Budget Your Way to Financial Success With These Easy Templates
The word budget doesn’t spark joy in everyone. Like diets and to-do lists, you might think budgeting is all about deprivation and discipline. But the process doesn’t have to be painful. And even once you do pick a strategy, it’s not set in stone. Flexibility (and some best practices) can keep you motivated and ensure […]
We Asked 1,000 People How Much They Spend on Gifts. Here’s What We Found Out.
Have you ever been at a wedding or anniversary party and found yourself whispering to a trusted confidant, “How much did you spend on the happy couple?” If so, join the club. According to findings from a recent gift-giving survey by Ally, more than 60% of people say they consult friends and family on how […]
What Are You Willing to Go Into Debt For?
The urge to splurge has officially arrived! Our survey says nearly half of Americans are willing to go into debt to treat themselves — and it’s not a totally crazy idea. Ideally, money is meant for more than necessities, but it can be challenging to strike a balance between fun purchases and smart money decisions. […]
What’s Your Budgeting Style? Take Our Quiz
How would you describe your personal style? Classic? Sporty? Trendy? Now, what about your budgeting style? Don’t worry if you don’t know. You’re not alone. Budgeting can be a bit of a four-letter word for many. But just like people have different taste in fashion, your approach to budgeting isn’t going to be the same […]
15 Money-Smart Ways to Have the Best Summer Ever
If you’re craving a summer jam-packed with exciting adventures and memory-making activities, you aren’t alone. Luckily, you don’t have to choose between a summer of fun and a season of saving with our money-smart ways to have the best summer ever that won’t break the bank. Just download our bingo card to keep inspiration close […]
From Hopeless to Hopeful: How Alaya Linton Paid Down Her Debt
Financial coach, writer and speaker Alaya Linton knows about overcoming debt. While working her way up New York’s fashion industry ladder, she simultaneously fell deep in debt. By taking control of her money, she discovered a passion for personal finance — and so began her path to her current role as founder of Hope+Cents, a […]
Combining Finances Could Be the Key to Achieving Financial Goals, Survey Finds
Few things can rock a romantic relationship as easily as disagreements over finances. That may be why so many couples would rather have all their financial cards on the proverbial table than be kept in the dark, according to a new survey by Ally. We asked 500 adults how they approach their finances in a […]
All You Need to Know About Buy Now, Pay Later
If you’ve bought a home or a car, maybe even a couch or an exercise bike, chances are you didn’t pay for it in full upfront. Instead, you used a loan, mortgage or another financing option to help you split up the cost into smaller, more manageable payments over time. Buy now, pay later services […]
The 2021 Ultimate List of Gift Ideas for Any Budget
Everyone is looking for ways to be smarter with their money — wherever and however they can. But with so many holidays, birthdays, and occasions when you want to give presents, it can be challenging to stay on your budget. That’s why we’ve created this list of gift ideas for 2021 and a few tips […]
5 Budgeting Methods You Can Mix and Match
It’s time to reframe the way we think about budgets. They’re not about going without or restriction. They’re a tool that can lead to increased financial freedom and help you have more to spend on the things you care about most. While creating a budget may sound tough, tons of different methods and tools make […]
