Hot Today

Wise Bread articles that are hot today.

4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Gift Cards

Ah, the simple gift card — what did we do before them? Whether you're the gifter or the giftee, here's how to wring every cent out of them.

Cow Appreciation Day!

Are you just itching to pull out that cow costume? Or have you ever wanted to dress like a cow and get rewarded for it? Then, Friday, July 13th might just be your day! Chick-Fil

Dangerous neighborhoods are safer than commuting

Why do so few people live within walking--or at least bicycling--distance from where they work? I've asked a lot of people this question and gotten a lot of different answers. Some people want big houses, others big lawns. [more]

7 Ways to Rent An Apartment With Bad Credit

Bad or low credit makes everything hard — even renting an apartment. Here's how you can still find a place when your credit is weak.

5 Signs Your Budget Needs a Makeover (And How to Do It)

Try as you might, your money and your budget won't see eye-to-eye. Here's how to get back on track.

How to Shave $5,000 Off Your Wedding Expenses

Her comes the bride...and the bill! Learn how to have the wedding of your dreams without going into debt with these cunning cutbacks.

What's Faster for Mortgage Payoff: $100/Month Extra or 1 Payment/Year Extra?

Is it better to pay $100 per month extra on your mortgage or make an extra payment at the end of each year? It depends on your loan balance and interest rate.

The false goal of maximizing investment returns

Along about the middle of the dot-com boom--when the market had already had two years of 20% annual gains--I read an article that suggested that individual investors had no need of a cash res [more]

How To Turn A Video Game System Into A Gym Membership

Never thought you could actually get in shape with that PS2 or Xbox, huh? Believe it or not, I justified buying a PS2 because it's cheaper than hiring a personal trainer and ge

7 Times It's Okay to Raid Your 529 Plan

While you shouldn't tap a 529 plan willy-nilly, sometimes it's okay to dip into school savings, especially if you have better options.

10 Little Things to Do Before a Job Interview That Can Make a Big Impact

The little things count, especially during a job interview. These are interview-busting details you don't want to overlook.

10 Money Lessons Your Kids Can Learn While They Travel

Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean your kids can't learn valuable lessons about money.

15 Free Ways to Learn Something New

From online classes to in-person demonstrations and more, check out these 15 ways to learn something new — no fee required.

Eat Your Garbage! Turn Your Trash Into Delicious Holiday Food

From elegant brunches to tasty (and giftable!) treats, discover how your food waste can make amazing, celebration-worthy eats.

12 Expert Tips for Redeeming Miles for Free Travel

Your dreams of seeing the world don't have to drain your savings. Become a frugal jetsetter with a little help from some credit card reward experts.

Credit Card Rewards Programs

A commenter on a recent article of mine on credit card usage, suggested a follow-up post with an eye to uncovering the mysteries of credit card rewards programs. And in my research, I discove [more]

What to Expect on Your First Cruise

First time heading out on the high seas? Don't stress. Here's what you can expect on your maiden voyage.

The Compact: Mindfulness and Frugality Through Buying Used

Is it possible to save the planet while saving money? Reformed consumer Max Wong shares some of her thoughts on the difference between frugality and mindfulness.

The 7 Most Affordable Destinations for Bird Nerds

If bird watching is a hobby of yours, you'll love these affordable vacation spots.

The 5 Best Mid-Sized Cities for Millennials

You don't have to make it there to make it somewhere. Enjoy big city living without the big city cost in these five medium-sized metropolises.