Weekly list of curated personal finance articles from around the web.
How to have a no-buy year, according to people who’ve done it successfully (US News). It can be a great way to reset your sense of “normal” spending. See also, Radical ways to accomplish your financial goals (Matt About Money).
The latest tools for making sure your cellphone is secure (Wall Street Journal). Phone makers are rolling out new protections, but you have to opt in.
Cars are so expensive that buyers need seven-year loans (Financial Advisor). Longer loans are becoming the norm, but why be normal? I say keep your car longer and then save to buy your next car with cash.
Proof of wealth (Of Dollars and Data). Why the slow path to building wealth is usually best. (See also, Proverbs 21:5.)
New study finds you need more than just money to save for college (Money). You also need to understand the benefits of certain tax-advantaged college-savings vehicles, like 529 plans.
Claiming the standard deduction? Here are ten tax breaks for middle-class families in 2025 (Kiplinger). Definitely worthwhile to review this list.
The insurance policies you need (and some you don’t) (Clark Howard). Are there any gaps in your coverage?
25 ways to be generous this school year (National Christian Foundation). Lots of good ideas for fostering family generosity that go well beyond giving money.
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