Category

Money Management

Beware These 5 Factors That Can Unexpectedly Increase Your Car Insurance Premium

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Inflation may be starting to cool, but one area we’re not seeing much change yet is auto insurance. Average premium costs are up 16.3% from a year ago, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and some drivers have seen their costs rise even more.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. You probably know that safe driving is crucial to keeping costs as low as possible. Even a single accident can send your rates skyrocketing. But that’s not the only thing that could cost you more. There are five other factors that can raise your car insurance rates, and some of them might surprise you.1. MovingWhen you move, you’re required to notify your auto insurer because where you live and, presumably, park your vehicle has a significant effect on your risk of a claim.If you move from an area with a relatively low risk of natural disasters to one that experiences frequent flooding or hurricanes, you’ll pay more. Or if you move from a rural area to a city with a high risk of auto theft, this can also raise your rates.In times like these, it’s best to get some quotes from several car insurance companies to see which can offer you the best rate. If you’re not sure where to begin, start by comparing the car insurance companies that offer the cheapest average car insurance rates.2. Adding a new driver to the policyWhen you add a new driver to the policy, the insurance company takes that driver’s record into account when setting the premiums. If that driver has an accident history or is a teen without a lot of experience behind the wheel, this could raise your premiums significantly.This is true even if the new driver doesn’t actually use your vehicle at all. The insurance company assumes that any person named on your policy could drive your vehicle at some point, and that’s enough to cause the bump in premiums.3. Buying a new vehicleThis might seem expected. After all, if you purchase a newer, more expensive vehicle, it probably won’t surprise you to know that it will probably be more expensive to insure. But that’s not the only reason you could pay more to insure your new car.Some car makes and models are popular targets for auto theft. If you choose one of these, you could pay more for your insurance than you expected, even if the car’s not new.4. Reduced credit scoreCredit scores might seem totally distinct from auto insurance, but insurers argue that it’s a predictor of risk. They claim that if someone takes unnecessary financial risks, as evidenced by a low credit score, they’re more likely to do the same behind the wheel.Eight states — California, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah — have prohibited insurers from using credit score data in calculating their rates. But if you don’t live in one of these places, you could pay more for your car insurance if your credit score takes a hit.If you’re struggling with poor credit, check out some of our best secured credit cards to help you establish a strong credit history.5. Driving more milesInsurance companies usually ask you to estimate how much you drive when determining your premium. The idea here is that the more time you spend on the road, the more likely you are to have an accident. So if you find yourself driving more than you did in the past, this could increase your car insurance rate.It’s difficult to argue with insurers’ logic here. A higher risk of accidents makes having top-notch car insurance all the more important. Check out our list of the best car insurance companies to see which offer the best all-around protection.Keep in mind that the best insurer for you may not always be the cheapest company. But sometimes, it’s worth paying a little extra for quality claims handling and better protection.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.Kailey Hagen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Image source: Getty Images

Inflation may be starting to cool, but one area we’re not seeing much change yet is auto insurance. Average premium costs are up 16.3% from a year ago, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and some drivers have seen their costs rise even more.

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.

You probably know that safe driving is crucial to keeping costs as low as possible. Even a single accident can send your rates skyrocketing. But that’s not the only thing that could cost you more. There are five other factors that can raise your car insurance rates, and some of them might surprise you.

1. Moving

When you move, you’re required to notify your auto insurer because where you live and, presumably, park your vehicle has a significant effect on your risk of a claim.

If you move from an area with a relatively low risk of natural disasters to one that experiences frequent flooding or hurricanes, you’ll pay more. Or if you move from a rural area to a city with a high risk of auto theft, this can also raise your rates.

In times like these, it’s best to get some quotes from several car insurance companies to see which can offer you the best rate. If you’re not sure where to begin, start by comparing the car insurance companies that offer the cheapest average car insurance rates.

2. Adding a new driver to the policy

When you add a new driver to the policy, the insurance company takes that driver’s record into account when setting the premiums. If that driver has an accident history or is a teen without a lot of experience behind the wheel, this could raise your premiums significantly.

This is true even if the new driver doesn’t actually use your vehicle at all. The insurance company assumes that any person named on your policy could drive your vehicle at some point, and that’s enough to cause the bump in premiums.

3. Buying a new vehicle

This might seem expected. After all, if you purchase a newer, more expensive vehicle, it probably won’t surprise you to know that it will probably be more expensive to insure. But that’s not the only reason you could pay more to insure your new car.

Some car makes and models are popular targets for auto theft. If you choose one of these, you could pay more for your insurance than you expected, even if the car’s not new.

4. Reduced credit score

Credit scores might seem totally distinct from auto insurance, but insurers argue that it’s a predictor of risk. They claim that if someone takes unnecessary financial risks, as evidenced by a low credit score, they’re more likely to do the same behind the wheel.

Eight states — California, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah — have prohibited insurers from using credit score data in calculating their rates. But if you don’t live in one of these places, you could pay more for your car insurance if your credit score takes a hit.

If you’re struggling with poor credit, check out some of our best secured credit cards to help you establish a strong credit history.

5. Driving more miles

Insurance companies usually ask you to estimate how much you drive when determining your premium. The idea here is that the more time you spend on the road, the more likely you are to have an accident. So if you find yourself driving more than you did in the past, this could increase your car insurance rate.

It’s difficult to argue with insurers’ logic here. A higher risk of accidents makes having top-notch car insurance all the more important. Check out our list of the best car insurance companies to see which offer the best all-around protection.

Keep in mind that the best insurer for you may not always be the cheapest company. But sometimes, it’s worth paying a little extra for quality claims handling and better protection.

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.Kailey Hagen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Costco Executive vs. Sam’s Club Plus: What’s the Difference?

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus memberships have a lot in common. If you have a big household and regularly shop at one of the warehouse giants, their top-shelf premium memberships could make financial sense.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 is one better than the other? Read on to find out how to decide between the two.Costco Executive vs. Sam’s Club PlusOne of the big benefits of both Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus is the 2% cash back on the majority of your spending. Both also offer extra perks for premium members, such as additional discounts or savings on delivery.However, the two memberships aren’t identical. And understanding the differences could save you money. For example, a Sam’s Club Plus membership costs less, but its cash back cap is also much lower. If you spend over $25,000 a year on warehouse club purchases, you’d earn more back with a Costco Executive membership.If you’re spending enough to reach either stores’ cash back limit, the right credit card could save you hundreds of extra dollars a year. Stack credit card rewards with your premium membership cash back to earn more. Click here to learn more about our top way to maximize the value you get from your premium membership.Here’s a summary of Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus memberships:FeatureCostco ExecutiveSam’s Club PlusAnnual membership fee$130 (Basic membership is $65)$110 (Basic membership is $50)Annual 2% cash back cap$1,250$500How you get your rewardsAnnual gift voucherCredited monthly to membership cardAdditional perksExtra discounts on Costco services, including auto buying and insurance.Free delivery/shipping on orders over $50.Extra savings on optical services and prescriptions.Data source: Costco.com and Samsclub.comCostco’s cash back rewards are betterCostco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus both pay 2% cash back on spending. Think about how much you spend and work out whether it’s enough to cover the additional cost.Costco Executive costs $65 more than the basic membership fee. If you spend $3,250 a year at Costco, the upgrade to an Executive membership will pay for itself.Sam’s Club Plus costs $60 more than the basic membership fee. If you spend $3,000 a year at Sam’s Club, the upgrade to a Plus membership will pay for itself.The main differences come in how you claim your rewards and how much you can earn. Costco pays rewards each year in the form of a gift certificate. Sam’s Club Plus members get their cash back credited to their membership cards each month. There are pros and cons to both routes, depending on your shopping habits.If you’re a big spender, a Costco Executive membership is by far the better choice. It caps its annual cash back at $1,250. You’d have to spend $62,500 a year or just over $5,200 a month to reach that limit. The maximum Sam’s Club Plus members can get is $500 annually. In spending terms, that’s $25,000 a year or almost $2,100 a month.Premium membership cash back benefits aren’t the only way to get rewards on your everyday spending. If grocery shopping makes up a large chunk of your budget, look for a card that pays extra rewards every time you go to the store. Some of the best Costco credit cards pay 2% or 3% back on groceries — click here to learn more.Sam’s Club Plus will save you more on deliveryIf you regularly shop online, Sam’s Club Plus stands out. It offers free delivery on orders over $50. Ordinary members will need to pay a $12 delivery fee on Club orders. If you regularly shop online, you’d quickly cover the premium fee in savings on delivery fees alone.In contrast, Costco Executive members don’t get any extra delivery benefits. There’s free two-day delivery on online orders of over $75 for both regular and Executive members. Members can also pay an Instacart premium for same-day delivery.It’s also worth noting that shopping with Costco online can be more expensive than visiting the store. Sam’s Club again has the advantage here — it says the prices at Samsclub.com are the same as you’ll get in store.Bottom lineIf you’re deciding between Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus, a lot comes down to which store is nearer and which has product lines you prefer. That said, there are some key differences:Costco’s higher cash back limit could pay off if you spend a lot of money at your favorite warehouse giant.The delivery benefits on Sam’s Club Plus give it the edge if you do a lot of shopping online.You can also take comfort in knowing that Costco and Sam’s Club both offer money-back guarantees on their club memberships, so there’s no risk in giving one a try today.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.Emma Newbery 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”:”

Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool

Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus memberships have a lot in common. If you have a big household and regularly shop at one of the warehouse giants, their top-shelf premium memberships could make financial sense.

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 is one better than the other? Read on to find out how to decide between the two.

Costco Executive vs. Sam’s Club Plus

One of the big benefits of both Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus is the 2% cash back on the majority of your spending. Both also offer extra perks for premium members, such as additional discounts or savings on delivery.

However, the two memberships aren’t identical. And understanding the differences could save you money. For example, a Sam’s Club Plus membership costs less, but its cash back cap is also much lower. If you spend over $25,000 a year on warehouse club purchases, you’d earn more back with a Costco Executive membership.

If you’re spending enough to reach either stores’ cash back limit, the right credit card could save you hundreds of extra dollars a year. Stack credit card rewards with your premium membership cash back to earn more. Click here to learn more about our top way to maximize the value you get from your premium membership.

Here’s a summary of Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus memberships:

FeatureCostco ExecutiveSam’s Club PlusAnnual membership fee$130
(Basic membership is $65)$110
(Basic membership is $50)Annual 2% cash back cap$1,250$500How you get your rewardsAnnual gift voucherCredited monthly to membership cardAdditional perksExtra discounts on Costco services, including auto buying and insurance.Free delivery/shipping on orders over $50.Extra savings on optical services and prescriptions.
Data source: Costco.com and Samsclub.com

Costco’s cash back rewards are better

Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus both pay 2% cash back on spending. Think about how much you spend and work out whether it’s enough to cover the additional cost.

Costco Executive costs $65 more than the basic membership fee. If you spend $3,250 a year at Costco, the upgrade to an Executive membership will pay for itself.Sam’s Club Plus costs $60 more than the basic membership fee. If you spend $3,000 a year at Sam’s Club, the upgrade to a Plus membership will pay for itself.

The main differences come in how you claim your rewards and how much you can earn. Costco pays rewards each year in the form of a gift certificate. Sam’s Club Plus members get their cash back credited to their membership cards each month. There are pros and cons to both routes, depending on your shopping habits.

If you’re a big spender, a Costco Executive membership is by far the better choice. It caps its annual cash back at $1,250. You’d have to spend $62,500 a year or just over $5,200 a month to reach that limit. The maximum Sam’s Club Plus members can get is $500 annually. In spending terms, that’s $25,000 a year or almost $2,100 a month.

Premium membership cash back benefits aren’t the only way to get rewards on your everyday spending. If grocery shopping makes up a large chunk of your budget, look for a card that pays extra rewards every time you go to the store. Some of the best Costco credit cards pay 2% or 3% back on groceries — click here to learn more.

Sam’s Club Plus will save you more on delivery

If you regularly shop online, Sam’s Club Plus stands out. It offers free delivery on orders over $50. Ordinary members will need to pay a $12 delivery fee on Club orders. If you regularly shop online, you’d quickly cover the premium fee in savings on delivery fees alone.

In contrast, Costco Executive members don’t get any extra delivery benefits. There’s free two-day delivery on online orders of over $75 for both regular and Executive members. Members can also pay an Instacart premium for same-day delivery.

It’s also worth noting that shopping with Costco online can be more expensive than visiting the store. Sam’s Club again has the advantage here — it says the prices at Samsclub.com are the same as you’ll get in store.

Bottom line

If you’re deciding between Costco Executive and Sam’s Club Plus, a lot comes down to which store is nearer and which has product lines you prefer. That said, there are some key differences:

Costco’s higher cash back limit could pay off if you spend a lot of money at your favorite warehouse giant.The delivery benefits on Sam’s Club Plus give it the edge if you do a lot of shopping online.

You can also take comfort in knowing that Costco and Sam’s Club both offer money-back guarantees on their club memberships, so there’s no risk in giving one a try today.

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.Emma Newbery 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 

Forget About Cash Back: Here Are 3 Better Ways to Use Your Capital One Rewards Points

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
So, you’ve been diligently racking up Capital One miles with every swipe, tap, and online impulse purchase. And now you’re wondering: Should you just hit that cash back button? I mean, sure, it’s easy. But hold up, there are far savvier ways to put those hard-earned miles to work (and much better cash back credit cards like these).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. Let’s dive into three ways to squeeze the maximum value from your Capital One rewards.1. Transfer to airline and hotel partnersIf you’re sitting on a stash of Capital One miles, transferring them to airline and hotel partners can be your ticket (literally) to squeezing every drop of value out of those points. The beauty here? You can transfer your rewards to more than 15 airline and hotel loyalty programs, most at a 1:1 ratio. Yes, you heard that right — your 10,000 miles can magically transform into 10,000 airline miles or hotel points. That’s why Capital One cards are among the best travel credit cards we’ve found.Imagine booking a flight to Europe using Air France-KLM Flying Blue miles or securing that bucket-list trip to Australia via Qantas. And with airlines like Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, British Airways Avios, and Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles on the roster, your vacation planning just got a serious upgrade.But before you get too excited, here’s the catch: not all transfers are instant. The wait times can vary, so plan accordingly. No one wants to sit there with their bags packed, hitting refresh like it’s a Beyoncé ticket drop. Check Capital One’s transfer time guide to avoid pre-trip panic attacks.Still in the market for your first Capital One card, or considering adding to your collection? Click here to see a list of our favorite Capital One credit cards and the benefits they offer.2. Redeem miles for recent purchasesWe all have those moments when we think, “Did I really need that new espresso machine?” The answer is probably yes (caffeine is life), but here’s where Capital One swoops in to save your bank account from buyer’s remorse.The “Recent Purchase” feature lets you use your miles to get reimbursed for anything travel-related you bought in the last 90 days. Booked a spontaneous weekend getaway? Use your miles to erase that expense. Found yourself clicking “buy” on that fancy hotel stay you convinced yourself was necessary? No judgment — redeem your miles for a statement credit, and suddenly, that splurge feels a lot more responsible.Each mile redeemed this way is worth $0.01. If that flight to Miami cost $200, you’d need 20,000 miles to erase that charge. But hey, you’re still not touching your cash savings, which feels like a win in itself.3. Pay with miles on Amazon and PayPalWe all have that love/hate relationship with Amazon. One minute, you’re browsing for a book, and suddenly, you’ve got a cart full of quirky gadgets you didn’t know existed. If this sounds familiar, Capital One’s integration with Amazon and PayPal is your best friend.With this option, you can link your Capital One account directly to your Amazon or PayPal checkout, making your miles just as good as cash. Just remember, points are worth $0.008 each here, so while it’s super convenient, you won’t get the same value as transferring to airlines or reimbursing travel expenses.Still, if you’ve got miles burning a hole in your virtual pocket and you need to grab a last-minute gift (or treat yourself to that kitchen gadget that TikTok convinced you is life-changing), it’s an easy way to cash in without thinking too hard.The bottom lineIn the game of miles, it’s all about strategy. Cash back redemptions are fine, but if you want to make your Capital One rewards really sing, transfer to airline or hotel partners, cover recent splurges, or use them for your online shopping addiction. Because at the end of the day, who doesn’t love getting more bang for their buck — or, in this case, their miles?So go ahead, redeem wisely, and watch those miles take you places you never thought possible. Just, you know, maybe check for award availability before you start bragging to your friends.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.John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon and PayPal. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2027 $42.50 calls on PayPal and short December 2024 $70 calls on PayPal. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Image source: Getty Images

So, you’ve been diligently racking up Capital One miles with every swipe, tap, and online impulse purchase. And now you’re wondering: Should you just hit that cash back button? I mean, sure, it’s easy. But hold up, there are far savvier ways to put those hard-earned miles to work (and much better cash back credit cards like these).

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.

Let’s dive into three ways to squeeze the maximum value from your Capital One rewards.

1. Transfer to airline and hotel partners

If you’re sitting on a stash of Capital One miles, transferring them to airline and hotel partners can be your ticket (literally) to squeezing every drop of value out of those points. The beauty here? You can transfer your rewards to more than 15 airline and hotel loyalty programs, most at a 1:1 ratio. Yes, you heard that right — your 10,000 miles can magically transform into 10,000 airline miles or hotel points. That’s why Capital One cards are among the best travel credit cards we’ve found.

Imagine booking a flight to Europe using Air France-KLM Flying Blue miles or securing that bucket-list trip to Australia via Qantas. And with airlines like Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, British Airways Avios, and Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles on the roster, your vacation planning just got a serious upgrade.

But before you get too excited, here’s the catch: not all transfers are instant. The wait times can vary, so plan accordingly. No one wants to sit there with their bags packed, hitting refresh like it’s a Beyoncé ticket drop. Check Capital One’s transfer time guide to avoid pre-trip panic attacks.

Still in the market for your first Capital One card, or considering adding to your collection? Click here to see a list of our favorite Capital One credit cards and the benefits they offer.

2. Redeem miles for recent purchases

We all have those moments when we think, “Did I really need that new espresso machine?” The answer is probably yes (caffeine is life), but here’s where Capital One swoops in to save your bank account from buyer’s remorse.

The “Recent Purchase” feature lets you use your miles to get reimbursed for anything travel-related you bought in the last 90 days. Booked a spontaneous weekend getaway? Use your miles to erase that expense. Found yourself clicking “buy” on that fancy hotel stay you convinced yourself was necessary? No judgment — redeem your miles for a statement credit, and suddenly, that splurge feels a lot more responsible.

Each mile redeemed this way is worth $0.01. If that flight to Miami cost $200, you’d need 20,000 miles to erase that charge. But hey, you’re still not touching your cash savings, which feels like a win in itself.

3. Pay with miles on Amazon and PayPal

We all have that love/hate relationship with Amazon. One minute, you’re browsing for a book, and suddenly, you’ve got a cart full of quirky gadgets you didn’t know existed. If this sounds familiar, Capital One’s integration with Amazon and PayPal is your best friend.

With this option, you can link your Capital One account directly to your Amazon or PayPal checkout, making your miles just as good as cash. Just remember, points are worth $0.008 each here, so while it’s super convenient, you won’t get the same value as transferring to airlines or reimbursing travel expenses.

Still, if you’ve got miles burning a hole in your virtual pocket and you need to grab a last-minute gift (or treat yourself to that kitchen gadget that TikTok convinced you is life-changing), it’s an easy way to cash in without thinking too hard.

The bottom line

In the game of miles, it’s all about strategy. Cash back redemptions are fine, but if you want to make your Capital One rewards really sing, transfer to airline or hotel partners, cover recent splurges, or use them for your online shopping addiction. Because at the end of the day, who doesn’t love getting more bang for their buck — or, in this case, their miles?

So go ahead, redeem wisely, and watch those miles take you places you never thought possible. Just, you know, maybe check for award availability before you start bragging to your friends.

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.John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon and PayPal. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2027 $42.50 calls on PayPal and short December 2024 $70 calls on PayPal. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Slash Your Vehicle Maintenance Costs With These 5 Reliable Car Brands

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Like everything else over the past few years, vehicle maintenance expenses have climbed higher, too. That means a few trips to the mechanic could wreak havoc on your finances, leading some experts to recommend budgeting $1,350 annually for car maintenance and repairs.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. However, if you want an easier way to protect your budget that will also save you the frustration of being in the repair shop, consider buying a vehicle from a car brand with a reputation for having inexpensive repairs. Here are five of the best ones, according to Consumer Reports’ research.1. TeslaOne- to five-year maintenance cost: $580Electric vehicles typically cost more upfront than similar gas-powered models, but getting a Tesla is a smart bet if you’re looking for a reliable vehicle with low maintenance costs. Consumer Reports says the average maintenance and repair costs for the first one to five years for a Tesla is about $580, which works out to be less than $10 per month over a half decade.One of the cheapest new Teslas you can buy is the Model 3, which starts at $42,490. However, you can probably lower that cost by using the $7,500 IRS tax credit.Tip: Electric vehicles can be more expensive to insure than traditional cars. Even if you don’t have an EV, car insurance costs have jumped 26% over the past year! That’s why shopping for cheap car insurance is a smart idea, no matter what vehicle you decide to buy.2. BuickOne- to five-year maintenance cost: $900Buick may not have always topped a list of low-maintenance vehicles, but the brand ranked in second place on the Consumer Reports list, costing just $900 in the first one to five years. I did a quick search on RepairPal to see how the brand ranked, and the data confirmed that Buick has an overall above-average reliability rating.Even better news for budget-conscious buyers is that the cheapest Buick, which is a compact crossover SUV called the Envista, starts at just $23,700. That’s nearly $25,000 cheaper than the average new car transaction price of $48,623!3. LincolnOne- to five-year maintenance cost: $940Lincoln is your brand if you’re looking for low-cost maintenance but still like a little luxury. Lincoln is the upscale brand of Ford, and while German automakers often receive high marks for their luxury vehicles, Lincoln’s lower repair costs are equally impressive.With a new Lincoln costing under $1,000 in maintenance up to the first five years, you can live large without a large repair budget. Lincoln only sells SUVs, and the cheapest one, the Corsair, will set you back $38,990. While not cheap, it’s still far below the average new car selling price.Most luxury vehicles cost more to insure, so I did a quick check, and Lincoln (thankfully) didn’t make it onto Car & Driver’s list of most expensive vehicles to insure. If you think you might be overpaying for car insurance, check out our review of the best car insurance companies.4. FordOne- to five-year maintenance cost: $1,100Ford’s overall low maintenance costs in the first five years of ownership make it a good choice for those who want a new vehicle and plan to stay far away from the repair shop for as long as possible.Not all of Ford’s vehicles have stellar reliability, so I dug deeper and found that its popular Maverick pickup truck and Edge SUV have above-average reliability. The great thing about this is the Maverick is one of Ford’s least expensive vehicles, starting at just under $24,000.5. ToyotaOne- to five-year maintenance cost: $1,125Last but certainly not least is Toyota, which has a long history of reliability. Its vehicles (along with its luxury brand Lexus) are at the top of many reliability lists, including the most recent comparison of Consumer Reports.To give you a bit of perspective on just how well a Toyota might hold up, Consumer Reports recently put Toyota’s Camry, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, Corolla, 4Runner, and Highlander on its list of 12 vehicles that most often make it to 200,000 miles and beyond — that’s seven out of 12!While there’s no guarantee your vehicle will come with low maintenance and repair costs, picking the right brand ahead of time can make it more likely. It’s also good to look closely at a manufacturer’s warranty details, as some have much longer coverage and even include basic maintenance for the first few years.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.Chris Neiger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Tesla. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Image source: Getty Images

Like everything else over the past few years, vehicle maintenance expenses have climbed higher, too. That means a few trips to the mechanic could wreak havoc on your finances, leading some experts to recommend budgeting $1,350 annually for car maintenance and repairs.

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.

However, if you want an easier way to protect your budget that will also save you the frustration of being in the repair shop, consider buying a vehicle from a car brand with a reputation for having inexpensive repairs. Here are five of the best ones, according to Consumer Reports’ research.

1. Tesla

One- to five-year maintenance cost: $580

Electric vehicles typically cost more upfront than similar gas-powered models, but getting a Tesla is a smart bet if you’re looking for a reliable vehicle with low maintenance costs. Consumer Reports says the average maintenance and repair costs for the first one to five years for a Tesla is about $580, which works out to be less than $10 per month over a half decade.

One of the cheapest new Teslas you can buy is the Model 3, which starts at $42,490. However, you can probably lower that cost by using the $7,500 IRS tax credit.

Tip: Electric vehicles can be more expensive to insure than traditional cars. Even if you don’t have an EV, car insurance costs have jumped 26% over the past year! That’s why shopping for cheap car insurance is a smart idea, no matter what vehicle you decide to buy.

2. Buick

One- to five-year maintenance cost: $900

Buick may not have always topped a list of low-maintenance vehicles, but the brand ranked in second place on the Consumer Reports list, costing just $900 in the first one to five years. I did a quick search on RepairPal to see how the brand ranked, and the data confirmed that Buick has an overall above-average reliability rating.

Even better news for budget-conscious buyers is that the cheapest Buick, which is a compact crossover SUV called the Envista, starts at just $23,700. That’s nearly $25,000 cheaper than the average new car transaction price of $48,623!

3. Lincoln

One- to five-year maintenance cost: $940

Lincoln is your brand if you’re looking for low-cost maintenance but still like a little luxury. Lincoln is the upscale brand of Ford, and while German automakers often receive high marks for their luxury vehicles, Lincoln’s lower repair costs are equally impressive.

With a new Lincoln costing under $1,000 in maintenance up to the first five years, you can live large without a large repair budget. Lincoln only sells SUVs, and the cheapest one, the Corsair, will set you back $38,990. While not cheap, it’s still far below the average new car selling price.

Most luxury vehicles cost more to insure, so I did a quick check, and Lincoln (thankfully) didn’t make it onto Car & Driver’s list of most expensive vehicles to insure. If you think you might be overpaying for car insurance, check out our review of the best car insurance companies.

4. Ford

One- to five-year maintenance cost: $1,100

Ford’s overall low maintenance costs in the first five years of ownership make it a good choice for those who want a new vehicle and plan to stay far away from the repair shop for as long as possible.

Not all of Ford’s vehicles have stellar reliability, so I dug deeper and found that its popular Maverick pickup truck and Edge SUV have above-average reliability. The great thing about this is the Maverick is one of Ford’s least expensive vehicles, starting at just under $24,000.

5. Toyota

One- to five-year maintenance cost: $1,125

Last but certainly not least is Toyota, which has a long history of reliability. Its vehicles (along with its luxury brand Lexus) are at the top of many reliability lists, including the most recent comparison of Consumer Reports.

To give you a bit of perspective on just how well a Toyota might hold up, Consumer Reports recently put Toyota’s Camry, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, Corolla, 4Runner, and Highlander on its list of 12 vehicles that most often make it to 200,000 miles and beyond — that’s seven out of 12!

While there’s no guarantee your vehicle will come with low maintenance and repair costs, picking the right brand ahead of time can make it more likely. It’s also good to look closely at a manufacturer’s warranty details, as some have much longer coverage and even include basic maintenance for the first few years.

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.Chris Neiger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Tesla. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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Now That I’ve Bought These 4 Things at Aldi, I’ll Never Buy Them Anywhere Else

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
I’m the world’s most impatient grocery shopper, so I appreciate the simplicity of Aldi stores. I don’t need 43 different versions of canned sauerkraut, thank you very much; one will do just fine.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. But it’s more than just Aldi’s ability to keep my decision fatigue under control; there are a handful of items at Aldi that I actually prefer over other stores’ options. Here are four of them and why they beat the competition.1. Organic, grass-fed ground beefI once bought grass-fed beef from a local co-op that mainly sold its products to restaurants and at farmer’s markets. I lived out of their delivery area, but the co-op coordinator said they could meet me along their delivery route at 5:30 in the morning…in the city zoo parking lot. Long story short, I got a good deal on grass-fed beef, and I’m pretty sure it wasn’t zebra meat.My beef buying is much less sketchy these days, and Aldi is one of the best places to get it. One pound of organic grass-fed ground beef is just under $6 at my local Aldi, compared to $8.49 at Target.Tip: I don’t always use a credit card when I’m grocery shopping, but when I do, I make sure it’s a cash back rewards card. Click here to check out some of the best credit cards that pay up to 6% cash back.2. White cheddar puffsI have to admit that the Simply Nature white cheddar puffs at Aldi are a little too easy to keep eating once you’ve opened the bag. My kids love them, and I like them better than similar products sold at other stores.The puffs are non-GMO, gluten free, and don’t have any artificial flavors or colors. To top it all off, a bag of these white cheddar puffs costs less than $3 at my store.3. EggsAsk any diehard Aldi shopper what one thing they almost always buy at the store is, and you’ll likely get the same answer: Eggs. They’ll also tell you how much they used to pay for eggs at Aldi compared to how much they pay now, but they’re still very cheap.My family pays $2.15 for a dozen eggs at Aldi, compared to the $3.66 I found online for Walmart eggs. Of course, I can get eggs at any grocery store, but because they’re so much more expensive at other stores, it seems like a waste of money to get them anywhere else.Egg prices aren’t the only thing that’s gone up. Some online savings accounts pay yields that are 10 times higher than the national average. Read our review of the best savings accounts here.4. Garlic hummusSome snacks are completely guilt free, and hummus with vegetables is one of them. Thankfully, Aldi’s Park Street Deli hummus isn’t only cheap at $2.85, but it’s also delicious.I prefer the garlic hummus, but Aldi also sells a classic and red pepper version as well. The company recently released its list of favorite items voted on by Aldi shoppers, and, to no surprise, Park Street Deli hummus made the cut.These aren’t the only products that I will only buy at Aldi, but they’re some of my favorites that also happen to be super cheap. Aldi makes it easy to save money and get the items I’m looking for, without the early morning trips to the zoo parking lot.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.Chris Neiger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Image source: Getty Images

I’m the world’s most impatient grocery shopper, so I appreciate the simplicity of Aldi stores. I don’t need 43 different versions of canned sauerkraut, thank you very much; one will do just fine.

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.

But it’s more than just Aldi’s ability to keep my decision fatigue under control; there are a handful of items at Aldi that I actually prefer over other stores’ options. Here are four of them and why they beat the competition.

1. Organic, grass-fed ground beef

I once bought grass-fed beef from a local co-op that mainly sold its products to restaurants and at farmer’s markets. I lived out of their delivery area, but the co-op coordinator said they could meet me along their delivery route at 5:30 in the morning…in the city zoo parking lot. Long story short, I got a good deal on grass-fed beef, and I’m pretty sure it wasn’t zebra meat.

My beef buying is much less sketchy these days, and Aldi is one of the best places to get it. One pound of organic grass-fed ground beef is just under $6 at my local Aldi, compared to $8.49 at Target.

Tip: I don’t always use a credit card when I’m grocery shopping, but when I do, I make sure it’s a cash back rewards card. Click here to check out some of the best credit cards that pay up to 6% cash back.

2. White cheddar puffs

I have to admit that the Simply Nature white cheddar puffs at Aldi are a little too easy to keep eating once you’ve opened the bag. My kids love them, and I like them better than similar products sold at other stores.

The puffs are non-GMO, gluten free, and don’t have any artificial flavors or colors. To top it all off, a bag of these white cheddar puffs costs less than $3 at my store.

3. Eggs

Ask any diehard Aldi shopper what one thing they almost always buy at the store is, and you’ll likely get the same answer: Eggs. They’ll also tell you how much they used to pay for eggs at Aldi compared to how much they pay now, but they’re still very cheap.

My family pays $2.15 for a dozen eggs at Aldi, compared to the $3.66 I found online for Walmart eggs. Of course, I can get eggs at any grocery store, but because they’re so much more expensive at other stores, it seems like a waste of money to get them anywhere else.

Egg prices aren’t the only thing that’s gone up. Some online savings accounts pay yields that are 10 times higher than the national average. Read our review of the best savings accounts here.

4. Garlic hummus

Some snacks are completely guilt free, and hummus with vegetables is one of them. Thankfully, Aldi’s Park Street Deli hummus isn’t only cheap at $2.85, but it’s also delicious.

I prefer the garlic hummus, but Aldi also sells a classic and red pepper version as well. The company recently released its list of favorite items voted on by Aldi shoppers, and, to no surprise, Park Street Deli hummus made the cut.

These aren’t the only products that I will only buy at Aldi, but they’re some of my favorites that also happen to be super cheap. Aldi makes it easy to save money and get the items I’m looking for, without the early morning trips to the zoo parking lot.

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.Chris Neiger has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Should You Use a Savings Account or 1-Year CD for Emergency Savings?

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Experts say that you should aim to set aside six months’ worth of living expenses in an account that is designated specifically for emergency use. This is money intended to cover your expenses if you lose your job, or to pay for large, unexpected bills such as emergency home repairs or medical costs.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. One common question savers have is where the best place to put their emergency savings is. Should you put it in a savings account, or is a CD a better place to maximize the yield from this idle cash? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best decision.Are you looking to establish an emergency fund or simply get more interest income from the one you already have? Click here for our up-to-date list of the best high-yield savings accounts right now.Savings account vs. CDsThe short answer is that the best choice for your emergency savings is usually a savings account, but it isn’t quite as black and white as it might seem.For one thing, CDs aren’t nearly as untouchable as many people believe. It isn’t that you can’t take money out of a CD before it reaches maturity — you’ll just pay a penalty if you do. And it might not be as much as you think. In most cases, you’ll simply forfeit a few months’ worth of interest (60 or 90 days of interest is common with 1-year CDs).As an example, if you have $5,000 in a 1-year CD at a 4.25% APY, and there’s an early withdrawal penalty of 60 days of interest, it would cost you less than $35 to get your money out early. Of course, paying this fee still isn’t a good thing, but the point is that tapping into your CD early isn’t the end of the world.The biggest argument against using a CDIf interest rates were forecast to fall rapidly over the next year, it could seem worth risking an early withdrawal penalty to lock in the current rates. To be clear, there’s certainly no guarantee that interest rates will behave in any certain way over a period of time in the future. But in a falling-rate environment, the math of using a CD can make sense in some cases.The bigger issue is that there is usually no such thing as a partial withdrawal from a CD. In other words, if you have a $10,000 emergency fund and you need to withdraw $2,000 to cover an unexpected expense, you would need to withdraw the entire $10,000 balance if it were held in a CD.Of course, you could then take the remaining $8,000 and deposit it in a savings account if this were to happen, but it is important to keep in mind. There are no partial withdrawals and therefore no partial early withdrawal penalties if your money is in a CD.One potential alternativeTo be perfectly clear, in most cases, using a savings account for your emergency savings makes a lot more sense than putting money you might need in a CD.However, it’s worth noting that several banks offer “no penalty CDs,” which allow you to lock in a certain interest rate for the entire term but don’t charge any penalty whatsoever if you need to withdraw your money early.So, while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for where to keep your emergency savings, depending on your goals (and the likelihood of needing the money), a high-yield savings account or potentially a no-penalty CD is typically the best way to go.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”:”

Image source: Getty Images

Experts say that you should aim to set aside six months’ worth of living expenses in an account that is designated specifically for emergency use. This is money intended to cover your expenses if you lose your job, or to pay for large, unexpected bills such as emergency home repairs or medical costs.

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.

One common question savers have is where the best place to put their emergency savings is. Should you put it in a savings account, or is a CD a better place to maximize the yield from this idle cash? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best decision.

Are you looking to establish an emergency fund or simply get more interest income from the one you already have? Click here for our up-to-date list of the best high-yield savings accounts right now.

Savings account vs. CDs

The short answer is that the best choice for your emergency savings is usually a savings account, but it isn’t quite as black and white as it might seem.

For one thing, CDs aren’t nearly as untouchable as many people believe. It isn’t that you can’t take money out of a CD before it reaches maturity — you’ll just pay a penalty if you do. And it might not be as much as you think. In most cases, you’ll simply forfeit a few months’ worth of interest (60 or 90 days of interest is common with 1-year CDs).

As an example, if you have $5,000 in a 1-year CD at a 4.25% APY, and there’s an early withdrawal penalty of 60 days of interest, it would cost you less than $35 to get your money out early. Of course, paying this fee still isn’t a good thing, but the point is that tapping into your CD early isn’t the end of the world.

The biggest argument against using a CD

If interest rates were forecast to fall rapidly over the next year, it could seem worth risking an early withdrawal penalty to lock in the current rates. To be clear, there’s certainly no guarantee that interest rates will behave in any certain way over a period of time in the future. But in a falling-rate environment, the math of using a CD can make sense in some cases.

The bigger issue is that there is usually no such thing as a partial withdrawal from a CD. In other words, if you have a $10,000 emergency fund and you need to withdraw $2,000 to cover an unexpected expense, you would need to withdraw the entire $10,000 balance if it were held in a CD.

Of course, you could then take the remaining $8,000 and deposit it in a savings account if this were to happen, but it is important to keep in mind. There are no partial withdrawals and therefore no partial early withdrawal penalties if your money is in a CD.

One potential alternative

To be perfectly clear, in most cases, using a savings account for your emergency savings makes a lot more sense than putting money you might need in a CD.

However, it’s worth noting that several banks offer “no penalty CDs,” which allow you to lock in a certain interest rate for the entire term but don’t charge any penalty whatsoever if you need to withdraw your money early.

So, while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for where to keep your emergency savings, depending on your goals (and the likelihood of needing the money), a high-yield savings account or potentially a no-penalty CD is typically the best way to go.

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