Key Takeaways Check-cashing services offer quick access to funds for individuals who do not have traditional bank accounts, typically through storefronts or retail locations. These services typically charge high fees, either as a percentage of the check amount or a flat fee, which can make them costly over time. They…
Credit Sesame examines how conflicting consumer spending habits are contributing to rising consumer debt, as short-term purchases soar while long-term investments decline. Recent trends in early 2025 suggest consumers have mixed feelings about the economy, caught between the urge to spend and the hesitation to invest. Short-term spending remains strong,…
Although annuities are not for everyone, the assurance of guaranteed income in retirement and tax-deferred growth can be very attractive for certain people looking to invest their money. Meanwhile, the high fees and mind-numbingly detailed contracts are a big drawback. Here’s a look at whether an annuity might be a…
Photography by Getty Images; Illustration by Bankrate Paying your taxes may feel like just another item to check off on your to-do list, but there are real consequences to not getting this particular task done. While the IRS has options for people who can’t pay their taxes on time, owing…
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While there has been much conversation on not buying from companies with poor diversity, little has been said about investing…
Lifestyle inflation occurs when your expenses increase as you earn more income. It can start subtly—dining at pricier restaurants, upgrading…
Chime, the largest digital bank in America, grew its revenue to $1.7 billion in 2024, an increase of roughly 30%…
Technology has transformed some parts of the daunting homebuying process–making it easier to search and compare properties online, to prepare…
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Key Takeaways With a couple of personal documents handy, you can easily open a checking account online. Look beyond promotional offers to check for monthly maintenance fees, ATM charges and overdraft fees. After opening an account, set up direct deposits, automate bill payments and monitor…
Dept Managmnt
Key takeaways You are responsible for debts of a deceased spouse if you were a joint borrower, live in a community property state…
Banking
Apple, FedEx and Oracle all got loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration. But rules and red tape keep many banks from making…
Credit Cards
Key takeaways Adding authorized users to your business credit card account can make it easier for you to complete purchases and earn rewards…
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Credit cards can be a convenient way to pay taxes while potentially earning some rewards along the way. Paying taxes with a credit card could also give you some breathing room if you don’t have the funds to pay your taxes by the due date. Still, there’s one major hurdle…
If you’d thrown $1,000 at Netflix in 2015, you’d be sitting on about $10,000 today. Back in 2015, Netflix (NFLX) was still shaking off its DVD-by-mail image and betting big on streaming and original content. Fast-forward a decade, and it’s gone from a scrappy disruptor to an industry heavyweight, with…
Most of us don’t think much about our tax withholding until tax time. That’s when reality sets in — in the form of a big tax bill or a tax refund. When you file your tax return, you discover whether more than enough money is being withheld from your paychecks…
Key takeaways Credit cards can have major benefits compared to cash when traveling internationally — including convenience, rewards and protection. Make sure you choose a credit card that is commonly accepted overseas — and when in doubt, have a backup. There may be fees associated with using your credit card…
Key takeaways Business loans are available from a variety of lenders, including banks, credit unions and online lenders. Banks and credit unions are ideal for established businesses with good to excellent credit. Compared to traditional lenders, online lenders and nonprofits are more willing to work with businesses with poor or…
Brothers91/GettyImages; illustration by Bankrate The IRS left contribution limits to traditional and Roth IRAs unchanged for 2025, keeping them at their 2024 level of $7,000. Those age 50 and older can contribute an additional $1,000. The income ranges on IRAs increased for 2025, allowing you to earn more money and…
DavidPinoPhotography/Shutterstock Key takeaways If you’re facing foreclosure, the right of redemption gives you a legal pathway to keep or regain your home, by paying back the entire outstanding loan, plus interest and fees. The right of redemption is rarely exercised, as it can be difficult for homeowners to come up…
Binary options offer a yes-or-no wager on a specific outcome of an event, typically over a short period such as a day. Binary options present a lot of risk in a fast-paced market that could quickly change, and traders have a few strategies if they’re wagering on binary options. Here…
PeopleImages/Getty Images Key takeaways Homebuyer education courses teach you how to save for a down payment, shop for lenders and maintain your house. Some lenders and assistance programs require first-time homebuyers to take an education course. Costs for these classes range from free to $125, with some lenders crediting the…
Google parent Alphabet (GOOG) reported strong first-quarter results, with both revenue and earnings coming in ahead of analyst estimates thanks to solid growth in its advertising business. The company also announced a 5 percent increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.21 per share, as well as a new $70 billion…
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