Author: Lee Huffman

Everyone talks about starting a side hustle to save up for a home, pay off debt, or have extra money for all of the fun things in life. But what happens if the side hustle doesn’t work out? Very few people talk about how to shut down a side hustle and how to protect the finances that you’ve worked so hard to improve. If you’ve been sitting on a side project that’s stopped paying off, you’re not alone. Here’s how to know when it’s time to quit, the legal and insurance factors you need to know about, and how to…

You’re ready to leave your parents’ house and get your first apartment. While this is a huge step forward in freedom, it also comes with a new level of responsibility and “adulting.” How to get your first apartment and what that entails is a big unknown for many people. Fortunately, this first apartment checklist walks you through the process of figuring out how much you can afford, how to save for move-in costs, how to get your credit ready, and whether it makes sense to buy renter’s insurance. How Much Rent Can You Actually Afford? A common rule of thumb…

In this uncertain economy, nobody knows where interest rates are headed. If you’re looking to lock in a higher savings rate on your money, a certificate of deposit (CD) might be the answer. CDs offer the same FDIC insurance as your checking and savings account, but their interest rates are fixed for the duration of the term selected. Most banks allow you to choose terms ranging from 30 days to five years or longer. With interest rates drifting lower and inflation staying stubbornly high, it may be a good time to put your money in a CD so you don’t…

In a world of rising inflation, high interest rates, and crushing debt, it’s no wonder that people are questioning their finances and wondering how much money they need to feel comfortable. In a 2025 survey, the share of Americans who don’t feel completely financially secure rose to 77%. Financial comfort means something different to each person, but it typically revolves around how much you make, what your assets are worth, or how much you owe. What Does Financially Comfortable Mean? Feeling “financially comfortable” is inherently subjective. For some people, it means owning a home or earning six figures, while for…

It’s a smart move to set aside money for an emergency, an upcoming vacation, or any other goal. But where do you put this money so you won’t spend it frivolously on things that don’t matter? A savings account keeps your money safe in the bank and separate from your checking account, while also earning interest. However, today’s traditional bank savings accounts often earn less than 1% interest, which typically doesn’t amount to much. Switching to a high-yield savings account can earn a higher interest rate on your money. Here’s everything you need to know about high-yield savings accounts vs.…

While many people don’t understand them, credit scores have a significant impact on where you work, where you live, how much you pay to borrow, and what your insurance premiums are. Having good credit is crucial if you want to save money and take control of your finances. However, this three-digit number is still a mystery to most people. Here’s how credit scores work, including the factors that go into your score, six ways to improve your credit, and alternative strategies you can count on. What Is a Credit Score A credit score is a three-digit number that lenders, landlords,…