Image by Getty Images; Illustration by Bankrate If you’re planning for retirement, one of your key questions is how much you can earn from Social Security — what’s the maximum you can get? As of January 2025, the maximum benefit you can receive at full retirement age is $4,018 per…
Key takeaways Uniformed service members and federal employees can borrow against their retirement plans with a TSP loan. You can borrow a minimum of $1,000. You can borrow a TSP loan for general purposes, and you can use funds to construct or close on a home. TSP loans come with…
Key takeaways Because the Fed’s decisions to change interest rates affect the pricing of bonds, bond investors closely monitor Federal Reserve interest rate moves. The Fed lowered rates in late 2024 but paused rates until its meeting on Sept. 16-17, 2025, when it decided to lower rates by 25 basis…
Key takeaways For those wanting to grow older in their own homes, HELOCs (home equity lines of credit), home improvement loans and home equity loans may be a good way to finance the necessary renovations. If you’re moving in with a loved one, consider a personal loan or low-interest credit…
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This piece was originally published in early 2023 and reflects the author’s financial decisions during that time. The rest of the article has since been updated. Key takeaways With average credit card interest rates well above 20 percent, chasing credit card rewards while carrying card…
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Key takeaways A divorce decree outlines which spouse is legally responsible for each debt after the divorce is completed. States either have community…
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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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Key takeaways The minimum credit score required for a conventional loan is 620, while other types of mortgages require scores between 500 and 700. A higher credit score usually translates to a lower interest rate. Paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances low and becoming an authorized user on…
Refinance your private student loans or consolidate your federal loans into a new loan with only one interest rate. Sign up for autopay and receive a discount on your interest rate. Lowering your principal Caret Down Icon Photography by Getty Images; Illustration by Bankrate Key takeaways Comparing offers and rates…
SouthWorks/ Getty Images; Illustration by Austin Courregé/Bankrate Business credit cards can help entrepreneurs and small business owners manage cash flow and cover large expenses. However, many business credit cards perform personal credit checks or require a personal guarantee. If you need to build your personal credit score or have a…
Key takeaways Marketplace lending can ease the loan shopping experience for consumers by allowing them to compare multiple lenders in one place. Consumers should consider the pros and cons of using a marketplace lender and be aware of the fine print when getting a loan. The future of marketplace lending…
Photography by Getty Images; Illustration by Bankrate Key takeaways A few banks are still offering student loan refinancing, but you’ll generally find more online options from technology startups. Refinancing your student loans can land you a lower interest rate and more affordable monthly payments, but it may not be worthwhile…
Key takeaways Banks, credit unions and online lenders are top ways to borrow money due to their competitive interest rates and quick turnaround. Lenders may offer both secured and unsecured options, but the collateral you can provide depends on the type of loan. Avoid high interest rates by comparing at…
Key takeaways Veteran-owned small businesses make up 4.7 percent of employer firms in the U.S. The U.S. Small Business Administration offers several types of loans which veterans can apply for. Many resources and organizations exist to help veterans open businesses, get government contracts and receive valuable training. Of the estimated…
Key takeaways Tax deductions for business vehicles are numerous, whether you lease or buy. Leasing can be less expensive upfront and monthly, but leasing means you will never own the vehicle and build equity from the vehicle. In general, buying is a better move if you put a lot of…
Key takeaways Would-be homebuyers continue to be discouraged by elevated mortgage rates and ever-rising home prices. In addition, while housing inventory has grown, it’s still below what’s needed for a balanced market. While these issues show signs of improving, experts still expect the remainder of 2025 to be challenging for…
Images by GettyImages; Illustration by Hunter Newton/Bankrate Key takeaways Student loan refinancing means taking out a new loan to pay off one or more current student loans. It can provide a lower interest rate, extend your repayment timeline or make your monthly payment more affordable. Refinancing is only available through…
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