Finances
Learn more about applying the principles of money management to help stay in control of your finances.
Money management articles
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Guide for new military spouses
Looking for resources to help you support your military family? USAA can help you navigate your new life in the military community.
Read article Guide for new military spouses
When to start investing: 4 reasons why the time is now
Many people wonder when to start investing. In this article we will give you 4 reasons why now is the right time to start getting the most out of your money.
Read article When to start investing: 4 reasons why the time is now
Teaching your kids the basics about credit
Try using these age-appropriate lessons and practice exercises for learning about credit.
Read article Teaching your kids the basics about credit
Protect your accounts from overdrafts
Understand what happens when you overdraft and how to avoid it.
Read article Protect your accounts from overdrafts
Is the Blended Retirement System lump sum option right for me?
Want to know if a Blended Retirement System, or BRS, lump sum option is the right decision for you? Read on to learn more.
Read article Is the Blended Retirement System lump sum option right for me?
Why rates differ between deferred annuities, savings accounts and CDs.
Why do rates differ between deferred annuities, savings accounts and CDs? This is a question we hear often from advisors and members. Read on to learn more.
Read article Why rates differ between deferred annuities, savings accounts and CDs.
15 things to do when leaving the military
Ready to start a new chapter in your life? Look at this list of things you'll want to consider when getting ready for civilian life.
Read article 15 things to do when leaving the military
4 steps to prioritize savings goals
Savings strategies differ for short-term and long-term financial goals.
Read article 4 steps to prioritize savings goals
The Great Resignation: What do I do with my retirement plan?
Leaving a job can have you wondering what to do with your employer retirement plan. Should you cash out, stay put or roll over? We can help you decide.
Read article The Great Resignation: What do I do with my retirement plan?
Investing for beginners: A detailed guide
This beginner's guide to investing will teach you the basic investing terms and principles. Understanding these can help you achieve your financial goals.
Read article Investing for beginners: A detailed guide
Personal income tax: What can I do with my refund?
Do you have any ideas about what to do with your federal income tax refund? We have four options to help you decide.
Read article Personal income tax: What can I do with my refund?
Credit card fraud: How to help keep your credit cards safe
When it comes to credit card fraud, early detection can minimize the damage. Read on for steps you can take to protect yourself.
Read article Credit card fraud: How to help keep your credit cards safe
How to invest when interest rates are rising
With ever changing interest rates, people are asking how they should invest. Learn more about how rate hikes affect your investments.
Read article How to invest when interest rates are rising
5 questions to ask a financial advisor before hiring them
Choosing a financial advisor is crucial for your financial future. Ask these 5 important questions to make an informed decision before hiring one.
Read article 5 questions to ask a financial advisor before hiring them
4 reasons your investor returns may not match the market
Discover why your investor returns might differ from market performance. Uncover 4 key investment factors impacting your financial outcome.
Read article 4 reasons your investor returns may not match the market
6 reasons for small business insurance
Small business insurance is often overlooked when starting a new venture. Here are six reasons you should have small business insurance.
Read article 6 reasons for small business insurance
10 things to do before deploying
Protecting our freedoms shouldn't hurt your finances. Let USAA help you prepare for your next deployment.
Read article 10 things to do before deploying
What's diversification? And how do I diversify my investments?
Some people get nervous about investing over the chance they'll lose money in an unstable market. But that's where diversification can help. Spreading investments across different assets helps reduce risk while growing wealth.
Read article What's diversification? And how do I diversify my investments?
What is a business owner policy (BOP) and when do you need one?
Protecting your small business is easy with a business owner policy. Here's what you need to know about BOP coverage.
Read article What is a business owner policy (BOP) and when do you need one?
Saving for retirement, even if you're behind
Saving for retirement can seem unmanageable, especially if you're behind. You can reach your retirement goals through planning, budgeting and execution.
Read article Saving for retirement, even if you're behind
Is life insurance taxable?
Is your life insurance policy taxable? In most cases the death benefits are paid out tax free. But some situations may require the benefits to be taxed.
Read article Is life insurance taxable?
How to apply for college financial aid
Going to college is an exciting time but applying for financial aid can often be confusing. Learn these basics to help your financial aid journey be less confusing.
Read article How to apply for college financial aid
5 questions to ask yourself when shopping for a new bank
Of all the decisions we make in life, choosing a bank may rank among the least exciting. Read on to learn more.
Read article 5 questions to ask yourself when shopping for a new bank
Veteran financial advisor gives budgeting pointers
Learn the ins and outs of budgeting from USAA money guru Robert Steen. His insights just might save you thousands.
Read article Veteran financial advisor gives budgeting pointers
Is crypto too risky an investment?
Do you know enough about cryptocurrency to invest in it? We can help get you started and spell out some of the risks.
Read article Is crypto too risky an investment?
How to choose your next credit card
Take the right step in finding a credit card to match your day-to-day spending. Let us guide you on how to choose.
Read article How to choose your next credit card
The saver's guide to choosing between a CD and a savings account
Learn more about the differences between savings accounts and CDs to find which one might work best for you.
Read article The saver's guide to choosing between a CD and a savings account
Financial housekeeping tips during tax season
Our 2023 tax season guide is designed to help you make the best tax decisions in an environment where inflation has hit a 40-year high.
Read article Financial housekeeping tips during tax season
Top 10 things to do when starting your military career
Military life is a high calling, and while it's an exciting time, it can also be overwhelming. Learn about 10 things to do when you join the military.
Read article Top 10 things to do when starting your military career
Interest on a savings account: How your money can make money
When you learn how savings account interest works, you can get a better idea of when you'll reach your savings goals.
Read article Interest on a savings account: How your money can make money
6 ways to jump-start your emergency fund
An emergency fund can help you manage unexpected expenses without using a credit card. These money-saving tips can start helping you today.
Read article 6 ways to jump-start your emergency fund
6 tips to pay down credit card debt in a year
Are you looking to pay off your credit card debt? Just follow our six-step process and you'll see a lower balance in no time.
Read article 6 tips to pay down credit card debt in a year
Why some married couples file separate taxes
Filing separately even if you're married may provide tax benefits in certain situations. Read our guide for a few tips, and seek professional guidance as needed.
Read article Why some married couples file separate taxes
5 questions to ask your financial advisor about retirement
Planning for retirement can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Start by asking your financial advisor these five questions. Then, build your plan with confidence.
Read article 5 questions to ask your financial advisor about retirement
How to combat inflation
Inflation is on the rise, but we're here to help. Take these simple steps to manage your finances wisely during periods of high inflation.
Read article How to combat inflation
Your guide to getting and keeping good credit
Whether you need to know more about establishing credit, what a credit report means or how to improve your credit score, we've got you covered.
Read article Your guide to getting and keeping good credit
Financial planning for modern families
Discover the key aspects of financial planning for modern, or nontraditional, families. From LGBTQ households to single parents, gain insight to securing your finances.
Read article Financial planning for modern families
Everything you need to know about a certificate of deposit, or CD
Ready to consider other types of savings options beyond a basic savings account? Here are some key things you need to know about a CD.
Read article Everything you need to know about a certificate of deposit, or CD
Prepare your finances for the transition to civilian life.
The transition from military to civilian life brings many changes, new adventures and often a few challenges. Let us guide you as you transition to civilian life.
Read article Prepare your finances for the transition to civilian life.
7 tax tips for maximizing charitable deductions
Make your donations to charity and the corresponding tax deductions count.
Read article 7 tax tips for maximizing charitable deductions
Understanding risk tolerance: What it is and why it matters for investors
Learn how to assess and manage your risk tolerance as an investor with our comprehensive guide. Discover the strategies for balancing risk and reward.
Read article Understanding risk tolerance: What it is and why it matters for investors
ETF versus mutual fund: Which is best for my investing portfolio?
Explore the key difference, advantages, and other factors to consider when choosing between ETFs and mutual funds.
Read article ETF versus mutual fund: Which is best for my investing portfolio?
Don't let post-deployment celebratory purchases wreck your finances
Returning home post-deployment can be almost as stressful as the deployment itself. Read on to learn how not to let post-deployment celebratory purchases wreck your finances.
Read article Don't let post-deployment celebratory purchases wreck your finances
Where's the safest place to keep cash these days?
Where's the safest place to keep cash? Explore 10 secure and low-risk savings options and discover reliable alternatives for growing your savings.
Read article Where's the safest place to keep cash these days?
Guard against these 10 scams on service members.
From identify theft and phishing to bad car loans and card popping, frauds targeting service members can lurk around any corner. Read on to learn more.
Read article Guard against these 10 scams on service members.
How to save for a vacation in 6 months
Our step-by-step guide can help you plan and save for your next vacation. Take these steps to build up your savings over the next six months in order to budget and save for your future trip.
Read article How to save for a vacation in 6 months
How to save $1,000 in six months
Saving $1,000 may seem like a large task, but you can do it within six months with these easy steps. Start saving for an emergency to help you and your family stay financially secure.
Read article How to save $1,000 in six months
Bill consolidation: Could your credit card do more?
Explore bill consolidation strategies and best practices for paying down credit cards. Read on to learn more.
Read article Bill consolidation: Could your credit card do more?
Should I invest my money or save it? 5 steps to help you decide
If you're trying to decide what to do with your money, we can help you with these five steps.
Read article Should I invest my money or save it? 5 steps to help you decide
Tips to avoid common money scams
Discover valuable advice to safeguard your finances from money scams. Learn how to identify, prevent and protect yourself from common financial scams.
Read article Tips to avoid common money scams
What's robo-advisor and how can it benefit me?
Robo-advisors can take charge of user portfolios, building and managing investments with little human input. Who can benefit from this hands-off approach?
Read article What's robo-advisor and how can it benefit me?
Crypto-friendly banking: What should you know?
Looking to dip your toe into the world of cryptocurrency? Is your bank crypto-friendly? Learn some of the basics here.
Read article Crypto-friendly banking: What should you know?
I lost my job and need money: 7 steps to secure your finances
Facing job loss and financial strain? Discover 7 practical steps to navigate and find financial solutions. Get advice for securing your financial stability
Read article I lost my job and need money: 7 steps to secure your finances
Psychology of budgeting: How to tap into the rewards
Ready to get in on the rewards of budgeting? Read on to learn about some insights behind the psychology of budgeting.
Read article Psychology of budgeting: How to tap into the rewards
Strategies for saving: How to overcome your inner caveman
How do we get motivated to save when we're biologically driven to consume? Read on for five saving strategies that can help you override your instincts.
Read article Strategies for saving: How to overcome your inner caveman
Preparing your personal finances for a government shutdown
Learn more about preparing your personal finances for a government shutdown and how to best protect your financial security if one has occurred.
Read article Preparing your personal finances for a government shutdown
The high cost of credit card minimum payments
Credit cards can be a slippery slope for some. Learn the do's and don'ts of making your monthly payments.
Read article The high cost of credit card minimum payments
Lessons from surviving a personal financial crisis
Life has a way of changing all your best made plans. How will you bounce back after a big setback? We've got some helpful guidance.
Read article Lessons from surviving a personal financial crisis
How to save for retirement after TSP
Whether you choose a path that leads to working for an employer or starting your own business, you have plenty of options to save for retirement.
Read article How to save for retirement after TSP
Buying a used boat? How to spot red flags
The joys of boat life can be dampened by a bad deal. Take a look at these red flags to avoid when buying a used boat.
Read article Buying a used boat? How to spot red flags
8 things you should do with your Guard or Reserve drill pay
It's sometimes tough to do the right thing with money to burn in your pocket. Let USAA help you make smart money moves with your drill pay.
Read article 8 things you should do with your Guard or Reserve drill pay
Navigating financial problems: Tips for dealing with financial stress
From bankruptcy and foreclosure to losing your job or even a loved one, life throws challenges that can be hard to overcome. This guide will provide strategies for major financial events to get you back on track.
Read article Navigating financial problems: Tips for dealing with financial stress
Should I save or pay off debt?
Before paying off debt, it's important to save at least $1,000 in an emergency fund. Get tips on how to save.
Read article Should I save or pay off debt?
Divorcing? 5 ways to keep your financial footing
Divorces are life-changing events, and they could wreck your financial future. A divorce changes nearly every aspect of your life, including your finances.
Read article Divorcing? 5 ways to keep your financial footing
How to make a CD ladder work for you
What if there were a solution that allowed you to take advantage of the pros of CDs, while sidestepping some of the cons? Learn more about CD ladders.
Read article How to make a CD ladder work for you
How to do taxes: 4 steps for first-time filers
Don't let the upcoming tax deadline stress you out. These four easy steps guide you through the process for filing income taxes.
Read article How to do taxes: 4 steps for first-time filers
5 Tax tips for service members and their families
Serving in the military can change how you view taxes. Take a look at our five tax tips for service members and their families.
Read article 5 Tax tips for service members and their families
Key differences between bank and dealer auto loans
Before you take your dream car for a test drive, do some research so you can understand and compare your auto loan options.
Read article Key differences between bank and dealer auto loans
How to use a digital wallet
Using your smart device to access virtual payment methods is a fast, easy and secure way to manage card-free transactions.
Read article How to use a digital wallet
How to establish your first financial plan
Setting up a plan is an essential step in taking control of your finances. Here's how.
Read article How to establish your first financial plan
Why you need life insurance during a recession
In an economic downturn, a life insurance policy is one of the best ways to protect your family from unnecessary financial hardship.
Read article Why you need life insurance during a recession
When to consider a balance transfer
Thinking about a credit card balance transfer? Check out how a balance transfer can help your finances.
Read article When to consider a balance transfer
Considering a VA loan? Ask these 5 questions first.
Confirm who's eligible for a VA loan and see if the benefits outweigh a conventional loan.
Read article Considering a VA loan? Ask these 5 questions first.
Simplify money management with a financial account aggregator
Discover how a financial account aggregator can streamline, consolidate accounts, and provide a clear overview of your financial health.
Read article Simplify money management with a financial account aggregator
Credit repair: Why credit counseling may be a better answer
If you've already contacted a debt settlement company, be aware of your rights. This article can help you better understand credit repair and debt settlement services.
Read article Credit repair: Why credit counseling may be a better answer
Buying a car? Understand loan prequalification versus preapproval
Getting preapproved or prequalified for an auto loan can be a good first step in deciding how to finance a car.
Read article Buying a car? Understand loan prequalification versus preapproval
Understanding the cost of your bank account
Before you open a checking account or take out a new credit card, make sure you know how the fees may affect your bottom line.
Read article Understanding the cost of your bank account
Money management tips for deployment
Here are some things you can do that can help you save money while you?re deployed in the military.
Read article Money management tips for deployment
5 ways to pay for college
Wondering how you're going to pay for your kid's college? Learn more about how 529 College Savings Plan Accounts and other plans can help you save for their college tuition.
Read article 5 ways to pay for college
Denied credit? Here's what you can do about it
Was your credit card or other loan application denied? Learn more about credit approvals, the role your credit score plays and steps you can take to build your credit history.
Read article Denied credit? Here's what you can do about it
The true cost of owning a motorcycle
Thinking of buying a motorcycle? There are a few expenses to keep in mind.
Read article The true cost of owning a motorcycle
How to weigh your options for child care
Child care can be expensive. From giving up a career to giving up your hard-earned dollars, knowing the options can save you money and stress.
Read article How to weigh your options for child care
Your guide to applying for a personal loan
Here are some things to know about personal loans, from determining the type of loan to filling out a personal loan application.
Read article Your guide to applying for a personal loan
Should your teen have a credit card?
A credit card can help your teenager learn how to spend wisely - here's how you can teach them to use it.
Read article Should your teen have a credit card?
What to look for when choosing a life insurance provider
Understanding life insurance can be tricky. Selecting a provider doesn't have to be. Here are things to look for when choosing a life insurance provider.
Read article What to look for when choosing a life insurance provider
Secured and unsecured personal loans: What's the difference?
Before you apply, learn which type of personal loan might be the best financial fit.
Read article Secured and unsecured personal loans: What's the difference?
When to use debit versus credit
Compare debit card and credit card benefits when deciding which one to use and when to use it.
Read article When to use debit versus credit
Get the best home improvement loan for your fixer-upper
Learn the difference between using a personal loan, HELOC, home equity loan or cash-out refinancing.
Read article Get the best home improvement loan for your fixer-upper
Do I need life insurance if I'm single?
Life insurance can be a good source of protection to have. Learn if life insurance is worth it for single people.
Read article Do I need life insurance if I'm single?
How to use a credit card to build credit
If you're thinking beyond a quick purchase, a credit card can be a key item in your financial toolbox.
Read article How to use a credit card to build credit
Are debit cards safe?
Learn about different types of debit card fraud and how to protect your debit card.
Read article Are debit cards safe?
Your guide to using ATMs
Access your money whenever and wherever you want. ATMs make it easy to manage your accounts on the go.
Read article Your guide to using ATMs
Finances in marriage: 5 things to consider before tying the knot
Before tying the knot, it's essential to consider finances to avoid stress and conflict. Here are five key factors to consider for a thriving marriage.
Read article Finances in marriage: 5 things to consider before tying the knot
General liability insurance versus professional liability insurance
Explore the differences between general liability insurance and professional liability insurance to determine how best to protect your business.
Read article General liability insurance versus professional liability insurance
How to use credit cards like a pro
Spending money is easy. Doing it wisely can take some skill. We can help you learn how to use your credit cards the right way.
Read article How to use credit cards like a pro
Rebuilding credit: Tips and tools to reach your goal
A credit card can be a practical way to regain your borrowing power and the trust of lenders.
Read article Rebuilding credit: Tips and tools to reach your goal
How do personal loans work?
Find out if a personal loan is the right option to cover your one-time big expense.
Read article How do personal loans work?
Roth versus traditional IRA
Understand the difference between Roth and traditional IRAs. Let USAA help you navigate financial goals and taxes for your retirement.
Read article Roth versus traditional IRA
The truth about credit scores: 10 myths debunked
Let's dive into the mysterious world of credit scores. Read on for the truth about what makes up your credit score.
Read article The truth about credit scores: 10 myths debunked
