Money Brief

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

Education & Certification

Latest Articles

All articles for the active domain.

The Definition of Credit and Why You Need It

Budget Planner

The Definition of Credit and Why You Need It

Credit is defined as the ability to borrow money with the promise that you'll repay it, often with interest. Having good credit gives you financial flexibility.

Aug 1, 2026

ESPP Tax Calculator

Investing

ESPP Tax Calculator

Use the employee stock purchase plan tax calculator to estimate taxes on a completed stock sale or compare what you may owe under common scenarios.

Jun 27, 2026

Use This Script to Cut Your Cell Phone Bill

Budget Planner

Use This Script to Cut Your Cell Phone Bill

Calling your cell phone provider may help you find ways to save. Here's exactly what to say while you're on the call, as well as what to research beforehand.

Aug 1, 2026

Can You Really Make Money on Twitch?

Budget Planner

Can You Really Make Money on Twitch?

Build an audience, have some fun, make it to Twitch Affiliate status and you may have a chance.

Aug 1, 2026

How to Gift Stock

Taxes

How to Gift Stock

Learn how to gift stock through a Roth IRA or custodial brokerage account.

Aug 1, 2026

How Much to Tip a Dog Groomer?

Budget Planner

How Much to Tip a Dog Groomer?

How much do you tip a dog groomer? Consider your total bill and other factors like your pet's breed, the salon location and the quality of service.

Aug 1, 2026

Charitable Giving and Tax Strategies to Consider

Investing

Charitable Giving and Tax Strategies to Consider

To maximize charitable giving tax benefits, consolidate donations, donate appreciated assets, use a DAF, donate RMDs, donate retirement plans, use CRTs and use CLTs.

Aug 1, 2026

Estimated Tax Payments: How They Work and 2026 Due Dates

Taxes

Estimated Tax Payments: How They Work and 2026 Due Dates

Estimated tax payments are common for the self-employed or those not withholding enough. Estimated taxes are typically due April 15, June 16, Sept. 15 and Jan. 15.

Aug 1, 2026

How Are Dividends Taxed? 2025-2026 Dividend Tax Rates

Taxes

How Are Dividends Taxed? 2025-2026 Dividend Tax Rates

The dividend tax rate depends on the type of dividend. Nonqualified dividends are taxed at ordinary income tax rates. Qualified dividends are taxed at 0%, 15% or 20%.

Aug 1, 2026

Financial Resilience: How Household Preparedness Bolsters a Strong Economy

Budget Planner

Financial Resilience: How Household Preparedness Bolsters a Strong Economy

Household financial resilience supports a stronger economy. This survey finds 70% of Americans say they're financially resilient.

Aug 1, 2026

How to Check If My Credit Is Frozen

Budget Planner

How to Check If My Credit Is Frozen

Before applying for a loan or credit card, check to see if your credit is frozen. Here’s a guide to managing your security freeze at each credit bureau.

Aug 1, 2026

Gift Tax: How It Works, 2025 and 2026 Exclusions and Limits

Investing

Gift Tax: How It Works, 2025 and 2026 Exclusions and Limits

The gift tax limit is the maximum you can give someone without having to file a gift tax return with the IRS. The limit is $19,000 in 2026 ($38,000 if married).

Aug 1, 2026

Page 334