Hot Today

Wise Bread articles that are hot today.

3 Steps to Getting Started in the Stock Market With Index Funds

For new investors with limited resources, the stock market can be confusing and intimidating. Index funds are an easy, low risk, and affordable way to get started.

Working While You Wait

The bad thing about being unemployed during a period of high unemployment, besides the obvious of being jobless, is that the competition can be unusually fierce. Though I encourage

6 Ways to Convince a Store Clerk to Give You a Deal

Sometimes, you just have to know the right questions to ask in order to score a great deal.

7 Soda Alternatives That Won't Bust Your Wallet — Or Your Waistline

Say "See ya" to your soda habit with these infinitely healthier (and much cheaper!) alternatives.

7 Smart Money Moves for Empty Nesters

After you convert your not-so-little one's room to a den or craft room, take some time to make your money all about you again, too.

6 Secrets Restaurants Don't Want You to Know

Do you eat out often? Then you need to check this out and make sure you know these basics before you ever talk to a waiter or waitress again.

Why This Isn't Your Grandparents' Economy

Why can't we save money like our parents and grandparents? Learn how modern economic realities make financial independence more challenging.

5 Biggest Ways Millennials Risk Their Retirements

Millennials are stuck making some tough money calls. Unfortunately, it's their retirement fund that gets hit the hardest.

How to Save for Retirement While Caring for Kids and Parents

In between caring for your parents and your kids, you need to care for yourself, too — especially your financial future self.

6 Times When It's Okay to Take a Loan

There's nothing frugal about borrowing to support a lavish lifestyle. But for essential big purchases, it's okay to visit your bank.

How to Get Your Money Back When You’re Denied a Refund

Not every retailer you shop will have flexible return policies or exemplary customer service. But you can still get a refund if you know who to ask.

10 Home DIY Projects You Can Do in One Day

A one-day DIY project can spruce up your home and give you a sense of accomplishment without the time commitment of a bigger project.

19 Frugal Ways to Entertain Teenagers

Teens can be a tough audience to entertain. But even the most restless and demanding teenagers will have fun with one or more of these activities.

9 Benefits of Being a Morning Person

Up and at 'em! It's time to greet the day with a smile and reap the (many) benefits of being an early riser.

10 Ways to Spot a Motivated Seller

The housing market is currently red-hot, but that doesn't mean you can't strike a deal. Keep your eyes peeled for signs a seller really wants to sell.

How to Go on Vacation Without Getting Behind on Work

Work doesn't take a vacation when you do. Learn how to leave work behind without coming back to an overflowing inbox.

Confessions of a Former Payday Loan Junkie

Can you say “Cash in a Flash?” That’s all I was concerned about when I began financial suicide using payday loans 9 years ago. I

The 5 Best Leather Cleaners

If your leather couch or jacket is starting to look too worn, the proper leather cleaner is what you need. Try one of these and watch the magic happen.

10 Collectibles That Almost Always Become More Valuable

From video games to vinyl, you may want to scoop up these finds at a local garage sale or thrift shop — or dig around for them in your basement or attic.

5 Ways to Make Retail Therapy Good for You

We usually caution against retail therapy — it's so wasteful! — but if you're gonna, at least try to reduce some of the harm.