Inflation is a core economic concept that impacts all of us. It can seem dry and boring, but understanding what it is and how it works is useful in making smart financial decisions. Here are some of the basics about inflation, its causes, and what you can do to help protect your finances. What is …
In the world of everyday transactions, what you see isn’t always what you get. Sometimes you get more—and not in a good way. Hidden fees, those sneaky charges that often lurk beneath the surface, can add up fast. To protect yourself, it’s important to be aware of these common hidden fees. 1. Bank fees Banks …
With gas prices ebbing and flowing, finding creative ways to save money on fuel can turn a mundane task into a budget-friendly adventure. Here are some fun and effective ways to pump up your savings at the gas station. And if you ever find yourself needing a little extra gas money, Brigit’s Instant Cash* can …
Buying a used car has a lot of advantages—it saves you from the dreaded new car depreciation that hits most cars as soon as you drive off the lot. It also makes the car you want a lot more affordable than buying it new. The only downside is that a used car may not have …
How does Groupon work, and how can you use it to get the best savings on things you want or need? Here are some tips for ways to make the most of this popular money-saving platform. How does Groupon work? Groupon is a digital marketplace that helps local businesses bring in new customers through special …
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is designed to benefit low to moderate-income workers. And, honestly, it can be a saving grace. Even though it takes a little extra work and effort, IT IS WORTH IT. You could get thousands more on your refund or get a major tax break—cha-ching. It was created back in …
It might seem like you just finished doing your 2023 taxes, but guess what? The 2024 tax season is here! You may have already started pulling together everything you need—all the records of your income and other taxable events from 2023. If you haven’t, now is the perfect time to start. Either way, here’s what …
Tax brackets are no fun because they are a scale that represents how much of our hard-earned money the government is going to take from our paycheck. On top of that, they’re kind of hard to understand on the surface. But with a good explanation, they’re not all that confusing. Here’s how they work. Tax …
College is a transformative period in one’s life, but it often comes with financial challenges. Balancing tuition, living expenses, and personal costs can be daunting, making it crucial to adopt effective money-saving strategies. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways for college students to save money without compromising their academic and personal …
Refinancing a car loan can be a strategic financial move that offers the potential for cost savings and improved loan terms. However, whether or not to refinance depends on various factors and individual circumstances. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of refinancing a car loan to help you make an informed decision. …
Retirement planning is an important part of financial well-being, requiring careful consideration and strategic decision-making. One of the most common questions people ask is, “How much money do I need to retire?” The answer is complex and varies based on several things, including lifestyle, expenses, and retirement goals. Here’s how to figure out how much …
College life often marks the beginning of financial independence for students, and a responsible approach to credit can set the stage for a strong financial future. Obtaining a credit card as a student is sometimes a little challenging—especially if you’re under 21. That’s mostly because students usually don’t have an income or credit history. If …