Hot Today

Wise Bread articles that are hot today.

Cheat Sheet: Retail Markup on Common Items

Stores make money by price markups. Learn the rationale behind retail pricing and what the product you're buying actually costs.

Home Equity Loan or HELOC: Which Is Right for You?

You have equity in your home, and you need to borrow money. Should you turn to a HELOC or a home equity loan?

50 Great Things to Do With $50

One dollar may not buy you much anymore, but a crisp $50 bill still has value. From splurges to saving, try these savvy ideas for your half-hundred.

Best Lenders for Personal Loans

Whether you face unexpected expenses or are just shopping the best rate, there's a personal loan available to suit your needs.

18 Surprising Ways Your Identity Can Be Stolen

You work so hard to protect your identity, but there are still ways thieves can get your personal data. Here's how they do it.

How to Rebuild Your Credit in 8 Simple Steps

Bad credit will cost you more for insurance and loans, and may close some opportunities altogether. Learn how to rebuild a poor credit rating to an excellent one.

Snowballs or Avalanches: Which Debt Reduction Strategy Is Best for You?

There are two leading strategies for debt elimination. Both will work, but one gets you out of debt a little faster and a lot richer.

Why You Should Call Your Mortgage Lender Every Year

When was the last time you gave your mortgage lender a ring? If it's been a few years, you could be throwing money out the window.

The Easy Way to Negotiate a Cheaper Hotel Room

Most hotels and inns are willing to negotiate their rates. All you have to do is be willing to ask.

How a Simple "Do Not Buy" List Keeps Money in Your Pocket

Creating a "do not buy" list will totally change your shopping game — and help you save tons of cash.

Ask the Readers: Are You Saving Up for an Emergency?

We want to hear your thoughts on food storage. Do you do it for emergency insurance? Do you have it only as a result of amazing CVS deals gone wild? Is it something you feel is imp

7 Penalty-Free Ways to Withdraw Money From Your Retirement Account

Borrow money from your IRA, penalty-free? It's possible in these seven scenarios!

How I Successfully Gambled in Las Vegas Without Losing My Shirt

I came. I saw. I conquered Las Vegas without losing my shirt. Success.

4 Times a Handwritten Letter Can Save You Big Bucks

Don't ditch your stationery and penmanship skills just yet. They could save you real money.

5 Retirement Accounts You Don't Need a Ton of Money to Open

Don't let high minimums dissuade your retirement savings goals. These Roth IRAs can get you started, no minimum investment required.

The 11 Best Parking Apps for Your City

"Parking in the big city is easy," said no one ever. Let these apps find you an affordable spot in no time.

5 Financial Mistakes You Need to Stop Making by 30

By the big Three-Oh, you're no finance rookie. Leave these money mistakes in your 20s and kick bad spending habits to the curb. No excuses!

5 Savings Tricks You Haven't Tried Yet

If saving was easy, we'd all be saving more. Try one or more of these savings strategies and see if the habit doesn't finally stick.

Ask the Readers: What's In Your Wallet?

We want to know what you currently carry in your purse or wallet.  By sharing the contents via comments or Twitter, you will be entered to win a $20 Amazon

Are Starter Homes Still a Thing?

Starter homes used to be the norm. But in today's housing market, you might not need those homeowner training wheels.