Money Brief

Personal finance systems for spending, saving, debt, and investing.

Education & Certification

Latest Articles

All articles for the active domain.

5 Things to Know About the KrowdFit Credit Card

Banking & Credit

5 Things to Know About the KrowdFit Credit Card

Its broad list of uncapped cash-back categories combined with no annual fee will help bolster your wallet when you make qualifying health, wellness and lifestyle purchases.

May 2, 2026

These Banks Are Offering Assistance for Customers Affected by Coronavirus (Updated)

Banking & Credit

These Banks Are Offering Assistance for Customers Affected by Coronavirus (Updated)

The coronavirus is proving to be more than just a health threat.  The precautions put in place will likely have far-reaching effects, including some major financial implications for the average citizen.  Late payment fees, overdraft fees or penalties for early withdrawals can escalate a situation from bad to worse. Conversely, waiving fees and penalties can...

Apr 6, 2026

Dear Penny: I’m Twice-Widowed. Which Husband Do I Get Benefits From?

Insurance

Dear Penny: I’m Twice-Widowed. Which Husband Do I Get Benefits From?

Dear Widowed, I’m sorry for your loss. I hope you’ll find these benefits simple enough to navigate so you can continue to support yourself going forward. Social Security payments and Social Security Disability (SSDI) payments are fairly straightforward for the spouse of someone who’s died. Assuming you remarried before you were 60 years old (or 50...

Apr 18, 2026

7 Ways to Avoid Pricey Home-Repair Surprises in 2023

Insurance

7 Ways to Avoid Pricey Home-Repair Surprises in 2023

For many of us, there’s nothing quite like spending lots of time at home to start noticing the literal (or metaphorical) cracks in the foundation. Maybe your kitchen could use some remodeling TLC, or perhaps you have appliances that desperately need to be replaced (or even some combination of both). Whatever it is, the home...

Apr 18, 2026

Earning More Doesn't Make You Immune to Credit Card Debt

Budget Planner

Earning More Doesn't Make You Immune to Credit Card Debt

A six-figure salary isn’t a guaranteed cushion from debt, but careful credit card use can be part of your new financial picture.

May 2, 2026

Rachel Christian, CEPF®'s profile page

Retirement

Rachel Christian, CEPF®'s profile page

Rachel Christian is a freelance financial journalist who helps readers make sense of money — from investing and taxes to retirement and everyday personal finance. Her work has been featured in Yahoo Finance, Business Insider, Bankrate, Orlando Business Journal and The Penny Hoarder. In June 2021, she became a Certified Educator in Personal Finance with FinCert, a division of the Institute for Financial Literacy. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Southern Indiana.

Apr 18, 2026

How to Cancel a Credit Card Step by Step and Why You Might Not Want To

Debt Management

How to Cancel a Credit Card Step by Step and Why You Might Not Want To

Ready to do a happy dance as you cut up your credit card? Take these five steps to close your account the right way (and don’t dance with scissors).

Apr 18, 2026

14 Gorgeous Perfumes That Cost Less Than $60

Debt Management

14 Gorgeous Perfumes That Cost Less Than $60

Big scent energy doesn’t always come with a big price. Some of the most-loved perfumes sit under $60, and they bring the notes, the lasting power, and the wow factor. Finding them takes a little digging, but the heavy lifting's already done. These 10 picks bring luxury vibes without the luxury price. Zara Red Temptation...

Apr 4, 2026

With This Life Insurance Company, You Can Completely Customize Your Legacy — From Just $9/Month

Investing

With This Life Insurance Company, You Can Completely Customize Your Legacy — From Just $9/Month

What do you want to happen after you die? Here’s how to craft a personalized life insurance plan that fits your family’s specific needs.

Apr 4, 2026

The 9 Top 0% Interest APR Credit Cards for 2026

Budget Planner

The 9 Top 0% Interest APR Credit Cards for 2026

If you’re looking for a way to finance large purchases or pay off debt without drowning in interest, zero APR credit cards can be a game-changer. These cards offer a promotional period during which no interest is charged, giving you time to pay off balances or make purchases without worrying about interest fees. Whether you’re...

Apr 18, 2026

Dear Penny: My Credit Score Is Down 38 Points. Is My $0 Balance to Blame?

Banking & Credit

Dear Penny: My Credit Score Is Down 38 Points. Is My $0 Balance to Blame?

Dear J., When you see your credit score fluctuate by a few points, it’s no big deal. It’s like weighing yourself. No one sees the exact same number every time they step on the scale. But a 38-point drop is significant. The lower score is a symptom of a larger problem. You need to diagnose...

Apr 18, 2026

Drink Cheap! The Best Wine Doesn’t Have to Come with a Big Price Tag

Insurance

Drink Cheap! The Best Wine Doesn’t Have to Come with a Big Price Tag

Still buying whatever bottle has the cutest label? Stop playing that dangerous game with your budget. Here’s how to get the best cheap wine for your money.

Apr 4, 2026

Page 227