Move over Sri Lanka! This beautiful island is Asia’s new holiday destination
Jennifer Williams
Share the articleContentsDo you find “Aloha” in Vietnam?Affordable luxury and beautiful beaches Know what you need to know: Phu Quoc has its own unique visa policyReaching Phu Quoc is easier than everSri Lanka has been surprisingly Asia’s new hotspot for years, whether you fancy a solo adventure with jungle-penetrating train rides or are looking for your own slice of paradise on what feels like an unspoiled coastline.That’s not to say that time has passed for Sri Lanka, but there is another island that is becoming famous and known as Asia’s ‘Hawaii’.Here at Travel Off Path, we realize that when most travelers think of Vietnam, images of vast rice fields, scooter madness and piping hot bowls of pho come to mind before embarking on a pristine beach destination.But that’s why the island is Phu Quoc is one of the most exciting emerging destinations – to experience a side of Vietnam, away from the famous bustling cities, in one of Asia’s most astonishingly beautiful settings.Do you find “Aloha” in Vietnam?Newcomers to travel are probably not as well known as seasoned veterinarians. If Phu Quoc has enjoyed any level of fame, it is due to its adopted nickname as the “Hawaii of Vietnam”.While you probably won’t find itpuka dogscolorful Hawaiian shirts or epic surf spots, here you will find some elements of America’s most beautiful paradise.For example, be prepared for a stunning vocabulary. You can swap apostrophe-laden tongue twisters like “Lumi’au’au” for names that seem to rhyme and are still likely to be mispronounced. Let us know if you visit Duang Dong Town….uf3057281b9f1850aa3f723c567533e49 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .uf3057281b9f1850aa3f723c567533e49:active, .uf3057281b9f1850aa3f723c567533e49:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .uf3057281b9f1850aa3f723c567533e49 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .uf3057281b9f1850aa3f723c567533e49 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .uf3057281b9f1850aa3f723c567533e49 .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .uf3057281b9f1850aa3f723c567533e49:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See also4 sunny destinations for digital nomads that cost less than $1000 per monthBut seriously, besides the beautiful beaches, some of the aspects that Phu Quoc travelers love are the family-friendly atmosphere and the hospitable locals – two obvious things that can also be said about Hawaii.Phu Quoc offers its own “Disney World”, if you will.VinWondersis clearly an ode to Disney, whether the oversized rodents approve or not – it even has a fairytale castle upon entry.Of course, there is no friendlier American community than the Hawaiians, and the same can be said for Vietnam on this side of the world. Even with a wave of tourism in recent years, you don’t hear that the locals have had enough of the crowds.Affordable luxury and beautiful beachesIt’s currently the middle of peak season, so there’s no better time to plan a trip.That’s why we’ve done some research for you to find the best hotels and resorts you can call home. Best of all, the rates aren’t even the same as Waikiki or most Asian resort hot spots.If you like cozy boutique stays with beautiful views, Rocks Beach Boutique Phu Quoc is just yours for $50 per night.If you want complete luxury without paying your entire salary, then 5-star is an option Ocean Bay Resort & Spa Phu Quoc is exactly what you’re looking for for $110 a night on the other side of the island.Or if you’re a true budget traveler, you can easily book numerous three-star stays under $30 per night. Keep in mind that you sometimes compromise on views and walkability..ub8db7235a407e2223eb0faac61a5ee02 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .ub8db7235a407e2223eb0faac61a5ee02:active, .ub8db7235a407e2223eb0faac61a5ee02:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .ub8db7235a407e2223eb0faac61a5ee02 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .ub8db7235a407e2223eb0faac61a5ee02 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .ub8db7235a407e2223eb0faac61a5ee02 .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .ub8db7235a407e2223eb0faac61a5ee02:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoYou can live on these 5 beautiful beach destinations for 6 months without a visaBut Phu Quoc is budget-friendly across the board, regardless of whether you jump into the marketthe world’s longest cable caror enjoy a soulful bowl of pho.Wherever you stay, you are sure to relax by the sea along one of the many beautiful beaches. According to TripAdvisor, this is currently a traveler’s favoriteBai Tắm Sao(here we go with the vocabulary…) because of the white sand and beach bars.Know what you need to know: Phu Quoc has its own unique visa policyWhen you check Vietnam’s entry requirements, you might miss a little caveat about Phu Quoc as it has a different setup than Hanoi, Da Nang and the like.Phu Quoc requires Americans to obtain an e-visa in advance (not upon arrival)asyou plan to venture somewhere else in Vietnam.Once secured, the e-visa allows a stayup to 30 daysand can be used for both single and multiple entries. You can apply here.Reaching Phu Quoc is easier than everSince Phu Quoc will receive over 8 million visitors by the end of the year, exceeding the expectations of the island itself, they were still prepared for the influx by recently launching their own airline.It’s true, Sun PhuQuoc Airways was launched last fall and is still expanding its network. Expect a new route from fellow Vietnamese paradise Da Nang at the start of the calendar, with more to come as Phu Quoc continues to appear on more travelers’ radars in 2026.Sam SearsSam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems..uec988a385509f45e2d6dbb0d3f449a80 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .uec988a385509f45e2d6dbb0d3f449a80:active, .uec988a385509f45e2d6dbb0d3f449a80:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .uec988a385509f45e2d6dbb0d3f449a80 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .uec988a385509f45e2d6dbb0d3f449a80 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .uec988a385509f45e2d6dbb0d3f449a80 .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .uec988a385509f45e2d6dbb0d3f449a80:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoJust like Iceland, but no crowds! The unspoilt island of Europe with beautiful coasts and villagesSubscribe to our latest postsEnter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
Should I Start Taking Social Security Now at 67 After Losing My Job?
Robert Davis
-->-->Key PointsClaiming Social Security early can result in reduced benefits.Once you’ve reached full retirement age, you can feel more comfortable signing up.If you don’t need the money right away, delaying Social Security can be financially advantageous.Are you ahead, or behind on retirement? SmartAsset’s free tool can match you with a financial advisor in minutes to help you answer that today. Each advisor has been carefully vetted, and must act in your best interests. Don’t waste another minute; learn more here.(Sponsor)-->-->The loss of a job later in life can be a tough blow. It’s never an easy thing to suddenly find yourself without an income. However, if you lose your job when you’re in your 60s, you may struggle to find a new one due to age discrimination.nextstayCCSettingsOffArabicChineseEnglishFrenchGermanHindiPortugueseSpanishFont ColorwhiteFont Opacity100%Font Size100%Font FamilyArialText ShadownoneBackground ColorblackBackground Opacity50%Window ColorblackWindow Opacity0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%200%175%150%125%100%75%50%ArialGeorgiaGaramondCourier NewTahomaTimes New RomanTrebuchet MSVerdanaNoneRaisedDepressedUniformDrop ShadowWhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%It’s illegal for employers to refuse to hire someone based on their age alone. However, it’s also a difficult thing to prove. For this reason, if you find yourself out of work in your 60s, you may find that you have limited options.In this Reddit post, we have someone who’s turning 67 in a few weeks who just lost their job. They’re wondering if they should file for Social Security at 67 and take the money to compensate for the paycheck they used to get from work.Filing for Social Security at 67 may not be a bad idea. However, this poster may not need the money, and there can be a benefit to waiting.Why this Reddit poster should feel free to claim Social Security right awayThe earliest age you can sign up for Social Security is 62. However, claiming benefits before reaching full retirement age (FRA) results in a permanent reduction.The poster above has an FRA of 66 and eight months, which means that if they file for Social Security at 67, they won’t be looking at reduced benefits. That’s the main reason the poster should feel comfortable taking benefits if they feel it will improve their financial situation.That said, the poster may not need Social Security right away. And waiting could work to the poster’s advantage.Why waiting could make senseThe poster doesn’t offer details about how much retirement savings they have and how much they expect to rely on Social Security for income in future years. Because of this, it’s a little hard to know whether the poster should claim Social Security right away versus wait.Holding off on Social Security could be advantageous, since it’s possible to accrue delayed retirement credits worth 8% per year up until age 70. If the poster delays their Social Security claim for three more years, they could boost their monthly benefits by another 24%.If the poster has a nice retirement nest egg, that may not be necessary, and taking benefits immediately could give them some financial breathing room. However, if the poster doesn’t have a lot of money saved for retirement, then delaying Social Security for larger checks is a smart move.Either way, though, the poster may want to hold off on Social Security for one good reason — it does not seem like they need the money right away.The poster says that their husband still works, and that as a household, they can get by on his income alone. That doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll enjoy the most comfortable lifestyle, though.However, the poster is also eligible for a small unemployment check. That, combined with the husband’s income, could be enough to cover their expenses and have some flexibility.The poster also doesn’t mention whether they’re interested in finding a new full-time job or not. That’s a big piece of the puzzle.If the poster’s intent is to find work again, and they can get by without Social Security for a while as they look for a job, then delaying their claim further to grow their benefits could make a lot of sense. However, the poster might struggle to find a new full-time job due to their age, and they may not enjoy a part-time job if they can’t find something that matches their skill level.A tricky decisionAll told, there are a lot of variables at play here. The decision to claim Social Security now versus wait should depend on:How much savings the poster hasHow comfortably they can live on their husband’s incomeHow interested they are in continuing to workThe poster should discuss their situation with a financial advisor for guidance. The good news is that no matter what they do, they aren’t looking at reduced Social Security benefits, since they’re beyond FRA. But locking in a larger boost could give the poster more peace of mind throughout retirement, so that’s certainly something that needs to be part of that conversation.If You’ve Been Thinking About Retirement, Pay Attention (sponsor)Retirement planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The key is finding expert guidance, and SmartAsset’s simple quiz makes it easier than ever for you to connect with a vetted financial advisor. Here’s how:Answer a Few Simple Questions. Get Matched with Vetted Advisors Choose Your Fit Why wait? Start building the retirement you’ve always dreamed of.Get started today! (sponsor)
New train route will connect three of Europe’s most exciting capitals
Michael Jones
Share the articleContentsFrom Prague via Berlin to Copenhagen7 hours from the Czech Republic to DenmarkWhat you can expect from the train journeyBefore your next two-week European itinerary is finalized and you’ve booked flights everywhere, hold on to this thought: There may be a better, much more convenient way to plan a multi-country trip across the Old Continent in 2026.won’tmeans tiring yourself out as you go from plane to plane.Following the recently announced luxury train Paris-Amalfi, and the night service from Switzerland to Scandinavia, there is abrand newtrain routeThe project will be launched next spring and looks to connect three of Europe’s most incredible capitals.We’re talking beautiful medieval monuments, vibrant cultural landscapes, epic nightlife scenes andOld world charmin abundance:From Prague via Berlin to CopenhagenFrom May 1, 2026, the Czech Railways (ČD), Deutsche Bahn (DB) and the Danish State Railways (DSB) will join forces to (finally) launch a direct train connecting their respective capitals: Prague in the Czech Republic, Berlin in Germany and Copenhagen in Denmark.The project has been praised as a benchmark for train travel by none other than the European Commissionactively pushing for more rail alternativesto fly, as part of their environmentally friendly policy.So far, of the three, only Prague and Berlin have had direct connections with each other: if they wanted to get from Berlin to Copenhagen, passengers had to systematically change in Hamburg, while passengers coming all the way from Prague and heading to the Scandinavian capital would have to change twice..ud819f67fb84a329566bc192ec0e4051a { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .ud819f67fb84a329566bc192ec0e4051a:active, .ud819f67fb84a329566bc192ec0e4051a:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .ud819f67fb84a329566bc192ec0e4051a { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .ud819f67fb84a329566bc192ec0e4051a .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .ud819f67fb84a329566bc192ec0e4051a .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .ud819f67fb84a329566bc192ec0e4051a:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoTop 5 underestimated destinations in the most affordable country in West -EuropeNeedless to say, the new project will greatly facilitate travel between these two countries3 important European citieswhich will surely appear on the bucket list of millions and reduce the need for airport use.7 hours from the Czech Republic to DenmarkMore on the route itself, the railway triad will operate with ČD’s own ComfortJet trains, which are known to travel up to 230 km/h and accommodate up to 555 people. In addition, a seasonal night train would be added to increase the offering on this route.Two daily return services are the initial frequency, and journey times will average 11 hours from Prague to Copenhagen (possibly by sleeper train), and7 hours from Berlin to Copenhagen.It may sound like a lot, but once you realize that night trains in Europe save costs and save time, it no longer feels far-fetched. You go to sleep in one country, wake up in another and fold both your hotel and transportation into one ticket. So easy.Plus, none of the long commutes from city to airport, winding security lines and that whole baggage limit mess. Normally you can take as much luggage as you want on the train (within reason) without paying extra.What you can expect from the train journeyThe new line will also use the Berlin-Hamburg line renovations, and as reported by other news mediaa stop in Dresden, between Prague and Berlin, and Hamburg, between Berlin and Copenhagen, is planned.On board the train, passengers have free access to a dining car, reclining seats to make the long journey as comfortable as possible, andeven a cinema!.u88ffc736d9bc7fe8c834e6ac6b5096f6 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u88ffc736d9bc7fe8c834e6ac6b5096f6:active, .u88ffc736d9bc7fe8c834e6ac6b5096f6:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u88ffc736d9bc7fe8c834e6ac6b5096f6 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u88ffc736d9bc7fe8c834e6ac6b5096f6 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u88ffc736d9bc7fe8c834e6ac6b5096f6 .postTitle { color:#9B59B6; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u88ffc736d9bc7fe8c834e6ac6b5096f6:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } See alsoThis beautiful island is one of the most underrated beach destinations in Latin AmericaHowever, if you want to travel from Prague to Copenhagen, we strongly recommend that you book First Class and don’t worry about sky-high prices: there are 99 seats reserved for the highest category, so that’s not the case.Thatexclusive andhors de prix.Prices haven’t been confirmed yet, but based on similar trains recently launched, standard seating will startaround $75for the longest stretch, while sleeping cabins in First Class average $270+.Pricey, we know, but remember what we said about combining accommodationsAndtravel in a single edition?If you’re planning to travel around Europe by train, make sure you read this companion article which will give you the full overview from Eurail, the continent’s best-selling rail pass, allowing you to explore more than 30 countries for just $315.Vinicius CostaVini, our senior head writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60 countries to his name (and is currently weaving stories from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.Subscribe to our latest postsEnter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
A 2001 Meltdown Would Drop Nasdaq 19,000 Points
Jennifer Brown
On March 10, 2000, the Nasdaq-100 traded at 5,048.62. On October 9, 2002, it had dropped to 1,114, down 78% from its peak. If a decline occurs anywhere near that level, it will be due to several factors combined. The most likely outcome is a huge disappointment in the future of artificial intelligence (AI). Another would be raging inflation caused by tariffs. (This leaves a major war out of the equation.) A drop of the same magnitude would take the Nasdaq down over 19,000 points.-->-->24/7 Wall St. Key Points:Overvaluation of startup tech companies appears to have come around again.A meltdown like the one in 2001 would take the Nasdaq down over 19,000 points this time.Are you ahead, or behind on retirement? SmartAsset’s free tool can match you with a financial advisor in minutes to help you answer that today. Each advisor has been carefully vetted, and must act in your best interests. Don’t waste another minute; learn more here.(Sponsor)-->-->Most of the drop in the market from 2000 to 2002 was due to major overvaluation of stocks, which were part of the new internet wave. Those that dragged the market down for the most part had almost no revenue. They often raised money by going public. They ran out of money. A falling market made it impossible for most to raise any more money. Investors in those stocks were wiped out.The panic was so severe that it even dragged down stocks with excellent business prospects, which are among the most valuable tech stocks today. Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) shares fell as much as 90%. Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: MSFT) was a more well-established company. Its stock fell nearly 60%. Good earnings at strong tech companies did not save their investors.Can It Happen Again?The valuation of some of the hardest hit companies in 2000 to 2002 bears a resemblance to the valuation of AI-related companies today. OpenAI was valued at $29 billion as of May 2023. It is worth $500 billion today. Anthropic was worth $18 billion in early 2024. Its recent valuation was $183 billion. Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ: NVDA) traded for $21 in March 2023. Today, it trades at $188 per share.There are theories about AI valuations that are not in its favor. Among them is the fact that advances in technology will start to slow down. Another concern is that a shortage of electricity for AI data centers will hinder its growth. The most likely scenario is that AI products, which are mostly given away for free today, eventually become something that people will pay for. Revenue forecasts could be entirely wrong. Alternatively, AI could become so effective that it puts millions of Americans out of work.Leaving aside direct stock valuation, people often overlook the fact that other factors also hurt the economy during this period. Japan went into recession, and some economists feared that it would spread. The Federal Reserve raised rates several times starting in 2002 due to concerns about inflation. Today, following President Trump’s aggressive moves, it is more likely that rates will fall, unless inflation arises.Tariffs will be the inflation trigger. It depends on their levels, duration, the countries involved, and the goods and services they affect. It also has to do with retaliation. The largest risk today is likely from China, Canada, and Mexico, America’s three largest trading partners. U.S. negotiations with China have made no significant progress. However, the central government in China can prop up its economy during a trade war in a way the United States cannot. Canada’s retaliation could center around timber and autos. Mexico’s might center on cars and agriculture.Most investors believe there is no chance for a market reset. What they forget is that it has happened in the past.Is a Big-Time Fall Sell-Off Coming? Play Defense With These 7 Proven MovesIf You have $500,000 Saved, Retirement Could Be Closer Than You Think (sponsor)Retirement can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to be.Imagine having an expert in your corner to help you with your financial goals. Someone to help you determine if you’re ahead, behind, or right on track. With SmartAsset, that’s not just a dream—it’s reality. This free tool connects you with pre-screened financial advisors who work in your best interests. It’s quick, it’s easy, so take the leap today and start planning smarter!Don’t waste another minute; get started right here and help your retirement dreams become a retirement reality.(sponsor)
Move over Sri Lanka! This beautiful island is Asia’s new holiday destination
Jennifer Williams
Should I Start Taking Social Security Now at 67 After Losing My Job?
Robert Davis
New train route will connect three of Europe’s most exciting capitals
Michael Jones
A 2001 Meltdown Would Drop Nasdaq 19,000 Points
Jennifer Brown
Frontier Airlines boss fires back at United CEO’s claim that low-cost flying is near extinction: ‘That’s cute’
Michael Brown
Current refi mortgage rates report for Dec. 3, 2025
John Smith
TD Bank review 2025: A full-service bank with round-the-clock customer service.
Emily Miller
An inside look at the US Open’s $800 million push into building more luxury spaces for fans
Jennifer Williams
What it really means for tourism in 2026
Jane Miller
I Died. Here’s How I Want My Wife to Handle Our Finances
Jennifer Williams
I’m Approved for a Car Loan – How Should I Negotiate at the Dealership?
John Smith
One of the most challenging things anyone can do is buy a car, which is arguably the most stressful purchase you can make, second only to purchasing a home. Between negotiating at different car dealers and even choosing a car itself, this isn’t the most consumer-friendly activity. nextstayCCSettingsOffArabicChineseEnglishFrenchGermanHindiPortugueseSpanishFont ColorwhiteFont Opacity100%Font Size100%Font FamilyArialText ShadownoneBackground ColorblackBackground Opacity50%Window ColorblackWindow Opacity0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%200%175%150%125%100%75%50%ArialGeorgiaGaramondCourier NewTahomaTimes New RomanTrebuchet MSVerdanaNoneRaisedDepressedUniformDrop ShadowWhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%-->-->Key PointsFor one Redditor, having a preapproval on a car loan is creating some concern about how to negotiate best.There is no reason for this Redditor to be nervous, the odds are actually in his favor.The hope is that you can safely negotiate a new vehicle price before mentioning a preapproval loan.Millions of Americans keep making 5 basic mistakes with insurance and keep overpaying every year, sometimes by thousands of dollars. But, it’s easy to avoid if you know how. -->-->For buyers like this Redditor posting in r/personalfinance, there is also a genuine concern about how to handle being approved outside of the dealership itself and what to do next. It goes without saying that car dealers really want you to finance with them whenever you buy a new or used car. In this Redditor’s case, it’s a question of whether or not they are upfront right away and acknowledge they have their own financing, or wait until they have agreeable numbers on both sides. Why Preapproved Loans Are GoodFirst, let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way and highlight that anyone who says preapproved car loans are worse than what dealerships can offer. This is mostly just something a dealership says to try to get more in-house financing, something they are incentivized to do. The good news with preapproved loans is that not only can the terms be more favorable, but it also allows you to really understand what your budget is before you get into a new vehicle. Car dealers are all about making deals the same day, before you have time to really digest what is taking place financially. Not only do preapproved loans help you avoid surprises, but dealerships also notoriously mark up their rate a few percentage points to get a cut of the financing, thereby making some extra money for the dealership itself. Starting with a bank or credit union, as this Redditor did, is the best financial move you can make before shopping for a vehicle. Better Interest RateUltimately, the single biggest reason for a pre-approval is the better interest rate you can get directly from a bank or credit union. Even a slight percentage difference can add up quickly over 60 or 72 months. Better yet, if you are approved for 4% interest at 60 months and $400 a month, you will immediately know if the terms a dealer is offering are better or worse. You Are A Serious BuyerOn the one hand, car dealers often encourage you to finance through them; on the other hand, having pre-approval in hand means you are a serious buyer. As you might expect, many people visit car dealerships to explore the possibilities of a new vehicle, but don’t intend to purchase it on the same day.Someone who has already received pre-approval financing is essentially a cash buyer, so the dealer knows you are serious and might be willing to go the extra mile to make something happen. Don’t let the car dealer bully you into financing with them, as you don’t have to.How to Negotiate At The Dealership Don’t Discuss Monthly Payments At AllWhen it comes to walking to a dealership, regardless of where you got financing, the most important thing is to focus on the price of the vehicle first, and not the monthly payment you are targeting. As you know what dollar value you are already pre-approved for, you know exactly how much you can afford on a vehicle. As soon as you tell a car dealership that you are looking for a monthly payment of, let’s say $500, they are going to manipulate the length of the loan and other transaction terms to help you get there. For this individual Redditor and everyone else in a similar position, the focus should be on the “out the door” price, which is essentially the agreed-upon price of the vehicle, including tags, title, tax, and everything else, before you get to the monthly payment.If you use an online cost calculator for car payments, you should have a pretty good idea in mind of what you need the price of a vehicle to be to hit your payments. This will give you more leverage to negotiate a lower price than the sticker price of a car. Three Separate TransactionsAs you negotiate, remember that you are doing so across three separate transactions. First, and as previously discussed, is the price of the car, which is the most important transaction taking place. This is going to be the difference maker in whether a deal gets struck. The second deal you are focused on is the value of a trade-in, assuming you have one. You should visit Kelley Blue Book and know some basic information about the value of your vehicle, as well as pricing it out from somewhere like Carvana, so you know if the dealership is offering you favorable terms or not. The third negotiation is the financing, where your preapproval will be crucial. Depending on what the dealer offers, you will know which terms are more favorable and which you prefer. Use Pre-Approval As Your LeverageWhile it’s undoubtedly going to annoy the dealership, the next step after negotiating the sales price of a vehicle is to bring up pre-approval language. At this point, the dealership can’t make the price of the car worse without you walking away, so now is your time to ask them to beat the rate you have been offered or the terms overall. The good news is that dealers have incentives from their lenders to try to beat pre-approvals, so if your bank is offering you a 6% vehicle loan, a dealership might be able to offer 5.5% to win your business. This is good news for both parties, and it will only make the overall price of the vehicle less than what you had originally settled on. Yes, some dealers are going to be annoyed, but you know exactly how much you can and will pay, and you shouldn’t budget on this. If the dealership can’t beat the pre-approval terms, then you should go with the pre-approval. Alternatively, you can take the terms you have been offered and shop them around with another dealership. Say No to ExtrasNo matter what, you have to say no to any extras the dealer offers you, which might try and happen after you have already negotiated for a vehicle. You don’t need window tinting done at the dealership or nitrogen-filled tires.These “extras” are going to increase your price by a lot, and you don’t need them, and you especially don’t need to finance them into your deal. Even something like “GAP” insurance isn’t something you need to buy from a dealer and can instead be obtained from your own insurance company. Be Ready to Walk Away There is nothing more aggravating than spending hours at a car dealership, negotiating, waiting, and waiting some more, only to walk out empty-handed. Car dealers are notorious for saying and doing anything to try to get you to stick around while they finesse the numbers to work for them and appear as if they work for you. The single most crucial negotiating tactic you have is to walk away if the dealer won’t meet your price or becomes annoyed by your pre-approved financing. The odds are in your favor that they will call you, potentially even on the same day, with a better offer to try to get you to reconsider. Car Buying Is EmotionalSomething to remember is that car buying, like purchasing a home, is an incredibly emotional event. You spend hours researching, negotiating, and researching some more before you are ready to make a purchase. This makes it an emotional experience, but emotions have no place in a car dealership. Everything should be strictly business, and if you start to show emotion at a car dealership, the salespeople and managers will likely jump on it to try to get you to buy today. Ultimately, this ties directly back to the concept of being able to walk away. As soon as you get the “pushy” vibe from a car dealer and they are trying to rush you, walk away. It’s that simple, you don’t even need to say anything, just walk out and don’t worry, they’ll call you. Most Americans Overpay Without Realizing ItCar insurance is one of those monthly bills most Americans pay without a second thought. But the truth is, millions of drivers are overpaying simply because the haven’t bothered to get updated rates.But there are dozens of easy ways to lower your rates. If you’re a safe driver, have moved in the last few years, if you’re a safe driver, or forgot to check about bundling you’re leaving free money on the table.I was able to save $530 on my insurance, simply by applying to new providers with updated information. And it only took a few minutes!👇 Use the form at the bottom of this article to see if another provider can lower your bill without sacrificing coverage.👇
I Regret Financing My New Car – What Are My Options for Managing Payments?
Jennifer Williams
-->Key PointsA Redditor going to college was convinced to take out a large car loan.He’s regretting taking the loan, and wants to know what options he has.Selling the car, refinancing the debt, or finding a job to pay for the loan are going to be his best and only choices.Millions of Americans keep making 5 basic mistakes with insurance and keep overpaying every year, sometimes by thousands of dollars. But, it’s easy to avoid if you know how. -->-->Many people who buy cars finance their new vehicles. In fact, Experian reports that the average monthly payment on a used car is $521 while the average monthly payment on a new car is a shocking $745. Borrowers are also financing their cars for a long time, with Experian indicating that the average loan term for a new car was 68.63 months and the average loan term for a used vehicle was 67.2 months. nextstayCCSettingsOffArabicChineseEnglishFrenchGermanHindiPortugueseSpanishFont ColorwhiteFont Opacity100%Font Size100%Font FamilyArialText ShadownoneBackground ColorblackBackground Opacity50%Window ColorblackWindow Opacity0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%200%175%150%125%100%75%50%ArialGeorgiaGaramondCourier NewTahomaTimes New RomanTrebuchet MSVerdanaNoneRaisedDepressedUniformDrop ShadowWhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%That’s a long time to commit to paying a lot of money, and those who finance could be left with regrets.In fact, this happened recently to one Reddit user. The poster explained he followed some advice that he now regrets, and he’s wondering if he has options to deal with the situation he’s found himself in. Here’s how a Redditor got stuck with a car he can’t affordThe original poster (OP) explained that he lives in rural Alberta and will soon be starting college. His mother and others convinced him to finance a 2024 Kia Forte, despite the fact that he wanted to buy something cheaper that he could afford to pay cash for. The car had a price tag of $25,000, but the dealer convinced him to add another $10,000 to cover a “protective coating” on both the interior and exterior of the vehicle.With a $10,000 down payment, the OP is now looking at making biweekly payments of $231 for the next five years. Since he recently moved out to live on his own and he’s going to school full-time, he is very worried he’ll be unable to keep up with the payments.He explained that he “feels stupid,” and said that he is just 18 years old and worried about the impact this car will have on his financial future.What can the OP do to deal with the difficult situation?Unfortunately, the poster is in a really tough spot here, and he followed really terrible advice. He was spot-on when he thought he should buy an affordable car with cash, and he should never have listened to his mother about getting the loan.Sadly, now he has very few good options. The OP should first look at his paperwork to see exactly what he paid for regarding the protective coating. If any part of that money went to cover a warranty that he can cancel, he should do so immediately to try to recover at least some of the wasted funds. He should also talk to the dealer and ask for a partial refund on the coating, which he says is now peeling.Unfortunately, that’s not going to solve the bigger problem, which is that he’s committed to monthly payments he can’t afford.Since it was his mother’s idea to buy the car, he can see if she’ll help — but unless she’s making a reliable commitment to cover the paymentandhe trusts her to follow through, he’ll have to find a way to afford to pay the bills himself so he doesn’t ruin his credit and end up with the car getting repossessed.This may mean getting a part-time job, living on a very strict budget, and perhaps even continuing to live at home a little longer so he can afford the payments with the income he earns. If his interest rate is high, refinancing the car loan to a lower one could help him as well, especially if his mom is willing to cosign to help him get a better rate, since the car loan was her idea in the first place. Alternatively, the OPcouldpotentially try to sell the car to get out from under the payments. He will almost assuredly lose money on this deal, but since he put $10,000 down on the car, hemayhave enough equity in it that he could sell it for enough to repay the loan. If he can do that, this may be the best solution, so he’s not stuck with five years of interest charges and payments that are going to cause a constant struggle. He probably won’t have anything left over for another car, though, so will have to save up to buy one or take public transportation.Going forward, the OP also needs to make absolutely sure he is not listening to his mother, who appears to be giving very bad financial advice. He needs to commit to living within his means and, if necessary, get advice from an experienced financial advisor who will not tell a broke college kid with no job prospects to commit to a huge debt. Most Americans Overpay Without Realizing ItCar insurance is one of those monthly bills most Americans pay without a second thought. But the truth is, millions of drivers are overpaying simply because the haven’t bothered to get updated rates.But there are dozens of easy ways to lower your rates. If you’re a safe driver, have moved in the last few years, if you’re a safe driver, or forgot to check about bundling you’re leaving free money on the table.I was able to save $530 on my insurance, simply by applying to new providers with updated information. And it only took a few minutes!👇 Use the form at the bottom of this article to see if another provider can lower your bill without sacrificing coverage.👇
Should I Trade In My $67,000 Jeep Wrangler for a $15,000 Infiniti and Eliminate Payments?
Jane Johnson
Everyone knows (or hopefully knows) that as soon as you buy a car and drive it off the lot, you’ve already lost a certain value of the vehicle. It’s a frustrating but true reality of vehicle ownership, and it doesn’t matter how much the car is or what brand it is. Once you drive it away, its value decreases. nextstayCCSettingsOffArabicChineseEnglishFrenchGermanHindiPortugueseSpanishFont ColorwhiteFont Opacity100%Font Size100%Font FamilyArialText ShadownoneBackground ColorblackBackground Opacity50%Window ColorblackWindow Opacity0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%200%175%150%125%100%75%50%ArialGeorgiaGaramondCourier NewTahomaTimes New RomanTrebuchet MSVerdanaNoneRaisedDepressedUniformDrop ShadowWhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%WhiteBlackRedGreenBlueYellowMagentaCyan100%75%50%25%0%-->-->Key PointsFor this Redditor, purchasing a $67,000 Jeep Wrangler proved to be a financial disaster.The hope is that they can get out of this Jeep situation and buy something cheaper that doesn’t have payments.If this Redditor is smart, they will dump the Jeep as fast as possible.Millions of Americans keep making 5 basic mistakes with insurance and keep overpaying every year, sometimes by thousands of dollars. But, it’s easy to avoid if you know how. -->-->With so many people buying more expensive vehicles these days because car pricing is only going up, it stands to reason that some people have buyer’s regret. This is what one Redditor is feeling as they are wondering if they should trade in their expensive Jeep for something less expensive. The Problem With a $67,000 Jeep WranglerUnsurprisingly, as soon as we hear that this individual is currently in possession of a $67,000 Jeep Wrangler, we know a problem exists. Buying a Jeep Wrangler might be a great idea if you are someone who wants to either be a part of a vehicle that feels very Americana or loves to go off-road, but beyond that, this is just a case of someone who now has a pretty significant financial burden that is causing them a lot of grief. Except for classic cars like old Ferraris, cars are not typically meant to be an investment. Therefore, you go in knowing you will likely take a loss until the vehicle is paid off, but it’s also a very common financial misstep. This Redditor and other individuals who are in a similar position know that they are going to lose money the moment the vehicle is driven off the lot. It’s for this reason that the Redditor is likely looking at a less expensive vehicle, as this $67,000 Jeep is definitely not worth that much anymore. The Redditor doesn’t provide details about the vehicle’s age or mileage, but it’s a 110% certainty that it’s worth far less than $67,000 at this point. Payments Are a BurdenThis means that they are now committed to this vehicle for a certain number of years, with the same payment and financial burden over their heads. Car payments are a drain on a monthly budget, and it’s likely that this individual’s payment is in the high hundreds of dollars, and this money could be better invested in an emergency fund, vacation, or a combination of both. Buying a Jeep Is BadLook, buying a Jeep isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but this is a vehicle that is notorious for rapidly depreciating. According to Kelley Blue Book, new Jeeps lose as much as 30% of value in the first year alone, meaning that even in perfect condition, 12 months after the Redditor bought the car, it’s worth, at most, a number under $50,000.On top of everything else, Jeeps are also unreliable, which means that this Redditor is going to be up a creek once the warranty is over and vehicle problems continue. All of this leads to one clear solution: dump the Jeep. The Taste of Financial FreedomAt the core of this argument here is that the goal isn’t necessarily that the Redditor hates the Jeep or loves the Infiniti, it’s that they want to eliminate their payments. Let’s say, for argument’s sake, the Redditor is paying close to $1,000 per month for a Jeep, which is no doubt a lot of money. As noted above, consider all the other things that can be done with the $1,000 payment, including building an emergency fund, paying off a high-interest credit card, adding money to a retirement account, or saving for a home. There is a fairly common slogan that is often tossed around that says “Own your car, don’t let it own you,” and it makes a lot of sense in this Redditor’s case. The Jeep is basically the master of this Redditor’s wallet for right now, and if they were to trade it in, the person is going to regain control over their financial life. In some ironic way, even the comment section on this Redditor’s post is almost in universal agreement that this vehicle needs to go. Getting all of a Reddit post to agree isn’t a small challenge, so that every comment is some kind of “dump it” around getting rid of the Jeep, the writing on the wall couldn’t be clearer. The Best Move To MakeIf this Redditor were my friend or family member, the advice couldn’t be easier, and I don’t need to be a financial manager to give this advice either; it’s mostly just about common sense in this particular case. I would not mince words here, as the recommendation is to make the trade as fast as possible. It’s almost as if you have to make an intervention at this point and tell the Redditor to get out of the black hole that is this Jeep Wrangler, have no vehicle payments, and move on to bigger and better things financially. Most importantly, I would think this could be framed as a big win for the original poster as well. Don’t view this as a loss on the Jeep by trading it in for something else, but think of it as the smartest decision. In other words, this isn’t a financial retreat, but rather a strategic decision based on sound financial principles that can help this individual lead a better life. Best of all, they will find more peace with themselves, no longer having to worry about this massive payment or what could happen with maintenance down the road. In other words, every argument that can be made with trading this car in sounds like a win-win, and there is almost no argument in favor of keeping the Jeep for even one day longer. Most Americans Overpay Without Realizing ItCar insurance is one of those monthly bills most Americans pay without a second thought. But the truth is, millions of drivers are overpaying simply because the haven’t bothered to get updated rates.But there are dozens of easy ways to lower your rates. If you’re a safe driver, have moved in the last few years, if you’re a safe driver, or forgot to check about bundling you’re leaving free money on the table.I was able to save $530 on my insurance, simply by applying to new providers with updated information. And it only took a few minutes!👇 Use the form at the bottom of this article to see if another provider can lower your bill without sacrificing coverage.👇
The best high-yield savings account rates on Dec. 3, 2025: Earn up to 5.00% APY
Sarah Smith
You’re looking at up to 5.00% APY on top high-yield savings accounts as of Dec. 3, 2025. To put that in perspective, that’s more than 10x higher than the FDIC-reported national average of 0.40%. For anyone trying to get real returns on their savings, the difference is substantial.Whatever brought you here—whether it’s building an emergency fund saving for a major purchase like travel, putting away funds to invest in precious metals, or planning for retirement—keeping your money in a high-yield savings account is smart. You get solid returns without too much complexity or the risks associated with stock market investments and the like.The three highest-APY accounts we’ve identified are as follows:Earn up to 5.00% with Varo Money.Earn up to 4.35% with Newtek Bank.Earn up to 4.31% with Axos Bank.Check Out Our Daily Rates ReportsDiscover the highest high-yield savings rates, up to 5% for December 8, 2025.Discover the highest CD rates, up to 4.18% for December 8, 2025.Discover the current mortgage rates for December 8, 2025.Discover current refi mortgage rates report for December 8, 2025.Discover current ARM mortgage rates report for December 8, 2025.Discover the current price of gold for December 8, 2025.Discover the current price of silver for December 8, 2025.#qsWidgetContainer175, #qsWidgetContainer175 [data-widget-id] { background-color: transparent; font-family: var(--graphik-cond),Graphik Cond,Arial Narrow,Helvetica neue Condensed,sans-serif; letter-spacing: .5px; padding: 0; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .sizeone .header-section { border-bottom: 0 none; 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} #qsWidgetContainer175 .sh-first-product .sh-btn__text, #qsWidgetContainer175 .sh-btn__text { border-radius: 0; border-color: #111; color: #111; font-family: var(--graphik-cond),Graphik Cond,Arial Narrow,Helvetica neue Condensed,sans-serif; font-weight: 600; line-height: 150%; height: auto; letter-spacing: .5px; padding: 12px 16px; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .sh-btn__text:hover { border-color: #666; color: #666; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .sh-row-sub-container span.sh-row-value { font-family: var(--graphik-compact), Graphik Compact, Arial Narrow, Helvetica neue Condensed, sans-serif !important; font-size: 16px !important; font-weight: 600 !important; letter-spacing: .5px !important; } @media only screen and (width: 768px) { #qsWidgetContainer175 .cdBankingDesignChanges .sh-row-product-title.sh-bank-name { position: relative; top: initial; } } @media only screen and (max-width: 767px) { #qsWidgetContainer175 .cdBankingDesignChanges .sh-first-product .sh-title-container { padding: 0; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .prop-conatiner:not(:first-child):before { height: 2px; left: 0; top: -12px; width: 100%; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .sh-row2-container { flex-basis: 100% !important; padding-bottom: 8px !important; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .sh-first-product .sh-title-container .sh-row-container { height: auto; padding: 8px; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .cdBankingDesignChanges .sh-row-product-title.sh-bank-name { font-size: 14px; font-weight: 400; margin-top: 8px; top: 182px; } #qsWidgetContainer175 img.logo-image { margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 200px; } #qsWidgetContainer175 .listing-title { font-size: 20px; font-weight: 600; } }The highest savings account rates on December 3, 2025Fortunehas partnered with the financial industry consultants at Curinos to give you an accurate look at the highest savings account rates on the market. Varo Money takes the lead, with Newtek Bank and Axos Bank also offering very respectable yields. Read on to see our full list of HYSAs and find the one that’s right for your needs.What the Fortune/Curinos partnership means for youWe work with Curinos, which has a track record of more than thirty years analyzing financial services data, to bring you current rates on savings accounts and CDs from a long list of financial institutions. This daily reporting gives us the foundation to create a selection that actually helps you pick the right account for your situation.History of savings account ratesWhile the average savings account rate has increased from the lows seen from 2020 to 2022, it’s still far below the APYs available on the most generous high-yield savings accounts on our list.Why should you choose a high-yield savings account?A quick terminology note: There’s no official account type called a “high-yield savings account.” What we’re really talking about is banks and credit unions that happen to offer rates significantly higher than average. It’s just a label we use to make things clearer.Most of the divide between traditional and high-yield accounts comes down to operations. Traditional banks run branch networks and offer everything under the sun—loans, checking, credit cards, you name it. High-yield providers are usually online-only, keep their offerings lean, and have no physical locations to maintain. That operational simplicity translates to better rates for you.Pro tipLearn more about different types of savings accounts.If you’re willing to handle your banking online, switching to a high-yield account can meaningfully increase what you earn. Depending on your deposit and APY, you could be looking at hundreds—or more—in extra interest annually compared to a standard savings account.How much interest can you earn with a higher APY?Let’s assume a hypothetical where you’ve got five grand sitting in savings a full year, and the APY doesn’t budge. The interest you’d earn with a 5.00% APY is dramatically different from what you’d earn if the account’s APY was a mere 0.40%. See the estimates below:Initial DepositEstimated Interest0.40% APY$5,000$225.00% APY$5,000$2560.40% APYInitial Deposit$5,000Estimated Interest$225.00% APYInitial Deposit$5,000Estimated Interest$256It’s a surprisingly painless change that can have a real impact on your bottom line.What should you look for in a high-yield savings account?Focus on these things when you’re choosing a HYSA:Competitive rates.Look for APYs that are actually going to move the needle on your earnings.Low or no minimums.Plenty of high-yield accounts don’t require a hefty opening deposit, making them accessible if you’re building your savings from scratch.Fee-free.Skip accounts that nickel-and-dime you with monthly maintenance charges—that money should stay in your account.Access to your funds.Verify that you can transfer your money when you need it. Pay attention to withdrawal caps and foreign ATM fees.Insurance.Check that your deposits are FDIC-protected at a bank or NCUA-protected at a credit union.Note that any interest you earn will be taxable.ADVERTISEMENTAdvertiser DisclosurePrivacy policyPowered byThe best savings account rates from our partners for December 9, 2025Account Type Savings & MMAsSavings & MMAsMMAs OnlySavings OnlyZIP Code Deposit Amount $FEATURED OFFERSAPYMIN. BALANCE FOR APYEST. EARNINGSLoading...3.75 %December 9, 2025$ 100$ 938Over 1 YearSavings AccountCIT BankMember FDICPromoted Offer Earn up to $300 cash bonus with minimum deposit. Terms apply.OPEN ACCOUNTOFFER DETAILSQUICK LOOKCIT Bank is an online institution that offers competitive annual percentage yields (APYs) on its Savings Connect savings account. It also offers a checking account, a money market account and CDs. CIT Bank offers a competitive yield with its Savings Connect account. It also offers an assortment of CDs to choose from. But some of these CDs, such as the one-year term, weren’t paying a competitive yield during Bankrate’s review.READ BANK REVIEW4.35 %December 2, 2025$ 0$ 1088Over 1 YearSavings AccountNewtek BankMember FDICQUICK LOOK4.20 %December 9, 2025$ 0$ 1050Over 1 YearSavings AccountLendingClubMember FDICEarn our LevelUp rate with $250 in monthly deposits, plus no fees.OFFER DETAILSQUICK LOOKLendingClub Bank is an FDIC-insured online bank known as Radius Bank until it was acquired by LendingClub in February 2021. Consumers looking for an online bank that offers competitive yields, low fees and ample ATM access might consider LendingClub Bank a solid option.READ BANK REVIEW12345...67Frequently asked questionsAre savings account rates going to fall?They could. Banks often adjust their rates based on what the Federal Reserve does. Given that the Fed began cutting rates in late 2025—a win for borrowers, a challenge for savers—it’s reasonable to expect that some savings account rates could head downward accordingly.Can I lose money in a high-yield savings account?As long as your account is FDIC- or NCUA-insured, you should be protected up to a $250,000 maximum per financial institution. Also, understand that your savings won’t fluctuate like stock prices, but inflation could erode what your money can buy if it outpaces your APY.Is a high-yield savings account still worth it?Yes, it is. Fed rate cuts aside, many high-yield savings accounts continue to offer APYs in the vicinity of 4.00%. These accounts are effectively the best straightforward option for growing your money safely while keeping it within reach. Though we’ll also note CDs are worth considering if you can afford to lock your money away for a set period of time.Fortune Brainstorm AIreturns to San Francisco Dec. 8–9 to convene the smartest people we know—technologists, entrepreneurs, Fortune Global 500 executives, investors, policymakers, and the brilliant minds in between—to explore and interrogate the most pressing questions about AI at another pivotal moment. Register here.
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