Key takeaways Usury laws set limits on the amount of interest lenders can charge on loans and are typically set at the state level. There is no federally mandated maximum interest rate for credit cards. For credit cards, the CARD Act offers various protections and provides more…
Key takeaways Equipment loans can be used to purchase large assets that could strain cash reserves Equipment loans are easy to qualify for and are offered through a variety of bank and online lenders. If you fail to pay your equipment loan on time, the lender may seize the equipment…
Flashpop/Getty Images: Illustration by Issiah Davis/Bankrate Key takeaways You can get a loan for a vacation home from a private lender. There are no government-backed loans for vacation homes. Qualifying for a vacation home loan is typically harder than qualifying to buy a primary residence, with stricter debt-to-income ratio, credit…
Should you buy the dip? The phrase “buy the dip” means jumping into the stock market after it’s fallen, hoping to scoop up some bargains while they’re available. It’s a popular rallying cry on social media after the market has plummeted, as traders come out and talk about their moves.…
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While there has been much conversation on not buying from companies with poor diversity, little has been said about investing…
Lifestyle inflation occurs when your expenses increase as you earn more income. It can start subtly—dining at pricier restaurants, upgrading…
Chime, the largest digital bank in America, grew its revenue to $1.7 billion in 2024, an increase of roughly 30%…
Technology has transformed some parts of the daunting homebuying process–making it easier to search and compare properties online, to prepare…
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PeopleImages/Getty Images Key takeaways Mortgage origination is the process through which the lender approves and creates your loan. Steps in the mortgage origination process include getting preapproval, applying for the loan, waiting for loan processing and underwriting and attending closing day. Many lenders charge a…
Dept Managmnt
Key takeaways Social Security benefits are generally protected from creditors, but exceptions exist for federal debts, child support and legal judgments. The IRS…
Banking
Apple, FedEx and Oracle all got loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration. But rules and red tape keep many banks from making…
Credit Cards
Key takeaways Adding authorized users to your business credit card account can make it easier for you to complete purchases and earn rewards…
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Want to save more, pay off debt, and finally stop stressing about money? Budgeting is how you make it happen! Because when you tell your money where to go—instead of wondering where it went—you’re the one in control. And guess what? Budgeting doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I’ll walk you…
Big changes are coming to Social Security, and they might hit your wallet sooner than you think. From eliminating taxes on benefits to major staffing cuts at the Social Security Administration, President Donald Trump’s proposals could impact the benefits you’ve earned. In 2025, you might see some relief if Social Security…
Key takeaways Personal savings accounts help individuals store and grow money, while business savings accounts help companies manage cash reserves and keep finances separate. A dedicated business savings account makes tax preparation easier and provides legal protection, especially for LLCs and corporations. When choosing a business savings account, consider interest…
Key takeaways RefiJet stands out for its cash-out refinancing program for customers with vehicle equity. iLending offers personalized customer service all week. Always compare multiple lenders and their fees before finalizing an auto refinancing decision. RefiJet and iLending give car owners access to a variety of different auto refinance lenders,…
PhotoAlto/Eric Audras/ Getty Images; Illustration by Austin Courregé/Bankrate Key takeaways Hotels can charge your card anywhere from the moment you book to when you check out. Policies range widely from one hotel or third-party booking service to another. The timing of payment isn’t always clear — you might need to…
There are several strategies you can make use of to build generational wealth for your descendants, even if your last name isn’t Buffett, Winfrey or Rockefeller. Generational wealth is simply money that is passed down from one branch of the family tree to the next — and not from just…
When you close on a home purchase or mortgage refinance, there are always various closing costs to pay. From appraisals and home inspections to loan origination fees and property taxes, these expenses can really add up. But, depending on your situation, some of them may qualify as tax deductions. Here’s…
Tax season can be a stressful time, but for many, it comes with a financial boost, your tax refund. While it may be tempting to spend it on something fun, using your refund wisely can help you take control of your finances and move closer to a debt-free future. If…
Key takeaways How much you’ll need to save for a car down payment depends on the price of the car and whether you plan to lease or buy it. Before buying a car, consider the monthly payment amount as well as other expenses such as insurance and gasoline. Based on…
For new and seasoned investors alike, taking a global approach to your investments can help provide diversification and multiple ways to benefit from the growth in the world economy. While putting your money in foreign markets might sound complex, there are exchange-traded funds (ETFs) set up to streamline the process…
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