Key takeaways Figuring your AGI is a crucial step on the path to calculating your taxable income and, in turn, your tax bill. Your AGI determines your eligibility for a variety of tax deductions and tax credits. (Sometimes, your modified adjusted gross income comes into play — more on that…
Key takeaways The standard deduction is a specific dollar amount that you can use to reduce your taxable income. You have to choose between claiming the standard deduction and itemizing (that is, claiming expenses that you paid). The standard deduction amount usually increases each year for inflation. Also, the standard…
Key takeaways The deadline to file federal income tax returns this year — to report income earned in 2025 — is April 15, 2026. If you file an extension, you have until Oct. 15 to file your federal tax return. If you file an extension you have until Oct. 15…
If financial stress has been weighing you down, you aren’t alone. Around 43% of Americans cite money as a factor negatively impacting their mental health, according to a recent Bankrate survey. January is the perfect time to reset your financial mindset and create routines that bring peace of mind all year long. By building good money…
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The nation’s 75 million Social Security recipients will receive a 2.8% cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase in their benefits…
Historically Black colleges and universities are on the frontlines of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s new limits on parent…
The big new fees JPMorgan Chase is planning to charge some financial technology companies may well trickle down to consumers,…
With artificial intelligence beginning to eat away at many white-collar entry-level jobs, and the unemployment rate for recent college graduates…
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Key takeaways Savings accounts are deposit accounts available at banks and credit unions. They allow you to keep your money safe while it earns interest. Online banks tend to offer the highest interest rates for savings accounts. You can withdraw your money from a savings…
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Tip 3: Learn How to Create a Better ‘To Do’ List When we make resolutions, we tend to resolve to do certain things.…
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These entrepreneurs, traders and investors are making an outsized impact in fintech, crypto and traditional financial services.By Jeff Kauflin, Hank Tucker and Nina…
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While some insurers will issue an annuity for as little as $10,000, the reality is it usually takes a six-figure investment to produce a meaningful income in retirement. For the average American, the bulk of their net worth isn’t sitting in cash — it’s tied up in a 401(k) or…
Key takeaways FICO Scores are the most common scores used by lenders across the U.S. There are multiple versions of FICO scores, each using different criteria. Differences are typically minor and unlikely to impact whether you’re approved for a loan. To keep your FICO scores as high as possible, focus…
Key takeaways Sticking to your budget is the key to purchasing a vehicle that you can truly afford. If you lack credit history, adding a co-signer with long-standing and strong credit can help you secure better rates. Some car loans may allow you to show good grades for perks like…
Key takeaways Paying off wedding debt early on in a marriage is crucial for reducing stress and building a strong foundation for the relationship. Monetary wedding gifts, the debt snowball or avalanche methods, balance transfer credit cards and debt consolidation loans can be tools to pay off wedding debt. Open…
Key takeaways The CFPB allows consumers to file complaints about unfair, deceptive or abusive financial practices across products like bank accounts, credit cards, mortgages, debt collection and student loans. While you don’t have to contact the offending company first, doing so may resolve the issue more quickly and save you…
Key takeaways If you’re looking for a premium travel credit card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, The Platinum Card® from American Express and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card should be at the top of your list. These cards have numerous benefits in common, including annual statement credit offers, airport…
Key takeaways The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card both earn valuable American Express Membership Rewards, but their benefits are tailored to suit different lifestyles. The Gold card is ideal for foodies, offering various dining credits and boosted earnings rates on purchases at restaurants and…
© Marco Bottigelli / Moment / Getty Images Key takeaways The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a lucrative welcome bonus and numerous ways to earn rewards, including through Amex Offers. Cardholders can redeem their points for various items, like travel and gift cards, while also enjoying airport lounge access,…
Key takeaways Avoid taking out a longer or larger personal loan than you need. This will help you to avoid spending more money on interest than is necessary. Shopping around for the best offer will help you to ensure you get the best rate and the lowest fees. Consider your…
Key takeaways Couples who share expenses can consider a joint bank account to track spending but should understand the pros and cons before opening one. Joint savings accounts can be helpful to save for shared goals or a shared emergency fund. There are downsides to joint accounts, such as the…
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