Personal Finance 101: A Beginner’s Guide

Money touches almost everything—your daily habits, your future goals, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re trying to stop living paycheck to paycheck or build something bigger, it starts with getting clear on how you handle your money.

This guide covers the essentials: budgeting, saving, paying off debt, using credit cards the right way, investing, and protecting what matters. No jargon. No fluff. Just practical steps to help you take control of your finances—starting today.

What Personal Finance Really Means and Why It Matters

Personal finance is how you manage your money day to day and year to year. It includes how you earn, spend, save, borrow, and plan for the future. But it’s not just about numbers—it’s about the life you want and the choices that help you get there.

From buying groceries to planning a vacation or saving for retirement, money plays a role in nearly every decision. Learning how to manage it well gives you more freedom, fewer setbacks, and a stronger path forward.

Why Managing Your Money Makes Life Easier

When you know how to handle your money, life gets simpler. You worry less, save more, and avoid costly mistakes like high-interest debt or late fees.

Money management helps you reach your goals—whether that’s paying off a loan, buying a home, starting a business, or just sleeping better at night. You gain control and make choices based on your values, not your stress.

What This Guide Covers and How It Helps You Take Control

This guide walks through the most important parts of personal finance, including bank accounts, budgeting, saving, debt, credit cards, investing, income, and insurance.

You don’t need a background in finance to get started. Whether you’re building from the ground up or just want to sharpen your skills, this guide gives you practical steps to take control of your money and start making progress today.

Know Exactly Where You Stand Financially

Before you can make any changes, you need a clear picture of where your money stands right now. That means knowing how much you earn, how much you spend, and what you owe compared to what you own.

It’s like checking a map before a trip. You can’t plan your next step until you know your starting point.

How to Check Your Income, Spending, and Net Worth

Start by tracking your income and expenses for at least a month. Write down every dollar that comes in and every dollar that goes out. Then, list all your assets—like bank accounts, investments, or anything you own of value—and subtract your debts.

The result is your net worth. It might be positive or negative, but either way, it’s just a snapshot—not a grade. Knowing your number gives you a baseline to improve from.

Learn to Live Within Your Means

Living within your means comes down to one rule: spend less than you make. It sounds simple, but credit cards, online shopping, and lifestyle pressure can make it easy to overspend.

This doesn’t mean you have to cut out everything fun. It just means knowing the difference between needs and wants—and choosing to spend on what actually matters. When you stay within your limits, you avoid debt and give yourself more room to save, invest, and plan ahead.

Why Budgeting Is the Foundation of Your Financial Health

A budget helps you tell your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. It gives every dollar a job—whether that’s covering bills, building savings, or paying off debt.

Budgeting puts you in control. It helps you avoid overspending, spot problem areas, and stay focused on your goals. Even a simple budget can make a big difference in how fast you build financial security.

How to Create a Budget

Creating a budget might seem daunting, but once you’ve got the basics down, it’s straightforward. Let’s break it down into three steps:

1. Establishing Your Income and Expenses

Start by listing all sources of income, such as salaries, bonuses, rental income, or side gigs. For expenses, categorize them into fixed expenses (like rent or mortgage payments, utilities, car payments) and variable expenses (like groceries, entertainment, dining out).

2. Identifying Your Financial Goals

What do you want to achieve financially? It could be paying off debt, saving for a vacation, buying a house, or planning for retirement. Once you identify these goals, allocate a portion of your income towards them in your budget.

3. Tracking and Adjusting Your Budget

Your budget isn’t set in stone. Life happens, and expenses can fluctuate. Regularly track your actual spending against your budget to ensure you’re on track. If necessary, adjust your budget, increase your income, or reduce your spending.

Remember, a budget is not a constraint, but a tool that gives you the freedom to spend without guilt or worry because you know you’re staying within your means and working towards your goals.

Choosing the Right Bank Account for Your Everyday Needs

Bank accounts are fundamental tools for managing your personal finances. They provide a safe and secure place to store your money and are often the hub from which income is received and payments are made. So, let’s dive into the specifics of bank accounts.

Why do I need a bank account?

A bank account is much more than just a safe place to stash your cash. Here are a few reasons why having a bank account is important:

• Security: Your money is insured up to a certain limit, making it safer than storing cash at home.
• Convenience: Bank accounts provide an easy way to pay bills, shop online, and receive direct deposits.
• Record keeping: Your transactions are tracked, helping with budgeting and tax reporting.
• Access to other financial products: Bank accounts often come with access to credit cards, loans, and investment opportunities.

See also: What Do You Need to Open a Bank Account?

Online vs. Brick-and-Mortar Banks

Brick-and-mortar banks offer the benefit of in-person service and widespread ATM access. They’re often part of large networks, which can be advantageous if you prefer face-to-face interactions or need services like notarization or cashier’s checks.

Online banks, on the other hand, are known for their convenience. With 24/7 access, you can conduct transactions, check balances, or deposit checks from anywhere at any time. They typically offer higher interest rates on savings accounts and lower fees, as they don’t have the overhead of maintaining physical branches.

Choosing between online and traditional banks depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and banking needs. It’s not uncommon for individuals to use both types for different purposes.

Different Types of Banks and What They Offer

There are various types of financial institutions you can use, each with its own benefits:

• Commercial banks: These are large banks that offer a full range of services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, and credit cards. They typically have many physical branches and ATMs.
• Online banks: As mentioned above, online banks operate entirely online. They usually offer better interest rates and lower fees.
• Credit unions: Credit unions are member-owned and tend to focus on customer service. They often offer lower rates on loans and credit cards.
• Community banks: These smaller banks focus on the local community. They’re known for personalized service and community involvement.

Choose a bank or credit union that suits your needs in terms of convenience, services, fees, and customer service.

Common Bank Accounts and How to Use Them

There are several types of bank accounts designed for different purposes:

• Checking accounts: A checking account is used for daily transactions, such as paying bills or making purchases. They usually come with a checkbook and a debit card.
• Savings accounts: A savings account is intended for money that you don’t intend to spend immediately. A high-yield savings account typically offers the best APYs, allowing your money to grow over time.
• Money market accounts: Money market accounts are hybrid accounts that offer the benefits of both checking and savings accounts. They typically offer higher interest rates but also require higher minimum balances.
• Certificates of deposit (CDs): CDs are time-bound accounts that you commit to leaving a sum of money in for a certain period. They typically offer higher interest rates than savings accounts.

Your savings and investment goals will determine the types of accounts you need. For most, a combination of checking and savings accounts serves as a good starting point.

How to Build Savings and Prepare for Emergencies

Let’s talk about saving money, one of the fundamental building blocks of good financial health. Whether it’s for an emergency fund, a major purchase, or your retirement, developing a habit of saving is imperative.

How Saving Builds Financial Security

There are numerous reasons why saving money is essential:

• Financial independence: Saving money can provide you the freedom to make choices. Whether it’s a career change, a major purchase, or retirement, savings can pave the way.
• Emergency cushion: Life can be unpredictable. Having money saved can help weather financial hardships such as job loss, medical emergencies, or unexpected repairs.
• Achieve your goals: Whether it’s buying a home, starting a business, or going on a dream vacation, systematic savings can help you reach these financial milestones.

What an Emergency Fund Is and Why You Need One

An emergency fund is a stash of money set aside to cover the financial surprises life throws your way. These unexpected events can be stressful and costly. Here are a few examples:

• Major car or home repairs
• Medical emergencies
• Job loss

Having money set aside for these unexpected events can provide peace of mind and financial security. It can keep you from falling into debt or depleting your other savings.

How Much You Should Keep in Your Emergency Fund

As a rule of thumb, your emergency fund should cover three to six months’ worth of living expenses. However, the exact amount will depend on your personal circumstances.

Consider factors such as job security, health condition, whether you’re single or have a family, and the stability of your income. If your income is irregular or your job sector is prone to layoffs, consider saving more.

Remember, it’s okay to start small and gradually build up your emergency fund over time.

Smart Ways to Grow Your Emergency Savings Over Time

Building an emergency fund may seem challenging, especially if you’re starting from zero. However, by setting clear goals and being consistent, it’s achievable. Here are some tips:

• Save regularly: Make saving a part of your budget. Even small amounts can add up over time.
• Automatic transfers: Set up automatic transfers to your emergency fund each month. You won’t forget, and it removes the temptation to spend the money.
• Use windfalls: If you receive an unexpected sum of money, such as a bonus or tax refund, consider directing a portion towards your emergency fund.
• Reduce expenses: Look for areas in your budget where you can cut back and put the savings into your emergency fund.

How to Handle Debt Without Letting It Control You

Debt is often viewed negatively, but when used responsibly, it can be a powerful tool in managing your finances. It can enable you to make major purchases, finance education, or handle emergencies. However, when it’s not managed carefully, debt can become a burden that hinders your financial progress. So, let’s take a closer look at debt and how to manage it.

What Debt Is and How It Works

Debt is an amount of money borrowed by one party from another. It’s typically used by individuals and corporations as a method of making large purchases that they couldn’t afford under normal circumstances.

Debt can take on various forms, such as credit cards, mortgages, car loans, or student loans. Each form of debt comes with an agreement to pay it back, usually with interest, which is how lenders make a profit.

While taking on debt might make sense in certain circumstances, it’s important to understand that all debt comes at a cost, and it needs to be managed wisely.

Start by Tackling High-Interest Debt First

Not all debt is created equal. High-interest debt, like credit card debt, can grow rapidly and become a major financial burden if not addressed promptly. The longer it takes to pay off this debt, the more you’ll pay in interest.

Paying off high-interest debt should be a priority because it can free up more money to put towards other financial objectives. It can also save you a lot in interest payments.

What to Do About Student Loans, Auto Loans, and More

Once your high-interest debt is under control, turn your attention to moderate-interest debts, such as student loan debt or your car loan. While these don’t grow as fast as high-interest debt, they can still add up over time.

Consider your interest rates, loan balances, and tax implications (some student loan interest can be deducted on your taxes) when deciding how aggressively to pay off these debts.

The Best Methods to Pay Off Debt Faster

There are several strategies to help you manage and pay off your debts. Here are a couple of the most popular ones:

• Debt snowball method: The debt snowball method is a strategy that involves paying off debts with the smallest balances first, while making minimum payments on larger debts. Once the smallest debt is paid off, you move onto the next smallest, creating a “snowball” effect.
• Debt avalanche method: The debt avalanche method prioritizes debts with the highest interest rates. By tackling these first, you can save on overall interest payments.

Remember, the best debt payoff strategy is the one that works for you. Choose a method that fits your budget and motivates you to stick with it.

See also: Debt Snowball vs. Debt Avalanche: Which is Better?

How Your Credit Score and Credit Report Impact Your Finances

A key aspect of personal finance that often goes overlooked by beginners is the importance of maintaining a good credit score and regularly reviewing your credit report.

Your credit score is a three-digit number calculated based on your credit history, which includes your payment history, the amount of debt you have, the length of your credit history, and the types of credit you use. It’s used by lenders, landlords, and sometimes employers to assess your creditworthiness.

Maintaining a good credit score can help you in several ways:

• Lower interest rates: Borrowers with high credit scores often qualify for lower interest rates on loans and credit cards, which can save you a significant amount of money over time.
• Easier approval for credit: If you have a high credit score, you’re more likely to be approved when you apply for new credit.
• More negotiating power: A high credit score can give you the leverage to negotiate for better interest rates or other loan terms.
• Approval for higher limits: Your credit score can affect how much credit lenders are willing to grant you.

Your credit report, on the other hand, is a detailed record of your credit history. It includes information about your credit accounts, your payment history, and any collections or bankruptcies. Reviewing your credit report regularly and correcting any errors can help ensure your credit score is an accurate reflection of your credit history.

You can request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) once every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com.

How Credit Cards Work and How to Use Them Wisely

Credit cards can help you build credit, earn rewards, and cover expenses—but only if you use them carefully. If you carry a balance or miss payments, they can lead to high-interest debt fast.

The key is to treat your credit card like a tool, not free money. Use it for planned purchases, pay it off in full each month, and keep your balance low to protect your credit score.

Credit vs. Debit Cards: What’s the real difference?

Credit and debit cards may look the same, but they work very differently.

A credit card lets you borrow money from the card issuer. If you don’t pay the full balance each month, interest adds up quickly.

A debit card pulls money directly from your bank account. You can only spend what you already have, which helps avoid debt but doesn’t help build credit.

How Credit Card APR Affects Your Balance and Interest

APR stands for annual percentage rate, and it’s essentially the cost of borrowing money on your credit card. It’s expressed as a yearly rate, but most credit card companies calculate and apply it daily.

If you don’t pay off your balance in full each month, you’ll be charged interest on the remaining balance. The amount of interest is determined by the APR.

How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Your Spending Habits

There are many types of credit cards available, and the best one for you depends on your needs and spending habits. Here are some factors to consider:

• Rewards: Some cards offer rewards such as cash back, points, or travel benefits. If you pay your balance in full each month, these cards can be quite advantageous.
• Interest rates: If you carry a balance from month to month, you’ll want a card with a low APR.
• Fees: Many cards charge fees, such as annual fees, late payment fees, or foreign transaction fees. Be sure to understand all the fees associated with a card before signing up.
• Credit limit: This is the maximum amount you can charge on your card. Be mindful that high utilization of your credit limit can negatively impact your credit score.

Tips for Using Credit Cards Without Falling Into Debt

Credit cards are helpful when used the right way—but they can cause serious problems if you overspend or miss payments. Keep these habits in mind:

• Pay in full each month: This helps you avoid interest and keeps your balance under control.
• Keep your balance low: Try to use less than 30% of your credit limit at any time.
• Always pay on time: Late payments can hurt your credit score and lead to fees.
• Know your terms: Understand your APR, fees, and how your rewards program works.

Used wisely, credit cards can support your financial goals—not set you back.

How to Start Saving for Retirement the Smart Way

Investing for retirement is a critical part of personal finance. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow. Various types of retirement accounts can help you save for your golden years and offer tax advantages that boost your savings further.

Why You Should Start Saving for Retirement Now

Why is saving for retirement so important? Here are a few reasons:

• Longevity: As life expectancies increase, retirement could last 20 years or more. You’ll need a substantial nest egg to support this phase of life.
• Rising costs: Inflation means the cost of living will likely be much higher in the future. Adequate savings ensure you can maintain your lifestyle even as costs rise.
• Healthcare costs: As we age, healthcare expenses typically increase. Preparing for these costs is an essential part of retirement planning.
• Self-sufficiency: Social Security may not be enough to support your retirement fully. Personal savings provide additional financial security.

Don’t Miss Out on Free Money From a 401(k) Match

If your employer offers a 401(k) match, be sure to contribute at least enough to get the full match. This is essentially free money that can significantly boost your retirement savings.

For example, if your employer matches 100% of your contributions up to 5% of your salary, try to contribute at least 5% from each paycheck. Any less, and you’re leaving money on the table.

How a Roth IRA Works and Why It’s Worth It

A Roth IRA is another excellent retirement savings option, especially if you’re in a lower tax bracket now than you expect to be in during retirement. You contribute post-tax dollars, but your money grows tax-free, and withdrawals in retirement are also tax-free.

For 2024, you can contribute up to $7,000 to a Roth IRA, or $8,000 if you’re age 50 or older. Making the maximum contribution each year can help you build a significant nest egg for retirement.

Other Retirement Accounts That Could Help You Save More

Aside from 401(k)s and Roth IRAs, there are other retirement saving options:

• Traditional IRA: Similar to a Roth IRA, but contributions may be tax-deductible, and withdrawals in retirement are taxed. This type of investment account allows your funds to grow tax-deferred.
• SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, Solo 401(k): These are investment account options for self-employed individuals or small business owners, providing an avenue for both retirement savings and potential tax benefits.
• Health savings account (HSA): If you have a high-deductible health plan, you can contribute to a health savings account. Money in an HSA can be invested and grows tax-free. Withdrawals for eligible healthcare expenses are also tax-free.

Remember, the key to retirement savings is to start early and save consistently. Even small amounts can grow significantly over time, thanks to the power of compound interest.

Investing 101: How to Grow Your Money Over Time

Investing is a critical aspect of personal finance. It’s about growing your money and creating wealth over time. Whether it’s to achieve financial freedom, save for retirement, or meet other financial goals, investing plays a pivotal role.

What Investing Is and How It Builds Wealth

Investing involves committing your money (or capital) into a venture, asset, or project with the expectation of earning a return over time. You’re essentially putting your money to work with the goal of increasing your initial investment.

Why is investing important?

• Beat inflation: Simply saving your money might not be enough due to the eroding effect of inflation. Investing can provide a higher return, helping you maintain your purchasing power.
• Wealth accumulation: Investing can help you accumulate wealth faster, providing financial security and freedom.
• Achieve financial goals: Whether it’s buying a house, funding a child’s education, or saving for retirement, investing can help you achieve these goals.

How the Stock Market Works in Simple Terms

The stock market refers to public markets where buying, selling, and issuance of shares of publicly-held companies occur. Companies list shares of their stock on an exchange to raise money to grow and expand their businesses.

Investors buy these stocks, becoming part owners in the companies. They profit when the companies do well and the stock prices increase. Conversely, if a company does poorly, the stock price may decrease, and investors can lose money.

How to Start Investing With Just a Few Steps

Investing in the stock market is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to get started:

• Open a brokerage account: You’ll need a brokerage account to buy and sell stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investments. There are many online brokerages to choose from, each with their own advantages and fees.
• Determine your investment strategy: Your investment strategy should align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Some investors prefer to invest in individual stocks, while others prefer mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Some might opt for a mix of both.
• Place an order: Once you’ve decided what to invest in, you’ll place an order through your brokerage account. You can specify how many shares you want to buy and the price you’re willing to pay.

Common Investment Options and How to Choose Wisely

What you should invest in depends largely on your individual goals, risk tolerance, and investment timeline. Here are a few common types of investments:

• Stocks: Buying shares of individual companies. This is typically the most volatile type of investment but can offer the highest return.
• Bonds: Essentially a loan to a company or government entity, which agrees to pay you back with interest after a certain period.
• Mutual funds: A mix of stocks or bonds managed by a professional. Allows for diversification without needing a lot of money.
• ETFs: Similar to mutual funds but traded on an exchange like a stock.

Remember, all investments involve risk, and it’s possible to lose money. But with careful planning, research, and a long-term perspective, investing can be a powerful tool for growing your wealth.

How to Save for a Home, Business, or Big Purchase

From buying a home to starting a business, or even planning for a dream vacation, major life goals often carry a significant price tag. Saving and planning for these milestones is an important part of personal finance.

Why Planning Ahead Helps You Avoid Debt Later

Major life goals aren’t just significant in terms of our personal journeys; they’re also significant financial commitments. By planning and saving in advance for these goals, you can:

• Avoid debt: Saving in advance for major purchases helps to reduce the need to take on debt, which can come with costly interest.
• Ensure affordability: By regularly saving a portion of your income, you can gradually accumulate the funds needed to afford your goals.
• Reduce financial stress: Knowing that you have a financial plan in place for your goals can significantly reduce stress and uncertainty.

Smart Saving Tips for Big Life Goals

Here are some strategies to help you save for your biggest dreams:

• Establish a dedicated savings account: By keeping your goal-specific savings separate, you can easily track your progress.
• Automate savings: Set up automatic transfers to your goal-specific savings account. This “set it and forget it” approach can make the saving process easier.
• Reduce unnecessary expenses: Review your budget and identify areas where you can cut back. Any savings can be redirected towards your goals.
• Generate extra income: Consider ways to make extra money, like selling unused items, freelancing, or getting a part-time job.

How Financial Planning Keeps You on Track

Financial planning is the process of setting financial goals, creating a plan to achieve them, and regularly reviewing and adjusting the plan as needed. It’s a roadmap to your financial future.

A comprehensive financial plan should cover everything from budgeting and savings, to debt management, retirement planning, and investments. It takes into account your current financial situation, your short- and long-term goals, and your risk tolerance.

The importance of financial planning lies in its ability to give you a clear direction and control over your finances, which ultimately leads to peace of mind in your financial future.

How to Increase Your Income and Build Wealth Faster

While saving and investing are integral parts of personal finance, so too is maximizing your income. There are multiple ways to approach this, from advancing in your current job to exploring new income opportunities.

How to Know If You’re Being Paid What You’re Worth

It’s important to understand the market value of your skills and experience in your industry. Research salaries for your role in your geographical location to get an idea of the market rate. Websites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Indeed can be helpful resources for this. If you’re being paid below-market rate, it may be time to negotiate a raise or consider job opportunities elsewhere.

How to Ask for a Raise and Actually Get It

Salary negotiations can be intimidating, but they’re often necessary to ensure you’re being paid what you’re worth. Here are a few tips:

• Prepare: Before you negotiate, gather evidence to support your case. This might include examples of your work, any positive feedback you’ve received, and market research on salaries for your role.
• Be specific: Have a clear idea of what you want from the negotiation. This could be a specific salary, a promotion, or other benefits.
• Stay professional: Keep the negotiation focused on your value and contributions to the company. Avoid personal reasons for needing a raise.

If you want to bring in more income, side hustles and passive income are smart ways to start.

• Side hustles: These are gigs you do outside your main job, like freelance work, tutoring, selling online, or driving for a delivery app.
• Passive income: This includes money you earn with less hands-on effort, like rental income, dividends, or selling digital products.

Side hustles take time. Passive income usually takes money or upfront work. But both can help you grow your income and reach your goals faster.

Why Insurance Matters for Your Financial Security

Insurance plays a critical role in personal finance as a form of risk management. It provides a financial safety net for unexpected life events that could lead to significant financial loss.

How Insurance Protects You From Financial Disasters

Insurance protects you and your family against the financial risks of unexpected events like a car accident, a medical emergency, or property damage. By paying a regular premium, you transfer the cost of a potential loss to the insurance company. This can save you from having to dip into your savings or take on debt to cover these costs.

Without insurance, you’re taking on a significant amount of financial risk. Even if you’re in a good financial position now, a single event could quickly deplete your savings or push you into debt.

The Main Types of Insurance and What They Cover

There are several types of insurance designed to protect different aspects of your life:

• Health insurance covers medical expenses. Given the high cost of healthcare, having a good health insurance policy is essential.
• Car insurance is mandatory in most states and covers damages to your vehicle or others’ if you’re involved in an accident.
• Homeowners or renters insurance protects your home and belongings from damage or theft.
• Life insurance provides financial support to your dependents if you pass away. It’s especially important if you have children or others who rely on your income.
• Disability insurance replaces a portion of your income if you become unable to work due to an illness or injury.

How to Know What Insurance You Really Need

The types and amount of insurance you need will depend on your personal circumstances, including your age, health, lifestyle, income, and family status. It’s important to regularly review and update your insurance as these circumstances change.

Here are a few factors to consider:

• Financial dependents: If others rely on your income, such as children or a non-working spouse, life insurance can provide financial security.
• Health: Your health can influence your need for health, life, and disability insurance.
• Assets: The more assets you have, the more you stand to lose. Homeowners, auto, and liability insurance can help protect your assets.
• Income: Disability insurance can replace a portion of your income if you’re unable to work due to an illness or injury.

Remember, the purpose of insurance is not to make you money but to protect against financial loss. It’s an important part of a comprehensive financial plan.

Final Thoughts

You’ve just taken a big step by learning the basics of personal finance. From budgeting and saving to managing debt and building credit, these skills give you more control and less stress around money.

Keep it simple, stay consistent, and don’t try to do everything at once. Small changes add up fast—and every step forward puts you in a stronger financial position.

Quick Recap of the Key Money Skills

Here’s what you’ve learned:

• Budgeting: Helps you stay on track, spend with purpose, and avoid overspending.
• Banking: The right accounts make it easier to manage your money day to day.
• Saving: Builds a cushion for emergencies and helps you reach long-term goals.
• Debt management: Keeps interest costs low and prevents financial stress.
• Investing: Grows your money over time and helps you stay ahead of inflation.
• Insurance: Shields you from major setbacks when life doesn’t go as planned.
• Income growth: Earning more gives you more options and faster progress.
• Retirement planning: The earlier you start, the easier it is to build a secure future.

Keep Learning and Stay in Control

Personal finance isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your needs will change over time. Keep learning, stay curious, and adjust your plan as life changes. What works today might need a tweak tomorrow.

Books, blogs, podcasts, and free tools can all help you go deeper. And when things get complex, don’t hesitate to ask for expert advice. The more you know, the easier it gets to make smart money decisions.