. Find out about the requirements to earn that rate and see if this bank is worth using.
A couple withdraws money from an ATM machine.
Aug. 12, 2022 | By Dana George

4 Ways Second-Chance Banking Can Give You a Fresh Start

Financial institutions often deny applications, deeming the applicant too great a risk. Read on to learn how second-chance banking can give applicants a fresh start.