College costs have gone up, along with the price of just about everything else. The interest rate on student loans gets adjusted each year. . And the most recent overhaul of that impact everyone from grad students to parents to millions of borrowers who haven’t set foot on campus in years.

But one thing hasn’t changed at all since 2008. The typical freshman can still borrow no more than $5,500 in federal student loans.

Borrowing caps for undergraduates haven’t been raised since many of this year’s incoming freshmen were born. Those limits — between $5,500 and $7,500 annually for dependent students up to a total cap of $31,000 — are especially striking when you consider that grad students and parents have been free to take out hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal loans during that same time. (, although their limits remain much higher than those imposed on undergraduates.)

As borrowing limits sat still, college costs have jumped. From 2008 to today, tuition at both in-state public universities and private colleges has increased by more than 85%, according to in annual surveys. The average yearly price of tuition and fees at in-state public universities is now $12,790, while a year at the average private university will set you back $51,316 if you pay full sticker price. Those figures don’t include living expenses.

That $31,000 aggregate limit in 2008 would be the equivalent of nearly $48,000 in purchasing power today, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ CPI inflation calculator. In other words, students aren’t getting the same bang for their borrowed buck.

“The purchasing power of that amount has really gone down a lot,” says Jordan Matsudaira, a professor of economics and public policy at American University and the director of the PEER Center, a research hub based at the university.

[Read: ]

Federal Student Loans: The First Financing Option for Most

Most students who need to borrow for college look to federal student loans first, and there are several reasons for this.

These loans, offered through the Department of Education, don’t require the borrower to have a qualifying credit score or a certain debt-to-income ratio. Every undergraduate student who takes out a loan pays the same interest rate, and that rate is better than most would get through a private lender. This year’s rate is 6.39%.

Federal loans also come with more protections than private loans. Borrowers have access to more affordable income-driven repayment plans and forbearance options. Some can get their remaining loan balance canceled after making a certain number of payments.

Federal student loans make up more than 90% of the student loan market.

Why Undergrad Loan Limits Haven’t Budged

The government makes all sorts of regular adjustments to keep up with inflation. Social Security checks, retirement account maximums and tax brackets all shift as expenses and earnings grow.

Student loan borrowing caps aren’t tied to inflation in any way, and increasing them would require legislative action. In the 18-year stretch since the last increase, through both Democratic and Republican administrations, we haven’t really come close to bumping up the limits.

“I don’t recall it ever coming up in a focused policy conversation,” says Matsudaira, who served in both the Obama and Biden administrations and was the chief economist for the Department of Education during the Biden years.

The 2008 increase came largely as a response to the financial crisis, with policymakers opening up more access to federal loans to ensure students could still finance their education as the private credit market tightened. In the following years, with heightened public attention on debt, there was little political appetite on either side of the aisle to raise loan limits for a group consisting largely of .

But there was another reason the caps weren’t being raised: Data suggested that despite rising costs, the stagnant borrowing limits didn’t appear to be resulting in a greater financial strain on students.

“Although inflation has eroded the purchasing power of loan limits, this trend has not yet coincided with more students reaching their annual loan limit,” authors Kristin Blagg and Jason Delisle wrote in a analyzing loan limits and inflation. “The share of all undergraduates borrowing the maximum has been roughly constant for well over a decade. But that trend occurred during a period of very low inflation and could soon change.”

In fact, they found that the percentage of undergraduate students borrowing the maximum actually dropped from roughly 22% to 20% between 2008 and 2018. Blagg says it’s possible that new data from the high-inflation post-pandemic years might show a reversal of that trend.

She also notes that policymakers have used other tools that may be helping to reduce the need for students to borrow up to the limit. Pell Grants, which is funding given to lower-income students that doesn’t have to be repaid, have become more generous. Since 2008, the maximum amount awarded to Pell recipients has increased from $4,731 to $7,395 annually. A recent change to the Pell Grant formula also has expanded eligibility to more students.

[Read: ]

Which Undergraduates are Borrowing the Maximum?

Blagg expects the decrease in purchasing power of student loans to potentially push some students into taking on greater amounts of debt from less-desirable lending options.

“The decline in loans in real value for undergraduate borrowers means it’s increasingly likely that they may have to look other places for the capital if they need it,” says Blagg, a principal research associate at the Urban Institute. “That might be parents borrowing for their children. That might also be .”

Certain undergraduate students are more likely to bump up against the caps than others, the Urban Institute report found. Nearly 30% of dependent students pursuing bachelor’s degrees borrow the maximum, while less than 15% of those in certificate or associate’s degree programs reach the limit. That’s not particularly surprising, since bachelor’s degrees generally come with higher price tags.

Dependent Black students are the demographic that’s most likely to borrow up to the limit, with 32% reaching the max. The report found that among those pursuing bachelor’s degrees, low-income students were about as likely as other students to borrow up to the cap.

The caps can often pose a challenge to students as they get closer to finishing their degree, says Jeannie Tarkenton, founder and CEO of Funding U, a private lender that provides no-cosigner loans designed to fill financing gaps for students. She says students may be able to cover their first years with a mix of savings and loans, but funding becomes harder as they exhaust their savings and approach their borrowing limits.

“It gets people on track into college, and then inevitably there’s not enough to get all the way to graduation,” says Tarkenton.

[Read: ]

Ideas for Adjusting Undergrad Borrowing Limits

Several ideas have been floated as alternatives for setting undergraduate borrowing caps.

The House version of the One Big Beautiful Bill actually called for increases to both the annual and aggregate limits for undergraduates. Under that proposal, annual limits would have been tied to the median cost of attendance for a student’s program of study, and the total limit would have been raised to $50,000. Those provisions didn’t make it into the final version of the bill.

Some proponents of raising the limits suggest making the annual cap mirror the average cost of an in-state public university. Others suggest focusing more on increasing access to grants rather than allowing students to take on additional debt.

Matsudaira says he believes the limit should increase, and a good first step would be to adjust it to inflation.

“I think having a limit that adjusts with inflation is a pretty natural idea and consistent with the way we handle these kinds of issues in a lot of other settings overall,” he says. “That would be my first pass at it, is just kind of keeping the purchasing power of these things reasonably constant over time.”

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Interest rates on home loans have risen since the beginning of the U.S. war in Iran. The Middle East conflict has put upward pressure on oil prices, which can make other items more expensive to manufacture and transport. The March consumer price index report found that inflation rose 3.3% year over year, which is the fastest pace since April 2024. Put simply, higher oil prices mean higher inflation — and higher inflation means higher interest rates.

Rates have trended lower in recent weeks, partly due to the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, which has decreased oil prices and bond yields. The ceasefire was extended Wednesday, and the direction of mortgage rates is likely to be influenced by the progress of peace talks.

Most experts expect over the next few years, stuck above 6% for the 30-year fixed term. Although there’s always the chance that something unexpected could happen in the U.S. economy that could send rates tumbling lower, it’s unlikely that rates will fall below 3% or even 4% in the foreseeable future.

Current Mortgage Purchase Rates

Here are today’s interest rates for conforming purchase mortgages by loan term:

— : 6.351%

— : 6.272%

— : 5.533%

— : 5.497%

— 7-year ARM: 6.444%

— : 6.725%

— 3-year ARM: 8.25%

And here are the current government-backed and nonconforming mortgage rates by loan type:

— : 6.281%

— : 5.527%

— : 5.421%

[Read: ]

Current Mortgage Refinance Rates

Here are today’s mortgage refinance rates:

— 6.446%

— 20-year fixed refi: 6.459%

— 5.482%

— 10-year fixed refi: 5.542%

Mortgage refinance rates tend to follow the same trends as mortgage purchase rates, although interest rates on a mortgage refinance are often a few basis points higher than on purchase mortgages.

[Read: ]

Mortgage Rate Trends in 2026 So Far

collects weekly mortgage rate data, which can help provide context for mortgage borrowers on how and why mortgage rates change over time. Since the mortgage giant began collecting data in 1971, the median mortgage rate is 7.24%.

The 30-year fixed rate of 2.65% in January 2021, driving up demand for purchase and refinance mortgages. Since then, mortgage rates rose to nearly 8% in October 2023 before coming down to around 6.5% currently. Still, that’s nothing compared with the record high of 18.63% recorded in 1981.

You can use the interactive mortgage rates graph below to see how 30-year fixed interest rates have changed so far in 2026, .

[CHART]

Mortgage Monthly Payment Calculator

Your mortgage interest rate is just one aspect of your monthly housing payment. You’ll need to carefully consider how your home’s purchase price will impact your budget so you don’t buy more house than you can comfortably afford.

The mortgage term — or the length of your loan — will also significantly influence your monthly payments. Most borrowers opt for a 30-year fixed mortgage, which can keep monthly payments affordable because they are spread over a long repayment term. But if you can afford the higher monthly payments of a 15-year mortgage, it can save you tens of thousands of dollars in interest payments over time.

You’ll also need to consider property taxes, home insurance, homeowners association fees and , if applicable. You can use the calculator below to run the numbers for your financial situation.

[CALCULATOR]

How to Shop for a Mortgage

The mortgage rates we display on this page are national averages from lenders as provided to U.S. 小萝莉影视 by Zillow, not necessarily the exact rate you’ll receive. Mortgage rates fluctuate throughout the day, and some lenders may be able to offer more favorable pricing for your situation than others.

“With spring homebuying season in full swing, aspiring buyers should remember to shop around for the best mortgage rate, as they can potentially save thousands of dollars by getting multiple quotes,” says Sam Khater, chief economist at Freddie Mac, in a statement.

Here are a few tips to help you shop for the lowest mortgage rate possible for your financial situation:

— Get your finances in order. Collect the documents you’ll need to apply for a mortgage using . You should also check your credit score and get a copy of your credit report to see where you stand.

— Apply through three to five lenders. Be sure to consider different loan types (such as ) as well as different types of lenders (like online lenders versus credit unions). Keep your rate shopping to a two-week window to minimize the negative impact to your credit score.

— Compare loan estimates. This document will outline the loan’s costs, including origination charges, lender credits, discount points, as well as the loan’s interest rate and or APR. The APR includes the interest rate as well as any fees, making it a holistic way to compare the cost of multiple loan offers.

Check out this from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to get a better idea of what to expect when comparing loan offers.

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The Department of Housing and Urban Development also announced the adoption of modernized credit scoring models for underwriting Federal Housing Administration loans, although an exact timeline wasn’t given. Together, the FHA and GSEs back or insure the vast majority of mortgage loans in the U.S.

“We are modernizing credit scoring with more predictive models, helping millions of Americans who responsibly pay rent qualify for mortgages,” says Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte in .

Keep reading to learn more about how these changes could impact mortgage applicants in 2026.

Limited Rollout Will Be Followed by Broader Use

With today’s changes, are implementing a new credit scoring system for the first time in decades. But the adoption of alternative credit scoring models has been a long time in the making.

The , signed into law in 2018, sought to modernize mortgage lending by requiring the FHFA to establish processes for Fannie and Freddie to approve new credit scoring models.

Nearly a decade after the bill was first introduced in 2017, the GSEs are implementing the use of VantageScore 4.0 as a “limited rollout to approved lenders” to ensure operational readiness before broad availability. VantageScore says it can score 33 million more consumers under its 4.0 version compared with earlier credit scoring models.

Lenders that are not participating in the initial rollout will continue using .

[Read: ]

The changes only begin with VantageScore 4.0. Soon, lenders will be permitted to use FICO 10T for loans delivered to Fannie and Freddie.

Like VantageScore 4.0, FICO 10T uses trended credit data to score millions more consumers than before. FICO says that mortgage approvals can increase by 5% without adding risk for lenders under 10T compared with the current scoring models.

“By incorporating newer models with more predictive power, we can support sustainable access to homeownership and keep safety, soundness and operational readiness at the center,” says Jake Williamson, executive vice president at Fannie Mae, in a .

[Compare: ]

Newer Credit Scoring Models Could Reduce Costs

The Mortgage Bankers Association, an industry trade group, has long advocated for further modernization of credit scoring. By allowing for more scoring models to participate in mortgage lending, competition could drive down prices for consumers at a time when housing costs are prohibitively high for many.

“Expanding the set of acceptable credit scoring models to include VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T will help foster a more transparent and dynamic market, broaden access to sustainable credit, and put downward pressure on costs for GSE and FHA borrowers,” says MBA president and CEO Bob Broeksmit, in a statement.

Though, the fee to run your credit report accounts for a very small portion of your closing costs.

Ultimately, the adoption of additional credit scoring models in the mortgage industry is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to fixing housing affordability. For meaningful changes to be felt in consumers’ pockets, more work will need to be done to bring wages, home prices and mortgage costs into better equilibrium.

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Interest rates on home loans have risen since the beginning of the U.S. war in Iran. The Middle East conflict has put upward pressure on oil prices, which can make other items more expensive to manufacture and transport. The March consumer price index report found that inflation rose 3.3% year over year, which is the fastest pace since April 2024. Put simply, higher oil prices mean higher inflation — and higher inflation means higher interest rates.

Rates have trended lower in recent weeks, partly due to the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, which has decreased oil prices and bond yields. The ceasefire was extended Wednesday, and the direction of mortgage rates is likely to be influenced by the progress of peace talks.

Most experts expect over the next few years, stuck above 6% for the 30-year fixed term. Although there’s always the chance that something unexpected could happen in the U.S. economy that could send rates tumbling lower, it’s unlikely that rates will fall below 3% or even 4% in the foreseeable future.

Current Mortgage Purchase Rates

Here are today’s interest rates for conforming purchase mortgages by loan term:

— : 6.387%

— : 6.305%

— : 5.525%

— : 5.497%

— 7-year ARM: 6.404%

— : 6.842%

— 3-year ARM: 8.25%

And here are the current government-backed and nonconforming mortgage rates by loan type:

— : 6.339%

— : 5.513%

— : 5.421%

[Read: ]

Current Mortgage Refinance Rates

Here are today’s mortgage refinance rates:

— 6.478%

— 20-year fixed refi: 6.5%

— 5.477%

— 10-year fixed refi: 5.542%

Mortgage refinance rates tend to follow the same trends as mortgage purchase rates, although interest rates on a mortgage refinance are often a few basis points higher than on purchase mortgages.

[Read: ]

Mortgage Rate Trends in 2026 So Far

collects weekly mortgage rate data, which can help provide context for mortgage borrowers on how and why mortgage rates change over time. Since the mortgage giant began collecting data in 1971, the median mortgage rate is 7.24%.

The 30-year fixed rate of 2.65% in January 2021, driving up demand for purchase and refinance mortgages. Since then, mortgage rates rose to nearly 8% in October 2023 before coming down to around 6.5% currently. Still, that’s nothing compared with the record high of 18.63% recorded in 1981.

You can use the interactive mortgage rates graph below to see how 30-year fixed interest rates have changed so far in 2026, .

[CHART]

Mortgage Monthly Payment Calculator

Your mortgage interest rate is just one aspect of your monthly housing payment. You’ll need to carefully consider how your home’s purchase price will impact your budget so you don’t buy more house than you can comfortably afford.

The mortgage term — or the length of your loan — will also significantly influence your monthly payments. Most borrowers opt for a 30-year fixed mortgage, which can keep monthly payments affordable because they are spread over a long repayment term. But if you can afford the higher monthly payments of a 15-year mortgage, it can save you tens of thousands of dollars in interest payments over time.

You’ll also need to consider property taxes, home insurance, homeowners association fees and , if applicable. You can use the calculator below to run the numbers for your financial situation.

[CALCULATOR]

How to Shop for a Mortgage

The mortgage rates we display on this page are national averages from lenders as provided to U.S. 小萝莉影视 by Zillow, not necessarily the exact rate you’ll receive. Mortgage rates fluctuate throughout the day, and some lenders may be able to offer more favorable pricing for your situation than others.

“With spring homebuying season in full swing, aspiring buyers should remember to shop around for the best mortgage rate, as they can potentially save thousands of dollars by getting multiple quotes,” says Sam Khater, chief economist at Freddie Mac, in a statement.

Here are a few tips to help you shop for the lowest mortgage rate possible for your financial situation:

— Get your finances in order. Collect the documents you’ll need to apply for a mortgage using . You should also check your credit score and get a copy of your credit report to see where you stand.

— Apply through three to five lenders. Be sure to consider different loan types (such as ) as well as different types of lenders (like online lenders versus credit unions). Keep your rate shopping to a two-week window to minimize the negative impact to your credit score.

— Compare loan estimates. This document will outline the loan’s costs, including origination charges, lender credits, discount points, as well as the loan’s interest rate and or APR. The APR includes the interest rate as well as any fees, making it a holistic way to compare the cost of multiple loan offers.

Check out this from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to get a better idea of what to expect when comparing loan offers.

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But what levels of care does assisted living offer and who is each level designed to support?

Here, we’ll break down the common care levels in assisted living communities to help you determine how best to take advantage of the benefits this can offer older adults.

[READ: ]

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living communities aim to preserve your loved one’s independence while providing support for , including:

— Medication management

— Bathing

— Dressing

— Toileting

— Emergency assistance

They also generally keep an eye on your loved one, making sure they’re eating well and engaging with other residents.

“When home care is no longer an option, assisted living can be a godsend,” says Dr. Elizabeth Landsverk, a geriatrician based in the San Francisco area. She offers an online telemedicine, education and support resource for eldercare professionals, and families.

[READ: ]

Levels of Care in Assisted Living Communities

No two are exactly alike, but many offer up to five levels of care in assisted living.

Quick check: Which level matches your needs?

Level 1: No assistance

Also sometimes called , this lowest level is for seniors who don’t need daily assistance. At this level, older adults effectively live independently and manage their own affairs, but they have access to assistance and support if they need it. For example, this resident may benefit from reminders to take their as directed. Or, when a resident needs assistance with a complicated task — like programming a new smartphone or setting up a new television — staff can lend a hand.

This resident is ; they may still be working or volunteering and can drive off campus as they wish. Their decision to join the community is often driven by a desire for social contact and and access to age-appropriate activities or to alleviate the demands of maintaining a home.

Access to communal meals and also enables the resident to pursue other interests and reduces the burden of managing dietary needs, shopping and meal preparation.

Level 2: Low or minimal assistance

Adults residing in this are still largely mobile and don’t require ongoing supervision, but they typically need support with one of the ADLs, such as bathing or dressing. This resident may also benefit from more contact with staff and other residents.

For example, if they , more frequent check-ins may prevent a slide into , which often leads to more intensive care needs.

In addition, residents at this assisted living care level typically show signs of difficulty with some of the more complex ADLs. For example, a resident may have lost some dexterity due to and may need help opening pill bottles or buttoning a shirt. Many also benefit from reminders about:

— Meal times

— When to take medications

— How best to manage personal hygiene

Level 3: Moderate assistance

Residents who’ve progressed to this level of care typically retain some mobility and but likely need assistance or supervision with most or all ADLs. For example, a resident at this level might be able to dress on their own but need staff to help them with bathing.

Residents in the moderate assistance tier often struggle with meal preparation or remembering to take medications, and they can still benefit greatly from social interaction and activities with staff and other residents.

Level 4: Full assistance

What is the highest level of care in assisted living? In many facilities, it’s Level 4. At this level, residents may not be mobile and may need near-constant support.

The care can look similar to that provided in a but it is not medical in nature. Rather, the services offered focus on helping the resident do what they still can for themselves, whether that’s eating with a fork, brushing their hair or participating in a group craft project according to their ability.

Level 5: Memory care

Communities that offer often list it as a separate level because of its specialized nature.

In , the Level 5 resident is a patient with dementia or another type of cognitive impairment who is unable to care for themselves.

At this level, residents receive ongoing support and supervision based on their needs. Care typically covers all ADLs and is administered by staff who have been specially trained in techniques to assist people with and other cognitive impairments.

“Dedicated memory care ‘neighborhoods’ are generally equipped to care for a senior through and dementia with the various behaviors associated with those diseases,” explains Haidy Andrawes, center administrator at Park Vista Assisted Living in Fullerton, California.

Communities that cater to memory care patients may further stratify the levels of care in assisted living on offer. Some may have specialized tiers designed to support people with:

—

— Other types of dementia

—

— Other conditions that lead to cognitive decline

Since these conditions are progressive, patients in earlier stages of these diseases typically need less hands-on support than people with advanced dementia. As those needs advance, staff will provide more direct, hands-on care to residents.

What Is Enhanced Assisted Living Care?

Some assisted living communities offer an additional tier of care sometimes called “enhanced assisted living care.” This type of personalized care features medical support, such as nurses or checking in regularly. This level of care in assisted living is aimed at supporting residents with complex medical needs.

This care is similar to but still less intensive than what’s typically found in . It may also share some similarities with memory care, as people with dementia and other progressive, chronic conditions may benefit from more intensive medical intervention before needing to move to a .

A key difference between enhanced assisted living care and more conventional assisted living is the staff-to-patient ratio. Residents in an enhanced assisted living situation typically have more direct contact with staff, and those workers may have additional training to better manage medically complex residents.

[Read: ]

How Do Assisted Living Communities Make Care Assessments?

Assisted living communities typically use a formal evaluation process to determine the appropriate level of care for a prospective resident. These assessments may consider a wide range of factors, such as:

— Whether the senior has any medical conditions or chronic diseases that require daily intervention

— Whether the senior is experiencing any loss of cognitive function

— How well the senior is able to communicate needs and preferences

— Whether the senior is able to perform any or all ADLs without assistance

— How involved family members plan to be while the senior is in assisted living

These assessments are made in several ways, including:

— Observation of how they engage with others and perform tasks

— Reports from any (family or a home health aide, for example) who have been involved in the senior’s care previously

— The senior’s doctors or other health care providers

— A physical exam that checks mobility and fine motor skills

— Questioning and evaluation for mental health challenges or or reasoning ability

Once staff at the assisted living facility have evaluated the senior, they can draw up a personalized care plan that caters to their specific needs.

You can also bring in a to aid in the assessment process, says Jenny Munro, executive director of The Heritage at Fox Run, a senior living community in Council Bluffs, Iowa, that’s part of Heritage Communities based in Omaha, Nebraska.

Geriatric care managers have varied educational and professional backgrounds with a specialized focus on issues associated with , Munro adds. Through consultation, assessments and , care coordination and , these senior care professionals can help develop the right approach for your loved one.

How Assisted Living Levels of Care Affect Cost

Generally speaking, the more care you need, the more it will cost. Pricing, however, can vary, depending on the type of facility, location and which services are used.

The median in the U.S. is $6,200per month, according to . Memory care costs, such as in Level 5, tend to be higher than assisted living because of the specialized care and staff training. U.S. 小萝莉影视 estimates that the average is $7,645 per month.

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null 04/22/26: This story was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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However, not all ATMs accept cash, and some of those that do charge fees. If you want to deposit cash at an ATM, learn how to choose the right one and what steps to take next.

Before You Go to Make a Deposit

If you have cash that you’d like to deposit via ATM, it’s a good idea to do a bit of prep work. First, you’ll need to locate an ATM that accepts cash deposits. “Not all banks or ATMs will offer this feature,” says Anthony Martin, CEO of Choice Mutual Insurance Agency.

He says your best bet is usually an ATM that’s associated with your bank or its network. For instance, Allpoint is a network of about 55,000 ATMs around the world that allows customers from participating banks, and providers to use them without fees. To find an in-network ATM, you can usually use your bank’s website or mobile app to search by location.

You may be able to deposit cash at certain out-of-network ATMs as well. Keep in mind that if you do find an out-of-network ATM that accepts cash deposits, you’ll likely have to pay a fee and wait a few business days for the .

Also check whether any limits apply to cash deposits. In most cases, there is no cap on the dollar amount you can deposit through an ATM. However, there may be a maximum number of items you can deposit.

Finally, be extra cautious when handling cash at an ATM. “You can be vulnerable to robbery if you spend too much time openly counting and recounting cash,” says Gates Little, president and CEO of The Southern Bank Co. He recommends having your money organized and secured in an envelope ahead of time. It’s also a good idea to stick with ATMs that are well-lit and, ideally, secured behind a door that requires access via your debit card.

[Read: ]

How to Make a Cash Deposit at an ATM

Once you’re ready to deposit your cash, take the following steps:

— Log in to your account. Typically, ATMs require a debit card and PIN to access your bank account. Some banks, such as , allow you to log in using a mobile wallet.

— Choose your account. If you have more than one account with the bank, you’ll need to indicate which one the money is going into.

— Insert your bills. When prompted, insert the cash into the ATM. Some ATMs allow you to insert a stack of bills directly into the machine, while some may require you to put the money in a designated envelope first. If you do need an envelope, check whether you need to fill out any information on the envelope.

— Double check the deposit. Be sure that the ATM counted the correct amount to be deposited.

— Get a receipt. Always keep a record of the transaction, just in case there are any issues with the deposit. Some ATMs let you choose whether you’d like to receive a printed receipt or have it emailed or texted to you.

[READ ]

What If You’re With an Online-Only Bank?

You might be wondering how to deposit cash if you have an account with an . “Online-only banks are a bit tricky because they usually don’t have brick-and-mortar branches with secure ATMs and bank tellers,” Little says. There are some exceptions, such as , which does have physical ATMs and branches. It allows cash deposits at its Capital One branded ATMs, though not at MoneyPass or Allpoint partner ATMs.

Little says that an increasing number of online banks are also partnering with existing financial institutions to provide ATM services. Varo Bank, for instance, allows customers to deposit cash at CVS locations for free.

If your online bank doesn’t allow cash deposits, there are a couple of potential solutions. If you also have a checking account at a , you may be able to deposit cash into that account and then transfer the funds to your online account. You could also consider converting your cash to a money order and then depositing it into your online-only bank via mobile check deposit. Again, this may involve a fee, depending on your bank.

[Read: ]

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Update 04/22/26: This story was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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Understanding what to pay attention to while reading your credit reports can help you catch credit reporting errors and even signs of identity theft. Keep reading to learn what’s in your credit reports, how often to check them and how to access them for free.

[Read: ]

What Is a Credit Report?

A credit report is a document that details your financial history, including payment history, the status of your accounts and any outstanding balances. The three major credit reporting agencies — Equifax, Experian and Transunion — collect this information from creditors and public records.

Your credit score is calculated based on the information in your credit reports. Positive information listed in your reports, such as on-time payments, can help you build credit. On the other hand, late payments in your report can drag down your score.

How Are Credit Reports Used?

When you apply for credit, such as a home or auto loan, lenders typically review your credit reports to determine whether to lend you money, how much you can borrow and your interest rate.

Having a strong credit history can improve your chances of qualifying for a lender’s lowest advertised rates. However, if you have little credit history or negative marks like missed payments, you may have trouble securing a loan without a cosigner.

When you apply for an apartment, landlords might review your credit reports to decide whether to approve your application. Depending on where you live, an insurance provider might review your credit-based insurance score, which is calculated based on information on your credit reports, to determine your insurance rates.

[Read: ]

What Information Is Included?

The information in each of your credit reports may vary depending on which credit bureau compiled it. But they all generally contain the following information.

— Personal information. Your credit reports contain your personal information, such as your name, Social Security number, date of birth, address and employment information.

— List of credit accounts. Credit reports also include records of your current and previous credit accounts. These records list details about your accounts, including payment history, outstanding balances, account statuses, lender names and the dates you opened and closed the accounts.

— Credit inquiries. Credit inquiries show who has access to your credit reports. There are two types of credit inquiries: . A soft credit check has no impact on your credit score. A hard credit check, which usually happens when you apply for credit, can temporarily lower your credit score.

— Public records. Public records, such as bankruptcies, civil judgments and foreclosures, may also appear on your credit reports. Foreclosures can stay on your credit reports for up to seven years, while bankruptcies can remain for up to 10 years.

[Read: ]

How Often Should You Check Your Credit Reports?

John Ulzheimer, a credit expert formerly with and Equifax, recommends checking your credit reports every few months. Doing so can help you catch potential errors and maintain good credit health.

“It’s also a good practice to review your credit report three to six months ahead of making a large purchase, such as a mortgage or auto loan,” says Christina Roman, consumer education and advocacy manager at Experian. She says doing this enables you to take steps to before applying, if necessary.

How to Get Free Copies of Your Credit Report

The easiest way to access your credit reports is to visit AnnualCreditReport.com. This government-authorized website allows you to request from the three major credit bureaus.

What You Should Pay Attention to When Reading Your Credit Report

“When reviewing your credit report, first and foremost, ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date,” says Roman. She recommends examining your credit accounts and paying close attention to your outstanding balances, payment history and account statuses.

Ulzheimer says if you spot one of these items on your reports, it could be a sign of fraud:

— An address where you’ve never lived

— Hard inquiries by a lender from whom you never applied

— An account reported by a lender you don’t have a relationship with

— A debt collector attempting to collect a balance from a creditor you had no relationship with

If you spot any credit reporting mistakes, you can with the respective credit bureau. If you think you’ve become a victim of identity theft or fraud, consider placing a freeze on your credit reports. This prevents someone from opening a new account in your name. You can also file a police report and claim on IdentityTheft.Gov.

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The key to maximizing a 5% cash back card is to pick one that matches your lifestyle — and to be willing to do some legwork to make it work for you.

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Best 5% Cash Back Credit Cards for You

These are our picks for the best 5% cash back cards and tips on how to pick and use the right one for you.

Best for Groceries and Streaming:

The Blue Cash Preferred庐 Card from American Express is great for people who spend a good portion of their budget on groceries and have multiple streaming subscriptions (no other card offers a higher bonus in either category). The downside is that the 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets is capped at a $6,000 spend per year — an average of $500 per month.

If your grocery expenses exceed that amount, consider the , which earns four points per dollar on groceries on up to $25,000 in expenses per year.

Best for Maximizing Travel Rewards: Chase Freedom Flex庐 Credit Card

frequently features convenient categories in its quarterly 5% rotation offering, including supermarkets and gas stations, which you must activate. And if you pair it with the or the , your points can be worth more when redeemed through Chase Travel? — or you can transfer them to one of Chase’s 14 , further stretching their value. Add to the mix and you’ll hit the .

Best for Rotating Categories:

Cardholders of the Discover it庐 Cash Back card earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like restaurants and streaming services, on up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. All other purchases earn 1% cash back. And while the card doesn’t offer any additional rewards, Discover matches all the cash back you earn in your first year — essentially letting you earn 10% cash back on select categories for the first 12 months of card ownership.

Best for Picking Your Own 5% Category:

As its name implies, the Citi Custom Cash庐 Card lets you pick which categories will give you 5% cash back. The eligible options fit nearly any type of lifestyle, so it can be hard to go wrong with this card. And you don’t need to fuss about activation or enrollment requirements — the card automatically gives you 5% back on the one category you spend the most on every month.

Best for Retail Stores: U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards庐 Visa Signature庐 Card

If you are looking to earn elevated rewards at your favorite retailers, the U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards庐 Visa Signature庐 Card lets you pick two retailers and earn 6% cash back on your first $1,500 spent on combined purchases every quarter. The store selection is healthy — 24 retailers, including Target, Ikea and Walmart — so you can pick your rewards strategically, or seasonally, to fit your shopping plans. The downside? The card comes with a $95 annual fee, but it’s waived for the first year.

Best for Using as a Single Card:

The downside of many rotating cash back cards is that sometimes the categories don’t match your lifestyle — for example, public transit if you drive everywhere, or fitness clubs if you work out at home. Enter U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card, which lets you choose two 5% and one 2% cash back categories per quarter. You have more than 10 elevated categories to choose from — including fast food and home utilities — and the 2% options feature popular everyday categories, like grocery stores and restaurants.

Best for Amazon Prime:

If you’re an Amazon or Whole Foods loyalist, Prime Visa may be the card for you. It offers unlimited 5% cash back on Whole Foods Market and Amazon purchases — which can sometimes be stretched to 6% if you pick the Amazon Day Delivery option. The Prime Visa also offers the flexibility of paying for certain Amazon products in no-interest installments instead of earning cash back, which can be a convenient choice, especially on big items. But you need to be an Amazon Prime member to be eligible for the card.

Best for Office Expenses:

The Ink Business Cash庐 Credit Card is a great option to earn elevated rewards on common business expenses, including office supply store purchases and internet, cable and phone bills. Elevated rewards earning is capped at $25,000 in combined purchases per year, so it can be a great fit for small business owners and side hustlers alike. The best part? There’s no annual fee.

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The best small-cap stocks are early-stage businesses with room to expand in their niche. Sure, provide obvious plays on the promise of AI, but they also are crowded trades, and they’re large firms that lack agility.

Meanwhile, the following stocks are a select group of companies that have surged between 50% and 300% in 2026 but still remain between $279 million and $2 billion in market value — hinting there is more room left to run.

Artiva Biotherapeutics Inc. ()

Artiva is exemplary of the opportunity in small-cap-stage that are burning cash as they focus on tomorrow’s innovative cures. In the case of ARTV, it is focused on using the body’s NK cells — or “natural killer” cells — to combat various autoimmune diseases and cancers. The company is largely focused on unmet medical needs, and it has recently enrolled patients in a study targeting refractory rheumatoid arthritis. This chronic condition features symptoms that persist despite treatment with existing drugs. Shares have exploded in the last few weeks on hopes that Artiva will provide a breakthrough.

Hyperliquid Strategies Inc. ()

Hyperliquid bills itself as a digital asset treasury company and is focused on . Its assets primarily include the HYPE token, a crypto asset with a total market value of almost $10 billion at present. Though only incorporated in 2025 and having begun public trading in December, the stock has been on a tear thanks to the performance of its digital asset portfolio as well as optimism that this kind of disruptive financial stock may provide a strong alternative to traditional — and volatile — investment opportunities.

Kosmos Energy Ltd. ()

Kosmos Energy is a deepwater exploration and production company engaged in the development of properties, mainly off the coast of Africa and in the Gulf of Mexico. Hard-to-access fossil fuel sources are obviously more expensive to tap, so KOS stock is directly correlated to prices in energy commodity markets — and , oil has spiked to create a huge tailwind for KOS stock. Volatility works both ways, but given the persistent nature of inflation in 2026, it seems likely that energy prices will remain elevated and Kosmos will continue to see strong momentum as a result.

Lightwave Logic Inc. ()

You may not think dynamic stocks can exist in the materials sector, but Lightwave Logic is a specialty chemicals company that develops advanced and optical polymers that are in high demand in the digital economy. From fiber-optic data lines to hardware, the communications infrastructure of the future depends on the materials produced by LWLG. That’s evidenced by tremendous revenue growth of about 150%, announced when the company reported Q4 numbers in March. The company still operates at a loss, but the long-term growth potential is significant and recent returns show strong investor optimism.

Lincoln Educational Services Corp. ()

Lincoln Educational Services provides career-oriented education to high school graduates and working adults in the U.S., with a focus on vocational training and real-world jobs. That includes training to become specialists in HVAC maintenance, welding, health care services and other skilled trades. While plenty of tech stocks are surging in the age of AI thanks to hopes for , LINC is exemplary of the old-school economy that will be difficult to replace through automation. As a result, LINC is already projecting double-digit revenue growth in 2026 and 2027 — and based on strong gains lately, Wall Street seems to think there is a long runway for this small-cap stock.

[Read: ]

Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. ()

Though Rayonier bills itself as an “advanced materials” company, it is basically a forestry and paper products firm that provides wood pulp for clothing fabrics, cigarette filters and paper towels. It also makes cellulose-based specialty products, including paint, coatings and other chemicals. It’s not a particularly glamorous business, and the 100-year-old company isn’t particularly disruptive. But after several tough years, the company is set to return to profitability in a big way in the next few quarters, and that has sent shares soaring.

Satellogic Inc. ()

Market demand for satellite data is increasing rapidly because of existing platforms like and security as well as new applications like agribusiness and infrastructure monitoring. Satellogic is capitalizing on this trend through a specialty in small “nano satellites” that provide real-time Earth observation for real-time decision-making. The company is predicting 85% sales growth this fiscal year and almost 60% on top of that in 2027, showing a strong growth trajectory for this small-cap stock.

Starz Entertainment Corp. ()

Starz is a subscription video company operating in the U.S. and Canada, with hit titles including “Outlander,” “Power” and “Spartacus.” Its shows are available on both direct-to-consumer streaming as well as “over-the-top” services using other platforms. The company spun off from Lionsgate Studios Corp. () in 2025. STRZ has experienced volatility, but recent earnings show improvement in margins that reflect effective cost management — hinting that the company is hitting its stride as a stand-alone stock.

Tigo Energy Inc. ()

Solar energy specialist Tigo — careful with the ticker — is a leader in intelligent solutions, including hardware and software that make it possible to store power over time and draw on it when needed. The company is consistently growing revenue at 20% in 2026 and 2027, and unlike some of the other startups on this list, is actually turning a modest profit. While federal policies and incentives have been rolled back under the Trump administration, there’s no doubt that the long-term energy transition and the pressures of climate change are continuing to fuel growth for this small-cap stock.

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The lightweight metal is used in construction, automobiles, beverage cans and many other everyday applications, but as with some other like oil, the is a major chokepoint for a big chunk of the world’s aluminum trade.

As the U.S.-Iran conflict drags on and the strait remains hostile to shipping, winners and losers are being created in an industry that investors may want to examine more closely.

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Like many other commodities, investing in aluminum can act as an inflation hedge. When the economy is going gangbusters and consumer prices are rising, aluminum demand and prices are also likely to rise as the economy produces more stuff. Alternately, if inflation is caused by, say, rising instead of economic growth, aluminum prices are also likely to increase as production and transportation costs rise. That would especially benefit aluminum producers who power their operations with .

Making aluminum is an energy-intensive process. First, bauxite ore has to be mined, transported and processed into alumina. That sandy-white aluminum oxide then has to be turned into pure aluminum metal using vast amounts of electricity in a process called smelting.

While there is some bauxite and alumina production that takes place in the , the majority of the aluminum industry there is focused on smelting and exporting aluminum made from imported raw materials. The region contributes around 9% of the global aluminum supply.

Iran War’s Effect on Aluminum Prices

Amid the U.S.-Iran war, which has included attacks on major smelting facilities, aluminum prices in London, the world’s primary trading hub for the metal, have shot to four-year highs. Prices are above $3,550 per metric ton, up from just under $3,000 immediately prior to the conflict.

Even if the Strait of Hormuz opens soon, Adam Woodhead, co-founder and senior financial platform analyst at The Investors Centre, expects prices to remain between $3,500 and $3,700 for several months. A protracted conflict could take prices to $4,000, he says.

“Shutdowns and curtailments for refineries aren’t like flipping a switch,” says Darrell Fletcher, managing director of commodities at Bannockburn Capital Markets. “You have six to 12 months of recovery to take place after an all-clear.”

Disruption of the Fragile Aluminum Market

Woodhead notes that the aluminum market was already tight before the Iran conflict began.

“The market was entering a 200,000-metric-ton shortage before the outbreak of war,” he says. “The Iran crisis did not create a fragile market. It simply found one.”

While the war in Iran continues, beneficiaries are North American producers who are not impacted by the conflict, while recyclers should also benefit, he says. Downstream manufacturers in , automotive, packaging and electronics industries stand to lose the most, as they’ll have to pay higher prices for aluminum.

“Most distributors reckon as high as $4,000 per metric ton is possible if the conflict continues,” says Mark Pacitti, founder and CEO of London-based Woozle Research. “It largely depends how quickly and how many firms can substitute with steel and composites.”

With that in mind, here’s a look at five key aluminum companies, with their year-to-date returns as of the April 21 market close:

Alcoa Corp. ()

Alcoa is a vertically integrated aluminum company, meaning that it mines bauxite, refines alumina and produces aluminum products. Last year, the company sold a 25.1% stake in the Saudi Arabian Mining Co. (1211.SR), retaining just 2% of that company’s shares. Its exit from the Middle East means it has little exposure to the Iran conflict.

“Alcoa is fully integrated with bauxite mines located in Australia, Brazil and Guinea, none of which are in the conflict zone,” notes Woodhead. “Approximately 86% of Alcoa’s smelted aluminum products are produced using renewable energy, providing them with structurally lower sensitivity to the sharp increases in energy costs generated by the conflict.”

JPMorgan and UBS recently raised their price targets for Alcoa to $68 and $70, respectively. The stock was trading around $67 as of early April 22.

“Both appear overly conservative based on ongoing disruptions extending into Q3,” Woodhead says.

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Century Aluminum Co. ()

This is also a vertically integrated aluminum company. It has bauxite mining and refining operations in Jamaica and aluminum smelters in Kentucky, South Carolina and Iceland.

The company and Emirates Global Aluminum announced in January a joint venture to build the first new smelter in the U.S. since 1980 in Oklahoma. Century will own 40% of the facility, which is expected to produce 750,000 metric tons of aluminum per year, more than doubling current U.S. production.

“When Century formed a joint-venture smelter in Oklahoma, we thought that was smart thinking,” Woodhead said. “Today, it’s essentially a national-security asset, and I believe that investors have only begun to realize that fact in terms of pricing.”

Kaiser Aluminum Corp. ()

This company produces aluminum at 13 facilities across North America. It makes semi-fabricated plate, sheet, coil, extrusions, rod, bar, tube and wire products for the aerospace, packaging, engineering and automotive industries.

In April, KeyBanc initiated coverage on the company with an “overweight” rating and a $170 price target because of increasing aerospace demand, rebounding plate demand, and expanding packaging markets, as well as aluminum tariffs that are expected to support high domestic pricing, according to press reports. The stock was trading around $159 on April 22, after about a 4% intraday gain.

“Kaiser operates within the fabrication layer (in) aerospace, and industrial; (it) captures higher margins on sales while hedging reduces raw material cost risks,” Woodhead says. “Sometimes boring is what is needed.”

Rio Tinto PLC ()

“Our best guess based on expert calls we’ve done with aluminum manufacturers/distributors in the region is that Western producers should benefit … as China remains capped from self-imposed quotas, so there’s very little leeway (or) slack in the system globally right now,” Pacitti says.

Frontrunners to benefit from that thesis include Alcoa, Century Aluminum and this Australian miner, Rio Tinto. In addition to mining, refining and smelting, Rio Tinto is also involved in aluminum recycling with a joint venture with aluminum billet and slab producer Matalco.

As one of the largest companies in the world, Rio Tinto isn’t a pure play on aluminum. Still, the metal contributed to more than 26% of its sales in 2025, according to company filings.

Constellium SE ()

“Another group benefiting is recycled aluminum operators,” Woodhead said. “When the spot price reaches levels greater than $3,500, recycling economics improve significantly, although recycling carries very little production risk.”

Fletcher points to recycler Constellium, saying it has high-valued aluminum products and is positioned well for growth cycles. Although Constellium does buy primary aluminum, it gets about half of the aluminum it uses from recycling scrap.

The company serves the aerospace and , transportation, packaging and industrial sectors with plates, sheets, extrusions, coils and precision sand castings.

On April 21, Constellium announced that it has entered into a multiyear agreement with Airbus SE (OTC: EADSY) to supply the aircraft manufacturer with aluminum alloy extrusions.

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But Apple hasn’t always been one of the top three most valuable companies in the world — 20 years ago, the tech giant had a humble market cap of around $58 billion.

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Despite its ferocious multi-decade rally, Apple shares have still been hitting fresh new all-time highs in in the last year, emphasizing the fact that buying the dips in Apple stock has historically been a shrewd move for investors.

Apple’s 20-Year Journey

In 2026, it’s difficult to imagine a world of phones and personal electronic devices that is not dominated by Apple. However, way back in 2006, Apple wasn’t even in the smartphone business.

Apple launched the first iPhone in 2007. Over the 19 years that followed, Apple has sold more than 3 billion iPhones, making it one of the most successful and profitable products of all time.

When iPhone growth began to slow in 2016, Apple made the aggressive decision to pivot its focus from hardware sales to recurring services revenue. In fiscal 2025, Apple’s services alone, including its App Store, iCloud and Apple Care businesses, generated $109.2 billion in revenue, more than double the total revenue of Fortune 500 companies like Intel Corp. (), Visa Inc. () and Nike Inc. ().

Apple’s stock has performed so well in the past two decades that the company has completed two over that time: a 7-for-1 split in 2014 and a 4-for-1 split in 2020.

During the global financial crisis of 2008, Apple took a hit along with the rest of the market. Shares finished 2008 down 56.9%, its worst annual performance of the past 20 years. Fortunately for Apple investors, the sell-off didn’t last long. In fact, after hitting its low point of the crisis in January 2009, Apple shares were back at all-time highs once again by October 2009.

Apple investors also dealt with uncertainty surrounding the transition of power when visionary co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2003. Jobs stepped down from his position as CEO in August 2011 and died roughly two months later. Jobs was replaced by Chief Operating Officer Tim Cook, and plenty of investors were skeptical about Apple’s ability to continue to grow without Jobs at the helm. Cook quickly proved his detractors wrong, however, and Apple shares gained more than 76% in his first 12 months as CEO.

In 2026, a new executive transition is under way, as it’s Cook’s turn to pass the torch. On Sept. 1, Cook will become executive chairman of the board of directors, and John Ternus, currently the head of hardware engineering, will step into the CEO role. Cook’s 15-year tenure was enormously lucrative for Apple investors; as of April 21, the stock has surged 2,262% over Cook’s reign, when including dividends.

The iPhone wasn’t the only key product launch for Apple in the past 20 years that fueled the stock’s meteoric rise. Apple launched the iPad in 2010, the Apple Watch in 2015, AirPods in 2016 and the HomePod smart speaker in 2018.

Today, Apple investors are in good company. Legendary billionaire investor AAPL stock for his (, ) portfolio in early 2016. Though Berkshire has trimmed its position in recent years, Buffett now holds about $61 billion in Apple stock, making it Berkshire’s largest public stock holding.

The Numbers on Apple Stock

Apple’s ability to continue to innovate has helped the company absolutely balloon its financials over the last two decades. Between fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2025, Apple grew revenue from $13.9 billion to $416 billion (2,893% growth) and its net income from $1.34 billion to a staggering $112 billion (8,258% growth).

Over the past 20 years, Apple shares have generated a total return of roughly 13,142% compared to a 439% total return for the S&P 500 during that stretch. Those gains translate to a 27.7% (CAGR) for Apple compared to an 8.8% CAGR for the S&P 500 in that time.

That means that $10,000 in AAPL stock purchased 20 years ago would be worth more than $1.32 million today, assuming reinvested . The same amount invested in the S&P 500 20 years ago would be worth $53,871 today with dividends reinvested.

Analyst Outlook

Even after those extremely impressive long-term returns, Wall Street analysts remain on the iPhone maker. Among the 47 analysts covering Apple stock, Apple has 31 “buy” or “strong buy” ratings compared to just 14 “hold” ratings and two “underperform” or “sell” ratings.

Time will tell which analysts are directionally correct on Apple; the bullish analysts have certainly been more on target for the past two decades.

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“No one sits around and says, ‘OK, I’m ready for a nursing home.’ It’s normally that broken hip or that comes out of nowhere that throws our life into a black hole,” says Roxanne Sorensen, an aging life care specialist and owner of Elder Care Solutions of WNY, a care management consultancy in Buffalo, New York.

Loved ones are often left scrambling to and figure out how to afford the cost of care. Understanding where your loved one’s care needs sit on the spectrum of — especially assisted living vs. a nursing home — can help light a clear path forward from that metaphorical black hole.

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Assisted Living vs. Nursing Homes: Where Does Your Loved One Fit?

Both nursing homes and provide essential care for seniors, but they cater to different levels of need, says Jude Tenorio, director of resource navigation at AllThrive 365 in Phoenix.

“ typically serve individuals with more complex medical conditions who require round-the-clock medical supervision, while assisted living communities focus on providing a more independent lifestyle with support for daily activities like bathing, dressing and medication management,” Tenorio explains.

Assisted living

Generally, assisted living is a option for seniors who may need some assistance with:

— (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing or grooming

— Cooking

— Housekeeping duties and chores

— Laundry

— Social enrichment activities

— Transportation to medical appointments or stores

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Nursing homes

Nursing homes, on the other hand, accommodate residents with more advanced care needs.

Nursing care facilities offer:

— A higher level of daily physical care, security and supervision than assisted living

— More staff support than assisted living, especially nurses and nursing assistants

— An increased ability to offer skilled nursing tasks, such as managing wounds, catheters or IV lines

— A mix of care levels, from short-term to long-term custodial and skilled nursing care.

Some older adults, and being discharged from the hospital, for instance, may need a few days of intensive therapy but then are safe to go back to . In these cases, many nursing homes or (SNF) accommodate these shorter skilled nursing stays. Frequently, moves to an SNF occur after a and are recommended by a physician.

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What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and a Nursing Home?

The differences between assisted living and a nursing home will vary depending on each individual community.

“Even after many years, the lines are hazy. You often find residents in assisted living that should be in a nursing home, and vice versa,” says Anthony Cirillo, a North Carolina-based health, aging and caregiving expert and president of The Aging Experience, a company that provides consulting, keynote speaking and products for the senior living industry and older adults.

Six key differences between assisted living and nursing homes include:

1. Level of medical staff and security

Nursing homes offer a higher level of care, so more nurses, therapists and will be on the premises. Physicians might also round more often than they would at an assisted living community.

2. Cost comparison: Nursing home vs. assisted living

Because nursing home residents require more extensive care, the is usually higher and can be expensive.

Sorensen says a fee-for-service structure is more common in , and nursing homes are more often a flat rate. The fee-for-service structure is based on your loved one’s level of care needs. Sorensen adds that if an older adult enters the facility not needing assistance upon admission, but a year later needs assistance with , the fee-for-service facilities will now require an additional cost on top of the base rate.

“This can make complicated, as we can’t predict how our loved one’s care needs are going to increase,” she explains.

3. Insurance coverage

, the federal health insurance program primarily for those age 65 and older, will pay for certain types of short-term , such as rehabilitation after a . But Medicare does not cover long-term nursing home or .

, a joint federal and state public health insurance program administered by individual states, covers nursing home care. However, varies depending on facility policies and the state residents live in.

4. Social atmosphere

All senior care homes will have some type of social scene. However, as assisted living residents require less direct care than nursing homes, the social atmosphere is often elevated. , such as senior fitness or music classes, are geared toward individuals who are able to move around on their own and communicate.

5. Federal regulations

Nursing homes are subject to more government oversight by both the state and federal governments to ensure quality. The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services oversees nursing homes. Assisted living communities are subject to state regulations.

“Assisted living is less regulated, so there are fewer data points to check to validate objectively. , on the other hand, is under a star rating from Medicare,” Cirillo says.

Especially given the volatility in the current market, families choosing a high-quality senior living option for their loved one need to be vigilant because the tendency so far is for less regulation overall, he adds.

6. Independence offered to residents

Assisted living communities allow their residents more than nursing homes. Because don’t have as many medical conditions, they will have more freedom to leave the facility for community events or to visit with family outside the premises.

Nursing home residents are also allowed to leave, but they may require more assistance and planning to do so.

Common Features in Senior Care Facilities

Despite some differences, there are a few key similarities between assisted living and nursing homes.

Three similarities between nursing homes and assisted living include:

1. Use of the same building

Although a facility may refer to its senior care home as a nursing home, it may offer various levels of care. The facility could have a mix of nursing home care, assisted living or even offered as a secured unit in the same location, like you might find with a .

2. Round-the-clock on-site medical staff

Unlike , nursing homes and assisted living communities each have medical staff on-site at all times.

3. Availability of community areas

Even nursing care facilities with residents who require a lot of care have common areas for them to , visit with family or even just to offer a change of scenery. This differs from a hospital, where patients typically cannot access spaces outside their rooms.

Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home: How to Decide

Choosing between a nursing home and assisted living can feel daunting, but you aren’t alone.

Many families honestly don’t know where to start, Sorensen says: “The first assumption is their loved ones need a nursing home because that is the language we know. But that person might only require an assisted living facility.”

Here are a few additional circumstances to keep in mind:

— Changing needs. Do you anticipate your or your loved one’s care needs will change quickly? If that’s the case, you may want to choose a facility that offers both assisted living and nursing home care.

— Provider recommendations. What does your medical provider have to say? A medical provider can perform something called a functional assessment, which helps determine how much care your loved one needs. They’ll also have insight regarding any chronic , like how quickly they see your loved one’s chronic progressing.

— Consider local word of mouth. Cirillo says that your neighbors and friends, as well as those you meet in your social clubs or religious activities, may be able to provide the best recommendation.

— Some facilities incorporate both care levels. Although a facility might be marketed as assisted living or as a nursing home, they might have wings for both levels of care. Each building is different, so some might incorporate amenities from both care levels. While nursing homes are more likely to have a Hoyer lift, for example, it doesn’t mean all assisted living communities wouldn’t have one. It’s best to and talk to facilities to compare.

— Other options. There are options outside of assisted living and nursing homes that could also work for you. You can consider , for example. Cirillo suggests considering independent living supplemented by . In fact, that is how he chose care for his mom, who lived to be 94 years old, when he was her .

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It sounds straightforward, but exactly when and how you withdraw that money can make a big difference in the amount you pay in taxes and fees.

Here are seven things you should know before pulling money from your traditional IRA:

— You could pay a penalty if you withdraw money too early.

— You could miss a window for tax savings if you withdraw too late.

— You are required to make minimum withdrawals from traditional IRAs once you reach age 73.

— You can reduce taxes by sending required minimum distributions to a charity.

— Your IRA withdrawals could affect your Medicare premiums.

— Your income from an IRA could result in more of your Social Security being taxed.

— You may be able to avoid an early withdrawal penalty in certain circumstances.

You Could Pay a Penalty if You Withdraw Money Too Early

The trade-off for the on traditional IRA contributions is a restriction on when you can take from the account.

“You generally can take money from an IRA at any time,” says Katherine Tierney, senior retirement strategist with Edward Jones in St. Louis, Missouri. However, you will pay a price if you do so too early.

To discourage people from tapping into their accounts before retirement, the government imposes a 10% tax penalty on money withdrawn before age 59 1/2. The early withdrawal penalty is on top of income taxes that need to be paid. For someone in the , that could mean nearly a quarter of the amount withdrawn will be eaten up by taxes and the penalty.

You Could Miss a Window for Tax Savings if You Withdraw Too Late

While you don’t want to pull money from your IRA too early, waiting too long to start disbursements can also be a mistake.

“Everything that comes out is 100% taxable,” says Cary Carbonaro, a senior vice president and director of the Women and Wealth division at financial firm ACM Wealth.

That means you ideally want to withdraw your money in low-income years when you’ll be in a lower tax bracket. For many people, the first years of retirement mean a drop in income and are a prime time to withdraw funds or convert money from a . You will pay taxes on the money you convert, but a will allow the fund to continue growing tax-free.

“It’s nice to have some of your money in Roth (accounts) as a planning strategy,” says Joelle Spear, financial advisor and partner with Canby Financial Advisors in Framingham, Massachusetts.

She suggests ages 55 to 65 as the sweet spot for conversions. That’s when children may be grown and out of the house, and taxpayers may have additional funds to cover any taxes due on the converted amount.

Another reason to withdraw money from an IRA earlier rather than later is to . You get an 8% increase in benefits for every year you wait to claim from your full retirement age until age 70. By withdrawing money from an IRA before age 70, you could delay the start of Social Security and maximize those benefits.

Minimum Withdrawals From Traditional IRAs Required at 73

Regardless of whether you withdrew money from your IRA earlier, everyone with a traditional IRA must begin taking , or RMDs, at age 73. Money in a traditional IRA hasn’t been taxed yet, and by requiring RMDs, the government ensures that this cash is not tax-deferred indefinitely.

“For the longest time, the rule was 70 1/2 when you had to take money out of an IRA,” Carbonaro says.

That age was increased to 72 with the passage of the SECURE Act at the end of 2019. Then, the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 bumped the required minimum distribution age to 73. It will continue to increase until it reaches 75 in 2033. Failure to take these annual distributions results in a tax penalty equal to 25% of the required distribution amount.

The RMD is another reason why it makes sense to convert or withdraw money from a traditional IRA during a low-income period early in retirement. The more money converted or withdrawn prior to age 73, the lower RMDs will be later in life. That lower RMD could then translate to reduced taxes. However, be aware that money converted to a Roth account cannot be considered an RMD.

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You Can Reduce Taxes by Sending RMDs to a Charity

Thanks to government rules regarding RMDs, “You really can’t avoid withdrawals forever,” Tierney says. But you may be able to avoid paying taxes on that money if you are charitably inclined.

Those who are at least 70 1/2 can make — known as QCDs — from their IRA instead of taking an RMD. Up to $100,000 can be withdrawn in this way, and money must be sent directly from an IRA to a qualified charity to be eligible for tax exemption.

“The benefit of a QCD is that it satisfies your RMD requirement, and it can help reduce your tax bill,” Tierney explains.

IRA Withdrawals Could Affect Your Medicare Premiums

In addition to taxes, the RMD and other IRA withdrawals can affect Medicare payments. While the for 2024 is $174.70 a month, those with higher incomes could pay significantly more.

In 2024, people who have modified adjusted gross incomes greater than $103,000 start paying additional premiums for Medicare Part B and prescription drug coverage. Married couples filing jointly with modified adjusted gross incomes of $206,000 or more will also have additional premiums. The government goes back two years when determining your income level. For example, in 2024, data from tax year 2022 is used for calculating Medicare premium payments.

These higher premiums start at $244.60 per month and go to as much as $594 a month for single taxpayers with incomes of $500,000 or more.

Income From an IRA Could Result in More of Your Social Security Being Taxed

IRA withdrawals could increase how much of your are taxable as well.

“Every $100 you take from an IRA is like you earned $100,” Spear says.

The Social Security Administration uses a figure known as combined income to determine if and how Social Security benefits are taxable. This number is calculated by adding together a person’s adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half their Social Security benefits.

Once a single taxpayer’s combined income exceeds $25,000, up to 50% of their Social Security benefits could be taxed. At incomes of $34,000 or more, single taxpayers could see income tax on up to 85% of their benefits. For married couples filing jointly, these thresholds are $32,000 and $44,000, respectively.

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You May Be Able to Avoid an Early Withdrawal Penalty

Although money in a traditional IRA is meant to be preserved for retirement, the government does allow workers to tap into the fund without penalty for certain purposes.

“The big one is for first-time homebuyers,” Spear says. Up to $10,000 can be withdrawn penalty-free for a qualified first-time home purchase.

Other exceptions include the following:

— A disability leaving you unable to work indefinitely

— Terminal illness

— Medical expenses

— Tax payments

— Higher education expenses

— Health insurance during periods of unemployment

— Qualified birth and adoption expenses up to $5,000

“None of them allow you to avoid taxation,” Tierney notes. You will still pay income tax on the money, but a qualified early withdrawal will allow you to skip the 10% penalty.

Another option for avoiding the early withdrawal penalty is to take substantially equal periodic payments as allowed under IRS rule 72(t). That’s a route taken by one of Carbonaro’s clients.

“However, once you set it, you cannot change it until you’re 59 1/2 or five years, whichever is longer,” she says.

Since modifying a payment plan after its start can result in retroactive penalties, it is best to attempt 72(t) distributions only under the guidance of a finance professional.

The decision to raid a retirement fund should not be taken lightly. A understand if you’re eligible to withdraw money without penalty and, if so, how that may affect your ability to retire comfortably in the years ahead.

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Combined, these two assets represent about 70% of total global crypto market capitalization. Bitcoin leads by a wide margin with a market value of $1.6 trillion. Ethereum is a distant second at roughly $290 billion.

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Although new challengers could emerge in the future, Bitcoin and Ethereum remain the most obvious options for investors today. However, before deciding which crypto is a better fit for your portfolio, it’s important to understand how they differ. Bitcoin and Ethereum each serve a unique purpose and play a distinct role within the broader .

— What is Bitcoin?

— What is Ethereum?

— What are the differences between Bitcoin and Ethereum?

— Bitcoin and Ethereum performance.

— How to invest in Bitcoin and Ethereum.

What Is Bitcoin?

Bitcoin was the . It is a blockchain-based, decentralized digital currency powered by a network of users that allows financial transactions without relying on a central authority or intermediary.

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies serve as alternatives to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar, which are issued by governments and supported by central banks. Instead of relying on centralized institutions, Bitcoin uses cryptography to secure its network. Transactions are verified through a , where participants compete to solve complex mathematical problems using powerful computers. This system is known as proof of work (PoW), and it ensures network integrity. All transactions are recorded on a public ledger that is designed to be highly resistant to alteration or tampering.

If a Bitcoin miner successfully adds a block of verified transactions to the blockchain, they will receive a reward of newly minted Bitcoins. That reward is currently 3.125 BTC per block, but the reward is every time 210,000 blocks are added to the blockchain. Unlike fiat currencies, Bitcoin has a hard cap of 21 million BTC that cannot be exceeded. This cap limits Bitcoin supply and prevents inflation, characteristics that Bitcoin investors believe will make the crypto an effective store of value in the long term.

What Is Ethereum?

Ethereum is a blockchain-based platform designed to support smart contracts and secure digital transactions. Its native cryptocurrency is Ether.

Smart contracts are programs that execute automatically when predefined conditions are met, enabling decentralized applications, or dApps, to function seamlessly.

The Ethereum network hosts a wide range of dApps for gaming, social networking, decentralized finance (DeFi) and other purposes. A large share of nonfungible tokens (NFTs) are also built on Ethereum.

The Ethereum network is decentralized and operates on a network of thousands of computers around the world. In 2022, the Ethereum network transitioned from an energy-intensive PoW verification system to a , or PoS, model. Instead of validators competing to solve mathematical puzzles, Ethereum’s PoS system selects validators via an algorithm. To qualify as a potential validator, traders must “stake” some of their cryptocurrency as collateral. The more crypto they stake, the higher the likelihood they will be chosen to validate a block and receive a reward.

Ether does not have a fixed supply cap, but its issuance is moderated via a mechanism called “burning.” Every time a transaction occurs on the Ethereum network, users pay a “gas fee.” A portion of this fee is permanently removed from circulation, effectively reducing the total supply of ETH. This process has periodically made Ethereum deflationary, destroying more ETH than was being issued at the time. However, the Dencun upgrade in March 2024 lowered transaction fees and reduced the burn rate, and Ethereum has tended to be slightly inflationary in recent periods.

What Are the Differences Between Bitcoin and Ethereum?

Both Bitcoin and Ethereum are popular cryptocurrencies that operate on decentralized blockchain networks, but beyond that there are not as many similarities between the two investments as it may seem. Here are some of the many differences between Bitcoin and Ethereum:

— Bitcoin’s network operates on a PoW verification system, while Ethereum uses a less energy-intensive PoS consensus verification system.

— Bitcoin’s primary purpose is to be a digital currency, a store of value and an alternative payment system to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar. Ethereum’s primary purpose is to serve as a platform to run smart contracts and other dApps, and ETH is simply the native cryptocurrency used to facilitate transactions.

— Bitcoin has a finite supply capped at 21 million, while Ethereum has a theoretically infinite supply. Ethereum has actually been deflationary at times, but its supply has increased since fees were significantly reduced in March 2024.

— Bitcoin’s future price will likely hinge on its adoption as a global currency and its appeal as an inflation hedge and store of value. Ethereum’s price outlook is more closely tied to the growth of its network, particularly the popularity of decentralized applications and smart contract usage.

— Ethereum’s average transaction fee is currently 46 cents compared to an average fee of 36 cents per transaction for Bitcoin.

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Bitcoin and Ethereum Performance

Both Bitcoin and Ethereum have been exceptional long-term investments, but both are prone to extreme price volatility. Buying either crypto requires a high risk tolerance.

Looking at past performance, it’s difficult to choose a winner between Bitcoin and Ethereum because their relative returns fluctuate depending on the time frame. In the past year, Ethereum prices are up 47% compared to a 13% decline for Bitcoin. In a three-year time frame, Bitcoin prices are up 180%, while Ethereum prices are up just 26%. If you look back over the past five years, Bitcoin prices have risen about 42%, while Ethereum prices are down about 2%.

Bitcoin has been the better long-term investment over the past five years, but that trend has reversed in the past year. The reason for the recent underperformance is unclear, but some experts have pointed to a slowdown in Bitcoin user network growth and a decline in BTC volumes as contributing factors. Of course, past performance is no guarantee of future results, and it’s extremely difficult for even professional analysts to accurately predict crypto market movements.

How to Invest in Bitcoin and Ethereum

Investors can buy Bitcoin and Ethereum directly on popular , such as Coinbase, Gemini and eToro. They can also buy both cryptocurrencies via a brokerage account with Robinhood, Interactive Brokers or other platforms that support crypto trading. They can even buy Bitcoin or Ethereum in their PayPal or Venmo accounts.

Both Bitcoin and Ethereum have futures contracts that trade on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. While futures trading is somewhat advanced for the average investor, there are several that hold futures contracts. The ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (ticker: ) and the Valkyrie Bitcoin and Ether Strategy ETF () are two examples of crypto futures ETFs.

Bitcoin investors can also buy that hold the cryptocurrency itself rather than futures contracts, including the following:

— ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF ()

— Bitwise Bitcoin ETF ()

— Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund ()

— Franklin Bitcoin ETF ()

— Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF ()

— Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF ()

— Hashdex Bitcoin ETF ()

— Invesco Galaxy Bitcoin ETF ()

— iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF ()

— Coinshares Bitcoin ETF ()

— VanEck Bitcoin Trust ()

— WisdomTree Bitcoin Fund ()

In 2024, the SEC also approved spot Ethereum ETFs. U.S. investors now have easy access to the following funds:

— iShares Ethereum Trust ETF ()

— Fidelity Ethereum Fund ()

— Bitwise Ethereum ETF ()

— VanEck Ethereum ETF ()

— Franklin Ethereum ETF ()

— Invesco Galaxy Ethereum ETF ()

— 21Shares Ethereum ETF ()

— Grayscale Ethereum Trust ETF ()

— Grayscale Ethereum Mini Trust ETF ()

Bottom Line

Bitcoin and Ethereum are similar at first glance, but the Bitcoin investment thesis and the Ethereum investment thesis are actually somewhat different. Bitcoin’s biggest challenge in the future may be scalability given its energy-intensive PoW consensus mechanism. Ethereum’s biggest challenge may be fending off competition from so-called “Ethereum killer” blockchains that often have faster transaction speeds and lower gas fees, such as Solana (SOL) and Avalanche (AVAX).

It’s difficult to say if Bitcoin or Ethereum will be the better long-term investment moving forward. However, if the cryptocurrency market resumes its long-term rally in 2026 and beyond, investors will be happy owning either one.

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It mostly comes down to two realities: cost and clinical needs. When older adults need just a few hours of care a week, is often the simplest and most affordable option. But as medical needs and care hours escalate, the equation shifts. distribute the cost of higher-level care across many residents, often making 24/7 care more budget-friendly than .

To ensure their loved ones receive the care they need, families need to:

— Determine which place of care can keep up with their loved one’s needs

— Stay within the budget

— Understand the many other tradeoffs between the two

Read on to learn more about home health care vs. nursing home care and the costs of home health care in 2026.

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What Is the Difference Between Home Health Care and a Nursing Home?

and both provide medical and personal care to older adults who need support. The difference between the two lies in the scope of services.

— Home health care allows individuals to receive care in their residences. Medical professionals, such as therapists, nurses or unlicensed assistive personnel, visit to provide treatments or personal care.

— Nursing homes are residential communities that provide round-the-clock care. Communities are specifically designed for individuals who have difficulty caring for themselves or who have significant physical or cognitive impairments.

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Comparison: Home Health Care vs. Skilled Nursing Facility

Below are the key differences between home health care and . (The terms “skilled nursing facility,” or SNF, and “nursing home” are often used interchangeably, but SNFs may focus specifically on care, such as short-term .)

Staffing shortages: What to expect in 2026

Both home health care and nursing homes are impacted by national caregiving and nursing shortages. Home health agencies and SNFs each have long waiting lists, ranging from weeks to months, sometimes even years, the . Planning is the best strategy for timely or SNF placement in 2026. Joining multiple waitlists early ensures that you or your loved one receives placement for the right care at the right time.

Even after placement, the staffing shortage and high turnover rates of home health care agencies and SNFs mean caregivers change frequently.

The mental health angle: Isolation vs. community

Home is where the heart is, but as mobility declines, home can become a cage.

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Cost Comparison: Home Care vs. Long-Term Care Facilities

For many families, the care journey doesn’t begin with a nursing home; it begins with limited, part?time help at home, says Samir Shah, New York City-based CEO of CareScout Services, a service that helps families navigate longer-term care planning and finances.

Early on, families might use a small number of hours each week for home care, including help with meals, transportation, housekeeping or personal care. As care needs become more complex, the care hours, and therefore the cost, increase. The national median hourly rate for a nonmedical caregiver is about $35, according to .

“As a practical benchmark, home care generally begins to exceed once weekly care approaches the equivalent of full?time coverage (roughly 60 to 65 hours per week at standard agency rates), and the gap widens significantly at 24/7 levels of care,” Shah adds. “By contrast, nursing home costs are higher from the outset and less gradual. While nursing homes provide a higher level of clinical oversight, they represent an increase in cost compared to early or mid?stage home care.”

Source: CareScout

The “Hospital at Home” Movement: A New Middle Ground

Hospital at home helps families care for someone at home with more support, more guidance and less fear, says Nikki Patton, a San Antonio-based hospice speaker, author of “Sacred Conversations” and educator.

“The team sees what is really happening in the home, the medications, the , the , the symptoms and the hard families avoid,” she explains.

Who is hospital at home best for? Hospital at home works best when a patient is sick enough to need hospital-level care but stable enough to receive care at home safely, Patton says.

“The individual needs a clear diagnosis, reliable monitoring, a safe home setup and a care plan that includes what happens if they decline,” she adds.

2026 Tech: How AI & Monitoring Make Aging in Place Safer

In 2026, and monitoring can make aging in place safer for your loved ones. Ask your loved one’s medical provider about which or technology would help them age in place. Some options available include:

— Ambient , which uses sensors to identify a fall instantly, without the individual needing to wear a traditional personal emergency response system

— Smart management, which uses automated dispensers and alerts to ensure older adults follow their medication schedules on time

— Vital signs monitoring, which tracks heart rate, breathing and sleep patterns to detect changes or early signs of illness

— Voice-activated emergency response systems, which allow a person to call for help from anywhere, even if they cannot reach a phone

How to Choose: Which Level of Care Is Right for Your Family?

Ultimately, there should be no debate between home care and a nursing home, says Evan Farr, a certified and retirement planner at Farr Law Firm P.C. in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

“Rather, the focus should be on ensuring that the being received is consistent with the medical realities of the individual, while developing a strategy to ensure the family’s financial well-being,” he notes.

Follow these steps to make the right choice:

1. Schedule a medical assessment with your loved one’s health care provider to determine if medical complexity makes home care unsafe. For instance, if your loved one has multiple chronic conditions that need close supervision, or if they have a physical or cognitive impairment that makes living at home risky, then a nursing home may be a better fit.

2. Evaluate financial assets long-term with a financial planner to determine whether home health care or nursing home care makes more sense.

3. Submit inquiries and get on waitlists for desired home health care agencies or nursing homes, take if applicable and ask questions to ensure it is the right fit for your loved one.

Does Medicare Cover Home Health Care or Nursing Homes?

does sometimes or nursing homes but only under specific circumstances.

short-term skilled nursing care in either home care or nursing home settings. This could include post-hospital IV antibiotics, for example. However, Medicare does not cover custodial or personal care, regardless of whether that care was provided at home or in a nursing home.

Nursing home care can be more financially feasible for families seeking high-level, long-term care due to reimbursement, Farr adds.

Medicaid covers long-term custodial care under the following circumstances, which vary by state:

— You meet the Medicaid income requirements set by your state’s Medicaid program.

— Your countable assets are within your state’s Medicaid limit.

— You need help with , such as showering, getting dressed or eating.

— You meet the requirements of your state’s Home and Community-Based Services waiver or personal care services benefit within your Medicaid plan. For a quick way to see waivers and benefits available in your state, visit .

There are various forms of home-based Medicaid programs, Farr says.

“However, they tend to be either limited (requiring ) or subject to availability restrictions. All require a lengthy and complex application process,” he explains. “Thus, middle-class families find themselves with little alternative but to purchase private home care services until they exhaust their means. Families earning mid-range incomes (and tending to accumulate middle-class wealth) are particularly at-risk because they can afford to pay for care for only so long — until they have lost a large amount of their life savings — but cannot pay for it long enough to resolve the problem.”

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