Best Things to Buy Every Month in 2024
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A new year is a good opportunity to take charge of your personal budget and develop a strategy for buying the things you want.
Create a list of the big buys you plan to make this year and use our guide to time each purchase right, so you can save money.
- Square Payments
- SumUp
- When is the best time to pay your credit card bill?
- Still deciding on the right carrier? Compare Medigap plans
- What is a brokerage account?
- What is brokerage cash?
- The parts of Medicare
- What is mortgage pre-qualification?
- What is a W-4?
- Mortgage rates today: Wednesday, April 24, 2024
- See CD rates by term and type
- What is ESG?
- IRA vs. 401(k)
- What is the gig economy?
- » This story is out of date
- What is a home equity line of credit?
- What is a jumbo loan?
- Why is retirement planning important?
- Net worth defined
- 6 steps to opening a Roth IRA
- What is a financial plan?
- What is married filing jointly?
- Bizee: Easily form your new business
- What is a budget planner?
- What is sales tax?
- Compare Medicare Advantage providers
- Find the right Medicare Advantage plan
- Fidelity is best for:
- Charles Schwab is best for:
- March mortgage rate forecast
- Definitions: Money Transfer Rates
- What are dividend stocks?
- Why would you want a credit limit increase?
- What is a 529 college savings plan?
- What is value-added tax (VAT)?
- Takeaways From 'Get Smart With Money'
- What is passive income?
- Determining how much mortgage I can afford
- What is a Roth 401(k)?
- What is a credit freeze?
- What is inflation?
- Hulu subscription cost
- 5 steps to fill out a money order
- How the Delta-Starbucks partnership works
- Still deciding on the right carrier? Compare Medicare Advantage plans
- How to get TSA PreCheck for free
- What to know about American Airlines delayed flight compensation
- Microsoft Office Excel budget templates
- What are low income home energy assistance programs?
- The Choice/Preferred Hotels partnership
- 13 ways to get the best online deals
- What are HSAs and FSAs?
- How do CDs work?
- 1. Certificates of deposit (CDs)
- Choosing an IRA vs. a 401(k)
- 1. Cut back on premium channels
- Which airlines have lie-flat seats in business class
- 1. Joining Marriott Bonvoy is free
- 1. Report lost debit cards ASAP
- 7 of the best apps to make money
- How to buy Google stock
- How does the Fear and Greed Index work?
- What to expect flying business class with Copa Airlines
- What are home equity loans and HELOCs?
- 7 best-performing AI stocks
- Where they’re based and where they fly
- What are Vanguard index funds?
- Viva Medicare Advantage pros and cons
- How to use a savings goal calculator
- 1. You can avoid high debt
- Getting to New York City
- 1. When your Bitcoin is taxed depends on how you got it
- How to get paid on YouTube
- Can you withdraw money from a 401(k) early?
- Frugal food tips
- 1. Open an IRA
- Who can get a business credit card?
- Where they’re based and where they fly
- 6 steps to starting a wholesale business
- Deciding factors
- What is a car warranty?
- Joint vs. co-signed loan: What’s the difference?
- Used vs. new
- The best car insurance
- How many credit cards should you have, anyway?
- Nonrefundable tickets vs. refundable tickets
- Step 1: Check your credit
- Flight dress codes
- The best flight booking sites
- 6 best free stock screeners
- Best dental insurance for seniors on Medicare
- How do CDs work?
- What are closing costs?
- 1. Understand how the 0% intro APR period works
- How does capital gains tax on real estate work?
- What is general liability insurance?
- Best places to sell clothes online
- Small-business employment statistics
- 50/30/20 budget calculator
- What is second chance checking?
- What is trip cancellation insurance?
- What is a green card?
- What is my net worth?
- What is the American Express Global Lounge Collection?
- What is financial planning?
- Vending machine costs
- Financing options for people convicted of felonies
- Pennsylvania small business loans: The 6 best options
- Minimum wage over time
- Create a budget plan that works for you
- Disney FastPass vs. Genie+
- Fidelity at a glance
- What does this value mean?
- A strong February leads into March
- Where to buy bonds
- Activate quarterly 5% rewards categories
- Life insurance calculator
- What is a cash-out refinance?
- California state income tax brackets and rates
- General advice for international money transfers
- What you’ll pay for Medicare overall in 2024
- How to value a small business
- January
- Average savings account rate: 0.46%
- Payment information
- A quick look at the billing cycle
- 4 common check fraud scams
- When does Medicare cover vision exams?
- How do brokerage accounts work?
- Brokerage cash vs. buying/purchasing power
- How to use the pre-qualification calculator
- Best fleet fuel cards
- Daily mortgage rates chart
- 6 hardship loans for bad credit
- Best ways to consolidate credit card debt
- How to think about charging costs after a lifetime of using gas
- How value-added tax (VAT) works
- 1. You’re afraid to call your financial advisor
- How does debt consolidation work?
- What goes into the credit card interest calculation
- What is the gift tax?
- Late winter and early spring
- How does a jumbo loan work?
- Important things to know before flying first class on Emirates
- When can you retire?
- HELOCs and home equity loans compared
- What happened to egg prices in March?
- 1. Know your bank’s mobile check deposit requirements
- What are short-term investments?
- 17 passive income ideas for 2024
- What is contractor insurance?
- Roth 401(k) vs. traditional 401(k): Where they differ
- Key findings
- 13 daycare franchise opportunities
- 1. Bring a widely accepted credit card
- Sales tax calculator
- In this article
- How to budget money
- How to compare FHA vs. conventional loans
- Charles Schwab at a glance
- Hulu Live TV cost
- 1. Fill in the recipient’s name
- How to send money online, on mobile or in person
- How we got here
- How to make money online
- Find out why you were denied
- Why Square is the better choice
- How Self — formerly Self Lender — works
- Compare Medicare Supplement plans
- What types of assistance does LIHEAP provide?
- Cash bonuses on cards with no annual fee
- Find out how much your car is worth
- 1. Develop a Plan B
- What is gig work?
- What is PIP insurance in Florida?
- 11 best investments right now
- Key takeaways
- Merchants push for lower fees
- How much of my credit card should I use?
- The best money-making apps
- How to invest in stocks in 6 steps
- Who can use the married filing jointly status?
- Your own insurance usually comes first
- Business structure options
- Which airlines have free Wi-Fi for all passengers?
- How to freeze your credit with all 3 bureaus
- What is the standard deduction?
- Average inflation rate
- Mint vs. NerdWallet at a glance
- What is a business credit score?
- Where have all the 'lease specials' gone?
- Do your industry research
- What is the 401(k) early withdrawal penalty?
- How to start a trucking company in 5 steps
- Why the American Express® Gold Card is better for most people
- If my credit card is closed due to inactivity, can I reopen it?
- Transaction types
- Keeping your life insurance
- How to track your refund status with ‘Where's My Refund?’
- 22 popular tax deductions and tax breaks
- 20 high-dividend stocks
- What does the value of Hilton points mean?
- Why wouldn’t you want a credit limit increase?
- What happened at the MOHELA Senate hearing
- What you need to qualify for a personal loan
- Does Medicare cover eyeglasses or contact lenses?
- 1. Instant messaging
- Why mortgage rates change every day
- Best Preferred Hotels bookable with Choice points
- What is an in-kind or ACAT transfer?
- A fraught program gets temporary improvements
- How much are closing costs?
- 1. Affirm
- 2. Pare down cable boxes
- Why you should get preapproved for an auto loan
- 1. Low-interest or 0% intro APR credit cards
- What is the 50/30/20 rule?
- Types of business entities: An overview
- Who might prefer the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
- What is Medicare Supplement Plan A?
- Student loan forgiveness programs
- Does closing a credit card hurt your credit?
- Top credit cards you can use instantly after approval
- Parent PLUS loans can be harder to repay
- Compare car insurance rates by age
- What you’ll pay for Medicare Part A
- What else you need to know
- Google Sheets budget templates
- 529 plan benefits
- Cheap car insurance
- How to fill out a W-4
- What are 55+ communities?
- How the home sale tax exemption works
- Types of life insurance for seniors
- How to find your federal student loan servicer
- Is there VAT in the U.S.?
- 1. Request a balance transfer
- What are the pros and cons of second chance checking?
- Chase cards that come with trip cancellation insurance
- 3 ways to get a business green card through your startup business
- How to calculate your home equity
- What is required to be approved for a HELOC or home equity loan?
- Compare Roth 401(k) vs. traditional 401(k)
- 20 high-dividend stocks
- Can the coronavirus be transmitted by touching cash?
- What is a credit card hardship program?
- Who qualifies for the Fresh Start program?
- What reasons can you withdraw from your 401(k) early?
- Eyes on the Fed
- Can you get insurance without a car?
- Who should get a cash-out refinance?
- Bank wire transfer
- Frugal shopping tips
- 1. Decide where to buy Solana
- Types of car warranties
- Does Medicare cover eye exams for glaucoma?
- How to get a joint loan
- Best for size of dental network: UnitedHealthcare
- 2. Cash management accounts
- 2. Save transaction records
- 3. Pay attention to fees
- 2. Your financial advisor doesn’t listen to you
- Today’s HELOC rates
- 5 steps for retirement planning
- 2. Confirm the check amount is within mobile deposit limits
- Types of American Express Global Lounges
- 9 steps in financial planning
- How is the Fear and Greed Index used?
- How to start a vending machine business: A step-by-step guide
- How much money do I need to buy a house?
- Overview: Pennsylvania small business loans options
- State minimum wages in 2024
- 2. Tell your issuer you’re going
- How to calculate the inflation rate
- Billing error
- State sales tax
- 2. Write your address in the purchaser section
- Why you might want a business credit card
- Account summary
- Paying early could help your credit
- 4 steps to spot a fake check and avoid trouble
- How to choose a brokerage account provider
- Does brokerage cash earn interest?
- Which Medicare Supplement plan has the highest coverage?
- Personalized versus average interest rates
- ESG investing
- 2. Consider the balance transfer fee
- What is a gig worker?
- What does Florida PIP insurance pay for?
- How does debt consolidation affect credit?
- Grace period
- How the annual gift tax exclusion works
- Holiday weekends
- Jumbo loan requirements
- 2. There are over 8,000 Marriott Bonvoy hotels
- Takeaways From 'How to Get Rich'
- Which is best for you?
- Personal finances cited for optimism, economy for pessimism
- Information you need to freeze your credit
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- How do Vanguard index funds work?
- 2. You'll give your parents a break
- How to manually calculate how much life insurance you need
- Pricing transparency
- Buying new life insurance
- February
- High CD rates for now
- Investing for income: Dividend stocks vs. dividend funds
- Does Medicare cover diabetic eye exams?
- What’s behind the pre-qualification calculation?
- 2. Videoconferencing
- How to claim low income energy assistance
- Step 2: Pre-qualify and compare offers
- Trading in a car with positive equity
- How to transfer brokerage accounts
- The trouble spots
- 4. Nix DVR service
- Qualifying for the Capital One Exclusive Cardholder Presale
- 2. Credit card loan programs
- Airlines that don't have lie-flat seats in business class on wide-body aircraft
- What Medigap Plan A covers
- Is 0% credit utilization bad?
- 2. Account frozen? Submit documentation
- 3. Endorse the check
- What does contractor insurance cover?
- 3. Bring more than one card
- How are business credit scores calculated?
- Viva Medicare star ratings
- Why some car shoppers still lease
- Are paid surveys worth it?
- How do Hyatt points compare to other hotel programs?
- 2. Two factors determine your Bitcoin tax rate
- 1. No credit check is required, but a linked bank account is
- Hulu add-ons
- 3. Include your account number if you're paying a bill
- How to get Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- How to apply for a Self credit-builder loan
- How do I find the best 529 plans?
- Assess what the community offers, and what you may miss
- Key features of IRAs vs 401(k)s
- How to get a VAT refund
- Sole proprietorship
- What does Chase trip cancellation insurance cover?
- Calculating net worth: What are assets and liabilities?
- Where to look for information
- Does raising the minimum wage cause inflation?
- How the standard deduction works
- Investing for income: Dividend stocks vs. dividend funds
- Opt for contactless payments when you can
- Other alternatives to Mint
- What you’ll pay for Medicare Part B
- 2. Set financial priorities
- Historical national rates
- How we got here
- NerdWallet’s budget planner
- Does Medicare cover macular degeneration?
- So where are the ‘bargains’?
- For small, everyday purchases
- How to determine your closing costs
- 3. Monitor statements and rewards
- 5. Downsize your plan
- What to know about working in the gig economy
- What is workers' comp insurance?
- Picking a second chance checking account
- Tax credits for people married filing jointly
- Genie+ cost
- What items need to have sales tax?
- Where to find a credit card hardship program
- How to start a cleaning business in 7 steps
- How will this affect my credit score?
- When will I get my 2024 tax refund?
- How to apply for a business credit card without a business
- Personal loans for fair or bad credit
- How to use your brokerage cash
- What Medicare Supplement plan is most popular?
- Freedom from long-haul debt
- 3. High-yield money market accounts (MMAs)
- 2. Afterpay
- Who qualifies for the home sales tax exclusion?
- What do federal student loan servicers do?
- 2. Wait for the transfer to go through
- What Medigap Plan A doesn’t cover
- 3. Paying for hotel nights isn’t the only way to earn rewards
- About home equity loans
- 3. Ask your bank for relief
- Why are eggs so expensive?
- What mortgage can I afford?
- Use a budget planner
- Are Vanguard index funds a good investment?
- 4. Have some cash
- How to sign up for the Fresh Start program
- How easy is it to earn Hyatt points?
- 3. You'll get a better return on your investment
- Overall cost
- 4. Sign the bottom where it says 'purchaser’s signature'
- Rewards summary
- 3. Scheduling
- How your credit score affects your rate
- ESG investing benefits
- 6. Bundle cable and internet
- 3. Your financial situation is changing, but the advice isn't
- What are AI stocks?
- How much does contractor insurance cost?
- Do all workers earn at least the minimum wage?
- Top rental increases and decreases in the U.S.
- 3. The IRS has the paperwork you’ll need
- Other mortgage rate forecasts
- March
- Frugal entertainment tips
- Travel credit card availability
- Credit-builder loans vs. secured cards
- Does Medigap or Medicare Advantage cover eye exams?
- 529 plans by state
- Trading in a car with negative equity
- What is a hardship loan?
- How to improve your odds
- 4. Get the new account ready to use
- 3. Third-party payment services
- Average daily balance
- All year
- Other student loan forgiveness programs
- When should I close my credit card?
- 4. Open the mobile deposit function in your bank app
- Investments for money you need in less than 2 years
- Limitations of the Fear and Greed Index
- Best car insurance companies: Our winners
- Do personal credit scores affect business credit scores?
- What to watch for when you buy bonds
- Who needs non-owner car insurance?
- 4 more ways to estimate how much life insurance you need
- Cash App
- What you’ll pay for Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)
- Does Hulu allow password sharing?
- Combining life insurance with long-term care
- 2024 tax refund schedule
- Average interest checking account rate: 0.08%
- Calling the reconsideration line
- How do joint loans affect your credit score?
- Best car insurance companies: Our winners
- What’s the difference between pre-qualification and preapproval?
- Requirements for LIHEAP
- Other outfit considerations for your next premium class flight
- Decide if HOA fees are affordable and worthwhile for you
- IRA vs. 401(k): A road map
- 3. Take note of your current credit card issuer
- Who’s covered under Florida PIP insurance?
- Ways to consolidate your debts
- What isn’t covered by Chase trip cancellation insurance?
- Why the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is better for most people
- How credit utilization affects your scores
- Do you include a 401(k) in a net worth calculation?
- 4. Monitor bank transactions online
- Some prevailed in 2021, despite the challenges
- Dive into the financial aid process
- Regret or user error
- Try a simple budgeting plan
- How to meet your monthly savings goal
- How to earn Hyatt points quickly
- California income tax deadlines and extensions
- Card readers and apps
- 5. Keep your receipt
- What it means for your money
- The Federal Trade Commission’s budget worksheet
- Tips to build your credit
- Paying early also cuts interest
- Medicare Supplement Insurance plan comparison chart
- When you should lock your mortgage rate
- Closing costs calculator
- 7. Negotiate a lower rate
- 4. Your financial advisor only calls to trade
- Small-business lending statistics
- How to book a business class ticket with Copa Airlines
- What to ask your credit card issuer
- Which airlines give free in-flight Wi-Fi for elite status?
- How to unfreeze your credit
- How much does it cost to buy Vanguard index fund shares?
- 5. Avoid foreign transaction fees
- Standard deduction 2023
- Still deciding on the right carrier? Compare Medicare Advantage plans
- What to know if you take online surveys
- Who might prefer the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card?
- 2. There's no APR because you can’t carry a balance ...
- How does Hulu fit into your budget?
- How do I check my tax return status?
- How do Hilton points compare to other hotel programs?
- Why you might want SumUp instead
- Self offers a related secured credit card
- Shopping in the new normal
- Tax considerations on brokerage cash
- How to get a hardship loan
- 4. Peer-to-peer lending
- Other balance transfer considerations
- Airlines that offer lie-flat seats on smaller aircraft
- 1. High-yield savings accounts
- Gift tax limit 2024
- No guarantee that savings will be passed on
- Student loan cancellation programs
- 5. Take clear pictures of the check with your mobile device
- 2023 standard deduction married filing jointly
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- States with no sales tax
- Alternatives to a cash-out refinance
- Can you get a business credit card with no business income?
- Information about your account
- How else can you get eye exam coverage?
- How to book Preferred Hotels with Choice points
- Understanding brokerage transfer fees
- Consider the resale and inheritance implications
- If the worst happens
- Who pays the closing costs?
- 8. Seek out cheap cable
- What’s the difference between workers’ comp and general liability?
- 3. Pay off your balance
- 4. Buy now, pay later services
- National second chance banking
- How much does Medigap Plan A cost?
- Net worth calculator
- 4. Marriott points expire after 24 months
- About home equity lines of credit
- 5. Know the bank’s timeline
- It’s not only about taxes
- Airline loyalty programs
- Circumstances that may qualify for a hardship program
- What does Viva Medicare Advantage cost?
- Looking back at February's prediction
- What you’ll pay for Medicare Part D
- Point-of-sale hardware
- Frugal DIY project tips
- Pros and cons of joint loans
- Choose a Medicare Supplement Insurance company
- Prepaid 529 plans by state
- 4. Project management
- 5. Note changes in features and network
- 3. Apple Pay Later
- How much should you spend on a mattress?
- General partnership
- How does a HELOC work?
- Why is there an egg shortage?
- Ways to get good value on Copa Airlines
- Choosing your business structure: What to consider
- 6. Understand dipping, tapping and digital wallets
- Can you deduct sales tax?
- What is a good business credit score?
- Extending or converting your policy
- Why haven't I received my tax refund?
- April
- USDA mortgage monthly payment 101
- How to open a brokerage account
- Today’s rates for specific kinds of mortgages
- Free stock screeners from brokers
- Best for comprehensive coverage: Cigna
- Is PIP insurance all you need to drive in Florida?
- Who is covered by Chase trip cancellation insurance?
- Student loan discharge programs
- Would-be seller concerns will keep inventory tight in 2022
- Set limits on how much you borrow
- Standard deduction 2024 (taxes filed 2025)
- Do I have to pay California state tax?
- How to invest in dividend stocks
- Additional warranties
- More ways to take charge of your budget
- Does pre-qualification affect your credit score?
- For big or infrequent purchases
- Final steps
- Arrange to finance the purchase
- Charging at home
- 9. Cut the cord
- 5. Your eye is already wandering
- Gift tax limit 2023
- Married filing jointly vs. separately
- Where can you get contractor insurance?
- What states are increasing minimum wages in 2024?
- Inflation example
- Dissatisfaction
- If you’re considering a lease
- 3. ... But it will still cost you to hold the card
- Cash-out refinance costs
- Integrations with accounting software
- How to convert Hilton points to dollars
- Why the due date is so important
- Other considerations for nonrefundable airfares
- W-4 form 2024
- Step 3: Choose your lender and loan
- Other hardship loan options
- Keep records from your old account
- 5. Online savings accounts
- What insurance policies does your business need?
- Auto loan preapproval vs. pre-qualification
- What's next?
- Get more help with monthly budget planning
- Mattress-buying tips
- The caveats
- 6. Rebounding from bank account fraud
- Alternatives to canceling a credit card
- 6. Confirm the check details and complete the deposit
- Individual Lightning Lane cost
- How to invest in dividend stocks
- Additional functionality
- Rent vs. inflation
- How to convert Hyatt points to dollars
- 4. You can write off Bitcoin losses
- Google Pay
- Compare Medicare Part D plans
- Payments and credits
- Self loan fees and penalties
- When to enroll in Medicare Supplement Insurance
- 5. Data storage
- ESG investing vs. socially responsible investing vs. CSR
- 5. Flexible credit card options
- Interest rate
- Compare your net worth
- 5. When you stay a certain number of nights per year, you'll earn elite status
- Home equity loan and HELOC rates
- How to invest in AI stocks
- Deposit timing
- 2. Fund your account
- Can you use a business credit card for personal expenses?
- Is a joint loan right for you?
- Plan ahead — demand is high
- How the lifetime gift tax exclusion works
- Pros and cons of jumbo loans
- Which card should you get?
- Buy Medigap Plan A during Medigap open enrollment
- Why are eggs so expensive in California?
- 7. Keep the check until it's processed
- Which airlines have free Wi-Fi for premium cabin passengers?
- 7. Say no to dynamic currency conversion
- Consider the costs of cashing out your 401(k)
- Dropping your life insurance
- Estimate your 2024 IRS tax refund date
- May
- Frugal home expenses tips
- Average certificate of deposit rate: 1.81% for one-year CDs
- Tips for running a wholesale business
- How to increase your pre-qualification amount
- What are fleet cards?
- LIHEAP alternatives
- How to get the PSLF waiver
- 6. Keep tabs on your credit
- How to find business class lie-flat seats on domestic flights
- Which trips are eligible for Chase trip cancellation insurance?
- How credit card rewards look in other countries
- Standard deduction for those 65 or older
- Who collects sales tax?
- Key benefits of the Fresh Start program
- How can I get more value from my Hyatt points?
- What is California's standard deduction?
- Contract periods
- 3. Get disability and life insurance
- Other low-cost options to consider
- Other tips for managing your bill
- How to find the 2024 W-4
- Cost of life insurance for seniors
- How to get a preapproved car loan
- 2. Certificates of deposit
- Regional and state-based second chance checking accounts
- Minimum wage increases
- How to freeze your child’s credit
- Always prioritize your retirement savings
- Recent leasing changes to look out for
- The most popular surveys for cash apps
- 4. You may qualify for perks, but not rewards
- What you’ll pay for Medigap
- New charges
- How to compare personal loans
- Brokerage accounts are taxable accounts
- Too many tools?
- When to get a CD
- 4. Klarna
- 6. Personal loans
- Small-business diversity statistics
- Investments for money you need in 2 to 3 years
- Stumbling blocks on the homebuying path
- Citi Custom Cash® Card
- 8. Research your card’s travel protections
- Fraud
- Is my business required to collect sales tax?
- Which card should you get?
- Customer support
- Getting the most from your pre-qualification limit
- How do fleet cards work?
- Step 4: Gather loan documents
- 6. High-yield checking accounts
- Limited partnership
- How to find AI ETFs
- What is the median household income in the U.S.?
- Available Medicare Advantage plans
- Finalize preparations for tax day, April 15
- What part of my income gets taxed by California?
- Compare alternative plans
- How to choose the best credit card for the job
- Important differences between HSAs and FSAs
- ESG investing examples
- 7. Be smart about contacting customer service
- HELOC requirements
- How to file a trip cancellation insurance claim with Chase
- What's next?
- 6. You can earn points and elite status faster with a Marriott Bonvoy-affiliated card
- How previously incarcerated people can strengthen their loan application
- How do you buy Vanguard Index fund shares?
- What is hyperinflation?
- 5. Failure to report Bitcoin can be costly
- PayPal
- The bottom line
- Where's my 2024 state tax refund? Track your status
- Do I have to update my W-4 every year?
- How to open a CD
- Charging stations
- 7. Alternative 'quick cash' options
- Days in the cycle
- 2024 lifetime gift tax exemption
- Who should get a home equity loan
- Grants for Pennsylvania small businesses
- Other ways to get free in-flight Wi-Fi
- 9. Use your card to access airport lounges
- What happens if you don’t collect sales tax?
- Steps for getting into a hardship program
- It’s more expensive to rent than ever before
- How did we determine the Hyatt points value?
- 5. You may qualify with no Social Security number
- June
- Interest charges
- Earning Choice points
- You probably can’t have both an HSA and an FSA
- How to confirm if a flight has business class lie-flat seats
- 3. Bonds
- When should you freeze your credit?
- How to protect against inflation
- More about buying life insurance as a senior
- 3. Make your trade
- The bottom line
- So is there a first class dress code?
- CD vs. savings account
- Types of ESG investments
- Closing costs for the buyer
- Calculating capital gains tax on a home sale
- How to shop for senior life insurance
- How to get a home equity line of credit
- 'Holds' on a credit card
- Tips for calculating how much life insurance you need
- Am I a resident for California state tax purposes?
- How to get a tax refund sooner
- Reconsideration for PSLF applications
- Airline loyalty programs
- How long does it take to get pre-qualified for a mortgage?
- Next steps:
- Which business green card is best?
- How to safely cancel a credit card
- Final thoughts on Copa Airlines business class
- Who should get a HELOC
- What's next?
- Standard deduction for dependents
- Viva Medicare Advantage service area
- Hotels to book with points in New York City
- Brokerage accounts vs. IRA
- How to adjust your Form W-4
- Should you choose an HSA or an FSA?
- 5. PayPal
- Other debt payoff options
- Small-business industry statistics
- Chase trip cancellation insurance recapped
- Jumbo loans and conforming loan limits
- Investments for money you need in 3 to 5 years
- Credit cards with American Express Global Lounge Collection access
- Why do I need a business credit score?
- How did rent get so expensive?
- Who shouldn’t buy non-owner car insurance
- Average money market account rate: 0.66%
- American Airlines delayed flight compensation recapped
- CD vs. bond
- What's next?
- Who pays the gift tax?
- Interest-based passive income ideas
- Could we be in an AI bubble?
- Cons of a credit freeze
- What are the best Vanguard index funds?
- Disney FastPass cost recapped
- Term vs. whole life insurance tool
- July
- 4. Store your Solana safely
- Are these the best dividend stocks?
- Step 5: Submit your application and get funded
- Cash bonuses on cards with an annual fee
- Servicing changes are underway
- How much can you borrow with a HELOC?
- Find local conforming loan limits
- There's no reason not to join if you stay at Marriott hotels
- Venmo
- Small-business valuation methods
- Fleet fuel cards: benefits and drawbacks
- Other ways to sell clothes online
- Do you pay taxes when you receive a gift?
- C corporation
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- When can't you take the standard deduction?
- What are the best dividend stocks?
- How do I get my business credit score?
- Tickets bought with miles
- Best for extra perks: Aetna
- Types of CD strategies
- Ways to get the best jumbo mortgage rates
- What are your green card other options?
- Final thoughts on American Express Lounges
- Cards with primary coverage
- Will you owe capital gains taxes on your home sale?
- More about buying life insurance as a senior
- Credit freeze or credit lock?
- Anti-fraud preauthorizations
- How much money can you make on YouTube?
- ESG investing: How to get started
- If you're looking to book business class lie-flat seats
- Is the gift tax deductible?
- August
- When to consider Global Entry instead
- 6. Sezzle
- Other financing options for Pennsylvania small businesses
- The bottom line
- How much is my 2023 standard deduction?
- Receiving your refund
- Next steps
- How to avoid capital gains tax on home sales
- How to sell clothes online
- Small-business outlook statistics
- How much is the gift tax rate?
- Important considerations when opening a Roth IRA
- American Express add-on coverage
- Who can access your frozen credit reports?
- What not to do
- Walmart2Walmart
- The difference between interest rate and APY
- What are CD rates right now?
- Fuel card vs. business gas credit card
- The bottom line
- Is getting a HELOC a good idea?
- Should you invest in AI stocks?
- After deciding
- Potential hurdles and drawbacks of a hardship program
- Compare insurance rates by driver history
- Make the most of your credit cards during spring travel
- Extra fees
- The bottom line
- Bonuses that vary with spending
- Earn an audience, and earn more in the long run
- September
- So, can you get a refund on plane tickets?
- S corporation
- Enjoying Emirates first class
- Types of financial planning help
- It pays to know
- Invest in bonds: next steps
- Where to buy non-owner car insurance
- Final thoughts on getting TSA PreCheck for free
- What are promotional CD rates?
- Common gift tax return triggers
- U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
- 2023 vs. 2024 standard deduction
- Who is most likely to rent?
- One-time IDR account adjustment for PSLF borrowers
- What is credit card consolidation?
- 7. Zip
- California state tax credits
- W-4 calculator
- Best for low-cost plans: Humana
- 4. Money market funds
- Other ways to make money
- Western Union
- How the FDIC calculates national rates
- How taxes on real estate, rental, and investment sales work
- How to qualify for PA loans
- When to claim the standard deduction
- FHA vs. conventional loans: Summary
- October
- Does your business need a fleet fuel card?
- How does credit card consolidation work?
- Is it better to get a home equity loan or line of credit?
- How much is non-owner car insurance?
- What else to know about Form W-4
- Limited liability company
- Alternatives to a credit card hardship program
- Rent vs. income
- 4 reasons to start a trucking company
- Small business card bonuses
- Is there an over-55 home sale exemption?
- Reconsideration for rejected PSLF applications
- What are tax deductions?
- 5. Mutual funds
- November
- Is consolidating credit card debt a good idea?
- Compare buy now, pay later apps
- What to do if you can’t keep up with your HELOC payments
- OK, what's next?
- In-flight experience
- Final thoughts on the best flight booking site
- Small-business banking statistics post-SVB failure
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
- Zelle:
- Should you use a buy now, pay later app?
- Why is financial planning important?
- Best stocks for beginners
- Can I still use my credit card after debt consolidation?
- 6. Index funds
- The bottom line
- Classes of service
- Best among startups: Devoted Health
- Don't qualify for PSLF? You have other options for relief
- December
- How to choose the best business entity type
- The bottom line
- Closing costs for the seller
- The bottom line
- How to track your California state refund
- The bottom line on investing in stocks
- What are tax write-offs?
- Cheapest car insurance by state
- What to know about the best ways to send money
- British Airways vs. Virgin Atlantic winner
- Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card
- Other hardship assistance
- California state sales tax
- How do you claim tax deductions?
- How to make money from home
- Alternatives to buy now, pay later
- 7. Exchange-traded funds
- How much does Medicare Advantage dental coverage cost?
- 5 things to know about California state tax
- How to get cheap car insurance
- Hardship financing to avoid
- More small-business data from NerdWallet
- The bottom line
- What if you have Original Medicare?
- Extra fees
- Other notable options
- 8. Stocks
- Risks of getting cheap auto insurance
- How to shop for Medicare Advantage plans
- Pros and cons of starting a vending machine business
- Major issuers and their policies on instant credit access
- Etihad vs. Emirates vs. Qatar recapped
- The bottom line
- How to make money offline
- 9. Alternative investments
- Compare cards
- 10. Cryptocurrency
- Other ways to save money
- Full list of the best car insurance companies
- Full list of the best car insurance companies
- How to compare car insurance rates
- The bottom line
- 11. Real estate
- Best car insurance companies by state
- Best car insurance companies by state
- How to choose the best investments in 2024
- How to find the best car insurance
- How to find the best car insurance
- How to choose an insurance company
- Watch out for making money scams
January
With a fresh page on the calendar comes a fresh start for sales. These items are discounted in January:
Bedding and linen. Department stores hold bedding and linen “white sales” in January with deep discounts on sheets and towels.
Fitness equipment. Retailers will meet goals to get in shape with decent deals. Expect workout gear and apparel sales to abound at sporting goods stores. (Tip: Tread lightly on a treadmill purchase unless you're sure you’ll use it. It’ll always be cheaper to walk around the block.)
TVs and electronics. Just before the Super Bowl, retailers normally discount TVs and other home theater essentials.
Mark your calendar: Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Jan. 15.
Freebie day: National Spaghetti Day is Jan. 4.
February
It’s the month of love and gift-giving, but February might be a better time to buy major items for yourself than trinkets for your loved one. Options include:
TVs. Television sales spill over from January into February ahead of the Super Bowl. Aside from Black Friday, this is one of the best times to buy a TV.
Winter items. With winter winding down, retailers will be looking to unload inventory of cold-weather products. Look for sales on apparel and winter sports gear that you'll need later in the year.
Home goods. Expect retailers to put home stuff on sale for Presidents Day and the weekend preceding the holiday.
Leftover chocolate. The savvy couple does Valentine’s Day a week late to save a buck. Grab a heart-shaped box of candy on Feb. 15, when stores will be discounting their Valentine’s Day leftovers. It’ll be easier to get a dinner reservation after Feb. 14 too.
Mark your calendar: Super Bowl Sunday is Feb. 11, Valentine's Day is Feb. 14 and Presidents Day is Feb. 19.
Freebie day: National Frozen Yogurt Day is Feb. 6.
March
There aren’t any major shopping holidays in March, but that doesn’t make for a total lack of sales. Look for deals on these products:
Tax software. Retailers like to discount tax software in March, ahead of Tax Day in April.
Grills. Buy your summer grilling necessities now to avoid a spike in prices when summer arrives.
St. Patrick’s Day essentials. Around St. Patrick’s Day, online retailers and department stores usually discount green clothing, party supplies and jewelry.
Vacuum cleaners: Some retailers will be ready to reward early spring cleaners with a deal on a Dyson, Shark or other brand of vacuum.
Mark your calendar: St. Patrick’s Day is March 17 and Easter Sunday is March 31.
Freebie day: Pi Day is March 14, because 3.14 (get it?).
April
April has its fair share of spring deals and discounts, including:
Vacuums. April is the real cleaning month and will bring more deals on vacuums. Look for markdowns at department stores as well as on manufacturers’ websites.
Tax-themed items. Year after year, retailers and restaurants try to lighten the burden of Tax Day with discounts and freebies on services like paper shredding. Keep an eye out for these around mid-April.
Beauty products. Time to get outside and look your best. The Sephora spring sale is usually this month.
Sustainable items. To celebrate Earth Day, be on the lookout for retailer deals on sustainable items, such as reusable totes and water bottles, sustainably made clothing and other “green” products. Is this the year you start composting? We support that.
Mark your calendar: Tax Day is April 15.
Freebie day: Earth Day is April 22.
May
April discounts give way to more in May. Here’s a look at some items to consider buying this month:
Spring apparel. By May, retailers will discount spring clothing that has already been hanging on racks for a month or two.
Furniture. Three of the biggest blowout shopping days are Black Friday, Labor Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day is in May, so look for furniture and home decor discounts from big-box stores.
Small kitchen appliances. Use May discounts as an opportunity to buy small kitchen appliances, such as coffee makers and blenders. Typically, these products are included in Memorial Day sales, and they make great gifts for upcoming summer weddings.
If last year’s shopping research is any indication, prices on select kitchen gadgets could drop the Friday before Mother’s Day.
Mark your calendar: Mother’s Day is May 12 and Memorial Day is May 27.
Freebie day: National Hamburger Day is May 28.
June
June is short on days, but long on the list of deals. Smart purchases include:
Lingerie. Stock up on undergarments in June. That’s when Victoria’s Secret, for example, has been known to host its famous semiannual sale. The sale also typically occurs in December.
Other semiannual sales. The midway point is known for sales at lots of stores. In past years, we’ve seen stores like Bath & Body Works and Brooks Brothers hold semiannual sales in June.
Gym memberships. Consider buying a gym membership during the summer, and be sure to negotiate for the best deal. Gyms may be eager for sign-ups when people are more likely to spend time outside.
Tools and other dad gifts. In preparation for Father’s Day, many retailers will offer deals on a variety of power tools and outdoor gear, as well as things like men’s clothing. Solo Stove has discounted its portable fire pits around this time in the past.
Mark your calendar: Father’s Day is June 16.
Freebie day: National Doughnut Day is June 7.
July
In July, prices drop like it’s hot. Consider buying these:
Summer apparel. The sun is still out, but demand for summer clothes starts to go down. So, buy up shorts, tanks and flip-flops while stores make it worth it. Buy only what’s on sale, though.
July Fourth items. Retailers like a reason to celebrate. In the days leading up to Independence Day, there’s usually an abundance of sales on red, white and blue products, as well as on barbecue and backyard items, sporting goods, jewelry and furniture.
Personal electronics on Prime Day. Amazon’s Prime Day happened on July 11 and 12 in 2023, so you can likely expect similar timing in 2024. It’s basically Black Friday in July, and it’s a hot sale for electronics and gadgets, among other categories. It also drives other retailers to compete with copycat sales.
School supplies. Kids won't want to think about the end of summer yet, but retailers start putting school supplies on sale in late July. If you have supply lists in hand, shopping back-to-school early can help you avoid the August rush.
Mark your calendar: Independence Day is July 4.
Freebie day: National Ice Cream Day is July 21 and National Lipstick Day is July 29.
August
Close out summer by buying summer products? That’s right. Look for end-of-season clearance sales in August on:
Back-to-school supplies. The start of school marks the need to buy low-cost items such as notebooks and pencils and more expensive ones like calculators and laptops. Generally, the closer to the start of the school year you buy, the better your chances of getting a good price.
Backyard products. Ride out the end of summer with a big deal on lawn mowers and other seasonal outdoor equipment, like a grill.
Swimsuits. There may not be many swimming days left by the time August rolls around, but that’s exactly why swimsuit clearance sales will crest. Buy swimsuits now for next year.
Tax-free shopping. Back-to-school can be expensive. However, to aid in the purchase of school supplies, clothes, personal computers and other approved necessities, many states offer a tax-free weekend. If yours does, check the date and have your list ready.
Mark your calendar: For many school districts, the first day of school is in August.
Freebie day: National Waffle Day is Aug. 24.
September
With deals on items as varied as mattresses and pool toys, September is a surprising month for good buys. Score reasonable prices on these:
Mattresses. Year after year, September is a good time for mattress sales. Expect deals from department stores and mattress centers, usually as a part of Labor Day promotions.
iPhones. Apple often announces its latest iPhone lineup and other products in September. The unveiling is usually followed by a drop in prices on the models that have been around awhile. Check out used iPhones around this time too.
Appliances. Expect a series of blowout deals in the week leading up to Labor Day, including promotions on appliances big and small.
Mark your calendar: Labor Day is Sept. 2.
Freebie day: National Cheeseburger Day is Sept. 18.
October
Retailers won't ghost you in October. There will be plenty of deals on these product categories:
Outdoor furniture. Expect deals on patio furniture and outdoor living products when the weather turns cool.
Jeans. Fall inventory arrives in stores in August and September, but you’ll pay top dollar unless you wait a few weeks. October is a great time to buy a new pair of jeans.
Candy. The closer you get to Halloween, the better your chances of snagging a discounted bag of candy for trick-or-treaters.
Holiday gifts. Amazon has held a Prime Day-like shopping event in October for the past two years. The multi-day event sparked similarly-timed sales from retailers like Target, Walmart and Best Buy and featured deals that rival Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These events have made early October a top time to buy gifts or things you need for yourself.
Mark your calendar: Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day are Oct. 14 and Halloween is Oct. 31.
Freebie day: National Taco Day is Oct. 4 and National Dessert Day is Oct. 14.
November
November is the real month for Black Friday sales, which means some of the most popular technology products fall to their lowest prices. Expect most retailers to offer some kind of deal on products in nearly every category — not just on Black Friday, but throughout the month.
Electronics. Gadgets like TVs, tablets and laptops take center stage during Black Friday sales. Look for discounts on headphones, smart speakers and activity trackers, too.
Clothing. November has to be the busiest month for clothing catalogs. Scan the brands you like for discounts, and shop stores like Gap, Land’s End and American Eagle directly online for surprise coupon codes.
Streaming subscriptions: As if you need another password to remember, November has become a great time to sign up for a new streaming service. Popular content providers like Hulu and Paramount+ have offered solid subscription discounts during extended Black Friday sales in the past.
Mark your calendar: Thanksgiving is Nov. 28 and Black Friday is Nov. 29.
Freebie day: National Sandwich Day is Nov. 3.
December
The end of the year is just the beginning of discounts in some product categories. Look for sale prices on these items in December:
Electronics. Those Black Friday electronics deals from late November will spill over into the new month.
Small kitchen appliances. Cyber Monday 2024 falls on Dec. 2, and it’ll likely be a great time to get an air fryer. NerdWallet monitored prices on 10 popular products during every major sale of 2023. Each of the three kitchen gadgets on our list — an air fryer, stand mixer and coffee machine — hit low prices on Cyber Monday.
Toys. Toys are popular holiday gifts, and stores generally drop prices as the season draws to a close. Look on Black Friday but buy in December.
Christmas decorations. Beginning the day after Christmas, shop sales for deep discounts — often upward of 50% — on decorations, wrapping paper, ornaments, artificial trees and similar seasonal fixings.
Mark your calendar: Christmas is Dec. 25. Hanukkah starts Dec. 7.
Freebie day: National Cookie Day is Dec. 4.