Blog

New Student Loan Plans July 2026: RAP vs. Tiered Standard

RAP and Tiered Standard replace SAVE starting July 2026. Compare payments, deadlines, and how to budget for your new plan.

HSA and FSA Summer Strategy: Spend Smart Before Year-End

Summer is your best window to audit FSA funds and maximize your HSA before December. Track every out-of-pocket expense to set the right 2027 contribution.

Mid-Year Money Audit: 6 Numbers Every Budget Needs by July

June is the halfway point of your year. Pull 6 key numbers for a mid-year financial review — then use the rest of 2026 to fix what's broken.

First Job Budget: The Gen Z Starter Guide for 2026

42% of Gen Z live paycheck to paycheck. Here's how to allocate your first salary — from rent to emergency fund — without a spreadsheet.

Rent vs. Buy in 2026: Honest Numbers at 3.5% Interest Rates

Rent vs. buy in 2026 with mortgage rates near 6%: honest numbers on median home prices, monthly costs, price-to-rent ratios, and break-even timelines.

No Buy 2026 Challenge: How to Define, Track, and Actually Stick to It

The No Buy 2026 challenge is trending for good reason. Here's how to set clear rules, avoid definitional drift, and use manual tracking to stay honest.