Hot Today

Wise Bread articles that are hot today.

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Speed Reading: A Book Review

For many, time is money, and so it shouldn’t surprise me that there is now an official guide on how to read more in less time. I had always been curious about the science of speed

15 Ways to Give to Charity That Fit a Holiday Budget

Charitable giving can be tough on a tight holiday budget. Allow yourself to give in to the holiday spirit with these low-cost, high-impact charity options.

Are You Choosing the Right Fund for Your Portfolio?

ETFs are rapidly becoming one of the more popular investments, hot on mutual funds' tail. So how exactly are they different?

10 Sneaky Vacation Costs That Add Up Quickly

You've booked your ticket. You've packed your bags. You're ready to go. But hang on … some hidden vacation costs are about to spoil your fun.

Are You Saving For Your Child's College Education?

Not all parents are intending to save for their children's education. There may be various reasons why this is the case and it's something I'd like to explore a little, to determi

3 Real Costs of Self-Publishing a Kids' Book

Think writing books for kids is an easy way to earn a living? Think again.

Which Credit Card Should You Use to Get Free Hotel Stays?

Earning free accommodations has never been easier thanks to co-branded hotel and general travel credit cards. Which is right for you?

Book Review: The Road Out of Debt

The classic story of victory over debt is success through work and frugality. But real life is not always so positive, and that's why this book is so useful.

These 17 Companies Will Help You Repay Your Student Loan

Higher education comes at a cost. These companies get it, and they're helping employees pay down student debt one paycheck at a time.

5 Frugal Lessons I Learned From Aldi

Grocery store chain Aldi is my frugal idol. Learn the simple life lessons that shopping at Aldi has taught me.

What Can You Buy for $1 These Days?

They say $1 ain't what it used to be, and they're right. But the humble $1 bill can still get you plenty. Here are 21 possibilities.

10 Ways to Tidy Up Your Finances Before the Holidays

Fall is here, and the holidays are right around the corner. It's time to get your finances in tiptop shape.

7 Ways Paying Off Student Loans Early Can Boost Your Finances

Did college cost you a pretty penny? If you work hard to pay off those loans, you'll reap the benefits of a huge financial boost.

Playing the Lottery Is a Bad Gamble

The recent Mega Millions jackpot serves as a reminder that as awesome as winning the lottery would be, you might be better off not buying a ticket.

20 Frugal Ways to Brighten Your Spouse's Day

You don't have to wine and dine your partner to show your love. Instead, try these inexpensive ways to express how you feel.

Frugality: a tactic, but also a goal

I was going to write a piece on how frugality was a tactic, not a goal. The point I wanted to make was that the goal is living the life you want to live, and that frugality is a ta

The sinking dollar

It takes more than $1.40 to buy one euro today. It cost less than $1 as recently as late 2002. A Canadian dollar is worth just about exactly a US dollar--a parity not seen since

The Fine Art of Negotiating With Your Financial Institution

Paying more and getting less in your financial agreements? Learn how to get past the red tape and negotiate with people who can say "yes."

4 Risky Life Decisions That Millionaires Made — But You Shouldn't

Sure, some of the most successful and wealthy people in the world have quit school, but does that mean you should too? Uh, no.

Book review: In Defense of Food

The message of this book is simple: "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants." Michael Pollan gives it away right at the start, so I don't feel too bad doing the sam