Money Management

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Costco recently raised its annual fees. So now, a basic membership costs $65 while an Executive membership paying 2% cash back on purchases costs $130.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!No matter which membership tier you belong to, it’s important to get your money’s worth. And that means knowing what perks are available to you as a paying member. Here are a few benefits of a Costco membership you may not be aware of.1. Savings on automobilesDid you know that you can buy a car through Costco? Granted, you won’t see vehicles sitting around as you roam the aisles of your local warehouse club store. But thanks to the Costco Auto Program, you can potentially snag a discount on your next vehicle purchase.Costco negotiates prices for select vehicles at local dealerships so you can walk in, pick up your new car, and drive away without a hassle. You can also enjoy 15% off car parts, service, and accessories from participating centers.2. Discounted gift cardsThe holidays are coming up, which means it’s time to start checking items off of your list and making sure your gift recipients are covered. Gift cards are a great way to spread some love without having to wrap bulky items. And if you buy your gift cards at Costco, you can benefit from discounts on their face value.As just one example, $100 worth of gift cards to Domino’s would normally cost you $100. But right now, you can buy four $25 Domino’s gift cards through Costco for just $74.99. It’s basically like you’re paying for three and getting one for free. And this is just one example of many.Remember, too, that using the right credit card to check out at Costco can result in even more savings. Check out this top tip for Costco shoppers to maximize their benefits.3. Hassle-free returnsDid you know that Costco will take back almost any item at any time for a full refund? There are a few exceptions, such as electronics, where you only have a 90-day window to make returns. But otherwise, you can bring back the jacket you bought your toddler last year that they never wore. And you can also bring back the bags of chips you purchased for your Halloween gathering last month that never got opened.Best of all, you don’t even need a receipt to get a refund at Costco. A customer service representative can look up your purchases using your membership number and put that money back on your credit card.4. High-performance gasolineCostco is known for having cheap gasoline. But you may not be aware that Costco gas also carries the TOP TIER™ designation. This means it’s designed to clean your engine and lead to better vehicle performance.If you haven’t been filling up gas at Costco because the long lines have scared you off, consider changing the timing of your Costco trips so you’re there when there are fewer crowds. That could mean shopping and filling up when Costco first opens, or right before it closes.Now one thing you should know about Costco fuel is that it’s surprisingly not eligible for cash back on an Executive membership. But you can more than make up for that by using the right credit card to pay for your fill-ups. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers and gas purchases.These are only a few of the lesser-known perks Costco members get to enjoy. So whether you have a basic membership or are paying for the Executive membership upgrade, make sure you’re getting as much value out of it as possible.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Costco recently raised its annual fees. So now, a basic membership costs $65 while an Executive membership paying 2% cash back on purchases costs $130.

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!

No matter which membership tier you belong to, it’s important to get your money’s worth. And that means knowing what perks are available to you as a paying member. Here are a few benefits of a Costco membership you may not be aware of.

1. Savings on automobiles

Did you know that you can buy a car through Costco? Granted, you won’t see vehicles sitting around as you roam the aisles of your local warehouse club store. But thanks to the Costco Auto Program, you can potentially snag a discount on your next vehicle purchase.

Costco negotiates prices for select vehicles at local dealerships so you can walk in, pick up your new car, and drive away without a hassle. You can also enjoy 15% off car parts, service, and accessories from participating centers.

2. Discounted gift cards

The holidays are coming up, which means it’s time to start checking items off of your list and making sure your gift recipients are covered. Gift cards are a great way to spread some love without having to wrap bulky items. And if you buy your gift cards at Costco, you can benefit from discounts on their face value.

As just one example, $100 worth of gift cards to Domino’s would normally cost you $100. But right now, you can buy four $25 Domino’s gift cards through Costco for just $74.99. It’s basically like you’re paying for three and getting one for free. And this is just one example of many.

Remember, too, that using the right credit card to check out at Costco can result in even more savings. Check out this top tip for Costco shoppers to maximize their benefits.

3. Hassle-free returns

Did you know that Costco will take back almost any item at any time for a full refund? There are a few exceptions, such as electronics, where you only have a 90-day window to make returns. But otherwise, you can bring back the jacket you bought your toddler last year that they never wore. And you can also bring back the bags of chips you purchased for your Halloween gathering last month that never got opened.

Best of all, you don’t even need a receipt to get a refund at Costco. A customer service representative can look up your purchases using your membership number and put that money back on your credit card.

4. High-performance gasoline

Costco is known for having cheap gasoline. But you may not be aware that Costco gas also carries the TOP TIER™ designation. This means it’s designed to clean your engine and lead to better vehicle performance.

If you haven’t been filling up gas at Costco because the long lines have scared you off, consider changing the timing of your Costco trips so you’re there when there are fewer crowds. That could mean shopping and filling up when Costco first opens, or right before it closes.

Now one thing you should know about Costco fuel is that it’s surprisingly not eligible for cash back on an Executive membership. But you can more than make up for that by using the right credit card to pay for your fill-ups. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco shoppers and gas purchases.

These are only a few of the lesser-known perks Costco members get to enjoy. So whether you have a basic membership or are paying for the Executive membership upgrade, make sure you’re getting as much value out of it as possible.

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

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

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

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

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

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
There’s a reason the Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate first in mid-September, and then again in early November. The rate of inflation has been slowing, so the Fed doesn’t need to keep its federal funds rate as elevated.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. Raising the federal funds rate makes borrowing money more expensive across the board. During periods of high inflation, the Fed wants to tamp down spending to let the supply of goods and services catch up with demand and bring prices down.But now that inflation has cooled, the Fed can lower its benchmark interest rate. That should lead to more affordable borrowing options across a range of products, from auto loans to personal loans.Given the Fed’s recent rate cut, you may be inclined to rush out and sign a mortgage — especially if you’re tired of spending money on rent month after month. But you should know that waiting might be a much better bet.We’re not seeing much lower mortgage rates yetThe Fed isn’t done cutting interest rates. And in time, we could see a notable drop in mortgage rates as the Fed continues on that path.But we definitely aren’t there yet.As of this writing, the average 30-year mortgage rate is 6.79%. That’s hardly a bargain. On a $200,000 mortgage with a 30-year payoff, a rate of 6.79% means paying $1,303 per month for principal and interest.Waiting for rates to reach the point where you’re paying 5.79% would leave you paying $1,173 per month for the exact same loan. That’s a huge difference. And while there’s no guarantee that mortgage rates will drop by a full percentage point soon, there’s a good chance they’ll get there by this time next year, if not sooner.Take advantage of your waiting periodYou may be eager to become a homeowner if you’ve been wanting to buy a place of your own for quite some time now. But unfortunately, now’s not the time to rush into a mortgage given that rates aren’t so great.The good news, though, is that waiting to sign a mortgage has its benefits. For one thing, you can work on boosting your credit score to qualify for an even better offer once rates start to decline. You can also take the opportunity to save more toward your down payment, or toward home renovations (which may be necessary even if you buy a home in good condition).Plus, you can spend a little time reading up on different mortgage lenders to narrow down your choices for when the time comes to apply. You can start by checking out this list of the best mortgage lenders.Remember, the Fed only made its most recent interest rate cut a couple of weeks ago. There’s still time for mortgage rates to react to that. So don’t be discouraged by the fact that rates haven’t plunged this month. Instead, sit tight, save more, and put yourself in the best position possible to pounce on lower mortgage rates once they become available.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”:”

There’s a reason the Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate first in mid-September, and then again in early November. The rate of inflation has been slowing, so the Fed doesn’t need to keep its federal funds rate as elevated.

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.

Raising the federal funds rate makes borrowing money more expensive across the board. During periods of high inflation, the Fed wants to tamp down spending to let the supply of goods and services catch up with demand and bring prices down.

But now that inflation has cooled, the Fed can lower its benchmark interest rate. That should lead to more affordable borrowing options across a range of products, from auto loans to personal loans.

Given the Fed’s recent rate cut, you may be inclined to rush out and sign a mortgage — especially if you’re tired of spending money on rent month after month. But you should know that waiting might be a much better bet.

We’re not seeing much lower mortgage rates yet

The Fed isn’t done cutting interest rates. And in time, we could see a notable drop in mortgage rates as the Fed continues on that path.

But we definitely aren’t there yet.

As of this writing, the average 30-year mortgage rate is 6.79%. That’s hardly a bargain. On a $200,000 mortgage with a 30-year payoff, a rate of 6.79% means paying $1,303 per month for principal and interest.

Waiting for rates to reach the point where you’re paying 5.79% would leave you paying $1,173 per month for the exact same loan. That’s a huge difference. And while there’s no guarantee that mortgage rates will drop by a full percentage point soon, there’s a good chance they’ll get there by this time next year, if not sooner.

Take advantage of your waiting period

You may be eager to become a homeowner if you’ve been wanting to buy a place of your own for quite some time now. But unfortunately, now’s not the time to rush into a mortgage given that rates aren’t so great.

The good news, though, is that waiting to sign a mortgage has its benefits. For one thing, you can work on boosting your credit score to qualify for an even better offer once rates start to decline. You can also take the opportunity to save more toward your down payment, or toward home renovations (which may be necessary even if you buy a home in good condition).

Plus, you can spend a little time reading up on different mortgage lenders to narrow down your choices for when the time comes to apply. You can start by checking out this list of the best mortgage lenders.

Remember, the Fed only made its most recent interest rate cut a couple of weeks ago. There’s still time for mortgage rates to react to that. So don’t be discouraged by the fact that rates haven’t plunged this month. Instead, sit tight, save more, and put yourself in the best position possible to pounce on lower mortgage rates once they become available.

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

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

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

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

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
If you aren’t a Sam’s Club member, you may want to become one. November is an awesome time to join the warehouse club for a few key reasons.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. Here are three big motivating factors that may convince you to pull out your credit cards, pony up the membership fee, and start shopping.1. November weekend doorbustersWhen you become a Sam’s Club member, you don’t have to wait for Black Friday to get amazing deals on great products. The warehouse club is offering weekend doorbusters throughout November.Want some examples of the savings you can become eligible for during these special discount events? Here’s how much money you could end up keeping in your bank account by taking advantage of the deals:$100 off an iPad Pro 11$150 off a Dell Inspiron 15.6 FHD Touchscreen device$150 off Sony Wireless noise-canceling headphonesThese are just a few of the many products discounted. Sam’s said to expect bargains on toys and gifts soon — plus, the big Black Friday event will be at the end of the month.2. Help with your Thanksgiving menuSam’s Club can also help you make Thanksgiving affordable and delicious with the many food offerings it has available if you become a member in November.Member’s Mark, which is the Sam’s Club store brand, offers a classic Thanksgiving for 10 for under $100, which can be delivered with express delivery in a matter of hours. This is great if the thought of cooking all day fills you with dread.You can also score individual items that deserve a place on your table, like a 24-pack of Member’s Mark Yeast Dinner Rolls for just $3.98 or 12″ pumpkin pie for $5.98 that reviewers described as “yummy for tummy” and bigger, better, and tastier than most grocery store pies.3. Online shopping from the comfort of your own homeFinally, there’s one more reason to join Sam’s Club this month — and if you are trying to decide between Costco and Sam’s, this may be the deciding factor.Sam’s Club charges the same prices online as it does for in-club purchases — unlike Costco which upcharges you if you don’t buy stuff in person at the warehouse club.If you opt for Sam’s Club’s upgraded Plus membership, which is $110 a year versus $50 for the regular membership, you’ll also get free shipping on orders of $50 or more and flat rate $8 shipping if your order does not hit this threshold.If the idea of actually going out into the world to shop for Thanksgiving or the other upcoming holidays sounds like a nightmare, this is a major reason to join Sam’s instead of Costco.If you join Sam’s Club, make sure you have one of the best credit cards for cash back or bonus rewards at the warehouse club. Choosing the right card allows you to maximize the value of shopping at Sam’s and you may even earn a new cardmember bonus that will help you to cover your holiday expenses. Check out our list and sign up for a great rewards card today, then go join Sam’s Club and start taking advantage of these unique benefits available during November.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.Christy Bieber 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 aren’t a Sam’s Club member, you may want to become one. November is an awesome time to join the warehouse club for a few key reasons.

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.

Here are three big motivating factors that may convince you to pull out your credit cards, pony up the membership fee, and start shopping.

1. November weekend doorbusters

When you become a Sam’s Club member, you don’t have to wait for Black Friday to get amazing deals on great products. The warehouse club is offering weekend doorbusters throughout November.

Want some examples of the savings you can become eligible for during these special discount events? Here’s how much money you could end up keeping in your bank account by taking advantage of the deals:

$100 off an iPad Pro 11$150 off a Dell Inspiron 15.6 FHD Touchscreen device$150 off Sony Wireless noise-canceling headphones

These are just a few of the many products discounted. Sam’s said to expect bargains on toys and gifts soon — plus, the big Black Friday event will be at the end of the month.

2. Help with your Thanksgiving menu

Sam’s Club can also help you make Thanksgiving affordable and delicious with the many food offerings it has available if you become a member in November.

Member’s Mark, which is the Sam’s Club store brand, offers a classic Thanksgiving for 10 for under $100, which can be delivered with express delivery in a matter of hours. This is great if the thought of cooking all day fills you with dread.

You can also score individual items that deserve a place on your table, like a 24-pack of Member’s Mark Yeast Dinner Rolls for just $3.98 or 12″ pumpkin pie for $5.98 that reviewers described as “yummy for tummy” and bigger, better, and tastier than most grocery store pies.

3. Online shopping from the comfort of your own home

Finally, there’s one more reason to join Sam’s Club this month — and if you are trying to decide between Costco and Sam’s, this may be the deciding factor.

Sam’s Club charges the same prices online as it does for in-club purchases — unlike Costco which upcharges you if you don’t buy stuff in person at the warehouse club.

If you opt for Sam’s Club’s upgraded Plus membership, which is $110 a year versus $50 for the regular membership, you’ll also get free shipping on orders of $50 or more and flat rate $8 shipping if your order does not hit this threshold.

If the idea of actually going out into the world to shop for Thanksgiving or the other upcoming holidays sounds like a nightmare, this is a major reason to join Sam’s instead of Costco.

If you join Sam’s Club, make sure you have one of the best credit cards for cash back or bonus rewards at the warehouse club. Choosing the right card allows you to maximize the value of shopping at Sam’s and you may even earn a new cardmember bonus that will help you to cover your holiday expenses. Check out our list and sign up for a great rewards card today, then go join Sam’s Club and start taking advantage of these unique benefits available during November.

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.Christy Bieber 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
Black Friday is a magical time of year for holiday shoppers — but at Walmart, Black Friday is happening even sooner. You can already get some shockingly low prices (up to 70% off) on Walmart early Black Friday deals valid through Nov. 17, 2024.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 look at some of Walmart’s most surprisingly cheap early Black Friday deals, and see how you can save $50 or more per item.(All deals were available for online shopping with prices shown for my local Walmart supercenter in Des Moines, Iowa as of Nov. 12, 2024. Prices may vary by location.)1. MaxKare Portable Basketball Hoop ($109.99)Take your driveway fitness routine to the next level. This basketball hoop is portable, height-adjustable (up to 10 feet), and made with a large, transparent PVC backboard. It gets rave reviews from Walmart shoppers, with 4.7 stars from nearly 6,500 ratings.How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $301.99 off the original price of $411.98.2. Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones ($69)Keep your music flowing wherever you go with these Bluetooth-enabled Beats by Dre headphones that include an Apple W1 headphone chip. The special $69 price is valid for the Black and Rose Gold colors; the Gold color costs more.How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $130 off the original price of $199.Want to boost your Walmart Black Friday savings even more? Cash back credit cards can be a great choice for shopping at Walmart — not just on Black Friday, but for everyday purchases like groceries. Click here to learn more about the best cash back credit cards that could help you earn 2% cash back (or more) on every dollar you spend at Walmart.3. TCL 75-inch Class S4 (75S41BR) 4K UHD HDR LED Smart TV with Roku TV ($378)Nothing says “Black Friday deals” like a super-low price on a big screen TV. This 75-incher is a Smart TV with Roku, delivering 4K ultra HD resolution for an immersive, cinematic experience in your own home.How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $120 off the original price of $498.4. Apple Watch Series 10 GPS 42mm Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band ($349)This Apple Watch can help you track your health and fitness. The advanced features include sleep tracking (including notifications for signs of sleep apnea), heart rate tracking, workout tools, and more. This price is valid for three colors of aluminum case and three colors of sport watch band.How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $50 off the original price of $399.5. Carote Nonstick Pots and Pans Set, 8 pieces ($59.99)Upgrade your home cooking equipment with this special low price nonstick Carote cookware. These pots and pans are made of granite with smooth nonstick texture, and are suitable for all stove types, including induction ranges. The 8-piece set includes three pots, two pans, and three lids.How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $180.01 off the original price of $240.6. HP 15.6 inch Windows Laptop Intel Core i3-N305 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Natural Silver ($229)Need a new low-cost laptop for your home office, child, or favorite college student? This one is a great deal: you get a large-sized HP laptop (with a 15.6-inch screen) and HD IPS anti-glare display. The laptop has up to 10 hours and 15 minutes of video playback battery, an HD camera, and 8GB of RAM.How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $320 off the original price of $549.7. GTRACING Gaming Chair Office Chair PU Leather with Footrest & Adjustable Headrest for Adults and Kids, Red ($93.99)This gaming office chair can be a great choice for gamers or work-from-home office workers. The chair’s design is sleek and ergonomic and might make you feel like a Formula One driver, even if you’re actually just filling out spreadsheets.How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $156 off the original price of $249.99.Bottom lineThe official date for Black Friday 2024 is Nov. 29, but you don’t have to wait that long. You can get early Black Friday deals at Walmart. All of the deals on this list will save you at least $50 — sometimes hundreds of dollars. And be sure to consider some of the best credit cards to earn cash back or other rewards on top of your Walmart Black Friday savings.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 positions in and recommends Apple and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Black Friday is a magical time of year for holiday shoppers — but at Walmart, Black Friday is happening even sooner. You can already get some shockingly low prices (up to 70% off) on Walmart early Black Friday deals valid through Nov. 17, 2024.

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 look at some of Walmart’s most surprisingly cheap early Black Friday deals, and see how you can save $50 or more per item.

(All deals were available for online shopping with prices shown for my local Walmart supercenter in Des Moines, Iowa as of Nov. 12, 2024. Prices may vary by location.)

1. MaxKare Portable Basketball Hoop ($109.99)

Take your driveway fitness routine to the next level. This basketball hoop is portable, height-adjustable (up to 10 feet), and made with a large, transparent PVC backboard. It gets rave reviews from Walmart shoppers, with 4.7 stars from nearly 6,500 ratings.

How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $301.99 off the original price of $411.98.

2. Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones ($69)

Keep your music flowing wherever you go with these Bluetooth-enabled Beats by Dre headphones that include an Apple W1 headphone chip. The special $69 price is valid for the Black and Rose Gold colors; the Gold color costs more.

How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $130 off the original price of $199.

Want to boost your Walmart Black Friday savings even more? Cash back credit cards can be a great choice for shopping at Walmart — not just on Black Friday, but for everyday purchases like groceries. Click here to learn more about the best cash back credit cards that could help you earn 2% cash back (or more) on every dollar you spend at Walmart.

3. TCL 75-inch Class S4 (75S41BR) 4K UHD HDR LED Smart TV with Roku TV ($378)

Nothing says “Black Friday deals” like a super-low price on a big screen TV. This 75-incher is a Smart TV with Roku, delivering 4K ultra HD resolution for an immersive, cinematic experience in your own home.

How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $120 off the original price of $498.

4. Apple Watch Series 10 GPS 42mm Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band ($349)

This Apple Watch can help you track your health and fitness. The advanced features include sleep tracking (including notifications for signs of sleep apnea), heart rate tracking, workout tools, and more. This price is valid for three colors of aluminum case and three colors of sport watch band.

How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $50 off the original price of $399.

5. Carote Nonstick Pots and Pans Set, 8 pieces ($59.99)

Upgrade your home cooking equipment with this special low price nonstick Carote cookware. These pots and pans are made of granite with smooth nonstick texture, and are suitable for all stove types, including induction ranges. The 8-piece set includes three pots, two pans, and three lids.

How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $180.01 off the original price of $240.

6. HP 15.6 inch Windows Laptop Intel Core i3-N305 8GB RAM 256GB SSD Natural Silver ($229)

Need a new low-cost laptop for your home office, child, or favorite college student? This one is a great deal: you get a large-sized HP laptop (with a 15.6-inch screen) and HD IPS anti-glare display. The laptop has up to 10 hours and 15 minutes of video playback battery, an HD camera, and 8GB of RAM.

How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $320 off the original price of $549.

7. GTRACING Gaming Chair Office Chair PU Leather with Footrest & Adjustable Headrest for Adults and Kids, Red ($93.99)

This gaming office chair can be a great choice for gamers or work-from-home office workers. The chair’s design is sleek and ergonomic and might make you feel like a Formula One driver, even if you’re actually just filling out spreadsheets.

How much you can save with this Walmart early Black Friday deal: This price includes savings of $156 off the original price of $249.99.

Bottom line

The official date for Black Friday 2024 is Nov. 29, but you don’t have to wait that long. You can get early Black Friday deals at Walmart. All of the deals on this list will save you at least $50 — sometimes hundreds of dollars. And be sure to consider some of the best credit cards to earn cash back or other rewards on top of your Walmart Black Friday savings.

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 positions in and recommends Apple and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
If you have a million-dollar 401(k) at age 60, congratulations! You’re in an exclusive club. But the question of whether a million-dollar nest egg is enough for you to comfortably retire is more complicated than it may seem.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 take a quick look at what a $1 million 401(k) means to you in retirement, how it fits into your overall financial health, and other factors you need to consider.Is $1 million enough? That’s the wrong questionOne important point to know if you’re getting close to retirement age is that it isn’t just about how much money you have in savings. It’s about how much income you can sustainably create after leaving the workforce.Think about it this way: If someone has just $100,000 in retirement savings but has a $5,000 monthly pension, they could be in significantly better shape than someone with $500,000 in retirement savings and no pension.A popular rule of thumb among retirement planners is that you should expect to need about 80% of your pre-retirement income to sustain the same lifestyle after retirement. So, if you have a salary of $100,000, you should expect to need $80,000 a year after you retire.Of course, that’s just a guideline, and your actual income needs could be higher or lower depending on several variables. For example, if you pay off your mortgage before you retire, your income requirement could be lower.Do you need to boost your retirement savings? Click here for our up-to-date list of the best places to open an IRA right now.How much income will you have?Many financial planners use the 4% rule of retirement. It’s admittedly an imperfect guideline, but it’s a good starting point for assessing where you stand.In a nutshell, this says that you can safely withdraw 4% of your retirement savings every year, and adjust your withdrawals for inflation in subsequent years, with little worry of running out of money. Based on this rule, it’s reasonable to expect $40,000 in sustainable annual income from a $1 million 401(k).The good news is that this won’t be your only source of income in retirement. At the very least, you’ll need to consider how much you’ll get from Social Security (which you can’t start collecting until at least age 62). If you have a pension or annuity, be sure to consider that as well.If you’re planning to retire at age 60, there are some early retirement considerations as well. As I just mentioned, you can’t claim Social Security until at least 62. And if you’re 60 today, your full Social Security retirement age is 67. You also can’t get Medicare until 65, so unless your job allows you to take your health plan with you (not very common), you’ll need to plan for the cost of health insurance in the meantime.The bottom lineAs you can see, although the question of “Is $1 million enough?” is a very common one among pre-retirees, there isn’t an easy answer. It depends on your desired retirement age, your other sources of income, and several other factors.However, it’s fair to say that for the average American, achieving a seven-figure retirement account balance at 60 is quite an accomplishment and puts you in a significantly better financial position than the average household.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”:”

If you have a million-dollar 401(k) at age 60, congratulations! You’re in an exclusive club. But the question of whether a million-dollar nest egg is enough for you to comfortably retire is more complicated than it may seem.

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 take a quick look at what a $1 million 401(k) means to you in retirement, how it fits into your overall financial health, and other factors you need to consider.

Is $1 million enough? That’s the wrong question

One important point to know if you’re getting close to retirement age is that it isn’t just about how much money you have in savings. It’s about how much income you can sustainably create after leaving the workforce.

Think about it this way: If someone has just $100,000 in retirement savings but has a $5,000 monthly pension, they could be in significantly better shape than someone with $500,000 in retirement savings and no pension.

A popular rule of thumb among retirement planners is that you should expect to need about 80% of your pre-retirement income to sustain the same lifestyle after retirement. So, if you have a salary of $100,000, you should expect to need $80,000 a year after you retire.

Of course, that’s just a guideline, and your actual income needs could be higher or lower depending on several variables. For example, if you pay off your mortgage before you retire, your income requirement could be lower.

Do you need to boost your retirement savings? Click here for our up-to-date list of the best places to open an IRA right now.

How much income will you have?

Many financial planners use the 4% rule of retirement. It’s admittedly an imperfect guideline, but it’s a good starting point for assessing where you stand.

In a nutshell, this says that you can safely withdraw 4% of your retirement savings every year, and adjust your withdrawals for inflation in subsequent years, with little worry of running out of money. Based on this rule, it’s reasonable to expect $40,000 in sustainable annual income from a $1 million 401(k).

The good news is that this won’t be your only source of income in retirement. At the very least, you’ll need to consider how much you’ll get from Social Security (which you can’t start collecting until at least age 62). If you have a pension or annuity, be sure to consider that as well.

If you’re planning to retire at age 60, there are some early retirement considerations as well. As I just mentioned, you can’t claim Social Security until at least 62. And if you’re 60 today, your full Social Security retirement age is 67. You also can’t get Medicare until 65, so unless your job allows you to take your health plan with you (not very common), you’ll need to plan for the cost of health insurance in the meantime.

The bottom line

As you can see, although the question of “Is $1 million enough?” is a very common one among pre-retirees, there isn’t an easy answer. It depends on your desired retirement age, your other sources of income, and several other factors.

However, it’s fair to say that for the average American, achieving a seven-figure retirement account balance at 60 is quite an accomplishment and puts you in a significantly better financial position than the average household.

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