Personal Finance
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What Is Zero-Based Budgeting and How Does It Work?
Zero-based budgeting requires subtracting expenses and savings goals from your income and putting every dollar to work. Read our guide for a breakdown of how this type of budgeting works.
How to Make Roth IRA Withdrawals Tax- and Penalty-Free
Roth IRAs offer the possibility for tax and penalty-free withdrawals, but the rules are complex. It’s important to understand these rules to be sure you are getting the most out of your Roth IRA.
11 Ways to Get Free Financial Advice
Whether you're an experienced investor or just learning how to invest, these 11 resources show how to get free financial advice to reach your goals faster.
How Long Do Late Payments Stay on a Credit Report?
Late credit card payments can cause your credit scores to drop. Learn how long they stay on your credit report and whether you can ever get them removed sooner.
Is a 680 Credit Score Good or Bad?
A 680 credit score is considered “good,” but there’s still room for improvement if you want to be approved for the best credit cards and loans.
How to Start A Side Hustle
Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to be difficult; you can create a side business with little to no money and start making money fast.
What Is a FICO Score?
The FICO credit score is widely used by lenders to determine the likelihood you’ll pay back a loan. Learn how FICO calculates your score and how you can improve it.
7 Tips to Rent an Apartment With no Credit
Renting an apartment with no credit history can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you increase your chances of securing a lease.
740 Credit Score: Is it Good or Bad?
Find out what having a 740 credit score means for you. Learn about the types of products and loans you can access, and how to improve your credit even further.
How Long Does It Take (and Tips) to Improve Your Credit Score?
Wondering how long it will take for your credit score to rise after a negative mark? Learn how certain events and factors impact your credit score in this article.
What Is a Delinquency on a Credit Report?
Credit report delinquencies can cost you credit score points, but it's possible to avoid them if you pay bills on time.
13 Best Money-Making Apps for 2024
Money-making apps can be a quick and simple way to earn extra cash from your habits and hobbies with just a few taps on your mobile device.
Venmo vs. PayPal: Which Is Your Best Option?
Venmo and PayPal are two of the most popular P2P payment apps. Here's what you need to know to decide if either is right for you.
How Much Does the Average Wedding Cost?
The average wedding costs more than $30,000, but the exact cost will depend on where you get married and how many guests you invite.
Tax Brackets and Federal Income Tax Rates for 2023 and 2024
Tax brackets and rates, published annually by the IRS, are the basis for all federal income taxes paid in the U.S. Taxpayers use these charts to determine their yearly income-tax liability as adjusted for inflation.
7 Common Write-Offs You Can Deduct From Your Taxes
Taxpayers can reduce their tax bills significantly by claiming common tax write-offs. If they exceed your standard deduction, savings can be substantial.
Quicken Review 2024
Although it’s much more than a budgeting app, Quicken can do that too—and it’s especially powerful for solopreneurs and property managers.
8 Ways to Build Credit
Good credit can make it easier to qualify for loans, so it helps to know how to build credit if you're starting from scratch.
600 Credit Score: Is It Good or Bad?
Are you wondering if a 600 credit score is good enough? We’re going to give you the scoop on what a 600 score means, and ways to improve your credit score.
How to Remove Bankruptcy From Credit Report
Is it possible to remove bankruptcies from your credit report? Learn what steps can be taken and how to rebuild your credit after a bankruptcy.
Best credit monitoring services for 2024
The best credit monitoring services can help you keep tabs on your credit score and provide additional services, such as identity protection and fraud alerts.
Itemized Deductions: Definition, Examples & When It’s The Right Option
What are itemized deductions? When should you itemize your deductions? Make an informed decision with this guide.
7 Best Online Surveys for Money 2024: What Is the Earning Potential?
Online surveys are an easy way to earn extra cash. Find the best online surveys from trusted providers here.
Debt-to-Income Ratio: What Is It and Why Is It Important?
Applying for a mortgage or another loan soon? Learn more about the debt-to-income ratio, how it’s calculated, and how lenders use it to evaluate potential borrowers.
What Is the Minimum Credit Score Needed to Buy a House?
A credit score in the “good” or “excellent” range is ideal for mortgage approval, but borrowers with lower scores can find options as well.
How Do I Check My Credit Score
Knowing your credit score can help you to understand realistic options when it comes to applying for credit cards—and even spot things like fraudulent activity.
18 Successful Strategies to Make Money Online in 2024
Looking for a side hustle to bring in extra money or want to transfer out of your office job? There are many ways to make money online.
31 Best Side Hustle Ideas to Earn Extra Cash in 2024
Making money during your free time is a great way to pay off debt, build up your savings account, and earn more disposable income. Read on to find 31 side hustle ideas that may pique your interest.
Top 11 Ways to Make Money from Home
There are plenty of ways to make money from home. Find out what you can do and get tips for handling the revenue your new venture generates.
The Best Ways to Sell Gift Cards for Cash
If you've got unused gift cards, selling them could put some extra cash in your pocket. There are different ways to sell gift cards for cash online.
Renting vs. Buying: Which Is the Best Choice for You?
While homeownership allows to build equity, renting offers freedom and flexibility. Want to learn more about the pros and cons of renting versus buying? Learn more.
Are Home Equity Loans Tax Deductible?
Wondering if you can deduct home equity loan interest payments on your taxes? Learn more about how this deduction works and who is eligible
What Credit Score Is Needed to Buy a Car?
If you don’t have enough cash to buy a car outright, you may want to know what credit score is needed to get approved for a loan.
What Is the Average Tax Refund?
Wondering if your tax refund is typical? What is a tax refund, anyway? Here is what you need to know about tax refunds and the average refund in 2023.
12 of the Fastest Ways to Make Money in 2024
There's no such thing as a reliable get-rich-quick scheme, but there are some ways to make money fast when you need extra cash.
What Credit Score Do You Need to Rent an Apartment?
Renting an apartment without great credit isn’t always easy, but it’s possible. Find out what credit score you need to rent an apartment and learn some strategies to help you qualify.
How to Deal With Debt Collectors
Dealing with debt collectors can be stressful. It's important to know your rights if you are contacted by one.
What Does Self-Employed Mean?
Are you self-employed or considering self-employment? Here is what you need to know about being your own boss.
What Affects Your Credit Scores?
Your credit score can significantly impact your ability to qualify for loans and credit cards. Learn what affects your credit score so you can work toward a positive financial future.
How to Save for a Wedding: 6 Expert Strategies
Figuring out how to save for a wedding can be almost as difficult as deciding who to marry—unless you’ve read these six tips.
How to Accept Credit Card Payments as a Small Business
Most consumers prefer paying with a credit or debit card instead of cash. Here's how to accept cards so you don't miss out on sales.
Sezzle Buy Now, Pay Later Review 2024
Sezzle lets you pay over time and build credit with purchases. Find out how Sezzle compares to other buy now, pay later apps in this full review.
Are Gas Prices Going Down?
In a nation of drivers, any drop in the price of gasoline can help consumers’ finances. Here’s a look at what influences the cost of gas and which states have the cheapest.
Best Cash Back Apps 2024
Cash-back apps can help put money back in your pocket—simply by rewarding you for what you’re already buying. Here are the ones that yield the most.
How to Make Money on Instagram in 2024
Instagram influencers can earn hundreds or thousands of dollars per month. Learn the top five ways to make money on Instagram in 2024.
How to Make Money on Twitch
Ever wondered how you can make money as a Twitch streamer? We talked with one of the best Tekken 7 players of all time to find out what it takes.
6 Ways That Will Pay You at Least $300 Daily
Need to make money fast? Learn how to make up to $324 in one day without quitting your day job.
Best Investing Apps 2024
The best investing apps offer a range of products, low fees, and a user-friendly interface. Here are our top picks for 2024.
Tax Planning: What It Is, How It Works, and Best Strategies
Want to cut your tax bill and save more money for your financial goals? Tax planning can help. This article outlines how it works.
When Will I Receive My Tax Refund?
When you receive your tax refund depends on how and when you file your taxes, among other factors.
How Long Do Collections Stay on Your Credit Report?
Collections are recorded on your credit report when you default on a debt, and they can last up to seven years.
How to Make A Budget in 6 Simple Steps
Making a budget itself is a simple process—at least the information-gathering part. Follow these steps.
10 Self-Employment Tax Deductions
Work for yourself? Want to save money at tax time? The following self-employment tax deductions can help you reduce your tax bill.
The Best Budgeting Apps for 2024
Budgeting apps make it easier for you to manage your money. Here are the best budgeting apps and some budgeting app alternatives.
How to Freeze Your Credit
A credit freeze stops unwanted credit inquiries and can help thwart identity thieves. Learn how to place a credit freeze and when you should do it.
Educational Tax Credits and Deductions You Can Claim for Year 2024
If you’re a student or have paid for a student’s education, you may be eligible for education tax benefits in the form of credits and deductions. Here is a guide.
10 Tips to Cut Your Tax Bill
There are certain things you can do—at tax time and throughout the year—to maximize your tax benefits and minimize your taxes due. Here are our 10 top tips.
10 Best Ways to Invest $10K
If you’re looking for the best way to invest $10K, here are 10 options to consider, from maxing out your retirement accounts to investing in yourself.
Empower Review 2024: Pros, Cons, Who Is It For
Formerly Personal Capital, Empower is an investment platform with free financial tools and customizable advisory services. Check out our Empower review to learn more.
Best Personal Finance Management Software in 2024
The best personal finance management software offers a simple user interface, a wide range of features, and a focus on specific financial objectives.
How to Travel on a Budget: 12 Tips from our Expert
You don’t have to spend a fortune to take a fulfilling trip. Abide by a few practical tricks, and you can travel incredibly cheaply.
Best Coupon Apps 2024
Tired of rising prices? Find deals, get cash back, and even save on gas with the best coupon apps.
What Are Tradelines and How Do They Work?
Credit-reporting agencies, such as Experian, use so-called “tradelines.” These are lines on your credit report that spell out each revolving and installment credit account you have and also include your name and the business or organization to which you owe money.
How to Start an Online Business in 8 Steps
There’s never been an easier time to start an online business. Here are tips to help you choose a business model, write a business plan, develop your brand, and more.
7 Ways to Manage Financial Stress
Dealing with financial stress can feel like a daunting task. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your money-related stress and improve your financial situation.
8 Best Mint Alternatives to Replace the Budgeting App
Mint is shutting down at the end of the year and millions of users will need to find a new home for their budgets. Here are eight alternative personal finance apps to explore.
Best Money-Saving Apps 2024
The best money-saving apps can make saving more effortless—and even fun. Here are our favorite apps for saving money in 2024.
13 Ways to Make Money on Your Phone
If you're looking for some easy ways to make extra money, here are a few side hustles you can do right from your phone.
14 Cheap Vacation Destinations in 2024
It’s possible to book a cheap vacation with just a little strategy. Here are 14 of the most affordable international and domestic vacation destinations to consider.
750 Credit Score: Is it Good or Bad?
If you have a 750 credit score, are you in good shape? Find out the answer and learn more about how your score affects the types of products available to you.
12 Cheap and Affordable Wedding Venues in 2024
There are many options for cheap and affordable wedding venues. Choosing one can help keep your wedding costs down without impacting your dream day.
What Is a 609 Dispute Letter?
A 609 dispute letter is a method of requesting that a credit bureau remove erroneous information from your credit report.
How to Improve Your Credit Score Fast
Credit scores are important for loans, insurance, jobs, and more. You can improve your credit score fast by following these 15 steps.
Does a Debt Management Plan Affect Credit?
A debt management plan is one of the least painful ways to climb out from under the thumb of crippling credit card balances.
YNAB Review 2024
If you’re interested in a new budgeting app, you may have heard about YNAB. Learn more about its pros and cons, how it works, and who it’s right for.
Rocket Money vs. Mint
If you’ve been affected by the recent Mint shutdown and are seeking a new budgeting tool, here’s what to know about Rocket Money and its features.
What Is an IRS 1099 Form
Form 1099 reports income from sources other than employment. It’s filed differently than Form 1040 for wages, so you may need help in understanding all the requirements.
Best Tax-Preparation Software 2024
Are you wondering which tax software is right for you? We have reviewed and compared the top six. Here’s where each one excels.
Best Money Transfer & Payment Apps for September 2024
The top money transfer and payment apps make it easy to send money to friends and family—or pay merchants for goods and services in your country and abroad.
11 Passive Income Ideas for 2024
Looking for other ways to earn money without working more. Learn about 10 passive income ideas you can start today.
Best Payment Gateways for Businesses for September 2024
Payment gateways are services enabling businesses to accept credit and debit card payments. We’ve narrowed down the best payment gateways for businesses and what they offer.
How to Reduce Taxable Income: 7 Ways
Take advantage of tax deductions and credits to save thousands. We’ve found the best ways to reduce your taxable income with minimal effort.
30 Ideas for Online Business Ideas You Can Start in 2024
Starting an online business can be a great way to make extra money or replace income from a regular job, and there are plenty of ideas from which to choose.
Pay Off Debt With These 7 Expert Tips
Wondering how to pay off debt and keep it that way? Here are seven steps to help you live a debt-free life.
5 Best Ways to Exchange Foreign Currency
The best ways to exchange currency include exchanging money at your local bank, ordering currency online, and withdrawing cash from an in-network ATM overseas.
15 Expert Tips on How to Save Money on Grocery Shopping
Want to lower your grocery costs? Here are15 tips to save at the supermarket.
650 Credit Score: Is it Good or Bad?
You've got a 650 credit score—is it good or bad? We’ll discuss which loan products you can get with a fair credit score and how to improve your rating.
Rocket Money Review 2024
Expense tracker and budgeting app, Rocket Money also offers so much more. Here’s what you get for free, and what’s behind the paywall.
Venmo App Guide 2024: What Is It & How It Works
Unsure whether Venmo is for you? Learn how this payment app works, its fees, and how to use it to send and receive money.
Pros & Cons of Debt Consolidation
Debt consolidation can help you pay off debt, improve your credit, and simplify your finances, but it can also mean paying more interest on a longer-term loan.
13 Small Business Ideas in September
Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or just getting started, here are 13 small business ideas to consider for 2024.
Hard vs. Soft Credit Checks: How Do They Impact Your Credit?
What's the difference between a hard pull versus a soft pull credit check, and how can it impact your credit? Read on to learn more.
Most Common Paypal Scams And How To Spot Them
PayPal scammers try to steal your money or identity. Here’s what you should know about the most common PayPal scams and how to avoid them.
Bankruptcy: How It Works, Types, and Consequences
There are different types of bankruptcy and many reasons to file for it. Know which type works best for you and what your options are.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: All You Need to Know
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a powerful legal process that can help you escape overwhelming debt.
Causes of Inflation (& How to Protect Yourself)
Inflation can be a source of stress, especially for low-income families. Understanding its causes can help you protect your financial well-being.
9 Cash App Scams You Should Know Of
Cash App is a convenient way to send and receive money, but it's important to know how to avoid scams that might cost you big.
What Are the Different Credit Scoring Ranges?
There are four broad credit scoring ranges: Bad, fair, good, and excellent. Knowing where your score falls is important if you plan on applying for credit.
12 Venmo Scams to Watch Out For
Venmo scams all have one thing in common—a third party who tries to trick you into sending money or revealing sensitive data.
Business Credit Score: What Is It, How to Check It
A business credit score is crucial if you want your company to grow. Find out how these scores work and where they originate from.
8 Reasons Your Credit Score Dropped and 6 Ways To Fix It
A sudden drop in your credit score can cause anxiety, but by identifying and correcting the issue you can get your score back up in no time.
Credit Cards Offering Tax Service Saving Rewards 2024
Maximize your savings during tax season. Learn how using credit cards can offer discounts on tax services, earn rewards, and provide other benefits.
12 Great Business Ideas for 2024
Coming up with a business idea might feel daunting. Start by brainstorming activities or topics you absolutely love. Then, answer the question: “What problem can I solve?” If you’re still unsure, here are 12 business ideas for 2023.
How to Get an Apartment With Bad Credit
Securing an apartment rental with bad credit may be challenging, but you can achieve your goal with the right strategies.
How to Get an 800 Credit Score
A high credit score can help you secure better loan terms and access the lowest interest rates. Learn how to get an 800 credit score.
Standard Deduction vs. Itemized Deductions: Which Is Better?
What’s the difference between the standard deduction and itemized deductions? Which one is better? Here’s a guide to help you decide which one is right for you.
Is PMI Tax Deductible?
Your private mortgage insurance (PMI) used to be tax deductible if you met certain conditions. While you can’t take a deduction now, you might qualify to file an amended return for past years.
How to Maximize Your Tax Savings From Tax-Deductible Donations
You can achieve significant tax savings—and support charities you care about—by strategizing how you itemize tax-deductible donations. Learn which gifts qualify and how to organize them.
16 Ways to Make Money on TikTok in 2024
From brand partnerships to TikTok’s Creator Fund and affiliate programs, there’s a variety of ways you can make money on TikTok.
How to Remove Hard Inquiries from Your Credit Report
Hard inquiries can lower your credit score, so it’s important to learn how to remove them from your credit report. Here’s how you can do it.
How to Make Money on Amazon in 2024
If you’re looking for your next money making opportunity, consider a side gig, part-time or full-time position with Amazon.
Is a 760 Credit Score Good or Bad?
A 760 credit score is considered in the “good” to “very good” range and can help ensure approval for the best loans and credit cards.
PayPal Review 2024: Pros, Cons, Costs
Learn how PayPal works, how it stacks up against the competition, and whether it's the best payment app for you.
Best Time to Buy a House in 2024
Spring signals the start of the homebuying season, when home inventory and sales typically hit their annual peaks. But it's not necessarily when buyers get the best deals.
Quicken vs QuickBooks
Quicken and QuickBooks are financial tracking apps for individuals and businesses. Learn more about them here.
What Is a Hard Inquiry?
Hard inquiries happen when an authorized person or entity requests a copy of your credit reports. Hard inquiries are also known as “hard pulls” or “hard credit checks.” They’re usually standard when applying for credit.
What Is a Good Credit Score?
A credit score of 670 and up is usually considered good. If yours is lacking, there are several ways you can work on improving it.
What Is A Fair Credit Score
A fair credit score isn’t sufficient to thrive in the world of credit. Let’s look at what you can expect with such a score as well as some ways to increase it.
What Are the Three Credit Bureaus?
Hope to buy a home or apply for a credit card? It’s crucial to know how credit bureaus work and the role you play in making sure your credit reports are accurate.
VantageScore vs. FICO
VantageScore and FICO are the two major credit scoring models in use today, yet these companies do things slightly differently.
How to Get a Credit Report
Checking your credit reports regularly can help you stay on top of score changes. Learn how to get a credit report online.
How to Dispute a Credit Card Charge in 5 Steps
Disputing a credit card charge helps you avoid paying for unexpected charges. Learn how to dispute a charge and what to do if your request is denied.
What Is the FICO Score 8?
FICO Score 8 is one of the most widely used FICO scores, along with FICO Score 9. Find out how this type of score works and why it matters.
Does Refinancing Hurt Your Credit Score
Refinancing a loan can hurt your credit in the short term, but the temporary damage can be worth the trouble.
Best Spring Break Destinations for 2024
Don’t feel like you must plan the same Caribbean spring break trip as everyone else. Plenty of destinations have just as much beauty and adventure, but without overtourism.
Do Medical Bills Affect Your Credit?
Unpaid medical bills have the potential to affect your credit. Because of this, it is important to know your rights and to handle them correctly.
When’s a Good Time to Request a Credit Limit Increase?
If you’ve got a good relationship with your bank due to on-time payments and routinely low credit card balances, you’re justified in asking for a credit line increase.
The Most Common Types of Credit and How They Impact Your Credit Score
Knowing about the different types of credit can help you understand your loan options and potentially even improve your credit score. Learn more about the various credit types.
What Happens When Medical Bills Go to Collection?
When an unpaid medical bill goes to a collection agency, it could cause your credit score to drop. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to bring it back up and consumer-friendly laws to help you return to firmer fiscal ground.
13 Personal Finance Newsletters to Subscribe to in 2024
Increase your financial literacy by subscribing to personal finance newsletters that speak to your specific needs.
What Is a Digital Wallet and How Does It Work?
Digital wallets offer convenient payments online or from your mobile device. Read on to learn about different types of wallets and how they work.
Bad Credit: Definition, Impact and How To Improve
A bad credit score isn’t the end of the world. With the right plan and solid determination, you can repair your credit score in around a year.
What Is the Standard Tax Deduction
Taking the standard deduction is easy when you’re filing your taxes, but is it the right option for your situation? Take a look at how much it is for 2023.
How to Dispute a Credit Report
Disputing credit report errors could help to add points to your credit score. Learn how to initiate—and pursue—a dispute.
What Is a Soft Inquiry? All You Need To Know
A soft inquiry is a credit check (performed by you or someone else) that doesn’t affect your credit score.
Tax Prep Checklist: Documents to Gather Before Filing
You can save significant time at tax time by preparing now. Here are the documents you should gather in advance of filing your taxes.
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