October 2026

Key Takeaways In an Empower survey, respondents measured financial success with an average annual salary of $270,000 and a net worth of $5.36 million. Younger generations have a higher bar for what they consider financial success. Some of the barriers to success include overspending, debt, the economy, and a lack of financial knowledge. Can you

KEY TAKEAWAYS The 2024 U.S. presidential election is approaching, and half of Americans believe the outcome will significantly impact their personal finances. Many respondents believe the next president will affect the amount of money they can spend, save, and invest. Voters also believe the next president will affect how they will invest in the stock

A personal financial crisis can strike at any time, whether due to job loss, medical emergencies, or economic downturns. Without preparation, these events can cause additional stress and financial instability. Below are ten effective strategies to help you prepare for and manage a financial crisis. Key Takeaways Maintain an emergency fund to cover at least

If you’ve expected a refund on your taxes but instead received a tax bill, you may wonder what your payment options are. You may be looking into an installment plan with the Internal Revenue Service or a personal loan. Whether it’s more cost-effective to take out a personal loan to pay your taxes or leverage

Key Takeaways Personal loans are unsecured loans that can be used for various things, including home projects. They usually don’t require any collateral. Home improvement loans may include both unsecured and home-secured options. Home equity loans, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), and cash-out refinances are secured by your property and may offer lower rates.

Personal loans and credit cards are two different ways that let consumers borrow money. A personal loan provides a lump sum that is repaid in fixed payments over time. A credit card, on the other hand, offers a revolving credit line that can be reused with varying payment amounts. As a consumer, it’s important to

Missing car loan payments can trigger default, lead to repossession, and cause significant credit damage. You may also face collections or other financial consequences. If you can’t afford your car payments, alternatives like refinancing, negotiating with your lender, or selling the car may offer better outcomes, and the following article explains these options in more

Hardship loans feature small loan limits, low interest rates, and short repayment periods. Proof of financial difficulty is typically required for hardship loan approval. Loan uses include meeting obligations like medical bills and living expenses. Alternatives include home equity loans, retirement withdrawals, and government aid. Quick access to funds can help address immediate financial emergencies.

Key Takeaways Personal loans are available from banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Banks generally offer more convenience, while credit unions may offer lower rates and fees. Credit unions often require membership for loan eligibility, but joining an affiliate group can help. Banks may require higher credit scores than credit unions, which might have more

Secured loans are backed by collateral, while unsecured loans aren’t. This presents different levels of risk for the lender, which results in different eligibility criteria and loan terms for you as the borrower. Generally, secured loans are easier to qualify for and offer better rates, whereas unsecured loans are harder to get and often cost