If saving money feels harder than it used to, you’re not imagining it. Over the last few years, Americans have faced rising housing costs, stubborn inflation, expensive healthcare, and growing retirement pressure. The old advice “save 10% and you’ll be fine” simply doesn’t work anymore for most households. So let’s be honest. How much should … Read more
By Sahil Mehta | Senior Financial CorrespondentUpdated February 2026 A decade ago, earning $100,000 meant you had “made it.” Today, in many parts of the United States, it simply means you’re surviving comfortably. Rising housing costs, higher insurance premiums, expensive healthcare, and growing debt have quietly redefined what it means to live well in America. … Read more
By Sahil Mehta, Senior Finance ContributorUpdated February 1, 2026 Money is one of the last great American taboos. People will openly share their political opinions, their medical diagnoses, and their location in real time. But ask a friend how much they make and suddenly the conversation gets awkward. “How much is on your W-2?” Silence. … Read more
If you feel like you’re working harder than ever but making less progress than you expected, you are not imagining it. In 2026, the American financial experience is defined by a single, persistent feeling: despite decent salaries and stable jobs, there never seems to be quite enough left over at the end of the month. … Read more
For most Americans, money is a source of stress. It’s something we worry about running out of, argue about with partners, and often feel embarrassed for not fully understanding. Meanwhile, the U.S. financial system this enormous, invisible network of banks, markets, and government agencies can feel like a black box designed to reward insiders and … Read more
Money in America doesn’t work the way it used to. If personal finance feels more complicated in 2026 than it did even five years ago, you’re not imagining it. The U.S. economy has shifted in fundamental ways remote work is normal, the gig economy is mature, interest rates actually matter again, and investing is easier … Read more
There’s a moment most Americans hit somewhere between 30 and 35. It’s not dramatic.Nothing “goes wrong.” You’re employed. Bills are paid. Life is moving forward. And yet there’s a quiet realization that creeps in: “If I keep going like this… I’m not sure where I’ll end up financially.” That thought is what drives millions of … Read more
Budgeting has a branding problem. Most people associate the word with cutting joy out of their life canceling dinners out, avoiding travel, rejecting hobbies. In reality, a good budget does the opposite: it creates permission. It lets you spend confidently on what matters by cutting the waste on what doesn’t. As we move through 2026, … Read more
Introduction: A Disconnect That Shouldn’t Exist When the Federal Reserve began dialing back interest rates in late 2025 three cuts in three meetings millions of Americans assumed their budgets would finally get some breathing room. Historically, rate cuts translate into cheaper borrowing costs and improved household liquidity. This time is different. Despite the Federal Funds … Read more
Rates verified February 24, 2026 | All institutions listed are FDIC-insured | Editorial content is independent Americans are still earning near-zero interest at traditional banks while the best high-yield savings accounts now pay up to 5.00% APY. On a $50,000 balance, that difference can exceed $2,000 per year. With the Federal Reserve holding rates steady … Read more
