Money Management

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Whether you’re looking for the best deal on basic transportation or searching for the car of your dreams, it’s wise to look closely at your finances before you begin hitting the car lots to look for your next ride.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. Not only do you need to consider the price of the car itself, but you also need to find out how interest rates could affect your loan payments and how you can improve your financial situation before you even start looking. Here’s how to do it.Check your credit scoreYour score helps determine what your auto loan interest rate will be. The higher your score, the more likely you’ll get a lower interest rate.Many banks and credit card companies provide you with a free credit score these days, but you can also get a full credit report for free each week at Annualcreditreport.com. Experian says having a FICO® Score of 661 or higher will help you get the best auto loan rates.Tip: Your credit score affects more than just interest rates. In most states, car insurance companies can use your score to set your premiums. Click here to find the best deals on cheap car insurance.Pay down your debtsLet’s say you have a FICO® Score of 620, which is considered fair. You probably won’t get the best interest rates available, but if you lower the amount of debt you owe (which accounts for 30% of your score), you can likely improve your score and the auto loan interest rate.For example, if you have a credit card with a $10,000 limit, it’s a good idea to keep your balance under $3,000, which will keep your utilization rate below the recommended level of 30%.Here’s a hypothetical example of how much you might save with a higher score:Loan AmountCredit ScoreAPRLoan TermMonthly PaymentTotal Amount Paid$25,0006208%5 years$507$30,414$25,0006607%5 years$495$29,701$25,0006905%5 years$472$28,306Data source: Author’s calculations.As you can see, a higher score could save you just over $2,000 over the loan term, depending on your rate. To improve your score, pay your bills on time and in full. Your payment history accounts for 35% of your score.Find out how much your car insurance will beCar insurance prices jumped by 26% in 2024, which means you’re likely paying far more for insurance than you were just a few years ago.The bad news is that your car insurance costs could go even higher, depending on the type of car you buy. For example, cars with low safety ratings, high repair costs, electric vehicles, and even luxury cars may be more expensive to insure.The good news is that you can ask your insurance provider how much your new vehicle will cost to insure. I once emailed my insurance company with the make and model I was considering buying so I would know the insurance costs before I made the purchase.If you think you’re paying too much for car insurance, the best way to save is to shop around. Many people pay less for premiums when they compare quotes from the best car insurance companies and switch providers.Shop around for the best loanIt’s probably not the best strategy to jump at the first auto loan you’re offered. Take the time to compare at least two or three auto loan options to see which one fits your budget.Not all lenders have the same criteria, so comparing quotes means you might be able to find a lower interest rate and save on your monthly car payments. As you saw earlier, even a 1% difference in your auto loan rate could save significant money over the length of the loan.No matter which car you choose, knowing your credit score, paying down your debts, and shopping around for the best insurance and auto loan will ensure you make the right decision for your budget.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”:”

Whether you’re looking for the best deal on basic transportation or searching for the car of your dreams, it’s wise to look closely at your finances before you begin hitting the car lots to look for your next ride.

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.

Not only do you need to consider the price of the car itself, but you also need to find out how interest rates could affect your loan payments and how you can improve your financial situation before you even start looking. Here’s how to do it.

Check your credit score

Your score helps determine what your auto loan interest rate will be. The higher your score, the more likely you’ll get a lower interest rate.

Many banks and credit card companies provide you with a free credit score these days, but you can also get a full credit report for free each week at Annualcreditreport.com. Experian says having a FICO® Score of 661 or higher will help you get the best auto loan rates.

Tip: Your credit score affects more than just interest rates. In most states, car insurance companies can use your score to set your premiums. Click here to find the best deals on cheap car insurance.

Pay down your debts

Let’s say you have a FICO® Score of 620, which is considered fair. You probably won’t get the best interest rates available, but if you lower the amount of debt you owe (which accounts for 30% of your score), you can likely improve your score and the auto loan interest rate.

For example, if you have a credit card with a $10,000 limit, it’s a good idea to keep your balance under $3,000, which will keep your utilization rate below the recommended level of 30%.

Here’s a hypothetical example of how much you might save with a higher score:

As you can see, a higher score could save you just over $2,000 over the loan term, depending on your rate. To improve your score, pay your bills on time and in full. Your payment history accounts for 35% of your score.

Find out how much your car insurance will be

Car insurance prices jumped by 26% in 2024, which means you’re likely paying far more for insurance than you were just a few years ago.

The bad news is that your car insurance costs could go even higher, depending on the type of car you buy. For example, cars with low safety ratings, high repair costs, electric vehicles, and even luxury cars may be more expensive to insure.

The good news is that you can ask your insurance provider how much your new vehicle will cost to insure. I once emailed my insurance company with the make and model I was considering buying so I would know the insurance costs before I made the purchase.

If you think you’re paying too much for car insurance, the best way to save is to shop around. Many people pay less for premiums when they compare quotes from the best car insurance companies and switch providers.

Shop around for the best loan

It’s probably not the best strategy to jump at the first auto loan you’re offered. Take the time to compare at least two or three auto loan options to see which one fits your budget.

Not all lenders have the same criteria, so comparing quotes means you might be able to find a lower interest rate and save on your monthly car payments. As you saw earlier, even a 1% difference in your auto loan rate could save significant money over the length of the loan.

No matter which car you choose, knowing your credit score, paying down your debts, and shopping around for the best insurance and auto loan will ensure you make the right decision for your budget.

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: Getty Images
If you or someone you love is overdue for a tech upgrade, the holiday season is the perfect time to shop for TVs, computers, tablets, and more. Many retailers are running extra sales to help shoppers stretch their dollars further during a busy and expensive time of 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!If you’re a Costco member, you can score additional savings thanks to the retailer’s plentiful holiday deals. Many popular electronics and accessories are on sale at Costco through Dec. 2. You can save $80 or more by shopping for these Costco deals.Save $300: HP Pavilion 16-inch Touchscreen Laptop for $899.99A new laptop is a big investment, so buying one on sale is a great money move. Costco is selling an HP Pavilion 16-inch Touchscreen Laptop at a $300 discount. You’ll pay $899.99 instead of $1,199.99. This laptop features a 2 TB SSD and runs on the Windows 11 operating system. If you have someone on your list who is ready for a laptop upgrade, you may want to shop this deal. This online-only deal is available at Costco.com through Dec. 2.Want to maximize your savings? Click here to learn how to maximize your cash back when shopping at Costco.Save $80: Samsung 50-inch Class – DU6900D Series – 4K UHD LED Smart TV for $249.99Hoping to surprise your family with a new TV? Your Costco membership can help you get a great TV without spending a fortune on an upgrade. You can buy the Samsung 50-inch Class – DU6900D Series – 4K UHD LED Smart TV for $249.99 through Dec. 2. The retail price for this TV is $329.99, so you’ll save $80 with this offer. This deal is available in-store and online. It also includes a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.Save $100: Sony WH1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Cancling Headphones for $299.99A great pair of headphones pairs perfectly with new electronics. Costco has a deal that will save you $100 on a new pair. Through Dec. 2, you can purchase a pair of Sony WH1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Cancling Headphones for $299.99. This could make for the perfect holiday gift for someone on your list — especially if they love listening to music.Want to earn cash back on your next Costco haul? The right credit card can help. Click here to explore our list of top credit cards with big rewards for Costco shoppers.Save $200: Four-pack of Arlo Pro S2 Spotlight Security Cameras for $299.99Want to buy security cameras for your home, but don’t want to overspend? You can purchase a four-pack of Arlo Pro S2 Spotlight Security Cameras for $200 off. You’ll pay only $299.99. As a bonus, this security camera set also includes four months of Arlo Secure Subscription. This deal can help you keep more money in your checking account while you take steps to keep your family and home safe. This online-only deal is available at Costco.com through Dec. 2.Maximize your savings by shopping early holiday dealsIf you love to save money, now is the perfect time to shop for the holidays. Many retailers, including Costco have limited-time deals that can help you stretch your budget further. Don’t miss out on these fantastic deals. Every dollar you save makes a difference.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.Natasha Gabrielle 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”:”

If you or someone you love is overdue for a tech upgrade, the holiday season is the perfect time to shop for TVs, computers, tablets, and more. Many retailers are running extra sales to help shoppers stretch their dollars further during a busy and expensive time of 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!

If you’re a Costco member, you can score additional savings thanks to the retailer’s plentiful holiday deals. Many popular electronics and accessories are on sale at Costco through Dec. 2. You can save $80 or more by shopping for these Costco deals.

Save $300: HP Pavilion 16-inch Touchscreen Laptop for $899.99

A new laptop is a big investment, so buying one on sale is a great money move. Costco is selling an HP Pavilion 16-inch Touchscreen Laptop at a $300 discount. You’ll pay $899.99 instead of $1,199.99. This laptop features a 2 TB SSD and runs on the Windows 11 operating system. If you have someone on your list who is ready for a laptop upgrade, you may want to shop this deal. This online-only deal is available at Costco.com through Dec. 2.

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

Save $80: Samsung 50-inch Class – DU6900D Series – 4K UHD LED Smart TV for $249.99

Hoping to surprise your family with a new TV? Your Costco membership can help you get a great TV without spending a fortune on an upgrade. You can buy the Samsung 50-inch Class – DU6900D Series – 4K UHD LED Smart TV for $249.99 through Dec. 2. The retail price for this TV is $329.99, so you’ll save $80 with this offer. This deal is available in-store and online. It also includes a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Save $100: Sony WH1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Cancling Headphones for $299.99

A great pair of headphones pairs perfectly with new electronics. Costco has a deal that will save you $100 on a new pair. Through Dec. 2, you can purchase a pair of Sony WH1000XM5 Wireless Noise-Cancling Headphones for $299.99. This could make for the perfect holiday gift for someone on your list — especially if they love listening to music.

Want to earn cash back on your next Costco haul? The right credit card can help. Click here to explore our list of top credit cards with big rewards for Costco shoppers.

Save $200: Four-pack of Arlo Pro S2 Spotlight Security Cameras for $299.99

Want to buy security cameras for your home, but don’t want to overspend? You can purchase a four-pack of Arlo Pro S2 Spotlight Security Cameras for $200 off. You’ll pay only $299.99. As a bonus, this security camera set also includes four months of Arlo Secure Subscription. This deal can help you keep more money in your checking account while you take steps to keep your family and home safe. This online-only deal is available at Costco.com through Dec. 2.

Maximize your savings by shopping early holiday deals

If you love to save money, now is the perfect time to shop for the holidays. Many retailers, including Costco have limited-time deals that can help you stretch your budget further. Don’t miss out on these fantastic deals. Every dollar you save makes a difference.

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.Natasha Gabrielle 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
Costco memberships got more expensive this year. A Gold Star membership will now set you back $65, and an Executive membership costs $130. You earn 2% cash back with the latter, which can easily make up for the cost. If you spend over $271 per month at Costco, you’ll come out ahead on the additional fee.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!But there are a few rarely discussed downsides to a Costco Executive membership. Before you upgrade, it’s worth knowing about them.1. Some purchases don’t earn cash backWhen you’re a Costco Executive member, you earn a 2% annual reward on eligible purchases. “Eligible” is the key word here. While most Costco spending qualifies, there are exclusions that won’t earn cash back. Here are some of the most common types of Costco purchases that aren’t eligible for any rewards:GasFood court purchasesMembership feesAlcohol in certain statesTobaccoCostco Shop CardsIf a lot of your Costco spending is at its gas stations, an Executive membership may not be the best choice. You won’t earn cash back on any of that gas spending.Fortunately, an Executive membership isn’t the only way to earn rewards when you shop at Costco. There’s another option that you could use on its own or in combination with an Executive membership. Check out the No. 1 strategy for saving money at Costco to learn more.2. It could lead to overspendingCash back can help you save money when you stick to your normal spending habits. If you spend $8,000 per year at Costco, earning 2% back would save you $160. But the math is never going to work out in your favor if you overspend because you’re earning cash back.Let’s say an Executive membership convinces you to splurge more when you shop at Costco. Your yearly spending goes from $8,000 to $9,000. You earn another $20 back, but after factoring in the additional $1,000 you spent, you’re down $980.This is a common issue with rewards programs. One recent study (“Cash-Back Rewards: Effects on Spending and Debt Accumulation”) found that consumers using cash back credit cards increase their spending by 32%. A Costco Executive membership is only a good idea if you can resist the temptation to start spending more.3. You only receive your cash back once a yearCostco doesn’t let you redeem your cash back any time you want. It’s an annual reward, paid out as a 2% reward certificate. This is mailed out with your membership renewal notice about two months prior to your annual renewal date.It’s not a huge issue. You’ll still get your cash back, after all. But if you were hoping to cash in every month, you won’t be able to do that. Also, you need to be a paid Executive member at the time the reward is issued to get your certificate. If you downgrade your Executive membership, you lose any rewards you’ve accumulated.While a Costco Executive membership has some downsides, it can still be a great deal if you shop there often. Keep in mind that you can also earn even more rewards if you pay with the right credit card. To earn as much back as possible, explore our curated list of the best credit cards for 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.Lyle Daly 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”:”

Costco memberships got more expensive this year. A Gold Star membership will now set you back $65, and an Executive membership costs $130. You earn 2% cash back with the latter, which can easily make up for the cost. If you spend over $271 per month at Costco, you’ll come out ahead on the additional fee.

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!

But there are a few rarely discussed downsides to a Costco Executive membership. Before you upgrade, it’s worth knowing about them.

1. Some purchases don’t earn cash back

When you’re a Costco Executive member, you earn a 2% annual reward on eligible purchases. “Eligible” is the key word here. While most Costco spending qualifies, there are exclusions that won’t earn cash back. Here are some of the most common types of Costco purchases that aren’t eligible for any rewards:

GasFood court purchasesMembership feesAlcohol in certain statesTobaccoCostco Shop Cards

If a lot of your Costco spending is at its gas stations, an Executive membership may not be the best choice. You won’t earn cash back on any of that gas spending.

Fortunately, an Executive membership isn’t the only way to earn rewards when you shop at Costco. There’s another option that you could use on its own or in combination with an Executive membership. Check out the No. 1 strategy for saving money at Costco to learn more.

2. It could lead to overspending

Cash back can help you save money when you stick to your normal spending habits. If you spend $8,000 per year at Costco, earning 2% back would save you $160. But the math is never going to work out in your favor if you overspend because you’re earning cash back.

Let’s say an Executive membership convinces you to splurge more when you shop at Costco. Your yearly spending goes from $8,000 to $9,000. You earn another $20 back, but after factoring in the additional $1,000 you spent, you’re down $980.

This is a common issue with rewards programs. One recent study (“Cash-Back Rewards: Effects on Spending and Debt Accumulation”) found that consumers using cash back credit cards increase their spending by 32%. A Costco Executive membership is only a good idea if you can resist the temptation to start spending more.

3. You only receive your cash back once a year

Costco doesn’t let you redeem your cash back any time you want. It’s an annual reward, paid out as a 2% reward certificate. This is mailed out with your membership renewal notice about two months prior to your annual renewal date.

It’s not a huge issue. You’ll still get your cash back, after all. But if you were hoping to cash in every month, you won’t be able to do that. Also, you need to be a paid Executive member at the time the reward is issued to get your certificate. If you downgrade your Executive membership, you lose any rewards you’ve accumulated.

While a Costco Executive membership has some downsides, it can still be a great deal if you shop there often. Keep in mind that you can also earn even more rewards if you pay with the right credit card. To earn as much back as possible, explore our curated list of the best credit cards for 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.Lyle Daly 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
I grew up in a family that protected me from the realities of finances, so when I married young, I was relatively ignorant of the way banking worked and prone to making poor money decisions. After years of financial highs and lows, my husband and I decided to radically change our spending in order to live on one salary. Here’s how we got there.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. Being naive doesn’t always payIn my book, anyone who routinely finds the silver lining in challenging situations is impressive. However, I was far too optimistic as a young woman. No matter what mess I got myself into, I assumed that I’d come out the other side unscathed. However, it didn’t always work out that way.For example, my husband and I were in college when we married. We were also working and had two children within four years. I should have been semi-panicked or at least planned for the worst, but I didn’t.I thought we had it made once my husband and I finished college. My husband would land his dream job, and I would stay home with the kids for a while, then work part-time as they grew up. Honestly, I still love that image of domestic bliss.It never occurred to me that 43 million American jobs would disappear within the first 18 years of our marriage — a vast majority of them in my husband’s field. I never imagined that we’d have to pull up stakes and move to another state or country so that he could remain employed. And I never realized how much money we would lose each time we sold a house after living there for a year or two.I wish we’d had a solid emergency fund to handle life’s twists and turns. If you’re looking for a place to build one, click here for our favorite high-yield savings accounts.Life juked usI never did become a stay-at-home mom, at least not for long. For a while, working part-time at a job I loved made me happy and provided us with much-needed extra income. And some years, my husband’s industry would pick up steam again, bonuses would be amazing, and we’d believe we were finally in the clear. But then the world would shift, and we’d go right back to worrying.Something had to give.We became determined to reconfigure our lives. Rather than work part-time, I went to work full-time. And rather than spend both incomes, we made deep cuts to our budget, eventually allowing us to pay bills on one salary. That way, whenever the economy got a little wonky or one of our industries went into a nosedive, the other could hold things together until we figured out the next step.It wasn’t always pretty, but it was effectiveGrowing up, neither of us ever saw our parents struggle through a layoff or carefully read the newspaper, trying to gauge which direction the economy was headed. But then, each of our families lived below their means, and copying them was ultimately our best move.There were times we felt sorry for ourselves, which is embarrassing to admit. Among our friend group, we were the ones who burned the candle at both ends so we could get through college.We did everything we thought we were “supposed” to do. Still, paying for our education and moving so often left us in a hole our friends never seemed to fall into — much to their credit.Things didn’t change overnight for us. Each new decision was rooted in our goal of living on a single income.We rewrote our scriptHere’s how we began to move our finances in a different direction:We developed a budget that would act as our GPS, continually showing us how far away we were from our goal.We paid off debt, beginning with high-interest credit cards. I’m not going to lie; this was the hardest step for me. Once we started the debt avalanche plan, it felt like it would take forever to pay off everything.We never wanted to feel house-poor again, so we purchased a home that was inexpensive enough for one of us to cover the mortgage if the other became ill or lost their job.I stopped shopping for clothes at my favorite store and have embraced less-expensive brands.We’ve vowed to keep our vehicles until the wheels fall off rather than trade them for something fancier, no matter how well things seem to be going.We began eating at home more. I’m still a relatively horrible cook, but we’ve learned to enjoy a sandwich or salad for dinner.The most important thing we did was to (miraculously) remain on the same page. Back when our lives felt stuck in either feast or famine mode, it was easier to argue about money because we never knew what to expect. It’s not as though we can now predict the future, but we’re doing what we can to be prepared.We’ve found freedom in not worrying about whether bills will get paid or trying to keep up with other people’s success. And as a bonus, living below our means has resulted in having more money to invest for retirement, which has removed another stressor from our lives.In truth, I have not enjoyed cutting our budget just to plan for what “might happen.” However, each time we have something to show for it — like another debt getting paid off — I know we’ve done the right thing. Our approach might not be the right one for everyone, but it seems to work for us.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”:”

I grew up in a family that protected me from the realities of finances, so when I married young, I was relatively ignorant of the way banking worked and prone to making poor money decisions. After years of financial highs and lows, my husband and I decided to radically change our spending in order to live on one salary. Here’s how we got there.

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

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Being naive doesn’t always pay

In my book, anyone who routinely finds the silver lining in challenging situations is impressive. However, I was far too optimistic as a young woman. No matter what mess I got myself into, I assumed that I’d come out the other side unscathed. However, it didn’t always work out that way.

For example, my husband and I were in college when we married. We were also working and had two children within four years. I should have been semi-panicked or at least planned for the worst, but I didn’t.

I thought we had it made once my husband and I finished college. My husband would land his dream job, and I would stay home with the kids for a while, then work part-time as they grew up. Honestly, I still love that image of domestic bliss.

It never occurred to me that 43 million American jobs would disappear within the first 18 years of our marriage — a vast majority of them in my husband’s field. I never imagined that we’d have to pull up stakes and move to another state or country so that he could remain employed. And I never realized how much money we would lose each time we sold a house after living there for a year or two.

I wish we’d had a solid emergency fund to handle life’s twists and turns. If you’re looking for a place to build one, click here for our favorite high-yield savings accounts.

Life juked us

I never did become a stay-at-home mom, at least not for long. For a while, working part-time at a job I loved made me happy and provided us with much-needed extra income. And some years, my husband’s industry would pick up steam again, bonuses would be amazing, and we’d believe we were finally in the clear. But then the world would shift, and we’d go right back to worrying.

Something had to give.

We became determined to reconfigure our lives. Rather than work part-time, I went to work full-time. And rather than spend both incomes, we made deep cuts to our budget, eventually allowing us to pay bills on one salary. That way, whenever the economy got a little wonky or one of our industries went into a nosedive, the other could hold things together until we figured out the next step.

It wasn’t always pretty, but it was effective

Growing up, neither of us ever saw our parents struggle through a layoff or carefully read the newspaper, trying to gauge which direction the economy was headed. But then, each of our families lived below their means, and copying them was ultimately our best move.

There were times we felt sorry for ourselves, which is embarrassing to admit. Among our friend group, we were the ones who burned the candle at both ends so we could get through college.

We did everything we thought we were “supposed” to do. Still, paying for our education and moving so often left us in a hole our friends never seemed to fall into — much to their credit.

Things didn’t change overnight for us. Each new decision was rooted in our goal of living on a single income.

We rewrote our script

Here’s how we began to move our finances in a different direction:

We developed a budget that would act as our GPS, continually showing us how far away we were from our goal.We paid off debt, beginning with high-interest credit cards. I’m not going to lie; this was the hardest step for me. Once we started the debt avalanche plan, it felt like it would take forever to pay off everything.We never wanted to feel house-poor again, so we purchased a home that was inexpensive enough for one of us to cover the mortgage if the other became ill or lost their job.I stopped shopping for clothes at my favorite store and have embraced less-expensive brands.We’ve vowed to keep our vehicles until the wheels fall off rather than trade them for something fancier, no matter how well things seem to be going.We began eating at home more. I’m still a relatively horrible cook, but we’ve learned to enjoy a sandwich or salad for dinner.

The most important thing we did was to (miraculously) remain on the same page. Back when our lives felt stuck in either feast or famine mode, it was easier to argue about money because we never knew what to expect. It’s not as though we can now predict the future, but we’re doing what we can to be prepared.

We’ve found freedom in not worrying about whether bills will get paid or trying to keep up with other people’s success. And as a bonus, living below our means has resulted in having more money to invest for retirement, which has removed another stressor from our lives.

In truth, I have not enjoyed cutting our budget just to plan for what “might happen.” However, each time we have something to show for it — like another debt getting paid off — I know we’ve done the right thing. Our approach might not be the right one for everyone, but it seems to work for us.

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The average 30-year mortgage rate in the United States is just under 7% as of this writing, but it wasn’t too long ago when rates below 4% — and even 3% — were the industry standard.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
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Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. Many people will tell you things like “4% mortgage rates are never coming back.” But it wasn’t that long ago that things like 5% CD yields seemed completely unrealistic — until they happened in 2023 for the first time in decades.The fact is that 4% mortgage rates aren’t nearly as outlandish as they might sound right now, and they could come back under the right circumstances. Here’s what you need to know, and when I believe we’ll see 4% mortgage rates again.Are you in the market for a home? Click here to get quotes from the top mortgage lenders right now. You might be surprised how much of a difference shopping around can make.Will we see 4% mortgage rates ever again?To be clear, I don’t think the sub-3% mortgage rates we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic are coming back anytime soon (although I’d hesitate to say “never”). However, mortgage rates that start with a “4” haven’t exactly been uncommon in the past.Sub-5% mortgage rates were the norm during most of the 2010s, for example, and there were several periods during that decade where the average 30-year mortgage rate fell below 4%, including parts of 2012, 2015, and 2016. I certainly think we could see 4% rates come back in the not-too-distant future. But there’s a caveat.The short answer is that (in my opinion) we’ll likely see mortgage rates that are in the 4% range at some point in the future, but it would most likely mean that the economy weakened enough for the Fed to cut rates below what it would consider “neutral” monetary policy and Treasury security yields fell significantly from current levels.Think of it this way. If the 10-year Treasury yield fell by about 2 percentage points in a recession (which isn’t unprecedented), we could expect the average mortgage rate to behave in the same way. That would mean 30-year mortgage rates that start with a 4.The short version is that I wouldn’t be surprised to see 4% mortgage rates the next time the U.S. economy falls into a recession. In fact, I’ll go so far as to predict that will happen, as long as there isn’t elevated inflation that causes the Fed to avoid making meaningful rate cuts.What would 4% mortgage rates mean for home buyers?Home prices have soared in recent years, but that’s only one side of the home affordability equation. In fact, the average 30-year mortgage rate’s rise from about 3% at the beginning of 2022 to about 7% in late 2024 has been even more impactful in many cases — unless you’re a cash buyer, of course.Consider this example. Let’s say that you’re planning to buy your first home for $500,000, and plan to make a 20% down payment, so you’ll need a $400,000 mortgage.If you get a 7% APR mortgage today, you can expect a $3,421 monthly payment (assuming national averages for taxes and insurance). However, if you get a 4% mortgage rate, your monthly payment would drop to $2,669. Your monthly housing payment would be 22% lower for the exact same home at the exact same purchase price.The bottom lineAs mentioned, I don’t necessarily expect mortgage rates to drop into the 4% range soon, unless the U.S. economy falls into a deep recession. But the reality is that at some point the economy will turn sour to the point where the Fed is forced to cut rates below its neutral level, and once that happens, 4% mortgage rates won’t be out of the question.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”:”

The average 30-year mortgage rate in the United States is just under 7% as of this writing, but it wasn’t too long ago when rates below 4% — and even 3% — were the industry standard.

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.

Many people will tell you things like “4% mortgage rates are never coming back.” But it wasn’t that long ago that things like 5% CD yields seemed completely unrealistic — until they happened in 2023 for the first time in decades.

The fact is that 4% mortgage rates aren’t nearly as outlandish as they might sound right now, and they could come back under the right circumstances. Here’s what you need to know, and when I believe we’ll see 4% mortgage rates again.

Are you in the market for a home? Click here to get quotes from the top mortgage lenders right now. You might be surprised how much of a difference shopping around can make.

Will we see 4% mortgage rates ever again?

To be clear, I don’t think the sub-3% mortgage rates we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic are coming back anytime soon (although I’d hesitate to say “never”). However, mortgage rates that start with a “4” haven’t exactly been uncommon in the past.

Sub-5% mortgage rates were the norm during most of the 2010s, for example, and there were several periods during that decade where the average 30-year mortgage rate fell below 4%, including parts of 2012, 2015, and 2016. I certainly think we could see 4% rates come back in the not-too-distant future. But there’s a caveat.

The short answer is that (in my opinion) we’ll likely see mortgage rates that are in the 4% range at some point in the future, but it would most likely mean that the economy weakened enough for the Fed to cut rates below what it would consider “neutral” monetary policy and Treasury security yields fell significantly from current levels.

Think of it this way. If the 10-year Treasury yield fell by about 2 percentage points in a recession (which isn’t unprecedented), we could expect the average mortgage rate to behave in the same way. That would mean 30-year mortgage rates that start with a 4.

The short version is that I wouldn’t be surprised to see 4% mortgage rates the next time the U.S. economy falls into a recession. In fact, I’ll go so far as to predict that will happen, as long as there isn’t elevated inflation that causes the Fed to avoid making meaningful rate cuts.

What would 4% mortgage rates mean for home buyers?

Home prices have soared in recent years, but that’s only one side of the home affordability equation. In fact, the average 30-year mortgage rate’s rise from about 3% at the beginning of 2022 to about 7% in late 2024 has been even more impactful in many cases — unless you’re a cash buyer, of course.

Consider this example. Let’s say that you’re planning to buy your first home for $500,000, and plan to make a 20% down payment, so you’ll need a $400,000 mortgage.

If you get a 7% APR mortgage today, you can expect a $3,421 monthly payment (assuming national averages for taxes and insurance). However, if you get a 4% mortgage rate, your monthly payment would drop to $2,669. Your monthly housing payment would be 22% lower for the exact same home at the exact same purchase price.

The bottom line

As mentioned, I don’t necessarily expect mortgage rates to drop into the 4% range soon, unless the U.S. economy falls into a deep recession. But the reality is that at some point the economy will turn sour to the point where the Fed is forced to cut rates below its neutral level, and once that happens, 4% mortgage rates won’t be out of the question.

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: Getty Images
When Costco raised the cost of its membership fees in September, it wasn’t particularly surprising. The warehouse club titan was overdue for an increase seeing as how it hadn’t made any changes to its fee structure since mid-2017.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. As a result of that September fee hike, a Costco membership now costs considerably more than a membership at Sam’s Club. At Costco, you’ll pay $65 a year for a basic Gold Star membership and $130 for an Executive membership that gives you 2% cash back on purchases.At Sam’s Club, a basic membership costs $50 per year, while a Plus membership that pays cash back costs $110. Plus, Sam’s Club offers a few benefits for Plus members that Executive members at Costco don’t get, like free curbside pickup and early shopping hours.But since Sam’s Club hasn’t raised fees recently, you may be wondering whether you should brace for an increase in 2025. The answer? While a fee hike is technically possible next year, it’s also not likely to happen.Don’t stress about paying more for Sam’s Club just yetThe current membership fee structure at Sam’s Club was put in place in August of 2022, when the cost of a basic membership rose from $45 to $50 and the cost of a Plus membership rose from $100 to $110. But prior to the summer of 2022, Sam’s Club hadn’t raised the cost of a membership for nine years.Based on this, it’s very unlikely that we’ll see an increase in membership costs in 2025. That would most likely result in backlash on the part of Sam’s Club members. Also, it would bring the cost of a Sam’s Club membership even closer to the cost of joining Costco, thereby causing Sam’s Club to lose that distinction (and, in turn, potentially lose members).Are you making the most of your Sam’s Club membership?Chances are, Sam’s Club won’t raise its membership fees in 2025. But even if those fees stay the same, it’s important to make sure you’re getting great value out of your membership.To that end, ask yourself how often you’re buying groceries in bulk and how often you’re actually using up what you buy. If you find that you keep throwing bulk perishables away, then it may be time to cancel your membership at Sam’s Club and do your food shopping at a regular supermarket.Hunting for sales at a traditional supermarket and using the right credit card could help you make up for the savings on groceries you may be enjoying at Sam’s Club — only without having to commit to bulk hauls every time you buy food. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for groceries.Similarly, if you’re a Sam’s Club member, you’ll want to ask yourself how often you’re taking advantage of the store’s other benefits, which include low-cost gas, free hearing tests, and home improvement services.There’s a good chance that in time, a Sam’s Club membership will get more expensive. You probably don’t have to worry about that happening in the coming year. But it’s also a good idea to assess your membership and make sure it’s actually worth paying for, no matter what it costs you.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.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”:”

When Costco raised the cost of its membership fees in September, it wasn’t particularly surprising. The warehouse club titan was overdue for an increase seeing as how it hadn’t made any changes to its fee structure since mid-2017.

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.

As a result of that September fee hike, a Costco membership now costs considerably more than a membership at Sam’s Club. At Costco, you’ll pay $65 a year for a basic Gold Star membership and $130 for an Executive membership that gives you 2% cash back on purchases.

At Sam’s Club, a basic membership costs $50 per year, while a Plus membership that pays cash back costs $110. Plus, Sam’s Club offers a few benefits for Plus members that Executive members at Costco don’t get, like free curbside pickup and early shopping hours.

But since Sam’s Club hasn’t raised fees recently, you may be wondering whether you should brace for an increase in 2025. The answer? While a fee hike is technically possible next year, it’s also not likely to happen.

Don’t stress about paying more for Sam’s Club just yet

The current membership fee structure at Sam’s Club was put in place in August of 2022, when the cost of a basic membership rose from $45 to $50 and the cost of a Plus membership rose from $100 to $110. But prior to the summer of 2022, Sam’s Club hadn’t raised the cost of a membership for nine years.

Based on this, it’s very unlikely that we’ll see an increase in membership costs in 2025. That would most likely result in backlash on the part of Sam’s Club members. Also, it would bring the cost of a Sam’s Club membership even closer to the cost of joining Costco, thereby causing Sam’s Club to lose that distinction (and, in turn, potentially lose members).

Are you making the most of your Sam’s Club membership?

Chances are, Sam’s Club won’t raise its membership fees in 2025. But even if those fees stay the same, it’s important to make sure you’re getting great value out of your membership.

To that end, ask yourself how often you’re buying groceries in bulk and how often you’re actually using up what you buy. If you find that you keep throwing bulk perishables away, then it may be time to cancel your membership at Sam’s Club and do your food shopping at a regular supermarket.

Hunting for sales at a traditional supermarket and using the right credit card could help you make up for the savings on groceries you may be enjoying at Sam’s Club — only without having to commit to bulk hauls every time you buy food. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for groceries.

Similarly, if you’re a Sam’s Club member, you’ll want to ask yourself how often you’re taking advantage of the store’s other benefits, which include low-cost gas, free hearing tests, and home improvement services.

There’s a good chance that in time, a Sam’s Club membership will get more expensive. You probably don’t have to worry about that happening in the coming year. But it’s also a good idea to assess your membership and make sure it’s actually worth paying for, no matter what it costs you.

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.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.

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