Jul 29, 2025

Gaps in 529 plan adoption despite high parental savings rates, study finds 

Raising kids is a significant financial commitment, and for some, the associated costs influence decisions about whether or when to have children. Among these expenses, education often ranks as one of the largest and most unpredictable. Yet, many parents may feel uncertain about the most effective ways to save for these costs, or whether they’re […]

Jul 17, 2025

Back-to-school 2025: Financial stress, tariff worries and Labubu dolls 

Back-to-school shopping is shaping up to be a major source of financial stress for parents this year, prompting many to take on debt, cut back on essentials, and tap into every possible resource to save money. According to new data from Intuit Credit Karma, even more parents are feeling the financial squeeze heading into this […]

Jul 8, 2025

The tariff effect: Rising costs, murky origins 

Regardless of economists’ claims that tariffs haven’t raised prices as much as initially expected, many Americans report noticing higher costs and are adjusting their finances in response.  According to new data from Intuit Credit Karma, 62% of consumers say they’ve experienced price increases for everyday goods and services that they shop for, as a result […]

Jun 26, 2025

Vibe-based budgeting: How current economic perceptions are steering spending

As a cloud of economic anxiety hangs overhead, Americans are increasingly caught between trusting their own financial reality and reacting to the noise surrounding the economy.  According to new data from Intuit Credit Karma, roughly half (51%) of Americans report having a positive monthly cash flow, and 72% say their cash flow has either improved […]

Jun 12, 2025

Score drop: The credit fallout for federal student loan borrowers 

With the resumption of federal student loan collection efforts, many borrowers are facing financial pressure, sharp declines in credit scores, and limited options for repayment. Not only are budgets strained, but mental health is also suffering as fears of long-term indebtedness weigh heavily on borrowers.  According to a new study conducted online by The Harris […]

Jun 4, 2025

Americans Are Embracing “No-Buy” or “Low-Buy” Challenges to Rein in Spending

Faced with rising costs, many Americans are reevaluating their spending habits and trying to cut back through a “no-buy” or “low-buy” lifestyle, while others are blowing money to cope with concerns about the economy.  According to a new study by Intuit Credit Karma, 44% of Americans say they are currently taking part in, or considering […]

May 27, 2025

Summer spending squeeze: Americans weigh fun against financial stress 

This summer, everyone’s after the same thing: a good time. But while some are ready to spend freely to make that happen, others are swapping pricey vacations, concerts, and fine dining for budget-friendly alternatives.  According to a new study conducted by Intuit Credit Karma, about one-third of Americans (34%) expect to spend less on non-essentials […]

May 7, 2025

Bad to worse: Gen Z faces job market challenges amid economic uncertainty 

Young Americans are feeling anxious about their place in an uncertain job market, as recession fears continue to climb. With graduation season ushering in a new wave of Gen Z adults into the workforce, many will enter a job market that feels anything but welcoming. According to a new study conducted online by The Harris […]

Apr 23, 2025

Weddings are getting smaller, farther and pricier, and guests feel it the most 

While many couples are saying ‘I do’ in ways that reduce spending on their end, the cost of being a wedding guest has never been higher. Trends like micro-weddings, destination ceremonies, and multi-day events are pushing attendees to spend beyond their means, turning the celebration of love into a financial burden.  According to a new […]