Key takeaways An emergency fund helps ensure you can handle unplanned expenses, whether from a job loss or a substantial car repair or medical bill. Saving three to six months’ worth of essential expenses is…

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said that policymakers are hearing that a significant segment of American consumers are still looking to “economize” their purchases and trading down as they feel the effects of stubborn inflation on their household budget. Powell spoke at a press conference Wednesday after the central bank left…

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell was asked about his future at the central bank beyond the end of his term in May and also offered some advice to his successor. Powell spoke at a news conference Wednesday after the central bank left interest rates unchanged at its January meeting after it…

Image by PM Images/Getty Images; Illustration by Hunter Newton/Bankrate Mortgage rates fell this week, with the 30-year fixed rate averaging 6.18%, down from 6.25% last week, according to Bankrate’s latest lender survey. Current mortgage rates Loan type Current 4 weeks ago One year ago 52-week average 52-week low 30-year 6.18%…

The IRS is changing how Americans can make catch-up contributions to their workplace retirement accounts, which could have significant implications for retirement planning and budgeting. A new rule took effect at the outset of 2026 that altered how high-income earners make catch-up contributions to their workplace 401(k) retirement plan, as those over…