Budgeting & Personal Finance: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Know This Handy Rule of Thumb: The 50/30/20 Rule
How much should you spend on groceries? Your home? Your vacation to France? The 50/30/20 rule of thumb helps you figure out if you're spending too much ... or not enough!
How much should you spend on groceries? Your home? Your vacation to France? The 50/30/20 rule of thumb helps you figure out if you're spending too much ... or not enough!
Rule of 72 and Rule of 115
Want to double or even triple your money? This handy rule-of-thumb shows you how long it will take you to turn $10,000 into $30,000.
Want to double or even triple your money? This handy rule-of-thumb shows you how long it will take you to turn $10,000 into $30,000.
How to Become a Millionaire
Want to create $1 million dollars? If you start investing while you're young, you can. This article shows you how.
Want to create $1 million dollars? If you start investing while you're young, you can. This article shows you how.
How Much Should I Put Aside for Retirement?
How much should you save for retirement? Ten percent? Twenty percent? The answer depends on the age at which you start saving, as well as your other sources of retirement income. Learn more in this article.
How much should you save for retirement? Ten percent? Twenty percent? The answer depends on the age at which you start saving, as well as your other sources of retirement income. Learn more in this article.
How Much Money Do You Earn Per Hour?
How much money do you earn per hour? You might think, "Who cares? I know how much I make in a year!"
How much money do you earn per hour? You might think, "Who cares? I know how much I make in a year!"
Don't Confuse These Two Retirement Rules of Thumb
How much money will you need in retirement? Two popular rules of thumb outline the answer. The "Multiply
How much money will you need in retirement? Two popular rules of thumb outline the answer. The "Multiply
Budget for Home Maintenance
How much money will you need to set aside for home maintenance -- those once-a-decade (or once-every-twenty-years) expenses like new gutters, siding and a new roof? This article will help you understand how factors like your home's age, condition, location and square footage can affect your budget.
How much money will you need to set aside for home maintenance -- those once-a-decade (or once-every-twenty-years) expenses like new gutters, siding and a new roof? This article will help you understand how factors like your home's age, condition, location and square footage can affect your budget.
The S&P 500, NASDAQ, Dow Jones - What is This Stuff?
The S&P 500, the NASDAQ, the Dow Jones, the Russell 2000, the Wilshire 5000 - what is this stuff? Those terms get thrown around on the news everyday, but what do they mean, exactly? How are they defined and what do they represent?
The S&P 500, the NASDAQ, the Dow Jones, the Russell 2000, the Wilshire 5000 - what is this stuff? Those terms get thrown around on the news everyday, but what do they mean, exactly? How are they defined and what do they represent?
Fixed and Variable Expenses
: Your budget is comprised of both fixed and variable expenses. But what do these two words mean? How
: Your budget is comprised of both fixed and variable expenses. But what do these two words mean? How
20 Cheap Ways to Remodel Your Home
You'd love to pay for updated cabinets, countertops, faucets and vanities, but the cost of home remodeling is just too high. Try these 20 cheap ways to remodel your home in small, finishing-touch forms. Upgrade your cabinet handles and doorknobs. Change out those yellowing switchplate covers. See what more tips await ...
You'd love to pay for updated cabinets, countertops, faucets and vanities, but the cost of home remodeling is just too high. Try these 20 cheap ways to remodel your home in small, finishing-touch forms. Upgrade your cabinet handles and doorknobs. Change out those yellowing switchplate covers. See what more tips await ...
Budget Worksheet
This budgeting worksheet helps you track your earnings and your necessary spending.
This budgeting worksheet helps you track your earnings and your necessary spending.
38 Free Summer Activities for Kids
How on earth can you afford to keep your kids entertained all summer? Activities like camp, sports and vacations are outside your budget. Find frugal fun with this list of free or cheap summer activities for kids.
How on earth can you afford to keep your kids entertained all summer? Activities like camp, sports and vacations are outside your budget. Find frugal fun with this list of free or cheap summer activities for kids.
14 Ways to Earn Money on the Side
Growing rich is a two-part approach: you need to earn money AND save money. If you're a sports fan, think
Growing rich is a two-part approach: you need to earn money AND save money. If you're a sports fan, think
What's a Millionaire?
What's a millionaire? The answer is not as straightforward as you might expect.
What's a millionaire? The answer is not as straightforward as you might expect.
Three Very Different Ways Couples Combine Their Money
There are a huge variety of methods for just about every aspect of money management, and co-mingling finances with your significant other is no exception. Learn three of the most common strategies that couples use when they decide to co-mingle their money.
There are a huge variety of methods for just about every aspect of money management, and co-mingling finances with your significant other is no exception. Learn three of the most common strategies that couples use when they decide to co-mingle their money.
Budget Worksheet - Overview
Want to create a budget? These worksheets will walk you through making a budget with detailed, step-by-step instructions.
Want to create a budget? These worksheets will walk you through making a budget with detailed, step-by-step instructions.
7 Tips for Saving for Retirement
You had a late start in saving for retirement. What should you do? Here are 7 tips to guide you through a comfortable retirement, even if you started saving in your 40's.
You had a late start in saving for retirement. What should you do? Here are 7 tips to guide you through a comfortable retirement, even if you started saving in your 40's.
Eleven Money Rules
There's a lot of money advice floating around. What's the most important? This article outlines 11 rules for building wealth.
There's a lot of money advice floating around. What's the most important? This article outlines 11 rules for building wealth.
How to Lower Your Home Payment
Does your monthly mortgage bill put a serious dent in your budget? Here are four ways you can lower your monthly payment.
Does your monthly mortgage bill put a serious dent in your budget? Here are four ways you can lower your monthly payment.
2012 Retirement Contribution Limits
The IRS announced 2012 contribution limits to some of the most popular types of retirement accounts, such as the 401k.
The IRS announced 2012 contribution limits to some of the most popular types of retirement accounts, such as the 401k.
Budget Worksheet - Savings Goals
You can have lots of savings goals - how can you keep track of them all? This worksheet will help you organize your savings and compare your goals to the rest of your budget.
You can have lots of savings goals - how can you keep track of them all? This worksheet will help you organize your savings and compare your goals to the rest of your budget.
How to Make a Budget
Create a Budget – How to Make a Budget
Create a Budget – How to Make a Budget
How Much Should I Save for Retirement?
How much money will I need to retire? Sometimes I open a magazine and see that I need $1 million or $2 million. Could that possibly be right? Check out this rough guide to getting a back-of-the-envelope idea of roughly how much you'll need when you retire.
How much money will I need to retire? Sometimes I open a magazine and see that I need $1 million or $2 million. Could that possibly be right? Check out this rough guide to getting a back-of-the-envelope idea of roughly how much you'll need when you retire.
Budget Worksheet - Discretionary Expenses
Track your discretionary (your fun!) expenses here. Sorry to say it, but this category is the easiest place to hunt for savings.
Track your discretionary (your fun!) expenses here. Sorry to say it, but this category is the easiest place to hunt for savings.
What Do Millionaires Have in Common? A Budget.
What habit do the majority of self-made millionaires have in common? According to two professors who study the habits of millionaires, the most millionaires make a budget.
What habit do the majority of self-made millionaires have in common? According to two professors who study the habits of millionaires, the most millionaires make a budget.
How to Start to Run a Business
Let's say you want to earn some extra money, but you're not satisfied with hourly jobs that your teenager could do. You want to start a small business -- and possibly grow it to the point at which you could hire a few assistants. Here are 7 small businesses that require only a small amount of start-up capital and that you might be able to run part-time or seasonally.
Let's say you want to earn some extra money, but you're not satisfied with hourly jobs that your teenager could do. You want to start a small business -- and possibly grow it to the point at which you could hire a few assistants. Here are 7 small businesses that require only a small amount of start-up capital and that you might be able to run part-time or seasonally.
25 Ways to Save Money
Looking for more ways to trim a few bucks from your budget? Check out these 25 tips that will help you
Looking for more ways to trim a few bucks from your budget? Check out these 25 tips that will help you
30 Free and Fun Weekend Activities
Are you bored or restless on weekends? If you're feeling broke, you might spend the weekend staring at the TV -- or worse, you might bust your budget, paying for entertainment and distraction. Here's a better alternative: a list of 30 free or ultra-cheap weekend activities. Some are great solo activities, while others are good for the whole family. Check it out!
Are you bored or restless on weekends? If you're feeling broke, you might spend the weekend staring at the TV -- or worse, you might bust your budget, paying for entertainment and distraction. Here's a better alternative: a list of 30 free or ultra-cheap weekend activities. Some are great solo activities, while others are good for the whole family. Check it out!
There's Too Much to Save For! Balancing Priorities
Retirement, college, celebrating your 25th wedding anniversary in Maui -- how can you juggle and balance your priorities when you have so many savings goals?
Retirement, college, celebrating your 25th wedding anniversary in Maui -- how can you juggle and balance your priorities when you have so many savings goals?
Retirement Savings by the Decade
How much money should you have saved for retirement by age 35? Age 45? Age 55? Check out these new age-related guidelines that help show you whether or not your retirement is on track.
How much money should you have saved for retirement by age 35? Age 45? Age 55? Check out these new age-related guidelines that help show you whether or not your retirement is on track.
Debt Snowball vs. Debt Stacking
There are two popular methods that people use to pay off debt. The traditional method is called "debt
There are two popular methods that people use to pay off debt. The traditional method is called "debt
What's a Want and What's a Need?
One of the toughest aspects about budgeting is separating wants from needs. Many people mistakenly categorize
One of the toughest aspects about budgeting is separating wants from needs. Many people mistakenly categorize
Track Your Occasional Expenses
Don't get caught off-guard by unexpected expenses. Learn how to anticipate once-a-year, once-a-decade and once-in-a-lifetime costs.
Don't get caught off-guard by unexpected expenses. Learn how to anticipate once-a-year, once-a-decade and once-in-a-lifetime costs.
What's the Rule of 72?
Want to double your money? The Rule of 72 explains how to double your money, without accepting too much risk, in a realistic 7 year time frame.
Want to double your money? The Rule of 72 explains how to double your money, without accepting too much risk, in a realistic 7 year time frame.
Fun Games to Save Money
I challenge you to a save-off! Games and competitions make saving fun. Saving money doesn't need to be based around deprivation. Check out these awards, prizes and challenges!
I challenge you to a save-off! Games and competitions make saving fun. Saving money doesn't need to be based around deprivation. Check out these awards, prizes and challenges!
7 Tips to Help You Get Out of Debt
Need help getting out of debt? Here are a few tips on that can help you eradicate your debt, regardless of whether you're struggling with a home loan, car payment or credit cards.
Need help getting out of debt? Here are a few tips on that can help you eradicate your debt, regardless of whether you're struggling with a home loan, car payment or credit cards.
What To Do To Make Money
One of the best ways to improve your finances is to earn more. There's a limit to how much you can save. There's no limit to how much you can earn. Of course, earning more money in your spare time is tough. Are you trying to figure out what to do to make a little extra money on the side -- without quitting your day job? Here are 7 suggestions.
One of the best ways to improve your finances is to earn more. There's a limit to how much you can save. There's no limit to how much you can earn. Of course, earning more money in your spare time is tough. Are you trying to figure out what to do to make a little extra money on the side -- without quitting your day job? Here are 7 suggestions.
Money and Budgets for Kids
How can you teach your kids to budget their money?
How can you teach your kids to budget their money?
How to Calculate Internal Rate of Return
You invest money in small amounts throughout the year. So how can you calculate your annualized returns? Discover your annual return through a formula called the Internal Rate of Return, or IRR. This article explains what IRR is, and how you can calculate it.
You invest money in small amounts throughout the year. So how can you calculate your annualized returns? Discover your annual return through a formula called the Internal Rate of Return, or IRR. This article explains what IRR is, and how you can calculate it.
3 Keys to a Successful Budget
What are the key ingredients of a successful budget? What qualities cause some budgets to succeed and other budgets to fail?
What are the key ingredients of a successful budget? What qualities cause some budgets to succeed and other budgets to fail?
What’s Your Retirement Number?
How much money do you need to save for retirement? The answer depends on your expected annual expenses and your other sources of income, like Social Security and pensions.
How much money do you need to save for retirement? The answer depends on your expected annual expenses and your other sources of income, like Social Security and pensions.
How Can I Track My Spending?
You’ve decided to start tracking your spending. How can you do this effectively? Here’s a brief explanation of why tracking your spending is an important practice, plus three tactics that people use to log their spending habits.
You’ve decided to start tracking your spending. How can you do this effectively? Here’s a brief explanation of why tracking your spending is an important practice, plus three tactics that people use to log their spending habits.
The Case for 3 Percent Retirement Portfolio Withdrawal
How much of your retirement portfolio can you safely withdraw every year? Most financial advisers say that the answer is 4 percent, but lately there's been some chatter that you should plan to only withdraw 3 percent per year in retirement. That means a $1 million retirement portfolio will allow you to live on $30,000 - $40,000 per year.
How much of your retirement portfolio can you safely withdraw every year? Most financial advisers say that the answer is 4 percent, but lately there's been some chatter that you should plan to only withdraw 3 percent per year in retirement. That means a $1 million retirement portfolio will allow you to live on $30,000 - $40,000 per year.
What's an Unexpected Expense?
Conventional wisdom says that the money in your emergency fund should be earmarked for "unexpected expenses."
Conventional wisdom says that the money in your emergency fund should be earmarked for "unexpected expenses."
Making the Most of Your Money
How can you make the most of your limited money? Budgeting -- at its core -- has almost nothing to do with dollars and cents. The heart of budgeting is aligning your values with your spending habits.
How can you make the most of your limited money? Budgeting -- at its core -- has almost nothing to do with dollars and cents. The heart of budgeting is aligning your values with your spending habits.
How to Transition to One Income
Congratulations -- you've decided to make the switch to a one-income household. What factors will you need to consider? How can you make the transition as smooth as possible? Here are four tips to help you convert from two incomes down to one.
Congratulations -- you've decided to make the switch to a one-income household. What factors will you need to consider? How can you make the transition as smooth as possible? Here are four tips to help you convert from two incomes down to one.
Why Should I Budget?
Do rich people need to budget their money? It's tempting to imagine people lavishing in luxury without paying a shred of attention to their bank account. But the reality is quite different. Here are seven reasons the rich should budget, too.
Do rich people need to budget their money? It's tempting to imagine people lavishing in luxury without paying a shred of attention to their bank account. But the reality is quite different. Here are seven reasons the rich should budget, too.
The 80/20 Budget
The 50/30/20 budget is popular, but it demands that you track your expenses. Don't want to do that? Try an even easier approach: the 80/20 budget.
The 50/30/20 budget is popular, but it demands that you track your expenses. Don't want to do that? Try an even easier approach: the 80/20 budget.
What is Compound Interest?
: Albert Einstein reportedly described compound interest as "the most powerful force in the universe."
: Albert Einstein reportedly described compound interest as "the most powerful force in the universe."
Mint.com Budget App for Android
Learn the pro's and con's of Mint.com's budgeting app for Android phones.
Learn the pro's and con's of Mint.com's budgeting app for Android phones.
Should I Refinance My Mortgage?
Home interest rates are low, but you're locked into a higher payment. Should you refinance your mortgage? How much interest will you save? Learn the pro's and con's to refinancing your mortgage in this article.
Home interest rates are low, but you're locked into a higher payment. Should you refinance your mortgage? How much interest will you save? Learn the pro's and con's to refinancing your mortgage in this article.
Review: SmartyPig, the Online Savings Account
Visit Their Website Looking for a bank account that will help motivate you to save for specific goals?
Visit Their Website Looking for a bank account that will help motivate you to save for specific goals?
Borrowing Money for College
Youâve heard the horror stories: Joe the Student graduates with $50,000 in debt. He canât find a job,
Youâve heard the horror stories: Joe the Student graduates with $50,000 in debt. He canât find a job,
Pros and Cons of Co-mingling Money in Marriage
You've found the person you want to share your life with. But should you share your bank account with them? Learn the pro's and con's of co-mingling finances with your partner.
You've found the person you want to share your life with. But should you share your bank account with them? Learn the pro's and con's of co-mingling finances with your partner.
Save on Groceries
Save hundreds off your grocery bill! Here are in-depth, actionable tips.
Save hundreds off your grocery bill! Here are in-depth, actionable tips.
How to Save Money on Entertainment
Learn how to save money on all types of entertainment including movies, restaurants, sports games, concerts, live comedy shows and recreational shopping.
Learn how to save money on all types of entertainment including movies, restaurants, sports games, concerts, live comedy shows and recreational shopping.
Plan for Retirement Based on Lifestyle, Not Current Income
Many experts say that you should plan to spend a percentage of your current income -- such as 85 percent of your present income -- in retirement. But a competing school of thought argues that you should plan for retirement based on the lifestyle you hope to enjoy, not the income you currently earn.
Many experts say that you should plan to spend a percentage of your current income -- such as 85 percent of your present income -- in retirement. But a competing school of thought argues that you should plan for retirement based on the lifestyle you hope to enjoy, not the income you currently earn.
Saver Without A Cause
It's simple to know how much you should save when you have a specific goal: a $10,000 wedding in 2 years, for example, or a $8,000 car in 1 year. But how can you save when you don't have a specific goal in mind?
It's simple to know how much you should save when you have a specific goal: a $10,000 wedding in 2 years, for example, or a $8,000 car in 1 year. But how can you save when you don't have a specific goal in mind?
How to Track Your Goals
I have so many goals - I can't keep track! What online banking programs can help me track my progress?
I have so many goals - I can't keep track! What online banking programs can help me track my progress?
IRA and 401k Contribution Limits Increase
Contribution limits for IRA and 401k retirement plans are increasing, beginning in 2013. Eligible workers can now contribute $17,500 to their 401k and 403 retirement plans and $5,500 to their IRA retirement saving accounts.
Contribution limits for IRA and 401k retirement plans are increasing, beginning in 2013. Eligible workers can now contribute $17,500 to their 401k and 403 retirement plans and $5,500 to their IRA retirement saving accounts.
Finish Making Mortgage Payments!
Sick of making mortgage payments? Here are five ways people pay off their mortgage early and shave thousands
Sick of making mortgage payments? Here are five ways people pay off their mortgage early and shave thousands
4 Retirement Tips for People 40 and Older
Check out these four retirement savings tips for people 40 and over. The first tip helps you figure out how much money you need for retirement, while the rest of the tips help you find ways to earn more money.
Check out these four retirement savings tips for people 40 and over. The first tip helps you figure out how much money you need for retirement, while the rest of the tips help you find ways to earn more money.
Moving to a Low-Cost Retirement Zone
As Tony approached his 60's, he started realizing that he hadn't saved enough to retire, and now he was stuck. He pondered what to do. Years earlier, he had visited Costa Rica and absolutely loved it. He also remembered that it had a low cost of living. Tony realized he could rent out his home in Nebraska and use the rental income to enjoy a lower cost of living in Costa Rica. But did he dare? Isn't that a bit dramatic? Do other retirees do this? Find out in this article ...
As Tony approached his 60's, he started realizing that he hadn't saved enough to retire, and now he was stuck. He pondered what to do. Years earlier, he had visited Costa Rica and absolutely loved it. He also remembered that it had a low cost of living. Tony realized he could rent out his home in Nebraska and use the rental income to enjoy a lower cost of living in Costa Rica. But did he dare? Isn't that a bit dramatic? Do other retirees do this? Find out in this article ...
Pay Yourself First
One of the key principals of personal finance is "pay yourself first." But many people find that phrase
One of the key principals of personal finance is "pay yourself first." But many people find that phrase
The Many Costs of HomeOwnership
Even if you buy a brand-new home, it'll be time to remodel your house at least a decade before you're done repaying your mortgage -- not because you want to, but because your roof, carpet, siding, gutters, paint, cabinets and water heater will probably be worn-out and in need of replacement. Learn about the many costs of owning a home, including buying appliances, maintaining a lawn and replacing things you've probably never thought about replacing, like bathtubs and faucets.
Even if you buy a brand-new home, it'll be time to remodel your house at least a decade before you're done repaying your mortgage -- not because you want to, but because your roof, carpet, siding, gutters, paint, cabinets and water heater will probably be worn-out and in need of replacement. Learn about the many costs of owning a home, including buying appliances, maintaining a lawn and replacing things you've probably never thought about replacing, like bathtubs and faucets.
Before You Say "I Do," Discuss This
You're romantically compatible. But are you financially compatible? Here's a great way to launch into a big-picture conversation to make sure you and your mate are really right for each other -- financially speaking.
You're romantically compatible. But are you financially compatible? Here's a great way to launch into a big-picture conversation to make sure you and your mate are really right for each other -- financially speaking.
Budget for One-Time Costs
Irregular expenses are always emerging: you'll need to visit the dentist, buy gifts for your cousin's wedding or replace the tires on your car. Some of these you can predict, but some you can't. How do you budget for this?
Irregular expenses are always emerging: you'll need to visit the dentist, buy gifts for your cousin's wedding or replace the tires on your car. Some of these you can predict, but some you can't. How do you budget for this?
Make a Car Payment -- to Yourself!
Congratulations -- you've made your final car payment! Don't run out to celebrate just yet, though. Sooner or later, you'll need another car. Why not keep making the same car payment, but direct it into a savings account earmarked for your next car purchase?
Congratulations -- you've made your final car payment! Don't run out to celebrate just yet, though. Sooner or later, you'll need another car. Why not keep making the same car payment, but direct it into a savings account earmarked for your next car purchase?
FAQ’s about Inheriting an IRA
Do you have questions about what to do if you inherit an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)? Here are answers to some IRA inheritance FAQ's.
Do you have questions about what to do if you inherit an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)? Here are answers to some IRA inheritance FAQ's.
What's an Actively-Managed and Passively-Managed Fund?
Bob puts his money in a passively-managed fund that tracks the 5&P 500 Index. Sheila puts her money in an actively-managed mutual fund. What's the difference between Bob and Sheila's investments? How will their fees, performance and expectations be different?
Bob puts his money in a passively-managed fund that tracks the 5&P 500 Index. Sheila puts her money in an actively-managed mutual fund. What's the difference between Bob and Sheila's investments? How will their fees, performance and expectations be different?
FAQs about Budgeting
Curious about managing your money and making a budget? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked budgeting questions.
Curious about managing your money and making a budget? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked budgeting questions.
Review of Schwab Mobile Deposit App
The Schwab app lets customers deposit checks instantly, through their smartphone or tablet, just by taking a photograph of the check. Why can't every bank offer this type of service?
The Schwab app lets customers deposit checks instantly, through their smartphone or tablet, just by taking a photograph of the check. Why can't every bank offer this type of service?
How to Discuss Money With Your Spouse
Did you know that couples who fight about money more than once a week are 30 percent more likely to get divorced? Don't let this happen to you. Here are some tips for (peacefully) discussing money with your spouse.
Did you know that couples who fight about money more than once a week are 30 percent more likely to get divorced? Don't let this happen to you. Here are some tips for (peacefully) discussing money with your spouse.
What are the Bush Tax Cuts?
You've probably heard chatter about the Bush tax cuts, but maybe you're having trouble sorting fact from punditry. What are the Bush tax cuts? What happens if it expires? How does it affect you?
You've probably heard chatter about the Bush tax cuts, but maybe you're having trouble sorting fact from punditry. What are the Bush tax cuts? What happens if it expires? How does it affect you?
Reader Story - Budgeting for My Dream Vacation
Travis wasn't sure if he could afford to take his family on a weekend getaway. But once he looked closely at his budget, he discovered that with a few small changes, his family could take the vacation of a lifetime ...
Travis wasn't sure if he could afford to take his family on a weekend getaway. But once he looked closely at his budget, he discovered that with a few small changes, his family could take the vacation of a lifetime ...
Should You Buy or Rent?
The myth that buying is always a better deal than renting simply isn't true. Whether it's a better deal to buy or rent your home depends on a wide variety of factors, including how long you expect to live at that location and the rent-to-purchase-price ratio of your area.
The myth that buying is always a better deal than renting simply isn't true. Whether it's a better deal to buy or rent your home depends on a wide variety of factors, including how long you expect to live at that location and the rent-to-purchase-price ratio of your area.
Rental Property Investing for Beginners
Thinking of buying your first rental property? Here are two formulas that will help you evaluate deals.
Thinking of buying your first rental property? Here are two formulas that will help you evaluate deals.
Why Does a Wedding Cost So Much?
The average couple spends $27,000 on a wedding, according to a recent report in USA Today. But why? What on earth could possibly cost so much? Why are weddings so expensive?
The average couple spends $27,000 on a wedding, according to a recent report in USA Today. But why? What on earth could possibly cost so much? Why are weddings so expensive?
Discuss Money with Your Spouse
Most couples donât chat with each other â in depth â about money. âHoney, have you paid the rent this
Most couples donât chat with each other â in depth â about money. âHoney, have you paid the rent this
Budget Travel: New York City
Can someone on a tight budget take an extended vacation to New York City? One reader asked me this very question. In this article, I explain how I did it. Hopefully it will inspire you to be creative with your money - and take a budget vacation!
Can someone on a tight budget take an extended vacation to New York City? One reader asked me this very question. In this article, I explain how I did it. Hopefully it will inspire you to be creative with your money - and take a budget vacation!
4 Benefits to Budgeting
Motivational speaker John Maxwell once said, "A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering
Motivational speaker John Maxwell once said, "A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering
Cheap Ways to Travel
Traveling is fun, but many people mistakenly assume it needs to cost a fortune. This article shows you how to take a budget-friendly vacation.
Traveling is fun, but many people mistakenly assume it needs to cost a fortune. This article shows you how to take a budget-friendly vacation.
Mandatory Trad IRA Withdrawals?
At what age do you have to take required mandatory distributions from your traditional IRA?
At what age do you have to take required mandatory distributions from your traditional IRA?
Should You Own Your Home Free and Clear?
It wasnât long ago when one of the best benefits of owning your own home were those home equity lines
It wasnât long ago when one of the best benefits of owning your own home were those home equity lines
Use Different Accounts for Each Major Purchase Category
You don’t like the idea of documenting every penny that you spend and manually classifying it into different categories. Is there an automatic way to track expenses, other than software or websites? Yes. You can use different credit/debit cards and bank accounts for various types of purchases. Learn the pro’s and con’s of this simplified budgeting method.
You don’t like the idea of documenting every penny that you spend and manually classifying it into different categories. Is there an automatic way to track expenses, other than software or websites? Yes. You can use different credit/debit cards and bank accounts for various types of purchases. Learn the pro’s and con’s of this simplified budgeting method.
Four Frugal Date Ideas
Want to treat your lover to a wonderful evening, but you're feeling broke? Try these four frugal date ideas.
Want to treat your lover to a wonderful evening, but you're feeling broke? Try these four frugal date ideas.
Should Retirement Be Your Top Priority?
You have many savings goals: you want to pay off your loans, send your kids to college, and you save for retirement. Which of these goals should you fund first?
You have many savings goals: you want to pay off your loans, send your kids to college, and you save for retirement. Which of these goals should you fund first?
5 Action Items for One-Income Couples
The number of one-income households is shrinking. If you want to defy the norm and transition into a one-income household, you'll need strong budgeting and savings skills. Here are five tips that can help.
The number of one-income households is shrinking. If you want to defy the norm and transition into a one-income household, you'll need strong budgeting and savings skills. Here are five tips that can help.
Emergency Fund vs. Checking Account Cushion
I recently received a great question from a reader that Iâd like to share. The reader asks: âI hate paying
I recently received a great question from a reader that Iâd like to share. The reader asks: âI hate paying
Where Does All My Money Go?
You don't think of yourself as lavish. You're not dining at fancy restaurants or jet-setting to Europe. So where on earth is all of your money going?
You don't think of yourself as lavish. You're not dining at fancy restaurants or jet-setting to Europe. So where on earth is all of your money going?
Delay Claiming Social Security Benefits
Want to learn a guaranteed way to nearly double your monthly retirement income in the span of eight years? Delay claiming your Social Security benefits.
Want to learn a guaranteed way to nearly double your monthly retirement income in the span of eight years? Delay claiming your Social Security benefits.
How to Prioritize Your Budget
You're feeling pulled in a million different directions. You need to save for retirement, pay for your child's college, remodel your home and fix the transmission on your car. How can you prioritize?
You're feeling pulled in a million different directions. You need to save for retirement, pay for your child's college, remodel your home and fix the transmission on your car. How can you prioritize?
6 Expenses That Can Destroy Your Retirement Budget
Many people assume their expenses in retirement will be similar to their expenses today. Unfortunately, they don't anticipate all the costs associated with aging. Here are six unexpected major expenses that can hit you in retirement.
Many people assume their expenses in retirement will be similar to their expenses today. Unfortunately, they don't anticipate all the costs associated with aging. Here are six unexpected major expenses that can hit you in retirement.
What's a 401k Retirement Plan?
You keep hearing people talk about 401k retirement plans ... but what, exactly, is a 401k? What are the tax implications? How does it help you save for retirement?
You keep hearing people talk about 401k retirement plans ... but what, exactly, is a 401k? What are the tax implications? How does it help you save for retirement?
Why You Need An Emergency Fund
An emergency fund will help you avoid falling into credit-card debt the next time an unexpected expense pops up. Learn why you need an emergency fund -- and find out how large it should be.
An emergency fund will help you avoid falling into credit-card debt the next time an unexpected expense pops up. Learn why you need an emergency fund -- and find out how large it should be.
When Should You Use Your Emergency Fund
Financial experts are always saying that you should build an emergency fund. But when will you need to use this? What constitutes an emergency?
Financial experts are always saying that you should build an emergency fund. But when will you need to use this? What constitutes an emergency?
What is Life Insurance?
Life insurance protects your loved ones in the event that you pass away. Learn the difference between term, whole and universal life insurance.
Life insurance protects your loved ones in the event that you pass away. Learn the difference between term, whole and universal life insurance.
Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine
With more than 2 million readers and 60 years of history, Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine is one of the oldest and most well-respected authorities in personal finance publishing.
With more than 2 million readers and 60 years of history, Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine is one of the oldest and most well-respected authorities in personal finance publishing.
Book Review: The Millionaire Next Door
The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas Stanley and William Danko is one of the most classic books about money, personal finance and wealth-building. In this book, Stanley and Danko interview dozens of self-made American millionaires to discover their common characteristics.
The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas Stanley and William Danko is one of the most classic books about money, personal finance and wealth-building. In this book, Stanley and Danko interview dozens of self-made American millionaires to discover their common characteristics.
Oops! I Don’t Have Enough Money to Pay Taxes!
Taxes are one of the two only guarantees in life, to paraphrase a cliché. Yet each year, millions of Americans fall short of the funds they need to pay Uncle Sam. How can you make sure this doesn't happen to you?
Taxes are one of the two only guarantees in life, to paraphrase a cliché. Yet each year, millions of Americans fall short of the funds they need to pay Uncle Sam. How can you make sure this doesn't happen to you?
Five Ways to Cut Costs Without Noticing
Everyone loves saving an extra $50 or $100 per month, but no one enjoys cramping their lifestyle in order
Everyone loves saving an extra $50 or $100 per month, but no one enjoys cramping their lifestyle in order
True Story: How We Budgeted for a Baby
The true story of David and Lauren Weliver, an average middle-class couple from Portland, Maine who were shocked by the bills that started piling up after their daughter was born. Learn how they coped with a $1,400 monthly daycare, strollers, cribs, diapers, formula and other expenses.
The true story of David and Lauren Weliver, an average middle-class couple from Portland, Maine who were shocked by the bills that started piling up after their daughter was born. Learn how they coped with a $1,400 monthly daycare, strollers, cribs, diapers, formula and other expenses.
Stay-at-Home or Work? Find Out How Much Working Costs.
Choosing between being a stay-at-home parent or a working parent? Don't forget to factor the cost of going to work in your decision. Work-related expenses like gasoline, professional clothes, childcare, dry cleaning and occasional coffees or lunches out can take a pretty big bite out of your paycheck.
Choosing between being a stay-at-home parent or a working parent? Don't forget to factor the cost of going to work in your decision. Work-related expenses like gasoline, professional clothes, childcare, dry cleaning and occasional coffees or lunches out can take a pretty big bite out of your paycheck.
What's an IRA?
What's an IRA? The Individual Retirement Account takes two forms: Traditional and Roth.
What's an IRA? The Individual Retirement Account takes two forms: Traditional and Roth.
The Single-Envelope Method
Looking for a simple way to budget? Tired of how traditional budgeting methods allow you to overspend? Try the single-envelope strategy, which prevents you from spending beyond your means. It's also virtually effortless -- no complex classifying required!
Looking for a simple way to budget? Tired of how traditional budgeting methods allow you to overspend? Try the single-envelope strategy, which prevents you from spending beyond your means. It's also virtually effortless -- no complex classifying required!
Money Calendar: January
Want a calendar of events for managing your money? Check out this monthly money calendar that describes everything you need to do in January.
Want a calendar of events for managing your money? Check out this monthly money calendar that describes everything you need to do in January.
Deals and Discounts on Twitter
Following certain companies on Twitter can help you save money. Here's a list of some Twitter accounts that tweet major savings and discounts.
Following certain companies on Twitter can help you save money. Here's a list of some Twitter accounts that tweet major savings and discounts.
What’s the Fiscal Cliff?
What’s the fiscal cliff? Everyone seems to be talking about the fiscal cliff, but is it as relevant to your life as the headlines make it seem? Will it affect your personal finances?
What’s the fiscal cliff? Everyone seems to be talking about the fiscal cliff, but is it as relevant to your life as the headlines make it seem? Will it affect your personal finances?
What's a Savings Bond?
: You've probably heard people talk about "savings bonds." These have become almost cliche in our culture,
: You've probably heard people talk about "savings bonds." These have become almost cliche in our culture,
Why You Should Avoid Getting a Tax Refund
Itâs the start of tax season, and many of my friends are basking in the glow of their tax refund. âIâm
Itâs the start of tax season, and many of my friends are basking in the glow of their tax refund. âIâm
Book Review: Millionaire Teacher
Andrew Hallam is a high school English teacher ... and a self-made millionaire by age 38. In his book, Millionaire Teacher: The Nine Rules of Wealth You Should Have Learned in School, he explains how he became a millionaire on a schoolteacher's salary.
Andrew Hallam is a high school English teacher ... and a self-made millionaire by age 38. In his book, Millionaire Teacher: The Nine Rules of Wealth You Should Have Learned in School, he explains how he became a millionaire on a schoolteacher's salary.
How Much It Costs to Keep Your Job
You think you know how much you earn. You make $35,000 or $50,000 or $75,000 or $95,000 a year, plus
You think you know how much you earn. You make $35,000 or $50,000 or $75,000 or $95,000 a year, plus
The Cost of Making a Budget
Will creating a budget cost me anything? Do I have to shell out hundreds for pricey software? Will I get hit with bank fees?
Will creating a budget cost me anything? Do I have to shell out hundreds for pricey software? Will I get hit with bank fees?
What’s the Difference Between a Budget and a Ledger?
Perhaps you’ve heard of a ledger. People use ledgers to track their spending habits. But is a ledger the same thing as a budget? Or are these different concepts?
Perhaps you’ve heard of a ledger. People use ledgers to track their spending habits. But is a ledger the same thing as a budget? Or are these different concepts?
Surprise Baby Expenses
Having your first child? Here are some unexpected baby expenses that catch new parents by surprise, along with tips on how you can make room in your budget for these new expenses.
Having your first child? Here are some unexpected baby expenses that catch new parents by surprise, along with tips on how you can make room in your budget for these new expenses.
What is Asset Allocation?
Not sure what asset allocation means? Here's an explanation.
Not sure what asset allocation means? Here's an explanation.
10 Inexpensive Holiday Gifts
You need to buy gifts this holiday season, but you're anxious about the price tag. Don't worry -- you can find plenty of personal, meaningful gifts at a low price. Here are 10 inexpensive gift ideas for the holidays.
You need to buy gifts this holiday season, but you're anxious about the price tag. Don't worry -- you can find plenty of personal, meaningful gifts at a low price. Here are 10 inexpensive gift ideas for the holidays.
What's an Emergency Fund?
Most experts advise having an emergency fund -- but what, exactly, is this? Why do you need an emergency fund? When would you use one?
Most experts advise having an emergency fund -- but what, exactly, is this? Why do you need an emergency fund? When would you use one?
Does Jean Chatzky Believe in Budgeting?
Today Show financial editor Jean Chatzky picks up the phone to share her thoughts with About.com on retirement planning, paper-and-pencil budgets, and nearing age 50.
Today Show financial editor Jean Chatzky picks up the phone to share her thoughts with About.com on retirement planning, paper-and-pencil budgets, and nearing age 50.
Should You Reward Kids for Normal Behavior?
Have you ever bribed a child -- with toys or snacks or other rewards -- for performing behaviors that should be normal and expected? Most parents have probably done this a few times. But rewarding kids for normal behavior can set up an entitlement complex, financial experts warn.
Have you ever bribed a child -- with toys or snacks or other rewards -- for performing behaviors that should be normal and expected? Most parents have probably done this a few times. But rewarding kids for normal behavior can set up an entitlement complex, financial experts warn.
You Need a Budget - Review
Want a sophisticated budgeting program that's also easy-to-use? You Need a Budget (YNAB) is a detailed program that helps you track your accounts. It's designed to be user-friendly, but also through.
Want a sophisticated budgeting program that's also easy-to-use? You Need a Budget (YNAB) is a detailed program that helps you track your accounts. It's designed to be user-friendly, but also through.
Retirement Planning in 6 Easy Steps
Confused or overwhelmed about retirement planning? Here are six easy-to-follow steps that can help you get prepared for your golden years.
Confused or overwhelmed about retirement planning? Here are six easy-to-follow steps that can help you get prepared for your golden years.
Teach Young Children How to Budget
Great financial habits start early. Even when your kids are ages 3 to 6, you can teach them how to budget their allowance, save up for a big purchase like a game or toy, and share charitably with others.
Great financial habits start early. Even when your kids are ages 3 to 6, you can teach them how to budget their allowance, save up for a big purchase like a game or toy, and share charitably with others.
An Unusual Approach to Budgeting ...
Most people create a budget by culling their spending habits to fit their income. But here's an unusual approach: decide how much you want to spend. Then force your income to match your spending desires. Learn the pro's and con's of these two methods.
Most people create a budget by culling their spending habits to fit their income. But here's an unusual approach: decide how much you want to spend. Then force your income to match your spending desires. Learn the pro's and con's of these two methods.
How Can You Inspire Others to Budget?
What should you do if your own financial situation is rock-solid, but you see a friend who is struggling? How can you teach or inspire that person to take control of their money, make a budget, and live below their means?
What should you do if your own financial situation is rock-solid, but you see a friend who is struggling? How can you teach or inspire that person to take control of their money, make a budget, and live below their means?
Are There Multiple Ways to Budget?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all formula for creating a budget. There are plenty of options for how to track your money; your job is to learn about a variety of tactics so that you can select the strategy that best suits your personality, taste and financial position.
There isn't a one-size-fits-all formula for creating a budget. There are plenty of options for how to track your money; your job is to learn about a variety of tactics so that you can select the strategy that best suits your personality, taste and financial position.
Money Calendar: February
Need a calendar that shows you how to make money-savvy moves all year long? Check out what you should do for your finances in February.
Need a calendar that shows you how to make money-savvy moves all year long? Check out what you should do for your finances in February.
6 Apps That Help You Save
Want to use your smartphone or tablet to help you manage money? These apps will help you budget, save and even check your credit on-the-run!
Want to use your smartphone or tablet to help you manage money? These apps will help you budget, save and even check your credit on-the-run!
How Mary Hunt Taught Her Sons to Budget
When Mary Hunt started raising her two sons, Jeremy and Josh, she did exactly what many new moms do:
When Mary Hunt started raising her two sons, Jeremy and Josh, she did exactly what many new moms do:
How Can I Get Out of Debt?
Plenty of articles discuss the methods people use to get out of debt. But to get out of debt, you need to tackle a few psychological obstacles, as well. Here's a rundown of some of the emotional preparation you need to do in order to face down your debt.
Plenty of articles discuss the methods people use to get out of debt. But to get out of debt, you need to tackle a few psychological obstacles, as well. Here's a rundown of some of the emotional preparation you need to do in order to face down your debt.
How Much Should I Spend on a Wedding?
How much money should you spend on a wedding? The answer depends on how important a wedding is to you, relative to your other spending priorities: buying a home, paying for school, paying down debt, saving for retirement.
How much money should you spend on a wedding? The answer depends on how important a wedding is to you, relative to your other spending priorities: buying a home, paying for school, paying down debt, saving for retirement.
May Money Calendar
Want a monthly calendar that helps you manage money? Check out this list of savvy money moves for the month of May.
Want a monthly calendar that helps you manage money? Check out this list of savvy money moves for the month of May.
Five Signs You're Dating a Deadbeat
You've just met someone special, but you're not sure if you and that person are financially compatible. How do you know whether or not the person you've just started dating is a deadbeat?
You've just met someone special, but you're not sure if you and that person are financially compatible. How do you know whether or not the person you've just started dating is a deadbeat?
How to Manage Your Budget While Traveling
We often get blindsided by surprise expenses, especially while we're traveling. Those add-on's, upsells and fees can quickly disrupt our budget. What major charges should we stay alert for, and how can we leave room in our budget to handle these types of surprises?
We often get blindsided by surprise expenses, especially while we're traveling. Those add-on's, upsells and fees can quickly disrupt our budget. What major charges should we stay alert for, and how can we leave room in our budget to handle these types of surprises?
How One Reader Graduated College (Mostly) Debt-Free
The following is the true story of how one About.com reader budgeted his way through college mostly debt-free.
The following is the true story of how one About.com reader budgeted his way through college mostly debt-free.
What's a Certificate of Deposit?
: A Certificate of Deposit, or CD, is a time deposit account with a fixed interest rate and term. Does
: A Certificate of Deposit, or CD, is a time deposit account with a fixed interest rate and term. Does
21 Everyday Ways to Save
You might be surprised at all the small ways that money slips through our fingers each day. Here's a list of 21 habits that you can form that will help you save a buck or two, here and there. These savings should add up to a substantial amount over the years.
You might be surprised at all the small ways that money slips through our fingers each day. Here's a list of 21 habits that you can form that will help you save a buck or two, here and there. These savings should add up to a substantial amount over the years.
What's a Traditional IRA?
What's a Traditional IRA? Should you open one?
What's a Traditional IRA? Should you open one?
June Money Calendar
Summer's here! Discover all the best financial moves you can make this June.
Summer's here! Discover all the best financial moves you can make this June.
True Story: How One College Student Budgets
Read the true story of how one 20-year-old balances her bills on a small, irregular income.
Read the true story of how one 20-year-old balances her bills on a small, irregular income.
More Than Tuition: The Cost of College
Tuition might create sticker-shock, but it's not the only expense you'll face during your college years. From cars to clothes, laptops to lounge chairs, you'll be amazed at how many costs pop up during your college years.
Tuition might create sticker-shock, but it's not the only expense you'll face during your college years. From cars to clothes, laptops to lounge chairs, you'll be amazed at how many costs pop up during your college years.
Bigger Home for the Tax Deduction?
Should I buy a more expensive home, so that I can take a bigger tax deduction?
Should I buy a more expensive home, so that I can take a bigger tax deduction?
10 Ways to Cut College Expenses
Traditional financial advice says you should clip coupons, pinch pennies and give up that latte. But
Traditional financial advice says you should clip coupons, pinch pennies and give up that latte. But
What's a Roth IRA?
One of the best ways to save for retirement, especially if you're young or you're in a low tax bracket, is through the Roth IRA. Learn all about this special retirement savings account.
One of the best ways to save for retirement, especially if you're young or you're in a low tax bracket, is through the Roth IRA. Learn all about this special retirement savings account.
September Money Calendar
Want a calendar that helps you create a month-by-month financial plan? Here's the September edition.
Want a calendar that helps you create a month-by-month financial plan? Here's the September edition.
But I Don't Want to Retire!
I occasionally hear people say that they don't ever plan to retire. They love their careers, and don't want to quit when they're 62 or 65. But that doesn't exempt them from needing to save for retirement. Here's why.
I occasionally hear people say that they don't ever plan to retire. They love their careers, and don't want to quit when they're 62 or 65. But that doesn't exempt them from needing to save for retirement. Here's why.
Book Review: The 10 Commandments of Money
The book The 10 Commandments of Money: Survive and Thrive in the New Economy, by Liz Weston, is an excellent personal finance guide that's both comprehensive and also easy-to-understand.
The book The 10 Commandments of Money: Survive and Thrive in the New Economy, by Liz Weston, is an excellent personal finance guide that's both comprehensive and also easy-to-understand.
July Money Calendar
It's the dog days of summer! Discover how to beat the heat without ruining your wallet.
It's the dog days of summer! Discover how to beat the heat without ruining your wallet.
End-of-Year Checklist
There's nothing like an end-of-year deadline to get you motivated about managing money. This checklist guides you through everything you need to do before midnight on New Year's Eve.
There's nothing like an end-of-year deadline to get you motivated about managing money. This checklist guides you through everything you need to do before midnight on New Year's Eve.
Don't Skimp On These Expenses!
No matter how tight your budget, there are certain expenses that you should never, ever skimp on. Here's a list of the items that you should always make sure you're buying -- even if you have to seriously cut back in other areas, or take a second job, in order to do it.
No matter how tight your budget, there are certain expenses that you should never, ever skimp on. Here's a list of the items that you should always make sure you're buying -- even if you have to seriously cut back in other areas, or take a second job, in order to do it.