Articles on Budgeting

7 Unexpected Costs That Could Ruin Your Wedding Budget

The biggest day of your life can also be the most expensive. Start your marriage on the right financial foot by minding these runaway costs.

11 Ways Cycling Can Save You Money

Pedal yourself to big savings by taking to two wheels. You'll enjoy the wind in your hair, the extra dough in your pockets, and some easy fitness.

7 Easy Ways to Budget for Summer Vacation

You can't wait to kick back and relax — but are you saving enough money for your summer getaway? Here's how to be sure!

5 Financial Pitfalls Stay-at-Home Parents Should Avoid

Staying home to raise little ones is often rewarding, but it comes at a financial price. Make sure you do it right!

7 Ways to Help Protect Your Financial Future From Unexpected Medical Expenses

Every 7 seconds a working-age American suffers a disabling injury that leaves him financially vulnerable. Are you prepared?

7 Unexpected Ways Stay-at-Home Parents Save Big

Staying home with the kids means less income — and big savings, too. Find out how stay-at-home tops 9-to-5 when it comes to spending less.

6 Financial Questions You Must Answer Before Going Freelance

Are you ready to strike out on your own? Before you drop your day job, make sure you really understand what your finances will look like.

40+ Cheap or Free Ways to Make the Most of the Weekend

The weekend is the perfect time to catch up on things you're behind on, get started on tasks you've been putting off, and recharge your body and mind. [more]

Teen Wins $100,000 Scholarship From the H&R Block Budget Challenge

Learn how 17-year-old Sean Lawrence won the contest and how your family can participate in the next one.

Here's How Rich You'd Be If You Stopped Drinking

Don't drink away your savings. You might be surprised what the average American spends covering that bar tab each year.

5 Important Questions to Ask Before Adding to Your Family

Babies need more than just love and affection. Before expanding your family, find out what your budget can bear.

Working on the Road: A Book Review for Professional Nomads

Wise Bread's Nora Dunn shares advice about working while traveling in her new book, "Working on the Road." Find out if the lifestyle is for you, too.

Who Pays For the Bridesmaid Dresses When . . . ?

Figuring out who pays for the bridesmaids' dresses is tough, but depending on the situation, the rules are clear. Try this cheatsheet and good luck!

5 Times a Gym Membership Isn't Worth It

Exercise is one key to frugal living — but that gym membership may be a waste of dough. Go ahead, ditch the gym and commit to truly frugal fitness.

Ask the Readers: What Is Your Biggest Monthly Expense?

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

4 Mobile Phone Upgrades That Aren't Worth the Money

Many phone upgrade offers seem worthwhile at the store, but are usually a waste of money. We promise — you won't need them, so don't buy them!

7 Budget Items You May be Forgetting

Unexpected expenses are the worst. Get one step ahead by staying prepared for these sneaky budget busters and keep saving more.

6 Creative Ways to Save Money With Bulk Buying

Don't limit your bulk buys to big box warehouse stores. From meat to gas, there are bulk buy opportunities aplenty to help you save a whole lot more.

Here's How Rich You'd Be if You Stopped Drinking Expensive Coffee

Fancy coffee drinkers, heads up! Your daily caffeine vice may seem like a harmless treat, but it's costing you more money than you may realize.

10 Ways to Have a Cheaper Easter

Easter is not the most extravagant holiday but that bunny can still bite your budget. Fill this year's basket with frugal tips as well as treats.