Money Management

[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
A Costco membership can be an excellent investment for shoppers looking for deals that help them keep more money in their checking accounts. As a member, you can access members-only discounts that allow you to save big when buying groceries, clothes, cleaning supplies, household essentials, electronics, and more.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!Compared to other retailers, Costco’s prices may be much lower. Ready to shop? Here are a few amazing Costco buys for under $99.1. 10-pack of Brita Replacement Water Filters: $32.49Many people prefer to drink filtered water at home, but replacement filters can be costly. The good news is that a Costco membership card can unlock savings. Through Nov. 10, you can purchase a 10-pack of Brita Replacement Water filters for $32.49, an additional $12.50 off Costco’s standard price. Considering Target sells a six-pack of filters for $29.99, this is a fantastic deal.2. 1.7-ounce ESTEE LAUDER Resilience Multi-Effect Night Tri-Peptide Face and Neck Creme: $84.99A great skincare routine can improve the look and feel of your skin. But quality skincare products can be expensive. The good news is a Costco card can help you save money on the beauty and skincare essentials you love.One Costco purchase that could save you $29 is the 1.7-ounce container of ESTEE LAUDER Resilience Multi-Effect Night Tri-Peptide Face and Neck Creme. Thanks to an online-only Costco deal, you’ll pay $84.99 for this well-rated overnight serum, which retails for $114.Want to stretch your skincare budget further? You can maximize your dollars by earning rewards on your Costco haul. Click here to explore our list of the top credit cards for your Costco spending that offer big rewards.3. TRINITY Shoe Bench with Boot Storage: $49.99Have you considered investing in a storage solution to organize all the shoes and boots near your home’s entry? Costco has what you need to make your home look and feel better. Through Nov. 14, you can purchase the TRINITY Shoe Bench with Boot Storage for $49.99, an extra $10 off Costco’s standard price. This shoe storage solution has three shelves and is easy to install.4. First Alert Wireless Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: $69.99When life gets busy, it’s easy to forget about home safety essentials like smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. But you don’t want to put your family’s safety at risk.If you have old detectors that need to be replaced, this Costco deal is for you. Through Nov. 10, you can purchase a two-pack of First Alert Wireless Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms at Costco for only $69.99.This set usually costs $79.99, but a limited-time coupon provides an additional $10 of savings. With this buy, you’ll get two alarms, mounting brackets, and two AA batteries for each alarm. Now is an excellent time to test the detectors in your home to see if you should shop this deal.Get more from your Costco membershipYou can maximize your Costco membership by staying alert to the warehouse club retailer’s best deals. These are just a few deals you can shop now. New offerings and discounts are added all the time, so be sure to check Costco’s website or mobile app to stay in the know.The savings don’t stop there. You can save more by earning rewards when you swipe your credit card at checkout. Want to earn cash back rewards? Check out our list of the best cash back credit cards to see how easy it is to earn rewards when you shop.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A Costco membership can be an excellent investment for shoppers looking for deals that help them keep more money in their checking accounts. As a member, you can access members-only discounts that allow you to save big when buying groceries, clothes, cleaning supplies, household essentials, electronics, and more.

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!

Compared to other retailers, Costco’s prices may be much lower. Ready to shop? Here are a few amazing Costco buys for under $99.

1. 10-pack of Brita Replacement Water Filters: $32.49

Many people prefer to drink filtered water at home, but replacement filters can be costly. The good news is that a Costco membership card can unlock savings. Through Nov. 10, you can purchase a 10-pack of Brita Replacement Water filters for $32.49, an additional $12.50 off Costco’s standard price. Considering Target sells a six-pack of filters for $29.99, this is a fantastic deal.

2. 1.7-ounce ESTEE LAUDER Resilience Multi-Effect Night Tri-Peptide Face and Neck Creme: $84.99

A great skincare routine can improve the look and feel of your skin. But quality skincare products can be expensive. The good news is a Costco card can help you save money on the beauty and skincare essentials you love.

One Costco purchase that could save you $29 is the 1.7-ounce container of ESTEE LAUDER Resilience Multi-Effect Night Tri-Peptide Face and Neck Creme. Thanks to an online-only Costco deal, you’ll pay $84.99 for this well-rated overnight serum, which retails for $114.

Want to stretch your skincare budget further? You can maximize your dollars by earning rewards on your Costco haul. Click here to explore our list of the top credit cards for your Costco spending that offer big rewards.

3. TRINITY Shoe Bench with Boot Storage: $49.99

Have you considered investing in a storage solution to organize all the shoes and boots near your home’s entry? Costco has what you need to make your home look and feel better. Through Nov. 14, you can purchase the TRINITY Shoe Bench with Boot Storage for $49.99, an extra $10 off Costco’s standard price. This shoe storage solution has three shelves and is easy to install.

4. First Alert Wireless Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: $69.99

When life gets busy, it’s easy to forget about home safety essentials like smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. But you don’t want to put your family’s safety at risk.

If you have old detectors that need to be replaced, this Costco deal is for you. Through Nov. 10, you can purchase a two-pack of First Alert Wireless Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms at Costco for only $69.99.

This set usually costs $79.99, but a limited-time coupon provides an additional $10 of savings. With this buy, you’ll get two alarms, mounting brackets, and two AA batteries for each alarm. Now is an excellent time to test the detectors in your home to see if you should shop this deal.

Get more from your Costco membership

You can maximize your Costco membership by staying alert to the warehouse club retailer’s best deals. These are just a few deals you can shop now. New offerings and discounts are added all the time, so be sure to check Costco’s website or mobile app to stay in the know.

The savings don’t stop there. You can save more by earning rewards when you swipe your credit card at checkout. Want to earn cash back rewards? Check out our list of the best cash back credit cards to see how easy it is to earn rewards when you shop.

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

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

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

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

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

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
A lot of people start feeling the pressure to tie up financial loose ends as the new year approaches. But rather than wait until December to focus on your 401(k) plan, it pays to do so in November. Here are three important moves to make this month.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. 1. Get your full employer matchMany companies that sponsor 401(k) plans match worker contributions to some degree. You should aim to snag every single dollar your company is willing to give you for retirement. Each dollar you give up could cost you a lot more over time.Remember, the money in your 401(k) can be invested so it may grow into a larger sum over time. Over the past 50 years, the S&P 500’s average yearly return has been 10%, accounting for both strong and weak years. If you keep your 401(k) invested over many years, you might enjoy a similar return.Meanwhile, let’s say your employer is willing to match up to $3,000 in 401(k) plan contributions this year, but you only save $2,500 in that plan. You might think you’re giving up $500, but if that $500 gets invested over the next 35 years at a 10% annual return, you’re actually giving up $14,000. That’s a much bigger deal.Take a look at how much you’ve contributed to your 401(k) to date. And then see if there’s a way to put enough money into that account by the end of the year to get your workplace match in full.2. Check on your investmentsAs of this writing, the stock market, as measured by the S&P 500, is up about 20% year to date. You may not have your 401(k) invested in an S&P 500 index fund only, and that’s OK. But you should take a look at your investments and see if you’ve gotten a comparable return in your 401(k) plan so far. If not, you may want to make some changes.Perhaps your return is lower for the year because you’re invested too conservatively. Or, it could be that high fees (which are called expense ratios) are eating away at your 401(k)’s returns.Take a look at each investment you have money in, see what its performance looks like for the year, and see what fees you’re paying. It could make sense to pull some money out of actively managed mutual funds, which tend to be expensive from a fee perspective, and move over to passively managed index funds.3. Talk to your payroll department if you want to increase your contributions before year-endYou may decide you’d like to pump a little extra money into your 401(k) by the end of the year. This year, 401(k) contributions max out at $23,000 if you’re under 50 or $30,500 if you’re 50 or older. So there may be plenty of room to increase your contribution without running over the limit that applies to you.But don’t wait to tell your company that you want to increase your 401(k) savings rate before the end of the year. It might take your payroll department time to process that change. And if you wait too long, that money may not hit your account before the end of 2024.Instead, make a decision about how much to contribute for the remainder of the year in November. And ask your payroll department what you need to do to make sure that change is implemented.If you don’t have a 401(k) plan available to you, don’t despair. You can always save for retirement in an IRA instead. Click here for a list of our favorite IRAs. But if you’re sticking with a 401(k) plan through your employer, then make a point to tackle these essential moves sooner rather than later this month.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”:”

A lot of people start feeling the pressure to tie up financial loose ends as the new year approaches. But rather than wait until December to focus on your 401(k) plan, it pays to do so in November. Here are three important moves to make this month.

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.

1. Get your full employer match

Many companies that sponsor 401(k) plans match worker contributions to some degree. You should aim to snag every single dollar your company is willing to give you for retirement. Each dollar you give up could cost you a lot more over time.

Remember, the money in your 401(k) can be invested so it may grow into a larger sum over time. Over the past 50 years, the S&P 500’s average yearly return has been 10%, accounting for both strong and weak years. If you keep your 401(k) invested over many years, you might enjoy a similar return.

Meanwhile, let’s say your employer is willing to match up to $3,000 in 401(k) plan contributions this year, but you only save $2,500 in that plan. You might think you’re giving up $500, but if that $500 gets invested over the next 35 years at a 10% annual return, you’re actually giving up $14,000. That’s a much bigger deal.

Take a look at how much you’ve contributed to your 401(k) to date. And then see if there’s a way to put enough money into that account by the end of the year to get your workplace match in full.

2. Check on your investments

As of this writing, the stock market, as measured by the S&P 500, is up about 20% year to date. You may not have your 401(k) invested in an S&P 500 index fund only, and that’s OK. But you should take a look at your investments and see if you’ve gotten a comparable return in your 401(k) plan so far. If not, you may want to make some changes.

Perhaps your return is lower for the year because you’re invested too conservatively. Or, it could be that high fees (which are called expense ratios) are eating away at your 401(k)’s returns.

Take a look at each investment you have money in, see what its performance looks like for the year, and see what fees you’re paying. It could make sense to pull some money out of actively managed mutual funds, which tend to be expensive from a fee perspective, and move over to passively managed index funds.

3. Talk to your payroll department if you want to increase your contributions before year-end

You may decide you’d like to pump a little extra money into your 401(k) by the end of the year. This year, 401(k) contributions max out at $23,000 if you’re under 50 or $30,500 if you’re 50 or older. So there may be plenty of room to increase your contribution without running over the limit that applies to you.

But don’t wait to tell your company that you want to increase your 401(k) savings rate before the end of the year. It might take your payroll department time to process that change. And if you wait too long, that money may not hit your account before the end of 2024.

Instead, make a decision about how much to contribute for the remainder of the year in November. And ask your payroll department what you need to do to make sure that change is implemented.

If you don’t have a 401(k) plan available to you, don’t despair. You can always save for retirement in an IRA instead. Click here for a list of our favorite IRAs. But if you’re sticking with a 401(k) plan through your employer, then make a point to tackle these essential moves sooner rather than later this month.

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

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

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

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

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
The Federal Reserve not only cut interest rates in September for the first time in more than four years, but it did so rather aggressively. Typically, the Fed likes to lower interest rates by 25 basis points (one-fourth of a percent) at a time, unless there’s some sort of economic emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic, for example. However, the Fed decided to start the rate-cutting cycle by doing a larger 50-basis-point cut to the benchmark federal funds rate.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. Soon after that decision was announced, experts quickly increased their expectations for future rate cuts. However, in the time since then, interest rate projections have shifted, and in a way that could be favorable to consumers with money in high-yield savings accounts.Do you want to lock in today’s interest rates before the Fed cuts any further? Click here for our up-to-date list of the best CD rates right now.Rate cut expectations have shiftedAfter the Fed’s decision to aggressively cut rates in September, experts started to wonder whether the sharp rate cuts would continue. However, thanks to generally strong economic data and recent inflation numbers, the expectation has shifted.At the end of September, experts were unsure about whether we’d see a standard 25-basis-point rate cut in November, or if we’d get another “double” rate cut. According to the CME FedWatch tool, which tells us the future interest rate expectations priced into financial markets, a month ago (Sept. 30), there was a 65% chance of a single rate cut and a 35% chance of a double.Now it’s a different story. As of Oct. 29, the markets were pricing in more than a 98% chance of a 25-basis-point rate cut at the conclusion of the Fed’s November meeting. Not only that, but the probability for a double rate cut is effectively zero. There’s a 1.6% chance that the Fed doesn’t cut rates at all in November, according to the tool.What does this mean for savings and money market accounts?To be perfectly clear, the interest rates paid by savings accounts and money market accounts don’t have a direct link to the Federal Reserve’s benchmark interest rates. In other words, if the Fed cuts rates by 0.25% at its November meeting, there’s no rule that says savings interest rates have to fall by the same amount (or at all).However, since the Fed’s rate cuts affect banks’ costs of borrowing money, the rates tend to move in the same direction. Since the September rate cut, many top online banks have lowered their savings rates, although many have done so at a lesser magnitude than the Fed’s cut. As a personal example, while the Fed lowered the federal funds rate by 50 basis points, my high-yield savings account interest rate fell by 30 basis points soon after.The bottom line is if the Fed lowers rates by 25 basis points as expected, it would be reasonable to expect savings and money market interest rates to fall as well. But the decline is likely to be significantly less than if the Fed had decided to make another double rate cut, which now appears to be off the table for 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.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

The Federal Reserve not only cut interest rates in September for the first time in more than four years, but it did so rather aggressively. Typically, the Fed likes to lower interest rates by 25 basis points (one-fourth of a percent) at a time, unless there’s some sort of economic emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic, for example. However, the Fed decided to start the rate-cutting cycle by doing a larger 50-basis-point cut to the benchmark federal funds rate.

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.

Soon after that decision was announced, experts quickly increased their expectations for future rate cuts. However, in the time since then, interest rate projections have shifted, and in a way that could be favorable to consumers with money in high-yield savings accounts.

Do you want to lock in today’s interest rates before the Fed cuts any further? Click here for our up-to-date list of the best CD rates right now.

Rate cut expectations have shifted

After the Fed’s decision to aggressively cut rates in September, experts started to wonder whether the sharp rate cuts would continue. However, thanks to generally strong economic data and recent inflation numbers, the expectation has shifted.

At the end of September, experts were unsure about whether we’d see a standard 25-basis-point rate cut in November, or if we’d get another “double” rate cut. According to the CME FedWatch tool, which tells us the future interest rate expectations priced into financial markets, a month ago (Sept. 30), there was a 65% chance of a single rate cut and a 35% chance of a double.

Now it’s a different story. As of Oct. 29, the markets were pricing in more than a 98% chance of a 25-basis-point rate cut at the conclusion of the Fed’s November meeting. Not only that, but the probability for a double rate cut is effectively zero. There’s a 1.6% chance that the Fed doesn’t cut rates at all in November, according to the tool.

What does this mean for savings and money market accounts?

To be perfectly clear, the interest rates paid by savings accounts and money market accounts don’t have a direct link to the Federal Reserve’s benchmark interest rates. In other words, if the Fed cuts rates by 0.25% at its November meeting, there’s no rule that says savings interest rates have to fall by the same amount (or at all).

However, since the Fed’s rate cuts affect banks’ costs of borrowing money, the rates tend to move in the same direction. Since the September rate cut, many top online banks have lowered their savings rates, although many have done so at a lesser magnitude than the Fed’s cut. As a personal example, while the Fed lowered the federal funds rate by 50 basis points, my high-yield savings account interest rate fell by 30 basis points soon after.

The bottom line is if the Fed lowers rates by 25 basis points as expected, it would be reasonable to expect savings and money market interest rates to fall as well. But the decline is likely to be significantly less than if the Fed had decided to make another double rate cut, which now appears to be off the table for 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.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
Living paycheck to paycheck is stressful enough, and adding in an expense like saving for retirement can seem overwhelming. The good news is that plenty of other people have figured out how to do just that, and if they did, so can you. Undoubtedly, you have heard or read stories of people who worked lower-paying jobs but retired with millions, all from saving and investing frugally and wisely.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. So yes, it can be done.The key is to use strategies that work within your financial limits. By making small but impactful moves, you can gradually build your retirement fund, no matter how tough your current financial situation may look.Need help getting started with investing? Click here for our picks for the best stock brokers.Budget wiselyWhen living paycheck to paycheck, your budget is your friend, not your enemy. If you want to find funds to invest, you need to look at your budget, revisit your expenses, and find areas where you can trim some fat.Could you switch to a cheaper cellphone plan? Cut back on subscription services? Small changes like these can free up money to invest. It may even behoove you to consider cutting back on a bigger budget item, like your housing or auto expenses. For example, you could downsize to a smaller and cheaper home, or buy a used car instead of a new one. Your friend, your budget, will show you what your best bets are.Start small, start nowThe best way to invest for retirement when money is tight is to start where you are, with whatever you can manage. Well-known American author and self-help coach and speaker, Tony Robbins likes to say, “If you won’t give a dime out of a dollar, you won’t give $1 million out of $10 million.” The same idea applies here. You have to get into the habit starting where you are.It is easy to think you need large sums of money to make a difference, but consistency is more important than the amount, especially as you start this process. Begin investing with as little as $10 or $20 per month. Over time, the power of compound interest will help even small investments grow significantly.Take advantage of employer matchesThis can really make a huge difference for you.An employer match is when your company offers to equal the sum you put away for retirement each month (up to some limit). Employer matches are essentially free money. They can really accelerate your savings. And check this out: A recent study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 41% of companies that offer a 401(k) plan provide employer matching contributions for up to 6% of employees’ salaries.See if your employer offers matching contributions to a 401(k) or similar retirement plan; it is one of the easiest ways to build your retirement fund without any extra effort on your part. Even if you are living paycheck to paycheck, contributing just enough to get the match should be a priority.Automate your savingsA final way to save when money is tight is to set up an automatic transfer into your retirement account from your checking account. That way, you hardly even notice or feel the deduction. Automating your savings also makes it easier to be consistent, as you will not have to think about manually transferring funds each month.No doubt, saving for retirement when you are living paycheck to paycheck is not easy. That said, with a few smart moves, it really is possible to start to build a secure financial future. Start small, stay consistent, use these tools, and undoubtedly 65-year-old you will thank you.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Living paycheck to paycheck is stressful enough, and adding in an expense like saving for retirement can seem overwhelming. The good news is that plenty of other people have figured out how to do just that, and if they did, so can you. Undoubtedly, you have heard or read stories of people who worked lower-paying jobs but retired with millions, all from saving and investing frugally and wisely.

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.

So yes, it can be done.

The key is to use strategies that work within your financial limits. By making small but impactful moves, you can gradually build your retirement fund, no matter how tough your current financial situation may look.

Need help getting started with investing? Click here for our picks for the best stock brokers.

Budget wisely

When living paycheck to paycheck, your budget is your friend, not your enemy. If you want to find funds to invest, you need to look at your budget, revisit your expenses, and find areas where you can trim some fat.

Could you switch to a cheaper cellphone plan? Cut back on subscription services? Small changes like these can free up money to invest. It may even behoove you to consider cutting back on a bigger budget item, like your housing or auto expenses. For example, you could downsize to a smaller and cheaper home, or buy a used car instead of a new one. Your friend, your budget, will show you what your best bets are.

Start small, start now

The best way to invest for retirement when money is tight is to start where you are, with whatever you can manage. Well-known American author and self-help coach and speaker, Tony Robbins likes to say, “If you won’t give a dime out of a dollar, you won’t give $1 million out of $10 million.” The same idea applies here. You have to get into the habit starting where you are.

It is easy to think you need large sums of money to make a difference, but consistency is more important than the amount, especially as you start this process. Begin investing with as little as $10 or $20 per month. Over time, the power of compound interest will help even small investments grow significantly.

Take advantage of employer matches

This can really make a huge difference for you.

An employer match is when your company offers to equal the sum you put away for retirement each month (up to some limit). Employer matches are essentially free money. They can really accelerate your savings. And check this out: A recent study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 41% of companies that offer a 401(k) plan provide employer matching contributions for up to 6% of employees’ salaries.

See if your employer offers matching contributions to a 401(k) or similar retirement plan; it is one of the easiest ways to build your retirement fund without any extra effort on your part. Even if you are living paycheck to paycheck, contributing just enough to get the match should be a priority.

Automate your savings

A final way to save when money is tight is to set up an automatic transfer into your retirement account from your checking account. That way, you hardly even notice or feel the deduction. Automating your savings also makes it easier to be consistent, as you will not have to think about manually transferring funds each month.

No doubt, saving for retirement when you are living paycheck to paycheck is not easy. That said, with a few smart moves, it really is possible to start to build a secure financial future. Start small, stay consistent, use these tools, and undoubtedly 65-year-old you will thank you.

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

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

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

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

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[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Open enrollment is an important time of year for employees, but it’s especially crucial for small business owners. That’s because they have a higher level of responsibility for choosing their own health insurance.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. Making the wrong choice during open enrollment could cost you and your business thousands of dollars. We spoke with Alex Irish, co-CEO of Catch, a tech platform that helps freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed business owners choose the best health insurance and benefit plans, about how to have a successful open enrollment for 2025.If you’re a small business owner who wants to save money on healthcare, here are a few expert tips you need to know before (or during) open enrollment.1. Don’t forget the open enrollment deadlines!In most states, open enrollment begins Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 15, but the deadline for coverage starting on Jan. 1, 2025 is December 15, 2024. Regardless of what your current health insurance plan might be, it’s essential for business owners to be aware of these deadlines.”If you miss these deadlines, it can be very difficult to qualify for health insurance during the rest of the year,” Irish said. “At Catch, we get many calls on post-deadline days from people looking for health insurance, and unfortunately there is very little that customers can do at that point. Once open enrollment ends, you’ll need a Qualifying Life Event, like getting married, to be eligible to buy health insurance. “Open enrollment is also a good occasion to find the right tools for your business finances. Our experts have rounded up the best credit cards for small business owners to help you maximize rewards, manage expenses, and stay on top of cash flow. Check out our top recommendations here to find the card that best suits your business needs.2. Check the mail before open enrollment (or check with your insurance company)In the lead-up to open enrollment, be sure to watch the mail for important documents from your insurance company. You might receive a letter telling you about your options to keep your current plan, choose a new plan while keeping your current insurer, or choose an entirely new insurance company.This happened to me; my health insurance company is no longer offering the same plan that I used in 2024, but I can choose a similar (lower-premium) plan for 2025. Make sure to check your mail so you can understand your options ahead of time.3. Save money with (PTCs)Many small business owners assume health insurance premiums will be impossibly expensive. Some people might even hesitate to leave a corporate job to start a business because they’re worried about high-cost health insurance.Through HealthCare.gov, many small business owners qualify for lower-cost health insurance premiums with premium tax credits (PTCs). Based on your income, you might be able to get cheaper health insurance than you expected! For 2024, about 80% of HealthCare.gov customers got health insurance premiums of $10 or less per month (after PTC subsidies).”The No. 1 complaint we hear from people shopping for their own health insurance is price,” Irish said. “We always recommend seeing if you’re eligible for savings, and here at Catch, we’ve built tools to make it very easy for our members to realize and apply those savings while applying for health coverage.”4. Consider higher premiums vs. HDHPsSmall business owners can choose a higher-premium plan with more generous coverage or a lower-premium plan with a higher deductible and higher out-of-pocket costs. Based on your overall health, age, risk factors, and lifestyle, choosing a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) might be a good choice.”If you anticipate needing less healthcare, you might consider shopping for a plan with a lower monthly premium but a higher deductible,” Irish said. “In other words, tipping the scale toward paying more for care only if you utilize it. On the flip side, if you expect to utilize more care, you may want to prioritize plans with higher premiums but lower deductibles. This means you’re paying more upfront, but your out-of-pocket costs will be lower when you utilize care.”Choosing a HDHP helps you in two ways:It gives you a lower premium to pay each month, taking pressure off your business cash flow.It can make you eligible to open a health savings account (HSA). An HSA lets you set aside thousands of tax-deductible dollars to use for healthcare or to save and invest for your future life in retirement.5. Make your first premium paymentEven after signing up for health insurance during open enrollment, it’s not “official” until you make your first premium payment in advance.”Don’t forget to pay your first month’s premium, also called the ‘binder’ payment,” Irish said. “As a small business owner, unlike getting insurance through a big corporate employer, you’re responsible for paying your premiums directly to your insurance carrier. And you must pay your first month’s premium before your health insurance plan’s start date, or else your coverage may not start.”Author’s tip: I signed up for health insurance on HealthCare.gov. I paid my first premium online. But then I called my health insurance company to confirm that my binder payment was successfully processed.Bottom lineOpen enrollment for 2025 runs from Nov. 1, 2024 to Jan. 15, 2025. Check HealthCare.gov or use services like Catch.co to find lower-cost health insurance that suits your needs. Choosing the best health insurance can keep more cash in your business bank account.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 recommends Flow. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Open enrollment is an important time of year for employees, but it’s especially crucial for small business owners. That’s because they have a higher level of responsibility for choosing their own health insurance.

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.

Making the wrong choice during open enrollment could cost you and your business thousands of dollars. We spoke with Alex Irish, co-CEO of Catch, a tech platform that helps freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed business owners choose the best health insurance and benefit plans, about how to have a successful open enrollment for 2025.

If you’re a small business owner who wants to save money on healthcare, here are a few expert tips you need to know before (or during) open enrollment.

1. Don’t forget the open enrollment deadlines!

In most states, open enrollment begins Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 15, but the deadline for coverage starting on Jan. 1, 2025 is December 15, 2024. Regardless of what your current health insurance plan might be, it’s essential for business owners to be aware of these deadlines.

“If you miss these deadlines, it can be very difficult to qualify for health insurance during the rest of the year,” Irish said. “At Catch, we get many calls on post-deadline days from people looking for health insurance, and unfortunately there is very little that customers can do at that point. Once open enrollment ends, you’ll need a Qualifying Life Event, like getting married, to be eligible to buy health insurance. “

Open enrollment is also a good occasion to find the right tools for your business finances. Our experts have rounded up the best credit cards for small business owners to help you maximize rewards, manage expenses, and stay on top of cash flow. Check out our top recommendations here to find the card that best suits your business needs.

2. Check the mail before open enrollment (or check with your insurance company)

In the lead-up to open enrollment, be sure to watch the mail for important documents from your insurance company. You might receive a letter telling you about your options to keep your current plan, choose a new plan while keeping your current insurer, or choose an entirely new insurance company.

This happened to me; my health insurance company is no longer offering the same plan that I used in 2024, but I can choose a similar (lower-premium) plan for 2025. Make sure to check your mail so you can understand your options ahead of time.

3. Save money with (PTCs)

Many small business owners assume health insurance premiums will be impossibly expensive. Some people might even hesitate to leave a corporate job to start a business because they’re worried about high-cost health insurance.

Through HealthCare.gov, many small business owners qualify for lower-cost health insurance premiums with premium tax credits (PTCs). Based on your income, you might be able to get cheaper health insurance than you expected! For 2024, about 80% of HealthCare.gov customers got health insurance premiums of $10 or less per month (after PTC subsidies).

“The No. 1 complaint we hear from people shopping for their own health insurance is price,” Irish said. “We always recommend seeing if you’re eligible for savings, and here at Catch, we’ve built tools to make it very easy for our members to realize and apply those savings while applying for health coverage.”

4. Consider higher premiums vs. HDHPs

Small business owners can choose a higher-premium plan with more generous coverage or a lower-premium plan with a higher deductible and higher out-of-pocket costs. Based on your overall health, age, risk factors, and lifestyle, choosing a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) might be a good choice.

“If you anticipate needing less healthcare, you might consider shopping for a plan with a lower monthly premium but a higher deductible,” Irish said. “In other words, tipping the scale toward paying more for care only if you utilize it. On the flip side, if you expect to utilize more care, you may want to prioritize plans with higher premiums but lower deductibles. This means you’re paying more upfront, but your out-of-pocket costs will be lower when you utilize care.”

Choosing a HDHP helps you in two ways:

It gives you a lower premium to pay each month, taking pressure off your business cash flow.It can make you eligible to open a health savings account (HSA). An HSA lets you set aside thousands of tax-deductible dollars to use for healthcare or to save and invest for your future life in retirement.

5. Make your first premium payment

Even after signing up for health insurance during open enrollment, it’s not “official” until you make your first premium payment in advance.

“Don’t forget to pay your first month’s premium, also called the ‘binder’ payment,” Irish said. “As a small business owner, unlike getting insurance through a big corporate employer, you’re responsible for paying your premiums directly to your insurance carrier. And you must pay your first month’s premium before your health insurance plan’s start date, or else your coverage may not start.”

Author’s tip: I signed up for health insurance on HealthCare.gov. I paid my first premium online. But then I called my health insurance company to confirm that my binder payment was successfully processed.

Bottom line

Open enrollment for 2025 runs from Nov. 1, 2024 to Jan. 15, 2025. Check HealthCare.gov or use services like Catch.co to find lower-cost health insurance that suits your needs. Choosing the best health insurance can keep more cash in your business bank account.

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 recommends Flow. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
I’m a new Costco member and have already saved money without going to my local club. I understood that Costco could offer savings on food and household goods, but I was unaware of other ways my membership could help me keep more money in my checking account.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!I like to travel. Plus, when I’m home, I refrain from driving when going out with friends for drinks, so I sometimes find myself using ride-hailing services. This expense can add up quickly, but spending money for added peace of mind and convenience is worthwhile. Well, now I’m paying less. Recently, I discovered that my Costco membership could help me save money on Uber expenses. Let me explain how I’ve unlocked discounted Uber rides so you can save, too. Costco members can buy cheaper gift cards In addition to discounts on food, clothes, toiletries, furniture, and electronics, Costco members can save money in other ways. One example is by purchasing affordable gift cards. The warehouse club brand sells gift cards for many popular brands and retailers for less than face value. You’ll find gift cards for restaurants, entertainment, travel, and more. Buying discounted gift cards for retailers you usually spend money with is a great strategy to save money on future purchases. One gift card deal that Costco members can buy is two electronic $50 Uber gift cards for $79.99. You’ll get $100 to spend on Uber or Uber Eats purchases within the United States. And the best part is, it’ll cost you $20 less than the face value. I recently purchased this deal and loaded the virtual gift card funds into my Uber wallet. Since I knew I would be using Uber in the coming days, this was an easy way to save money. Now that I know Costco sells cheaper Uber gift cards, I can continue saving money using ride-hailing services. Thanks to my membership, I’ll save $20 every time I spend $100 on Uber. It requires little effort on my part to get a discount, which is a huge win. Want to know how I saved even more on this purchase? I used a credit card that earns rewards to save even more on this purchase. The right credit card can help you maximize your savings as you earn rewards. Click here to explore our curated list of the top credit cards that offer big rewards at Costco.This Costco deal will save me $100 annually I plan to benefit significantly from this gift card deal. I looked back at my Uber transactions for 2024 to get a feel for the savings potential. These gift cards can be used only in the U.S., so I won’t save money when using Uber internationally. However, I reviewed my domestic Uber spending for this year and found that I spent around $500 on Uber rides throughout the last 11 months. That means I could have saved $100 with this gift card deal. By purchasing a total of $500 in Uber gift cards throughout the year, I would have spent only $400 thanks to my Costco membership. Costco gift card deals like this are worthwhile. Don’t ignore opportunities to save money on all your regular expenses by maximizing your Costco membership.Pay yourself back by earning rewards Shopping at retailers like Costco is a great way to save money on everyday expenses. In addition to shopping deals like this, take advantage of the chance to earn rewards. Using a rewards credit card to pay for your Costco hauls is an easy way to maximize your savings.Want to earn cash back when buying gift cards from Costco? Check out our list of the top cash back credit cards to see how easy it is to pay yourself back with cash rewards. 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.Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool recommends Discover Financial Services. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

I’m a new Costco member and have already saved money without going to my local club. I understood that Costco could offer savings on food and household goods, but I was unaware of other ways my membership could help me keep more money in my checking account.

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!

I like to travel. Plus, when I’m home, I refrain from driving when going out with friends for drinks, so I sometimes find myself using ride-hailing services. This expense can add up quickly, but spending money for added peace of mind and convenience is worthwhile.

Well, now I’m paying less. Recently, I discovered that my Costco membership could help me save money on Uber expenses. Let me explain how I’ve unlocked discounted Uber rides so you can save, too.

Costco members can buy cheaper gift cards

In addition to discounts on food, clothes, toiletries, furniture, and electronics, Costco members can save money in other ways. One example is by purchasing affordable gift cards. The warehouse club brand sells gift cards for many popular brands and retailers for less than face value.

You’ll find gift cards for restaurants, entertainment, travel, and more. Buying discounted gift cards for retailers you usually spend money with is a great strategy to save money on future purchases.

One gift card deal that Costco members can buy is two electronic $50 Uber gift cards for $79.99. You’ll get $100 to spend on Uber or Uber Eats purchases within the United States. And the best part is, it’ll cost you $20 less than the face value.

I recently purchased this deal and loaded the virtual gift card funds into my Uber wallet. Since I knew I would be using Uber in the coming days, this was an easy way to save money.

Now that I know Costco sells cheaper Uber gift cards, I can continue saving money using ride-hailing services. Thanks to my membership, I’ll save $20 every time I spend $100 on Uber. It requires little effort on my part to get a discount, which is a huge win.

Want to know how I saved even more on this purchase? I used a credit card that earns rewards to save even more on this purchase. The right credit card can help you maximize your savings as you earn rewards. Click here to explore our curated list of the top credit cards that offer big rewards at Costco.

This Costco deal will save me $100 annually

I plan to benefit significantly from this gift card deal. I looked back at my Uber transactions for 2024 to get a feel for the savings potential.

These gift cards can be used only in the U.S., so I won’t save money when using Uber internationally. However, I reviewed my domestic Uber spending for this year and found that I spent around $500 on Uber rides throughout the last 11 months. That means I could have saved $100 with this gift card deal.

By purchasing a total of $500 in Uber gift cards throughout the year, I would have spent only $400 thanks to my Costco membership. Costco gift card deals like this are worthwhile. Don’t ignore opportunities to save money on all your regular expenses by maximizing your Costco membership.

Pay yourself back by earning rewards

Shopping at retailers like Costco is a great way to save money on everyday expenses. In addition to shopping deals like this, take advantage of the chance to earn rewards. Using a rewards credit card to pay for your Costco hauls is an easy way to maximize your savings.

Want to earn cash back when buying gift cards from Costco? Check out our list of the top cash back credit cards to see how easy it is to pay yourself back with cash rewards.

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.Discover Financial Services is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool recommends Discover Financial Services. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More