Money Management

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
You’ll need savings if you want to retire comfortably. Social Security should pay you something, but the average recipient today gets only about $23,000 a year. That might just cover your basics like food and housing expenses, especially if your home is paid off. But on $23,000 a year, you can mostly forget about extras. And after a lifetime of hard work, you deserve those extras.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. That’s why you need to start saving for retirement as soon as you can. But if you’ve gotten to age 50 without any long-term savings, you may be ready to panic.Here’s the hard truth. It’s not great to have no money saved for your senior years by age 50. As of 2022, 50-year-olds had a median retirement savings balance of $115,000, per the Federal Reserve. If you want to use that as a benchmark, it leaves you with some serious catching up to do.But you should also know that things aren’t hopeless if you’re 50 without money socked away for retirement. If you prioritize your savings from this point onward, you can set yourself up with a nice nest egg even if you’re somewhat short on time.Your retirement savings can be salvaged There’s a benefit to being 50 when saving for retirement — you’re allowed to make catch-up contributions to a tax-advantaged savings plan. That means you’re allowed to contribute up to $8,000 per year to an IRA based on your age (the annual limit for savers under 50 is $7,000).If you’re not in the habit of saving for retirement, it won’t be easy to come up with $8,000 a year all of a sudden. But if you’re willing to work a side hustle, you might manage to hit that goal. Self Financial reports that 45% of working Americans today have a side hustle, and that the average side hustle brings in $688 a month. If you’re able to earn that much, it’s enough to max out your IRA and leave you with a small amount of money left over. And if you don’t have an IRA already, open one immediately. You can start with this list of the best IRAs to find the right one.From there, you’ll want to invest your money so it grows nicely between now and when you want to retire. Let’s say that age is 65. If so, you have 15 years to build your nest egg from $0. If you max out at an IRA at $667 per month for 15 years and your investments give you an annual 10% return, which is consistent with the S&P 500’s long-term average, you’ll end up with about $254,000. That’s a nice sum of money to bring into retirement. Don’t wait any longer to start saving for retirementIt can be hard to come to terms with having to first start building a retirement nest egg at age 50. But don’t let that overwhelm you or, worse yet, lead you to give up. One of the best things you can do for your retirement is start funding that IRA right away. The sooner you do, the more time you give your money to grow — and the more likely you are to close out your career with enough savings to make retirement something you can look forward to.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

You’ll need savings if you want to retire comfortably. Social Security should pay you something, but the average recipient today gets only about $23,000 a year. That might just cover your basics like food and housing expenses, especially if your home is paid off. But on $23,000 a year, you can mostly forget about extras. And after a lifetime of hard work, you deserve those extras.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

That’s why you need to start saving for retirement as soon as you can. But if you’ve gotten to age 50 without any long-term savings, you may be ready to panic.

Here’s the hard truth. It’s not great to have no money saved for your senior years by age 50. As of 2022, 50-year-olds had a median retirement savings balance of $115,000, per the Federal Reserve. If you want to use that as a benchmark, it leaves you with some serious catching up to do.

But you should also know that things aren’t hopeless if you’re 50 without money socked away for retirement. If you prioritize your savings from this point onward, you can set yourself up with a nice nest egg even if you’re somewhat short on time.

Your retirement savings can be salvaged

There’s a benefit to being 50 when saving for retirement — you’re allowed to make catch-up contributions to a tax-advantaged savings plan. That means you’re allowed to contribute up to $8,000 per year to an IRA based on your age (the annual limit for savers under 50 is $7,000).

If you’re not in the habit of saving for retirement, it won’t be easy to come up with $8,000 a year all of a sudden. But if you’re willing to work a side hustle, you might manage to hit that goal.

Self Financial reports that 45% of working Americans today have a side hustle, and that the average side hustle brings in $688 a month. If you’re able to earn that much, it’s enough to max out your IRA and leave you with a small amount of money left over.

And if you don’t have an IRA already, open one immediately. You can start with this list of the best IRAs to find the right one.

From there, you’ll want to invest your money so it grows nicely between now and when you want to retire. Let’s say that age is 65. If so, you have 15 years to build your nest egg from $0.

If you max out at an IRA at $667 per month for 15 years and your investments give you an annual 10% return, which is consistent with the S&P 500’s long-term average, you’ll end up with about $254,000. That’s a nice sum of money to bring into retirement.

Don’t wait any longer to start saving for retirement

It can be hard to come to terms with having to first start building a retirement nest egg at age 50. But don’t let that overwhelm you or, worse yet, lead you to give up.

One of the best things you can do for your retirement is start funding that IRA right away. The sooner you do, the more time you give your money to grow — and the more likely you are to close out your career with enough savings to make retirement something you can look forward to.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
Some people love buying holiday gifts. But for others, it can be stressful — not just because of the money but also the pressure. It’s not easy to find the perfect item for each person on your list. And even if you do, you then have to worry about storing each item and wrapping it so it looks presentable.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!If you want to take the hassle out of gift-giving this year, you may want to load up on gift cards. They’re easy to store, there’s no need to bust out the wrapping paper, and your recipients can use them whenever it’s convenient for them. Plus, if your recipients have limited storage space in their homes, gift cards are a better solution than a sweater or gadget they’ll have to make room for.Now, if you’re going to buy gift cards for the holidays, you might as well save money in the process. And Costco allows you to do just that. Costco sells gift cards below their face value, plus, if you use the right credit card, you can earn extra cash back on your purchase. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers.Here are five great gift card deals you’ll find at Costco today. But you may want to get moving, since these aren’t guaranteed to last.1. $60 worth of Krispy Kreme gift cards for $44.99Need a token gift for your child’s teacher or coach? A $15 gift card at Krispy Kreme is a great way to say thank you. Costco is selling a four-pack of $15 Krispy Kreme electronic gift cards for $44.99. So if you scoop up this deal, it’s basically like getting one of those gift cards for free. And with the option to email them, you don’t even have to spring for a holiday card to stick them in.2. $100 worth of Domino’s gift cards for $74.99Giving the gift of Domino’s pizza could spare a person in your life the hassle of making dinner. Costco is selling four $25 Domino’s electronic gift cards for $74.99. So once again, it’s like you’re buying three and getting the fourth for free. It’s hard to beat that deal.3. $50 at Cinemark for $39.99A night out at the movies isn’t the inexpensive outing it used to be. Between markups on ticket prices and concessions, it can cost a small fortune to go on a movie date. And taking a family can be cost-prohibitive for some people.That’s why a Cinemark Theaters gift card makes a great gift, and Costco sells one worth $50 for just $39.99. Best of all, Cinemark gift cards are redeemable for tickets, food, drinks, and merchandise.4. $100 worth of Bowlero gift cards for $79.99Like going to the movies, bowling has become another expensive family outing. If you have nieces or nephews you’re shopping for, they might love a gift card to Bowlero. Costco is selling four $25 gift cards to Bowlero for $79.99, which can be used to buy food and drinks in addition to paying for a lane.5. $100 worth of Spafinder gift cards for $79.99Know an overworked person who could use an escape to the spa? Giving them a Spafinder gift card might truly make their day. Costco is selling two $50 e-gift cards to Spafinder for just $79.99. They’re redeemable at thousands of locations across the country.These are only some of the amazing gift card deals Costco has available now. If you want to take the guesswork out of holiday shopping, visit your local store or browse through Costco.com to finish your gift-buying without stress.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Some people love buying holiday gifts. But for others, it can be stressful — not just because of the money but also the pressure. It’s not easy to find the perfect item for each person on your list. And even if you do, you then have to worry about storing each item and wrapping it so it looks presentable.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

If you want to take the hassle out of gift-giving this year, you may want to load up on gift cards. They’re easy to store, there’s no need to bust out the wrapping paper, and your recipients can use them whenever it’s convenient for them. Plus, if your recipients have limited storage space in their homes, gift cards are a better solution than a sweater or gadget they’ll have to make room for.

Now, if you’re going to buy gift cards for the holidays, you might as well save money in the process. And Costco allows you to do just that. Costco sells gift cards below their face value, plus, if you use the right credit card, you can earn extra cash back on your purchase. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers.

Here are five great gift card deals you’ll find at Costco today. But you may want to get moving, since these aren’t guaranteed to last.

1. $60 worth of Krispy Kreme gift cards for $44.99

Need a token gift for your child’s teacher or coach? A $15 gift card at Krispy Kreme is a great way to say thank you. Costco is selling a four-pack of $15 Krispy Kreme electronic gift cards for $44.99. So if you scoop up this deal, it’s basically like getting one of those gift cards for free. And with the option to email them, you don’t even have to spring for a holiday card to stick them in.

2. $100 worth of Domino’s gift cards for $74.99

Giving the gift of Domino’s pizza could spare a person in your life the hassle of making dinner. Costco is selling four $25 Domino’s electronic gift cards for $74.99. So once again, it’s like you’re buying three and getting the fourth for free. It’s hard to beat that deal.

3. $50 at Cinemark for $39.99

A night out at the movies isn’t the inexpensive outing it used to be. Between markups on ticket prices and concessions, it can cost a small fortune to go on a movie date. And taking a family can be cost-prohibitive for some people.

That’s why a Cinemark Theaters gift card makes a great gift, and Costco sells one worth $50 for just $39.99. Best of all, Cinemark gift cards are redeemable for tickets, food, drinks, and merchandise.

4. $100 worth of Bowlero gift cards for $79.99

Like going to the movies, bowling has become another expensive family outing. If you have nieces or nephews you’re shopping for, they might love a gift card to Bowlero. Costco is selling four $25 gift cards to Bowlero for $79.99, which can be used to buy food and drinks in addition to paying for a lane.

5. $100 worth of Spafinder gift cards for $79.99

Know an overworked person who could use an escape to the spa? Giving them a Spafinder gift card might truly make their day. Costco is selling two $50 e-gift cards to Spafinder for just $79.99. They’re redeemable at thousands of locations across the country.

These are only some of the amazing gift card deals Costco has available now. If you want to take the guesswork out of holiday shopping, visit your local store or browse through Costco.com to finish your gift-buying without stress.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
You get options if you’re joining Costco. You could either pay $65 a year for a basic Gold Star membership, or upgrade to an Executive membership for $130 a year.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!The benefit of the Executive membership is that it gives you 2% cash back on your purchases. Throughout the year, that extra cash could add up nicely.Executive members get a rewards certificate each year that represents the cash back they’ve earned. You can then use that certificate to pay for a host of purchases at your local Costco store.But there are limits as to how you can use your Executive membership rewards. Here are three things you unfortunately can’t spend it on.1. GasolineGas purchases at Costco are not eligible to earn 2% cash back on an Executive membership. Similarly, you can’t use your rewards certificate from that membership to pay for fuel for your car at Costco’s gas stations.That’s not such a terrible thing, though. First, Costco happens to sell some of the cheapest gas in town, so having to pay out of pocket to fill your car may not be such a budget-buster.Plus, if you use the right credit card at the pump, you can save plenty of money. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for gas rewards.2. Food court mealsOne of the perks of shopping at Costco is getting access to the store’s food court. Whether you’re a fan of the jumbo-sized pizza slices or the famous $1.50 hot dog and soda combo, a food court stop is a great way to top off a Costco shopping run.However, you can’t use your Executive membership rewards to pay for food court purchases. But seeing as how the most expensive item at the Costco food court is a whole pizza for $9.95, that’s not awful.3. Anything from Costco.comPurchases you make on Costco.com are eligible for 2% back on an Executive membership. But surprisingly, you can’t use your rewards certificate to pay for online purchases. You have to redeem your rewards certificate in an actual store.That said, there’s a workaround. If you want to use your rewards certificate for a Costco.com order, you can redeem it at a physical store to pay for a Shop Card, which is Costco’s version of a gift card. You can then use your Shop Card to pay for an online purchase.Even though you can’t use your Executive membership reward for certain Costco purchases, it’s still worth upgrading your membership if you think you’ll spend more than $3,250 a year at Costco. It takes exactly $3,250 to break even on the $65 upgrade fee, and any money you earn beyond that point is free cash to enjoy.However, if you decide that the Executive membership isn’t right for you, you can still score cash back on your Costco purchases by shopping with the right credit card. Click here for a list of credit cards that reward Costco members generously.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

You get options if you’re joining Costco. You could either pay $65 a year for a basic Gold Star membership, or upgrade to an Executive membership for $130 a year.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

The benefit of the Executive membership is that it gives you 2% cash back on your purchases. Throughout the year, that extra cash could add up nicely.

Executive members get a rewards certificate each year that represents the cash back they’ve earned. You can then use that certificate to pay for a host of purchases at your local Costco store.

But there are limits as to how you can use your Executive membership rewards. Here are three things you unfortunately can’t spend it on.

1. Gasoline

Gas purchases at Costco are not eligible to earn 2% cash back on an Executive membership. Similarly, you can’t use your rewards certificate from that membership to pay for fuel for your car at Costco’s gas stations.

That’s not such a terrible thing, though. First, Costco happens to sell some of the cheapest gas in town, so having to pay out of pocket to fill your car may not be such a budget-buster.

Plus, if you use the right credit card at the pump, you can save plenty of money. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for gas rewards.

2. Food court meals

One of the perks of shopping at Costco is getting access to the store’s food court. Whether you’re a fan of the jumbo-sized pizza slices or the famous $1.50 hot dog and soda combo, a food court stop is a great way to top off a Costco shopping run.

However, you can’t use your Executive membership rewards to pay for food court purchases. But seeing as how the most expensive item at the Costco food court is a whole pizza for $9.95, that’s not awful.

3. Anything from Costco.com

Purchases you make on Costco.com are eligible for 2% back on an Executive membership. But surprisingly, you can’t use your rewards certificate to pay for online purchases. You have to redeem your rewards certificate in an actual store.

That said, there’s a workaround. If you want to use your rewards certificate for a Costco.com order, you can redeem it at a physical store to pay for a Shop Card, which is Costco’s version of a gift card. You can then use your Shop Card to pay for an online purchase.

Even though you can’t use your Executive membership reward for certain Costco purchases, it’s still worth upgrading your membership if you think you’ll spend more than $3,250 a year at Costco. It takes exactly $3,250 to break even on the $65 upgrade fee, and any money you earn beyond that point is free cash to enjoy.

However, if you decide that the Executive membership isn’t right for you, you can still score cash back on your Costco purchases by shopping with the right credit card. Click here for a list of credit cards that reward Costco members generously.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
After months of difficulties, Spirit Airlines has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company hopes the restructuring will help it get back on course financially.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Before you panic about any upcoming flights, the company insists it is business as normal. It says you’ll still be able to fly, book flights, and use your loyalty points. If you have holiday travel booked with Spirit, there’s a strong chance your flights will take off as planned.That said, it’s a good reminder to use your credit card when you book a trip. The extra protections can come in handy when you travel because many things can go wrong — from the airline going belly up, to canceled flights or lost luggage. Click here to learn more about the built-in travel insurance and other perks you’ll get with the best travel credit cards.What Spirit’s bankruptcy filing means for youWhen we see the word “bankruptcy,” we often assume it means the company will shut down. But that’s not always the case. A Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows companies to stay open and try to re-organize their debts. So, for Spirit, its bankruptcy filing could give it the breathing space it needs to transform its business. Delta did something similar around 20 years ago.Importantly for Spirit customers, it means flights will continue to run — particularly over Thanksgiving. However, moving forward there’s a good chance we’ll see even more canceled flights and schedule changes than normal. Given Spirit’s reputation, that’s saying something.The good news is that the Department of Transportation recently issued updated guidelines that say you’re entitled to a refund if an airline cancels your flight and it doesn’t get rebooked. Unfortunately, this gets a bit more complicated in the case of Spirit, as bankruptcy law could impact your refund.Hopefully, Spirit will not have to reschedule or cancel your flights. If it does, and you don’t have a travel credit card or travel insurance, there’s a chance you won’t be able to get your money back.Credit cards give you extra protection when you travelFlight cancellations and changes can be frustrating and costly at the best of times. Not only is it stressful when you might miss connecting flights or hotel bookings, but it can take an emotional toll too. Perhaps you’re traveling to meet loved ones or the whole family is geared up and excited about their vacation.The most obvious benefit of booking a flight with a travel credit card is the chance to earn cash back or rewards. But the additional protections that kick in when something goes wrong can be hugely valuable too — especially as they help ease some of that stress.It doesn’t make it any easier to explain to your parents and grandparents you’re going to arrive a day later than planned and miss the special dinner they’ve cooked. But you might get compensation to offset the costs of things like delays, cancellations, and lost luggage.It’s smart to use a top credit card to pay for flights and travel. It’s also worth checking your card’s policies to find exactly what is covered. Here are some of the protections you might get from your travel credit card:Trip cancelation and delaysLost, delayed, or damaged baggageMedical coverage abroadCar rental insuranceIf you don’t have a travel credit card, all is not lost. All credit cards offer something called a chargeback. If you don’t receive a product or service, you can contact your credit card company and ask it to reverse the payment. Making a claim can take more work than using built-in travel insurance, but it could help if your airline (or any other company) doesn’t deliver.Don’t use a debit card to book your travelThere’s a patchwork of protections that could kick in if your flight is canceled or rescheduled. But you are much more likely to be able to get your money back if you’ve used a credit card to make your booking. Even more so if it’s a travel credit card with built-in insurance.If you’re concerned about high-interest credit card debt, that’s understandable. Credit cards offer a lot of benefits, but the interest can quickly add up if you carry a balance. Try to pay your balance in full each month and avoid using your card to buy things you can’t afford. That way you get the added rewards and consumer protections that credit cards have to offer, without the potential side effects of high-interest debt.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

After months of difficulties, Spirit Airlines has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company hopes the restructuring will help it get back on course financially.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

Before you panic about any upcoming flights, the company insists it is business as normal. It says you’ll still be able to fly, book flights, and use your loyalty points. If you have holiday travel booked with Spirit, there’s a strong chance your flights will take off as planned.

That said, it’s a good reminder to use your credit card when you book a trip. The extra protections can come in handy when you travel because many things can go wrong — from the airline going belly up, to canceled flights or lost luggage. Click here to learn more about the built-in travel insurance and other perks you’ll get with the best travel credit cards.

What Spirit’s bankruptcy filing means for you

When we see the word “bankruptcy,” we often assume it means the company will shut down. But that’s not always the case. A Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows companies to stay open and try to re-organize their debts. So, for Spirit, its bankruptcy filing could give it the breathing space it needs to transform its business. Delta did something similar around 20 years ago.

Importantly for Spirit customers, it means flights will continue to run — particularly over Thanksgiving. However, moving forward there’s a good chance we’ll see even more canceled flights and schedule changes than normal. Given Spirit’s reputation, that’s saying something.

The good news is that the Department of Transportation recently issued updated guidelines that say you’re entitled to a refund if an airline cancels your flight and it doesn’t get rebooked. Unfortunately, this gets a bit more complicated in the case of Spirit, as bankruptcy law could impact your refund.

Hopefully, Spirit will not have to reschedule or cancel your flights. If it does, and you don’t have a travel credit card or travel insurance, there’s a chance you won’t be able to get your money back.

Credit cards give you extra protection when you travel

Flight cancellations and changes can be frustrating and costly at the best of times. Not only is it stressful when you might miss connecting flights or hotel bookings, but it can take an emotional toll too. Perhaps you’re traveling to meet loved ones or the whole family is geared up and excited about their vacation.

The most obvious benefit of booking a flight with a travel credit card is the chance to earn cash back or rewards. But the additional protections that kick in when something goes wrong can be hugely valuable too — especially as they help ease some of that stress.

It doesn’t make it any easier to explain to your parents and grandparents you’re going to arrive a day later than planned and miss the special dinner they’ve cooked. But you might get compensation to offset the costs of things like delays, cancellations, and lost luggage.

It’s smart to use a top credit card to pay for flights and travel. It’s also worth checking your card’s policies to find exactly what is covered. Here are some of the protections you might get from your travel credit card:

Trip cancelation and delaysLost, delayed, or damaged baggageMedical coverage abroadCar rental insurance

If you don’t have a travel credit card, all is not lost. All credit cards offer something called a chargeback. If you don’t receive a product or service, you can contact your credit card company and ask it to reverse the payment. Making a claim can take more work than using built-in travel insurance, but it could help if your airline (or any other company) doesn’t deliver.

Don’t use a debit card to book your travel

There’s a patchwork of protections that could kick in if your flight is canceled or rescheduled. But you are much more likely to be able to get your money back if you’ve used a credit card to make your booking. Even more so if it’s a travel credit card with built-in insurance.

If you’re concerned about high-interest credit card debt, that’s understandable. Credit cards offer a lot of benefits, but the interest can quickly add up if you carry a balance. Try to pay your balance in full each month and avoid using your card to buy things you can’t afford. That way you get the added rewards and consumer protections that credit cards have to offer, without the potential side effects of high-interest debt.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
‘Tis the season to spoil your furry companions. And guess what — you don’t have to spend a fortune when stocking up on pet care essentials, treats, and presents for your furry crew. Those with a Costco membership can save big when purchasing must-haves for their dogs and cats.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!Here are a few fantastic deals that pet owners can shop at Costco. You could save up to $100 by taking advantage of these deals.Save $69: Catry Kingdom 78-inch Cat Tree for $119.99Why not treat your cats to something extra special this holiday season? Costco sells a few cat trees that your fur kids will love. You can purchase the well-rated Catry Kingdom 78-inch Cat Tree for $119.99.Similar Catry cat trees and towers retail elsewhere for $189. It features eight levels and two condos with two removable linen beds for easy cleaning. Being a Costco member could save you nearly $70 on a winning gift that your cat crew will enjoy for many years to come.Save $130: Pendleton Kuddler Pet Bed for $99.99Got a best pal that you want to spoil? A new pet bed is the perfect way to show them you care. You can get the Pendleton Kuddler Pet Bed at Costco for $99.99. The water-resistant pet bed is 36 inches wide and is ideal for pets weighing up to 50 pounds. The outer cover is machine washable for easy care. Considering other similarly sized Kuddler pet beds retail for around $229.99, this is a fantastic deal you and your fur child will appreciate.Want to earn cash back on your next Costco haul? It’s easy to earn rewards with the right credit card. Check out our list of top credit cards that offer big rewards at Costco.Save $15 per eight-dose pack: Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Dog and Cat treatment for $79.99OK, so this one isn’t a fun gift for your fur friend. But it can help keep them healthy. You can buy the following flea and tick protection products for your cat or dog at Costco for $79.99.Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Dog Treatment for 45- to 88-pound dogs (eight doses)Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Cat Treatment for cats and kittens weighing over 1.5 pounds (eight doses)Other pet supply retailers sell these items for around $95 per eight-dose pack. Shopping at Costco can help you protect your furry friends and avoid overspending.Want to maximize your savings? Click here to find out how to maximize your cash back when shopping at Costco.Save $25: Two-pack of Jerky Treats American Beef Dog Snacks for $34.99I have a feeling your dog will appreciate this stocking stuffer. Costco sells a two-count 60-package of Jerky Treats American Beef Dog Snacks for $34.99. This high-protein treat features 15 vitamins and minerals to help your dog maintain strong teeth and bones. Considering one 60-ounce bag retails for $29.99 on Amazon.com, this is a great price to pay for quality snacks for your dog. Plus, you’ll be stocked up for a while.Costco can help you save on pet care essentialsCostco extends discounts on groceries, personal care items, and household goods — but that’s not all. Whether you’re shopping for treats, toys, beds, or pet food, your Costco membership can unlock significant savings on pet care essentials. If you have yet to buy pet care items at your local club, compare your spending elsewhere to see if you can save more by shopping at Costco.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon and Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

‘Tis the season to spoil your furry companions. And guess what — you don’t have to spend a fortune when stocking up on pet care essentials, treats, and presents for your furry crew. Those with a Costco membership can save big when purchasing must-haves for their dogs and cats.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

Here are a few fantastic deals that pet owners can shop at Costco. You could save up to $100 by taking advantage of these deals.

Save $69: Catry Kingdom 78-inch Cat Tree for $119.99

Why not treat your cats to something extra special this holiday season? Costco sells a few cat trees that your fur kids will love. You can purchase the well-rated Catry Kingdom 78-inch Cat Tree for $119.99.

Similar Catry cat trees and towers retail elsewhere for $189. It features eight levels and two condos with two removable linen beds for easy cleaning. Being a Costco member could save you nearly $70 on a winning gift that your cat crew will enjoy for many years to come.

Save $130: Pendleton Kuddler Pet Bed for $99.99

Got a best pal that you want to spoil? A new pet bed is the perfect way to show them you care. You can get the Pendleton Kuddler Pet Bed at Costco for $99.99. The water-resistant pet bed is 36 inches wide and is ideal for pets weighing up to 50 pounds. The outer cover is machine washable for easy care. Considering other similarly sized Kuddler pet beds retail for around $229.99, this is a fantastic deal you and your fur child will appreciate.

Want to earn cash back on your next Costco haul? It’s easy to earn rewards with the right credit card. Check out our list of top credit cards that offer big rewards at Costco.

Save $15 per eight-dose pack: Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Dog and Cat treatment for $79.99

OK, so this one isn’t a fun gift for your fur friend. But it can help keep them healthy. You can buy the following flea and tick protection products for your cat or dog at Costco for $79.99.

Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Dog Treatment for 45- to 88-pound dogs (eight doses)Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Cat Treatment for cats and kittens weighing over 1.5 pounds (eight doses)

Other pet supply retailers sell these items for around $95 per eight-dose pack. Shopping at Costco can help you protect your furry friends and avoid overspending.

Want to maximize your savings? Click here to find out how to maximize your cash back when shopping at Costco.

Save $25: Two-pack of Jerky Treats American Beef Dog Snacks for $34.99

I have a feeling your dog will appreciate this stocking stuffer. Costco sells a two-count 60-package of Jerky Treats American Beef Dog Snacks for $34.99. This high-protein treat features 15 vitamins and minerals to help your dog maintain strong teeth and bones. Considering one 60-ounce bag retails for $29.99 on Amazon.com, this is a great price to pay for quality snacks for your dog. Plus, you’ll be stocked up for a while.

Costco can help you save on pet care essentials

Costco extends discounts on groceries, personal care items, and household goods — but that’s not all. Whether you’re shopping for treats, toys, beds, or pet food, your Costco membership can unlock significant savings on pet care essentials. If you have yet to buy pet care items at your local club, compare your spending elsewhere to see if you can save more by shopping at Costco.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon and Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More