Balancing your checkbook is an important part of managing your finances. It helps you confirm where your money is going, catch mistakes (like a bank posting error or duplicate charge), and avoid overdrafts, especially if you write checks or have payments that don’t clear right away.
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Nearly every new year, Americans recommit to getting their money right. In fact, a Bankrate survey found 89% of Americans said they had a main financial goal heading into the year, most commonly paying down debt.
Whether your 2026 focus is debt payoff, building savings, or finally sticking to a budget, financial literacy is what turns a goal into a plan, and a plan into progress. The good news: there are more ways than ever to learn. The tricky part: not every “money hack” on the internet deserves your trust.
Here’s how to build your own modern, smart-but-safe financial education stack for 2026.
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If you still walk into a bank branch to deposit cash or checks, you’ll probably run into that small but mighty piece of paper: the deposit slip. If you’re used to mobile banking, a paper deposit slip can feel a little old-school. But they’re still a staple at many banks and credit unions, and knowing how to fill one out correctly keeps your money moving smoothly and your records clean.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to filling out a deposit slip, plus a few tips to avoid common mistakes.
💡 Pro tip: If you like staying organized, keeping a stack of deposit slips on hand makes trips to the bank faster and easier.
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Thanksgiving has long been a cherished time for family, gratitude, and reflection before the rush of December festivities. However, in recent years, the holiday shopping season has crept earlier and earlier, reshaping how many Americans celebrate Thanksgiving Day itself. Between early Black Friday deals, online flash sales, and financial planning for holiday spending, traditions that once revolved around food and family are now sharing space with shopping carts and checkout screens. The traditional spirit of the holiday is evolving.
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Managing money can feel overwhelming, but the truth is that strong financial health is built on a few core habits. When it comes to financial stability, knowledge is power. Understanding the five foundations of personal finance gives you the tools to make smart money decisions, from paying off debt to planning for the future, providing a simple roadmap for achieving lasting financial stability.
Whether you’re just getting started or refining your money habits, these five steps can help you build a strong financial foundation.
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Buying a car is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make, and figuring out how to pay for it can be tricky. Whether you’re putting money down, paying off a financed car, or making monthly lease payments, you might wonder: Can you write a personal check for a car? The answer is usually yes, but there are a few important details to know before you grab your checkbook.
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When a loved one passes away, it’s common for their financial affairs to take time to settle, and it can be one of the more complicated parts of the process. If you’ve received an estate check, perhaps as a beneficiary or executor, you may be wondering whether you can deposit it directly into your personal account. While this might seem like a simple solution, doing so can create legal and banking issues if not handled correctly.
Let’s break down what you need to know before making any deposits.
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Losing a loved one comes with many responsibilities, and handling their financial matters can be one of the most confusing. A common question that arises is: Can you cash a deceased person’s check?
The short answer is no, you cannot legally cash or deposit a check written to someone who has passed away. Whether it’s a tax refund, pension payment, or personal check, understanding the rules around cashing or depositing it is crucial. However, there are proper legal steps you can take to ensure those funds are distributed correctly.
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In today’s fast-paced world, the way we pay for goods and services has evolved. Credit cards dominate the checkout line, while paper checks may seem like an old-fashioned option. However, both methods of payment have their own advantages, and the best choice often depends on the situation, your spending habits, and your financial goals. Let’s break down the pros and cons of checks versus credit cards, so you can make informed choices about your money.
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Depositing a business check into your personal account might seem like a quick and easy way to access funds, especially if you’re pressed for time or convenience. However, it’s important to understand the policies, potential fees, and best practices before doing so. Explore the ins and outs of depositing a business check into a personal account, so you can make informed financial decisions and keep your finances in good standing.
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