By all counts, the past month hasn’t been kind to small business owners. With the Bureau of Labor statistics reporting a nearly million-job shortfall since March, and with tariff worries sapping consumer confidence and spending, the current business landscape is looking tough. Despite this, business owners are remaining optimistic about…
Key takeaways: President Donald Trump signed a bill in July that would implement cuts to Medicaid enrollment and funding, which will be rolled out over the next three years. The cuts would increase medical costs for many Americans with disabilities and may make it harder for some families to save…
The appeal of the best dividend mutual funds should be clear: They offer a sizable dividend today, and they can grow in the future, helping investors win both ways. Plus, they offer other benefits, including lower risk through diversification. So the best dividend mutual funds are an attractive prospect for…
The IRS mandates withdrawals from pre-tax retirement accounts once you reach a certain age. These are referred to as required minimum distributions (RMDs). For many retirees, RMDs don’t change much since they already take out more than the minimum to cover living costs. But, for those who want to withdraw…
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The big new fees JPMorgan Chase is planning to charge some financial technology companies may well trickle down to consumers,…
With artificial intelligence beginning to eat away at many white-collar entry-level jobs, and the unemployment rate for recent college graduates…
If a society is going to make intelligent choices in policy, it helps to understand reality, which includes facts and…
New York startup Casap has raised $25 million in new funding to help banks tackle the thorny problem of credit…
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You have money questions. Bankrate has answers. Our experts have been helping you master your money for over four decades. We continually strive to provide consumers with the expert advice and tools needed to succeed throughout life’s financial journey. Bankrate follows a strict editorial policy,…
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Is this method of consolidating debts a good idea? If you are considering using a credit card as a debt consolidation option here…
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When it comes to selling coconut water to the health obsessed, New York’s Vita Coco has served up a master class, schooling even…
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Image by GettyImages; Illustration by Bankrate Both HELOCs and home equity loans took a step down in the latest week. The average rate on a $30,000 home equity line of credit (HELOC) dropped two basis points to 8.10 percent, according to Bankrate’s national survey of lenders. The average rate on…
Image by GettyImages; illustration by Bankrate Key takeaways If you’re collecting unemployment benefits, the IRS will expect you to pay your current federal income tax rate on that money. Some states also tax unemployment compensation, while other states don’t. There are ways to plan your taxes so you don’t face…
Key takeaways Everyday people can impact draft regulations by submitting public comments, but these comments must be substantive to matter. People can also influence new regulations by speaking at a public hearing at the start of the process. Financial rules can be blocked after publication by an act of Congress…
Pet ownership can be expensive, with recurring expenses like food, supplies and veterinary care. A rewards credit card can help offset these costs, but finding the right card is tricky since bonus categories typically don’t include everyday pet expenses. Here are some of the better options available to help you…
Key takeaways The SAVE repayment plan has been blocked and repealed. Income-Based Repayment Plan forgiveness has been paused temporarily, even though forgiveness for qualifying students is mandated by law. This affects millions of borrowers. It is unclear when this forgiveness will be resumed. A significant backlog for processing applications for…
Key takeaways Refinancing your auto loan is often a good financial choice if you are able to secure a better rate or a lower monthly payment. Consider the amount of time remaining on your loan before exploring options to ensure you qualify for the new loan. To choose the best…
By age 55, you’re about a decade away from retirement. Many financial experts suggest having seven to eight times your annual salary saved by this age if you want to maintain a comfortable retirement. By 55 you still have time to benefit from compounding and catch-up contributions, but not much.…
Key takeaways Top money market rates reach 4.40% APY — significantly higher than the national average for MMAs. Online banks consistently offer the best rates — up to seven higher than traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. Minimum balance requirements vary widely, with many competitive accounts requiring $1,000 or more. Money market account…
Key takeaways Opening a CD requires providing your personal information, government-issued ID, and funding the account with an initial deposit. Top CD rates reach up to 4.50% APY, well above traditional savings account yields. CDs work best for short-term savings goals with specific timelines, like saving for a house down…
Financial planners often recommend aiming for roughly three times your annual salary in retirement savings by the time you reach 45. At the same time, your mid-forties are a turning point when compounding can still work in your favor. The decisions you make now, whether you’re on track or catching…
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