Hot Today

Wise Bread articles that are hot today.

Not free to be poor

Nobody wants to be poor. It's a dangerous and constrained position to be in. But there are people out there (me, for instance) who are relatively happy to live at a fairly low st

Ask the Readers: What Is Your Biggest Monthly Expense?

Tell us about your biggest monthly expense and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

The 8 Best Pets for Frugal Animal Lovers

Caring for a pet can end up costing a lot. Take in one of these no frills furry (or scaled or shelled) friends at a fraction of the cost of Fido.

Can You Really Make a Living as an Ebook Writer?

Ever wonder if you could make a living as an ebook author? Us too! Find out what we learned about it.

5 Financial Reasons Paid Parental Leave Is Essential for Moms and Dads

Paid parental leave benefits everyone involved — Mom, Dad, baby, and even businesses, too. So why do so few employers offer it?

Switch to a Better Bank in 5 Easy Steps

You're not really happy with your bank, but switching is such a pain. Make it easy with this simple plan.

How to Turn Unwanted Gift Cards Into Cash

What to do with that stack of gift cards you're never gonna use? Sell them for cash, or trade them for gift cards you really will use. It's easy!

Best Credit Cards for Jewelry Stores

A guide to the best jewelry store credit cards.

Your 401K in 2017: Here's What's New for You

2017 may not bring a lot of changes to your 401K, but you can still make sure you're making the most of your retirement plan.

Are You Underpaid? How to Figure Out What Salary You Deserve

How much are you worth? Discover the salary you should really be earning.

The Easy Way to Save Up a Big Travel Budget

Wondering how to save for your dream trip? These simple tips will get you started saving today!

7 Lessons From Tax Day to Remember for Next Year

With Tax Day now behind you (phew!), it's time to reflect on a few lessons that might make next April a little less stressful.

Don't Make These 5 Common Mistakes When Writing a Will

Everyone needs a last will and testament. Make it easier on your loved ones by avoiding these mistakes.

6 Times You Should Always Rent Clothes Instead of Buy

Prom, weddings, black tie, and more. Here's when renting fancy clothes makes the most sense.

Credit Challenged? How Alternative Credit Data Can Help Those With Little or No Credit

Your thin credit record may not tell the whole story. Some lenders are starting to look at other information about you, too. Here's what you need to know.

7 Ways to Lower Your Credit Card Interest Rate

It might be time for better credit terms. With a little planning, you can negotiate your way to lower credit card interest rates.

17 Ways Your House Can Earn a Paycheck

Looking for a unique way to pad your bottom line? Put your house to work earning extra income.

5 Facts Millennials Should Know About Retirement Planning

Retirement saving has never been easy, but for today's young adults, it seems impossible. Here's how to understand today's special saving challenges.

12 Money Adjustments You Should Make Mid-Year

It's time to consult our mid-year financial checklist and make some important money moves to set yourself up the end of '15 and the coming of '16.

10 Wonderful Ways to Use Wallpaper

Forget the stuffy wallpaper at your great aunt's house — these trendy wallpaper projects are super stylish. How will you put wallpaper to creative use?