Personal Finance

What Is a Utility Bill? Examples, Average Cost, Affordability

The big utility bills are electric, water and gas, with average prices that may be higher than you think.

12 Ways to Find the Best Deals Online

Prepare your budget, shop at the opportune time, and compare retailer prices and policies.

How Does DoorDash Work? Making Money as a Dasher

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can become a Dasher and start making money within days. One of our Nerds tried it.

15 Ways to Make Money Without a Job

Market research, housesitting, renting stuff and gig driving are possible ways to earn cash on your own.

4 Cash-Raising Pitfalls (and Better Options)

When you need cash fast, stop briefly to understand which options can hurt you more in the long term.

How to Have a Retirement Worth Saving For

A happy retirement isn't all about money. Make a plan for health, social connection and day-to-day enjoyment.

14 Ways to Make Money as a Kid

Jobs for kids include babysitting, selling stuff and even cleaning trash cans.

We Deserve a Better Credit Reporting System

Consumer credit reporting benefits lenders, not consumers. Government action could fix that.

What Is a FICO Score? Here’s What You Need to Know

FICO scores are one brand of credit score. Your FICO score is calculated using the data in your credit reports.

How Digital Estate Planning Can Protect Your Online Life

Name a digital executor and make sure you leave an inventory and login info so valuables and keepsakes aren't lost.

Smart Strategies for Fighting Back Against Inflation

Plan purchases carefully and trade variable-rate debt for fixed interest rates to help offset rising prices.

Financial Vital Signs to Monitor Right Now

How to Harness Your HSA’s Superpowers

A health savings account can help you supercharge your savings with big tax advantages for you and your kids.

How Much Is the Average Electric Bill, and What Can I Afford?

The average monthly electric bill was about $144 in 2024. Be prepared for what to expect, and find ways to lower your bill.

Should You Save Less For Retirement?

An extremely early retirement goal may rob you of the joy of living now. Consider a revised path and second career.

Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: What’s the Difference?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is faster and cheaper than Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but it could mean selling the things you own.

What to Do If You Save Too Much for Retirement

Saving too much for retirement can cause problems as well as saving too little. Beware of IRS rules and penalties.

High Net Worth: What It Means to Be a HNWI

A high net worth individual is a person with $1 million to $5 million in liquid assets.

How to Be a Better Long-Distance Caregiver

Get the most out of technology, local helpers and available benefits when caring for a loved one from afar.

Inflation Rose 0.4% in October, Above Expectations

There is no official annual rate, because last year's government shutdown interrupted data collection.