Hot Today

Wise Bread articles that are hot today.

Your budget: envelopes or a plan?

When I was first introduced to budgeting, the model used was the envelope method. Every payday you'd take your cash and divide it up among envelopes labeled "Rent," "Groceries," "Electric Bill," etc. [more]

4 Ways Credit Cards Manipulate You Into More Debt

We humans aren't always rational. Learn four psychological tricks credit card companies use to capitalize on your irrationality and maximize your debt.

Is Six Figures Really That Much?

Nowadays, six figures is still above average, but its buying power in terms of lifestyle may have eroded even more than the value of a dollar, as those of us within striking distan

7 Smart Ways to Save on a Wedding Dress

Planning your big day doesn't have to be stressful — and it doesn't have to bust your budget. It's time to get savvy about your wedding dress!

The 5 Best Portable Air Conditioners

Keeping you cooled off on sweltering hot days isn't easy, but it can be. Just use any of these portable air conditioners and you'll always stay cool.

The 5 Best Rice Cookers

If you eat rice regularly, it might be worthwhile to invest in a dedicated rice cooker. Here are our top picks.

Don't Panic! How to Meet a Deadline

You can't cheat time; and hair pulling, sweating, and crying won't get it done, either. But you can meet a tight deadline with one or more of these tips.

10 Reasons You Should Really Fear an IRS Audit

When the IRS decides to smack you with an audit, what's the worst that can happen? You're wise not to try to cheat the taxman.

7 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Foreclosed Home

Are foreclosures all risk and no reward? Well, not always. Here are a few things to consider before calling one home.

4 Bad Money Habits You're Teaching Your Kids

Kids are little sponges that soak up every subconscious lesson — including our awful money habits.

A Simple Guide to Socially Responsible Investing

We all want to do right and do well. Make a difference in the world as your returns roll in with socially responsible investing.

Best Money Tips: 20+ Ways to Get Paid for Watching TV

Today we found articles on ways to get paid to watch TV, small financial changes that have a big impact, and facts about Social Security benefits that Baby Boomers should know.

How To Turn a 2-liter Bottle Of Water Into a 50-Watt Lightbulb

It's not often I'm taken aback by the simplicity and power of an invention, but this one does it for me. It's cheap, anyone can make one and it literally changes lives. Welcome to

Big changes or small changes?

There are two ways to make a major change in your life. One is to make a series of small changes--this month you might brown-bag your lunch one day a week; next month you might go

How to Move From Being Busy to Actually Getting Things Done

Being busy feels good — but it's not the same as being productive. Here's how to slow the pace and still get more done.

25 Easy 5-Ingredient Recipes That Save Time and Money

You don't need a lot of fancy ingredients to put a flavorful meal on the table. Make dinner easy with short grocery lists and basic preparations.

Best Money Tips: How to Prepare for the Next Recession

Today we found articles on ways to prepare for an economic downturn, tips to help you sleep on a plan like a pro, and affordable DIY kitchen upgrades that are totally worth it.

Dumpster-Diving 101: 6 Strategies for Success

From discovering the best areas and times to dive to knowing what to look out for and what gear you need, learn proven strategies for successful and safe dumpster diving.

The 7 Dumbest Big Purchases People Make

Remember when 3D TVs were all the rage? Sometimes even smart people make bad purchasing decisions. Consider that and six other doozies.

10 Foods With the Most Bang for Your Buck

It's easy to buy a lot of calories for little (just eat junk food). Guess what? It's also easy to buy a lot of nutrition for a little money.