- Discover Bank vs. Ally Bank
If you’re looking for the highest savings interest rates the industry can offer, you’ll want to turn to an online bank. Without the maintenance costs of physical branches, online banks can offer the most competitive rates – not only on savings… read more…
- Where Rent Is Becoming More Affordable for Workers
Renters in America face an uphill battle to create space in their budgets for saving. In fact, the latest Census Bureau data reveals that nearly 10 million renting households spent at least 50% of their income on rent in 2017. But there’s good news on the horizon for workers who rent in some cities. With… read more…
- Marcus by Goldman Sachs vs. Ally Bank
If you’ve decided you have no need for physical bank branches, an online bank could be just the thing. With many online banks offering significantly higher interest rates than their bricks-and-mortar counterparts, many consumers are making the switch. But which… read more…
- Cities Where Veterans Are Thriving Professionally
Veterans are an important part of American society in light of their many sacrifices for our safety. They also make up a significant portion of our population: 7.3% of the 251 million Americans 18 and older are vets. But these heroes can face a number of difficulties when reintegrating into civilian life, particularly when it… read more…
- What Is a Bank Branch?
A bank branch is a physical location of a banking corporation, such as Chase, Bank of America or Wells Fargo. These buildings are technically referred to as “brick-and-mortar” branches, and they provide face-to-face service for customers of a bank. Branches customarily feature mortgage officers, financial advisors and other professionals as well, something that modern-day online… read more…
- Can You Cash a Check at Any Bank?
Cashing a check at any bank will depend on the bank you’re trying to cash the check at and the bank the check is coming from. Some of the best banks will cash pretty much any check for you, even if… read more…
- The Most Livable Mid-Sized Cities in America – 2018 Edition
Mid-sized cities can offer a good compromise between the unaffordable, congested big cities out there and the smaller, sleepy suburbs. But with so many mid-sized cities across the country, it isn’t easy to tell which are the best options. From cities with a lower cost of living where opportunities to save and invest are abundant,… read more…
- The Spookiest Cities in America
It’s October, the creepiest month of the year, a time when many cities flaunt their ghosts, troubled spirits and haunted houses. But which locale can boast that it’s the spookiest in the U.S.? A cursory internet search for the most haunted cities in America retrieves many claimants while leaving any definitive answer a mystery. After… read more…
- How to Transfer Money From One Bank Account to Another
Sometimes you’ll need to transfer money from one bank account to another. Perhaps you’re paying some for the monthly rent or maybe you want to move your money from an old account into a high-interest savings account. Regardless, you have a… read more…
- Certificate of Deposit (CD) Pros and Cons
Investing in a certificate of deposit (CD) account provides you with several benefits, but they may not be what you’re looking for in your unique situation. As with anything in the investing world, you face some risk with CDs, though… read more…
- How to Open a Savings Account in 4 Steps
Maintaining a healthy savings habit is critical to financial wellness. Unfortunately, many Americans lack basic emergency funds. One easy way to build one is by opening a savings account. The best savings accounts will offer high-interest rates, zero monthly service… read more…
- How Does Interest Work on a Savings Account?
Most of us know that a savings account is a smart place to store money. Savings accounts have higher interest rates than checking accounts and, as such, help us earn more without sacrificing liquidity. And although they yield lower returns… read more…
- The Best States for the Middle Class in 2018
The American Dream of homeownership and financial independence is a hallmark of middle-class life. Indeed, working hard defines this cohort’s pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps sensibility. But earning and saving up enough money to afford a down payment comfortably and reduce financial stress is getting increasingly difficult. With inequality on the rise in America, the middle class is getting… read more…
- The Most Livable Cities in the U.S. – 2018 Edition
Finding the perfect city is difficult. You know you want to live somewhere with plentiful high-paying jobs. But you also want to balance a good job with affordable housing. That ideal scenario will allow you to boost your savings and set you on a clear path for financial independence. But there are other important considerations… read more…
- HSA vs. HRA: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Get?
As Americans pay more for healthcare, many seek new ways to save in case of emergencies. Some may not even know they have access to health savings accounts (HSAs) and health reimbursement accounts (HRAs), which can be two ways to… read more…
- Are Banks Open on Good Friday?
Good Friday marks the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and many of those observing will be fasting and engaging in religious ceremonies. Some may also be asking, are banks open on Good Friday? The answer is, most likely. Good Friday precedes… read more…
- States Where Jobs Are Most Vulnerable to Automation
Are the robots going to steal your job or just free you up to tackle other needs at work? It’s a consideration that puts fear in the heart of the typical American employee. You see, on the positive side, labor-saving devices make workers more productive. And having more productive workers typically means goods cost less,… read more…
- What Is a High-Yield Savings Account?
In a world where Americans are saving less and less, it helps to have something to motivate you to sock away some money for an emergency fund and a high-yield savings account can do that. As the name implies, these… read more…
- HSA vs. FSA – Which One Should You Get?
Health savings accounts (HSA) and flexible spending accounts (FSA) both help people save for future medical expenses. These accounts also offer distinct tax benefits. But when deciding which one is really best for you, it’s important put them side by… read more…
- HSA Maximum Contribution for 2025
Each year, the IRS sets maximum contribution limits for health savings accounts (HSAs). For 2023, this limit increased slightly from 2022 due to changes in cost of living as was determined by the IRS. There are certain circumstances under which… read more…
- The Best Cities for Conferences in 2018
Between trade group meetings and professional development confabs, the American workforce attends a whole lot of conferences. According to the most recent data from forecasting company Oxford Economics, there are 1.9 million conventions, trade shows and meetings in the U.S. each year with a total of 251 million attendees. All that economic activity is a… read more…
- How Does a Money Market Account Work?
Money market accounts tend to generate interest rates that climb well above those of even the best savings accounts. They also offer additional benefits. For example, several banks link money market accounts to debit cards. You can use these to… read more…
- HSA Rollovers: A Step-By-Step Guide
Considering moving your health savings account (HSA) funds from one provider to another? Luckily for you, the HSA rollover process isn’t as difficult as you may think. The IRS allows you to fund a new HSA account from another HSA… read more…
- How to Close a Bank Account
Closing your bank account may seem simple at first glance. However, there are several steps to follow to ensure your account is closed correctly. Following the correct process will help you avoid unnecessary charges, fees and complications. While the exact steps may vary by bank, this is how to close a bank account the right… read more…
- What Is a Health Savings Account (HSA) and Who Should Get One?
A health savings account (HSA) allows you to invest for future medical expenses, while enjoying special tax breaks. Your contributions reduce your taxable income and your money grows tax free. Your withdrawals are also tax-free as long as you use… read more…