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Budget Planner
Dear Penny: I’m Coming Up Short on Money Every Month. How Do I Budget?
Dear Strapped, People think of a “budget” in two distinct ways: 1) a way to set restrictions on spending and plan ahead how you’re allowed to use money, or 2) what I call a “money map,” which is a way to gain visibility into what’s coming in and going out. I don’t endorse restrictive budgeting, but...
Apr 18, 2026
Retirement
Good, Bad and in Between: Why You Should Have 3 Versions of Your Budget
Major life changes — like getting laid off or going through a divorce — can really upend your finances. On the flip side, it’s easy to spiral down a path of irresponsible choices if you suddenly have more money than you’re used to — like if you get a big promotion or financial windfall. When...
Apr 18, 2026
Retirement
Effective Ways to Stay Out of Debt and Maintain Financial Stability
Finally paid off the last of the credit cards? We have six tips for how to stay out of debt going forward.
Apr 18, 2026
Debt Management
10 Legit High-Paying Side Gigs You Can Start in 2026
If you need a better way to make extra cash, you’re not the only one. Whether you’re saving for something big, paying down debt or just trying to stretch your paycheck, side gigs can make a serious difference — especially high-paying side gigs. In 2026, opportunities to earn money on your own terms are more...
Apr 4, 2026
Insurance
Auto Comparing Is Made Simple with this Handy Free Tool
Buying a car can be a stressful experience. It’s a big decision with a ton of little decisions roped in — new or used? Car or truck? Cloth or leather? Gas or electric? Not to mention, there’s way too much information floating around on the internet, making it challenging to compare your options. But don’t...
Apr 18, 2026
Debt Management
Chime Review
Designed for mobile banking, Chime offers checking and high-yield savings accounts, plus a highly rated app with lots of appeal. Find out if Chime is right for you.
Jun 20, 2026
Insurance
Universal Life Insurance Policies Offer Flexibility… but There’s a Catch
Most people opt for term or whole life insurance policies, but there’s a third option you may not have considered: universal life insurance.
Apr 18, 2026
Retirement
2026 Tax Brackets: Here’s How Much You’ll Owe the IRS Next Year
Each fall, the Internal Revenue Service analyzes how inflation has impacted the cost of living and, in response, makes changes to how we’re taxed and how much we receive in government benefits. The IRS has released the latest inflation-adjusted federal income tax brackets that will go into effect for tax year 2026. This won’t affect...
Apr 18, 2026
Taxes
TaxAct vs. TurboTax 2026
TurboTax vs. TaxAct: Which one is better for you? One is cheaper, but the other scores better for ease of use and extra tools.
May 2, 2026
Budget Planner
No Title
They’ll love you, because you’ll be the first to know about free tacos and be able to help them with their taxes next spring.
Apr 18, 2026
Insurance
This Savings App Gives You Free Chances to Win $10 Million Every Week. Here’s How to Get Your Share
Not only will the Yotta savings app pay you double the national average interest on your money, you could also win up to $10 million every single week.
Apr 4, 2026
Debt Management
How to Avoid Holiday Shopping Debt This Season
Chris Zuppa/The Penny Hoarder Don’t let the holiday spirit last all year long. Sorry, we meant don’t let the holiday debt last all year long. It’s tough to resist the temptation to spend your way toward making this a fa-la-la-labulous holiday season for everyone you love, but you could be paying for it long after...
Apr 18, 2026