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How to Budget: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Budget Planner

How to Budget: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

You don’t need to be an accounting expert to learn how to budget. Use these four simple steps to create a budget that actually works for your life.

Apr 18, 2026

Dear Penny: Can I Be Forced to Pay for My Estranged Father’s Funeral?

Retirement

Dear Penny: Can I Be Forced to Pay for My Estranged Father’s Funeral?

Dear C., You won’t be forced to pay for your father’s funeral if you don't sign a contract with a funeral home. But since you’re the only child, you’re probably your father’s next of kin, even though he’s lived with his partner for 12 years. Very few states recognize common-law marriage. Even in those that...

Apr 18, 2026

Bills Got You Feeling Pinched? Try the Half Payment Budgeting Method

Budget Planner

Bills Got You Feeling Pinched? Try the Half Payment Budgeting Method

The half payment method helps you avoid the financial pinch of paying your most expensive bills all at once.

Apr 18, 2026

Affordable Pet Euthanasia Options in 2025

Insurance

Affordable Pet Euthanasia Options in 2025

Pets aren't just companions. They quickly become part of the family. But with most pets living less than a couple of decades, pet owners eventually face a tough decision. Not only is end-of-life care expensive, humane euthanasia can cost hundreds of dollars. Pet insurance policies, such as those with Lemonade, are just one option you have...

Apr 18, 2026

The Cheapest (and Most Expensive) Cars to Maintain, Ranked

Insurance

The Cheapest (and Most Expensive) Cars to Maintain, Ranked

The costs of owning a car extend way beyond the original purchase price — especially once you factor in long-term maintenance costs. So what’s the cheapest car, overall?

Apr 18, 2026

Credit Card Churning: A Smart Way to Earn Bonuses — or a Risky Game?

Investing

Credit Card Churning: A Smart Way to Earn Bonuses — or a Risky Game?

Want to fly for free or earn hundreds in cashback just by using a credit card? That’s the idea behind credit card churning, a strategy where savvy spenders open new credit cards just for the signup bonuses — then move on to the next one.  Sounds great, right?  If done carelessly, credit card churning can...

Apr 18, 2026

3 Problems Homebuyers Never Had to Worry About — Until Now

Insurance

3 Problems Homebuyers Never Had to Worry About — Until Now

Location has always been a huge factor in buying a home. Can the kids walk to school? And is the school any good? Is there public transportation nearby? How far is it to the grocery store? Should I buy a house now? Can I get to work quickly? That last question may be moot for...

Apr 18, 2026

How to Choose a Credit Card That is Right For You

Investing

How to Choose a Credit Card That is Right For You

There’s no one-size-fits-all credit card — different credit cards serve different purposes.  So when you ask yourself, “what’s the best credit card for me?” it’s important to keep a few things in mind. For instance, are you hoping to build credit? Do you need to better manage your debt? Maybe you’re looking for a rewards...

Apr 18, 2026

5 Things to Know About the First Digital Credit Card

Banking & Credit

5 Things to Know About the First Digital Credit Card

The First Digital Card has extremely high fees and confusing terms. Most people will be better off choosing a different credit card.

Apr 4, 2026

30 Inexpensive Ideas to Keep Your Home Tidy and Organized

Budget Planner

30 Inexpensive Ideas to Keep Your Home Tidy and Organized

Whether you’re trying to tame your junk drawer or straighten out your bedroom closet, having good organizational tools is key. You want your belongings to look nice and orderly. You want to know where everything is so you stop buying extra packs of batteries or Band-aids when you already have them… somewhere. But a trip...

Apr 18, 2026

Is a Roth or Traditional 401(k) Right for You?

Retirement

Is a Roth or Traditional 401(k) Right for You?

The traditional 401(k) has been around a while. Now the new kid on the block, the Roth 401(k), is the current darling of the investment world. Both are employer-sponsored investment savings accounts and are good ways to save for retirement. The big difference involves whether contributions are made using pre- or post-tax money, and thus...

Apr 18, 2026

No More Excuses! Cheap Gym Memberships to Keep Your Fitness Goals on Track

Budget Planner

No More Excuses! Cheap Gym Memberships to Keep Your Fitness Goals on Track

Getting in shape requires making a decision and a commitment to putting in the work. It also takes an investment in time and often in money. Choosing a gym can be a very personal decision. The location might be important to you. You may want a gym you pass on your normal commute so you...

Apr 18, 2026

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