Hot Today

Wise Bread articles that are hot today.

7 Times to Avoid Debit or Credit Cards

The convenience of credit and debit cards is hard to beat, but sometimes it's better to shell out the cash.

The 5 Best Smart Thermostats

Your average thermostat can't be controlled from anywhere or learn your temperature preferences. That's why it's time to upgrade to one of these smart thermostats.

Better cars are not the answer

Wise Bread is an optimistic place. There are some people who can't see the congruence between optimism and frugality. I'm talking about the people who point to our progre

NFL Extra Points Card: Fumble or Touchdown?

If you’re willing spend what it takes to amass the required points, this credit card may be the surest way to acquire Super Bowl tickets.

Stretching Meals for Unexpected Guests

I think I’ve lucked out — plenty of my friends live in my immediate vicinity. One even lives in the next apartment building over. This does mean, however, that people are in the ha

Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is

Do your normal financial routines feel blah? Does saving not give you the same rush that it used to? Does investing feel overwhelming, dull, or uninteresting? Then maybe you're man

The good life on less energy--even in the US

Whenever I write a post about energy, I point out that we know it's possible to have a high standard of living while using less energy--people in European countries do, so it must

Faster Free Shipping on Amazon With No Minimum Order -- Free Prime Trial

Wouldn't it be nice if you could get (nearly) everything shipped free from Amazon this holiday season? Without having to spend $25? You can -- with a three-month Amazon Prime Free

What Makes a Company an Attractive Investment?

Index fund investing is hard to beat, but if you're eager to test your chops by investing in individual companies, these are key attributes you should evaluate.

6 Reasons I Still Don't Have a Cell Phone Plan (yet)

If you ask most people what they can't live without, many would say their computer. Just about as many would say their cell phone/PDA/Crackberry. I agree with the first one – I c

Needs, wants, and not even wants

Hang around with frugality and simplicity types for any length of time and you'll hear a lot about distinguishing between needs and wants. It's come to me, though, that this issue

Should you try to reduce your rent?

Lately it seems that rent prices have been dropping in many areas of the country. Here in San Mateo some residential apartments are dropping prices as much as 20%. This seemed a

Join Our Tweetchat on Thursday 1/2, 12pm Pacific for a Chance to Win Prizes

Topic: 2013 in Review! Join our conversation for chance to win Amazon gift certificates! Use #WBChat to participate!

How to Support Your Broke Parents

Your parents have always been there for you — but now they're the ones in a tough spot. Don't panic. Here's how you can help.

How to Spot a Charity Scam From a Mile Away

Don't let your charitable donation go toward funding a crooked cause.

Who Should Face the Music When the Banks Fail?

Should everyday folks bear the brunt when banks fail, or should the bankers themselves be held responsible?

Going Green Could Mean More Money In Your Pocket

With all the environmental disasters we've been facing lately, it's easy to feel helpless about the state of our world. But rather than fall into this mood, I'd like to suggest tha

Best Cards for Men & Women’s Apparel Stores

Find the best women's and men's apparel credit cards.

Bought Milk? Today's the Deadline to Claim Your Settlement Money

If you bought milk anytime between 2003 and 2010, you're entitled to some money back. But you have to act fast — like today!

Can Reinvesting Dividends Really Save You on Taxes?

If you're reinvesting your dividends, you may be shortchanging Uncle Sam. Here's what you need to know about dividends and taxes.