You can find loan options that don’t require proof of income, but they can be risky and costly. Here’s what you need to know about personal loans without income verification, as well as alternatives to these loans.

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What Is a No-Income Loan?

A no-income loan doesn’t require proof of income, such as pay stubs, tax returns or statements from your bank.

This type of loan is probably most closely associated with mortgages. Widespread use of NIV, or no income verification, helped cause the housing crisis during the Great Recession of the early 2000s.

Because of the risks associated with no-income verification loans, many lenders are reluctant to approve them. Even if you get a loan without verifiable income, you can end up with less-than-ideal terms.

Can I Get a Personal Loan Without a Job?

A personal loan can be difficult but not impossible to get without a job. Most lenders want to see that you are earning a regular income before approving a personal loan.

However, that does not necessarily have to be job-related income. You may be able to count these alternative sources:

— Dividends and interest

— Social Security

— Unemployment

— Alimony

— Child support

— Pension or annuity income

Still, you might struggle to get a personal loan without traditional employment. Approval can even be difficult for the self-employed, says Kendall Meade, certified financial planner at SoFi.

“For self-employed people, it can be hard to show their true income,” she says. “Some may take a low salary from their business. This can make it difficult to qualify for personal loans or large amounts, in some cases.”

Self-employed people who successfully land a personal loan often have to provide additional documentation, such as copies of bank statements, tax returns and other financial records, Meade says.

Unemployed borrowers also face an uphill climb when applying for a personal loan. “It can be hard to qualify for a personal loan while unemployed because your income may be very low or even zero,” Meade says.

Types of Personal Loans for Unemployed Borrowers

If you don’t have a job and need a personal loan, you may want to consider some of these options:

— These are , creating less risk for the lender. You may be able to borrow more at a lower rate because the loan is supported by an asset, but you also risk losing that asset if you fall behind on payments.

— Loans from family members or friends. You might be able to get a great deal, but you can damage relationships if you have trouble paying back the loan. Carefully weigh the pros and cons before borrowing.

— This is a type of loan attached to your credit card that allows you to get cash quickly. But cash advances can be expensive. These loans often come with higher rates than those associated with typical credit card borrowing.

— These are generally a bad idea and should be used only as a last resort.

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How to Qualify for a Personal Loan With No Income

Lenders may suggest some of these approaches to help you get approved for a personal loan with no proof of income:

This may reassure the lender if you don’t have enough income on your own. The cosigner is legally responsible for repaying the loan if you do not, which means that both parties are on the hook for the duration of the loan.

You may use an asset, such as a vehicle or money in a savings account, to back the loan in case you default. The lender can seize your collateral to recover its money if you don’t repay your personal loan as agreed.

Lean on an excellent credit score. may be enough for a lender to approve a personal loan even without verifiable income, according to Lantern by SoFi, a loan marketplace site.

Note alternative income on your loan application. Sources that may help are pension and Social Security income, investment and rental income, unemployment benefits, and side-gig income. You may also want to list disability, alimony and child support. Lenders can’t require you to provide that information, but it can help you qualify.

Even if you qualify for a personal loan with no income, keep in mind that you may not want what lenders have to offer. For example, no-income loans almost always come with:

— High interest rates and fees

— Low borrowing limits

— Short repayment windows

Pros and Cons of No-Income Loans

Pros

— Offer relatively fast access to cash

— Create a potential path to loan approval without income

Cons

— Carry high interest rates and fees

— Limit how much you can borrow

— Require quick repayment

— Need a cosigner with good credit or income for approval in some situations

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Alternatives to No-Income Loans

If you don’t qualify for a personal loan without proof of income or what you qualify for doesn’t seem like a good option, consider one of these alternatives:

— Home equity loan or line of credit. If you have sufficient home equity, decent credit and some cash flow, you may get a better deal with a home equity loan or HELOC than with a no-income personal loan.

— Loan or withdrawal from a retirement account. You can access some of the money in a Roth IRA without penalty, for example. “With a Roth IRA, you are able to withdraw any of your contributions — just the money you contributed, no earnings — at any time without penalties or taxes,” Meade says. You may be able to borrow against your 401(k) if your employer allows it, or take a taxable hardship withdrawal.

— If you have a card with available credit, you may want to use that instead of applying for a personal loan.

Note that these options also have drawbacks. For example, if you fail to pay a home equity loan or HELOC, you risk losing your home. And if you withdraw money from a workplace retirement account, even temporarily, you can hurt your ability to save.

“Your money will no longer be invested, and if you leave your job, you may have to pay it back at an accelerated rate,” Meade says.

Still, exhaust your options before turning to a personal loan, says Catherine Valega, certified financial planner and wealth consultant with Green Bee Advisory.

“Cut back on expenses, get a side hustle, move to a smaller rental before finding yourself in the place of needing a personal loan,” Valega says.

The negative aspects of this type of borrowing can become even more pronounced during a credit crunch brought on by an economic downturn, Valega says. Personal loans are often very expensive, she says, and this type of borrowing should be a last resort.

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There are currently three approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help protect people against the virus: Arexvy by GlaxoSmithKline, Abrysvo by Pfizer and mResvia by Moderna.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination for both seniors 75 and older and higher-risk populations, particularly those ages 50 to 74 with qualifying risk factors.

“Due to RSV, around 6,000 to 10,000 older adults die annually. Older persons also often have chronic conditions — such as (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and — which may worsen with severe RSV,” says Dr. Roopa Anmolsingh, a geriatrician at the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Geriatric Medicine in Ohio.

Given how serious the illness can be in certain populations, it’s important to make sure people are protected from getting RSV and have access to the vaccine through their insurance.

Here’s what you need to know about Medicare coverage of the RSV vaccine.

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Medicare Coverage

As a result of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Medicare and with prescription drug coverage must cover the RSV vaccine with no out-of-pocket costs.

Source:

Any vaccine administration fee at the time of service is reimbursable through Medicare. If, when you go to get the vaccine you are told otherwise, you should call 1-800-MEDICARE for assistance.

Note: The recently announced that Part D subsidies would be ending in 2027. This change impacts your monthly premium, but it should not affect RSV vaccine coverage, which is mandated under the IRA.

If you have a plan, find out where you can receive the vaccine within the plan’s network before you make your appointment.

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Avoiding Transmission

Like many viruses, RSV is transmitted through the air and can survive on surfaces for several hours. In addition to vaccination, you can lower your risk of contracting the virus by avoiding contact with those who are sick, frequently and being aware of what you touch while you are out in public.

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Interest rates on home loans have risen since the beginning of the U.S. war in Iran in late February. The Middle East conflict put upward pressure on oil prices, which can make other items more expensive to manufacture and transport. Put simply, higher oil prices mean higher inflation — and higher inflation means higher interest rates. June’s consumer price index report showed that inflation slowed to 3.5% as energy prices declined — but the relief is likely to be temporary given the resurgence in the Middle East conflict. That’s compared with May’s reading of 4.2%, which was the highest pace of price growth in three years. On top of that, markets are reacting to a one-two punch of stubbornly high consumer prices and resilient labor data, with recent jobs reports remaining relatively stable.

Rates are slightly higher after , which concluded yesterday. Although the central bank held rates steady as widely expected, three policymakers voted for a quarter-point rate hike, compared with June’s unanimous vote to leave rates unchanged. With inflation above the Fed’s 2% target, it’s likely that the central bank will raise rates in the coming months.

“Importantly, regardless of Fed action, mortgage rates are unlikely to fall meaningfully until inflation cools and long-term yields move decisively lower.”

— Selma Hepp, chief economist for the real estate analytics provider Cotality

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.

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Current Mortgage Purchase Rates

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

— : 6.863%

— : 6.799%

— : 6.018%

— : 6.312%

— 7-year ARM: 6.961%

— : 6.12%

— 3-year ARM: 8.25%

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

— : 6.543%

— : 5.99%

— : 5.99%

Current Mortgage Refinance Rates

Here are today’s mortgage refinance rates:

— 6.977%

— 20-year fixed refi: 6.933%

— 5.971%

— 10-year fixed refi: 6.183%

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.

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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 7.23%.

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.

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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.

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.

“As rates fluctuate, aspiring buyers should remember that by shopping around for the best mortgage rate and getting multiple quotes, they can potentially save thousands,” 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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[Personal Loan Calculator: ]

How Are Student Loan Payments Determined?

Student loan payments are based on your loan amount, and repayment term. The more money you borrow to pay for college, the higher your payments will be once you graduate. Lower interest rates result in lower monthly payments, and vice versa. Choosing a shorter repayment period can help you pay off your loans faster, but your monthly payments will be higher.

But the process of taking out and repaying student loans is far more nuanced than those three factors. A graduate degree can leave you with higher student loan payments, but it may help increase your lifetime earning potential. And with , it can be challenging to plan for monthly payments, even if you choose an in-state public university. Here are a few critical education decisions that can impact your student loan payments.

The Cost of the College You Attend

Public universities are typically cheaper than private colleges, particularly if you can qualify for in-state tuition. This means the average student loan payment among those who graduate from a public school is much lower than for those who attended a private college.

While the data shows that private college graduates carry more student loan debt, it’s important to consider all options for your unique circumstances. For example, a private school that offers a generous scholarship package may end up being cheaper than a public college at full tuition, resulting in lower future payments. Still, it’s a personal decision to determine whether the higher cost of one university is worth the investment.

The Type of Degree You Obtain

Obtaining a graduate degree can help advance your career and potentially increase your income over time; in many fields of study, such as or , a professional degree is a requirement. Naturally, the cost of going to college for an additional two to eight years will greatly increase the amount of student loan debt you accrue, leading to higher monthly payments once you’re in the workforce.

For some professions, it may eventually pay off to take out six figures’ worth of student debt, but you’ll need to be prepared for much higher student loan payments if you plan to go back to school for a graduate or professional degree.

One important consideration if you’re thinking about earning an advanced degree is the new federal student loan borrowing limit. The set a borrowing limit of $257,500 for all federal student loans.

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The Type of Student Loans You Borrow

There are two general types of student loans: . Most borrowers will benefit from the low interest rates and flexible repayment options offered by federal student loans. Depending on your financial need, you may also qualify for a subsidized federal loan, in which the government pays the interest on your loans while you’re in school.

Some students, particularly those who are obtaining costly professional degrees, may choose to borrow private student loans when federal aid doesn’t fully cover the cost of college. About 15% of students who earned an bachelor’s degree in 2019-20 received nonfederal loans, which includes private student loans, according to the .

It’s difficult to estimate an average private student loan payment since the borrowing terms can vary widely from one applicant to the next. Still, let’s use this example: If you need to borrow an additional $10,000 of private student loans to pay for college, the monthly payments (assuming a 10-year loan length and an 8% interest rate) would be $121. That’s in addition to your federal student loan payments.

Also, you may be required to make payments on your private student loans while you’re still in school. And after you graduate or otherwise leave school, you could end up with both federal and private student loan payments.

The Repayment Plan You Choose

Federal student loan borrowers can choose from a number of repayment plans. Here’s a rundown of your current options:

— Standard repayment plan. Payments are fixed (and stay the same) for a period of 10 years. All borrowers with loans issued before July 1, 2026 are eligible for this plan.

— Tiered standard plan. Payments are fixed for a repayment period of 10, 15, 20 or 25 years, depending on the principal loan balance. All borrowers are eligible for this plan.

— Income-driven repayment, or IDR, plans. Payments are limited to a set percentage of your discretionary income of your adjusted gross income, and any outstanding loan balance is forgiven after making payments over a predetermined period, generally between 20 and 30 years. There are several types of IDR plans, and each has its own eligibility requirements.

Private student loans aren’t eligible for federal repayment plans, and the repayment options vary from one private lender to the next. Private student loans are typically repaid at over a period of five to 20 years. Some lenders may require you to make interest-only or fixed payments while you’re still in school, while others may offer in-school deferment.

The Interest Rate and Fees You Pay

are set based on the year of origination. For example, if you took out a federal direct loan for undergraduate studies during the 2026-27 academic year, the current interest rate on that loan is 6.52% — although this rate has been as low as 2.75% in 2020-21 and as high as 6.8% in 2006-08.

Your interest rate also depends on the type of federal loan you need to borrow. Graduate students and pay a higher interest rate than undergraduates.

Federal student loan borrowers must also pay an origination fee that’s a set percentage of the loan amount and is added to the principal balance. The current federal student loan fee is 1.057% for most loans, except for PLUS loans, which come with a loan fee of 4.228%.

While federal student loan rates are the same across all borrowers during the same time period, private student loan interest rates vary from one borrower to another. Private student loan lenders determine your interest rate and eligibility based on your credit history, including credit score and debt-to-income ratio. Private student loan fixed rates average between 3.60% and 15.12%, according to a June 2026 U.S. 小萝莉影视 analysis of private lenders.

– Tip: If you can’t qualify for a competitive rate on a private student loan, consider taking steps to improve your credit score or enlisting the help of a such as a trusted relative.

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How to Plan for Your Student Loan Payments

If you’re deciding where to go to college or whether you should further your education with a graduate degree, you’ll want to know how much you’ll pay toward your student loan debt each month after graduation. Here’s how you can estimate your future student loan payments.

Determine How Much You’ll Need to Borrow

Estimating the cost of college is an important yet challenging step to determining your student loan payments. You can see a college’s full cost of attendance by filling out the , or FAFSA. Completing this form is required by schools to determine whether you’re eligible for federal student loans, as well as grants and work-study programs, which can cut down on how much you need to borrow.

Additionally, colleges are required to publish a that details a comprehensive cost estimate, including commonly overlooked expenses such as transportation and school supplies.

Estimate the Interest Rate You’ll Pay

For the 2026-27 academic year, the interest rate on federal direct loans for undergraduate students is 6.52%. The current rate for graduate or professional students is 8.07%, and it’s 9.07% for .

If you need to borrow private student loans to bridge the college financing gap, it can be more difficult to estimate your interest rate since private student loan rates vary depending on the borrower. However, many private lenders let you get prequalified to check your estimated rate with a , which won’t impact your credit score.

Use a Student Loan Payment Calculator

The Department of Education offers a that allows you to calculate your monthly payments based on your projected loan amount, degree type and repayment plan. You can enter a university’s name and location to estimate how much the program might cost. The tool can also determine which repayment plan is best for you, and if you qualify for programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or PSLF.

For private student loans, you can use the to estimate your monthly payments by inputting the loan amount, repayment length and interest rate.

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“Community colleges are often overlooked by international students because most people outside of the U.S. do not understand what a community college is and what the advantage would be to study at a community college,” says Rob Robbins, director of international student services at in Utah.

Community colleges primarily offer two-year associate degrees and certificate programs. There are more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide, according to the American Association of Community Colleges.

“We meet you where you are, and we get you ready for the next step of your life,” says Amit Singh, president of , a community college in Washington. “We don’t select winners, we create winners.”

The number of international students studying at community colleges in the U.S. increased 8% between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years, according to the 2025 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange by the Institute of International Education. Although numbers remain lower than earlier this century amid a broader in U.S. international student enrollment, some community colleges welcome hundreds and even thousands of international students each year.

Community college offers international and domestic students many of the same advantages, including a more affordable path into higher education and the ability to build a strong academic foundation before transferring to a four-year institution.

Here are some facts about community college to keep in mind as you consider your options.

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An Affordable Pathway to a U.S. Degree

Community colleges can provide a significantly more affordable route to a U.S. degree than many four-year colleges and universities, experts say.

Although typically pay out-of-state tuition at community colleges, tuition generally is still significantly lower than at four-year institutions. This can save students money while also making it easier for them to obtain , since getting a student visa requires the student and their family to prove they can cover the cost of education.

International students “often benefit from lower tuition rates while still receiving a high-quality education and access to transfer opportunities,” says Jen Sydow-Madoski, program manager in the Center for Global Engagement at Maricopa Community Colleges in Arizona.

Students at the system’s 10 locations, for example, “can complete associate degrees and transfer pathways at a fraction of the cost of many universities,” she says.

Academic Support

Community colleges often offer smaller class sizes than four-year colleges and universities. At the same time, for community college professors, teaching is the priority.

“Community colleges are designed with faculty that are 100% committed to students,” says Marielena DeSanctis, chancellor of the Colorado Community College System. “They’re not bifurcating their time between teaching and learning and research opportunities.”

Adjustment to U.S. Higher Education

Nearly all community colleges allow all qualifying students to attend, don’t specify a minimum high school GPA or don’t require international students to take an . Plus, community college can be a good introduction to the American higher education system.

Community colleges can help students “build confidence, strengthen their English-language skills and develop meaningful connections before transferring to a university or entering the workforce,” Sydow-Madoski says.

International students generally need to prove English proficiency in order to get an F-1 student visa. Most community colleges offer structured English-language support to international students, such as classes and on-campus tutoring.

Studying at a community college can also help students be more prepared and successful and ease some of the culture shock.

“We like to say that our (international) office is their home away from home,” Robbins says. “We like to have students in our space so we can get to know them and get to know what they are experiencing to help them have a more .”

Many international students work in the school’s office “and often our students will confide in their peers over college staff who also want to help,” he adds.

Transfer Opportunities to Four-Year Colleges

Depending on your community college, you may be able to earn a full bachelor’s degree without , if you desire.

“We have a growing number of students that are staying at the community college to complete their baccalaureate degree, and an international student might not realize that that’s the case,” DeSanctis says.

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A common misconception among international students is that they must complete their education at the institution where they first enroll. Transfer agreements are designed to help students move seamlessly from a community college to a four-year university.

“You come to us and you build your resume,” Singh says. “You make your background much, much stronger, and then you can jump to any big school you want.”

Because of misunderstandings about community colleges, international students overlook the opportunity to begin their education at one before transferring to a four-year institution, he adds. “We have had some of our students get accepted and transfer to schools.”

Transfer pathways “are one of the most important factors international students should evaluate before selecting a college,” Sydow-Madoski says.

When researching community colleges, she says, students should find out whether a school “has established transfer agreements, understand how credits transfer and determine whether their intended major aligns with transfer requirements at prospective universities.”

For example, although Maricopa Community Colleges offers some bachelor’s degrees, the system works closely with more than 55 university partners to create transfer pathways for students who want to earn a bachelor’s degree elsewhere.

“Students who begin and work closely with advisers can often save both time and money while minimizing the risk of losing credits during the transfer process,” Sydow-Madoski says.

Some Potential Drawbacks

While community colleges can be a good option, international students should understand potential challenges, experts say. These may include no on-campus housing options, a less-traditional campus life compared to four-year universities, fewer program offerings and the need to plan carefully to transfer.

Adjusting to a new environment can be difficult, especially at times when domestic students go home for holidays and other breaks. A school’s can play a big role during these potentially isolating moments.

In fact, DeSanctis says, “the number one question they should be asking is what does the international student services office look like?” That office can help students navigate academic expectations, rules and the nuances of maintaining visa eligibility.

Although some community colleges provide housing, most don’t, meaning all of their students commute, which “can require international students to be more intentional about getting involved in campus activities, clubs, leadership opportunities and community events,” Sydow-Madoski says.

Obtaining a student visa can also pose challenges. Globally, visa rejection rates hit 35% in 2025. The U.S. federal government has from numerous countries and made to the F-1 student visa under President Donald J. Trump.

Plan early to secure your visa, and keep your school in the loop as the process progresses, Singh advises.

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Other Considerations

Look beyond cost and consider the overall student experience, experts say.

“Factors such as academic quality, transfer success rates, student support services, , location, , internship opportunities and career preparation resources can have a significant impact on a student’s success,” Sydow-Madoski says.

Consider factors such as where in the U.S. you may want to live, the academic programs a school offers and the level of support an institution appears to provide international students. You can check schools’ websites and contact them directly to get a sense of the support available.

If campus life is important to you, consider a community college with . If other students you know have attended U.S. community colleges, ask them about their experiences while being mindful of your own goals and needs.

“I really encourage students to think about, ‘What do I want five years from now, and then what’s the institution that’s best going to serve those needs?'” DeSanctis says.

Experts also advise looking for schools with an international student webpage, which can indicate how much the institution welcomes and supports students from different countries. Contacting current international students at prospective schools via online forums, such as community colleges on the College Confidential platform and on social media, could also provide helpful information.

“Community colleges are hidden gems that are a real opportunity,” Robbins says, “and often a second chance for some students that provide a caring and understanding approach to helping students develop and learn the skills they need to succeed in the .”

Trying to fund your education? Get tips, news and more in the U.S. 小萝莉影视 center.

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But what’s at the root of the problem? Experts say it’s about more than a person’s . It could be a combination of persistent inflation that makes spending feel necessary rather than discretionary, subscription creep, an unhealthy reliance on Buy Now, Pay Later services and social-media-driven purchase behavior.

“Addressing overspending from a purely financial perspective is often insufficient. One must delve into the psychological dimensions of their spending habits to enact lasting change,” Khwan Hathai, a certified financial planner and certified financial therapist at Epiphany Financial Therapy, wrote in an email.

Why Are Americans Overspending?

Here are five common reasons experts say Americans are overspending.

1. Social Pressure

“The desire to ‘keep up with the Joneses’ can lead people to spend beyond their means,” Sherman Standberry, a CPA and managing partner at My CPA Coach, wrote in an email.

It can be tempting to buy what you see others buying to signal that you can afford it, too, whether it’s clothes, cars, homes or vacations. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest can make those comparisons even harder to ignore.

“Some may view spending as a form of social proof, associating material purchases with self-worth or status,” Hathai said.

Instead of trying to compete, focus on your own priorities and financial goals. “Having a clear financial goal in mind can help motivate you to stick to your budget,” Standberry said.

2. Lifestyle and Subscription Creep

You may, for example, shop and go out to eat more often after getting a raise. As a result, despite making more money, your discretionary income doesn’t feel like it’s increased.

Then there’s subscription creep, which slowly drains your budget through small recurring charges you forget to cancel or keep because you don’t want to miss out. To prevent this, have a financial plan in place and revisit it whenever your income increases.

“Be honest about your necessary expenses and allocate the funds accordingly,” Standberry said. The goal is to spend intentionally.

3. Emotional Impulse Spending

Many people joke about retail therapy, but emotional spending is real. Whether it’s driven by FOMO, or fear of missing out, or an attempt to feel better after a stressful day, the immediate gratification of a shopping spree may feel good in the moment but can hurt your budget later.

In a recent financial wellness study by Intuit, 45% of respondents admitted that impulse spending has derailed their financial progress in the past.

“Overspending is often more than just a lapse in financial judgment; it frequently signals underlying emotional or psychological triggers. For instance, some people may overspend as a form of escapism, temporarily distracting themselves from stress or emotional pain,” Hathai said.

She explained that by understanding the emotional triggers that prompt overspending, you can develop healthier coping mechanisms that don’t involve reaching for your wallet.

4. Not Accounting for Inflation

While inflation has cooled since its most recent peak in 2022, consumers have been subject to inflation ebbs and flows. Consumer prices rose 4.2% from May 2025 to May 2026, according to the . on select items.

There will always be external factors at play, and if you don’t adjust your budget to account for cost increases, you’ll likely find yourself overspending each month. Standberry recommended using budgeting tools or apps to monitor where your money is going.

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5. Credit and BNPL Misconceptions

You have to repay every dollar you borrow, plus interest and fees. Credit should be a financial tool, not an extension of your . Paying your balances on time also helps protect your credit score.

The same can be true of Buy Now, Pay Later. While these services can make purchases feel more affordable by spreading payments over time, they may also encourage consumers to spend more than they otherwise would. Missed payments may be reported to the credit bureaus, potentially damaging your credit score.

The bottom line is: If you’re having trouble with overspending, Standberry recommended sticking to cash and debit cards so you’ll spend only what you have.

How to Curb Overspending

To gain control over spending and , start by acknowledging your spending patterns and dig deeper to see what may be behind them. For example, if late-night shopping on your phone is your trigger, consider using apps that block shopping sites during those hours.

You can also try these strategies:

— Choose a budgeting system you’ll actually use: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to budgeting. Whether you use an app like YNAB or Monarch Money, cash envelopes or a spreadsheet, tracking your spending can reveal where your money is going and help you identify opportunities to cut back.

— Review your subscriptions regularly: Tools like Rocket Money can help identify subscriptions you no longer use and make them easier to cancel. You can also review your bank and credit card statements yourself, highlight recurring charges and decide which services are still worth the cost. Consider adopting a one-in, one-out rule: Cancel one subscription before adding another. Setting calendar reminders before free trial periods end can also help you avoid unwanted charges.

— Seek professional advice if necessary: If you’re still struggling, consider talking with a for budgeting guidance or a licensed mental health professional to address the emotional factors that may be contributing to your spending habits.

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Little or No Work Experience

Some students gain admission to an MBA program right out of college, but that’s not the norm, some MBA admissions experts say. That’s because most MBA programs prefer candidates who can bring real-world to the classroom.

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A typical MBA student has about three to six years of work experience before starting their graduate studies, according to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a global business school accreditation organization.

Some build their MBA curriculum around the case study method, in which students discuss high-stakes business scenarios in the classroom and propose solutions. Admissions officers may worry that an applicant who lacks work experience won’t be able to contribute to class, says Yael Grushka-Cockayne, dean-elect and senior associate dean for the full-time MBA program at the University of Virginia’s .

“Experience is not simply an admissions preference,” she wrote in an email. “It is part of the educational model.”

Sources of Recommendation Letters

MBA admissions committees also tend to favor from supervisors or managers over college professors, Grushka-Cockayne says.

Admissions committees “are basically looking at you as a value-risk proposition,” says Judith Silverman Hodara, co-director of the MBA admissions consulting firm Fortuna Admissions and former director of admissions at at the University of Pennsylvania.

“If you’re someone with four years of work experience, you have a track record, right?” she says. “You’ve gotten promotions, you’ve got references and you’ve got evidence that you can perform. If you’re a college senior and you’re a 21- or 22 year-old person, you’re asking that admissions committee to basically bet on your potential.”

[Read: ]

Advantages of Going Directly to Business School

Applying to business school straight out of college can still have advantages, experts say.

For some students, an MBA is an opportunity to further their education at a time when they are already used to the rigors of university life and may have fewer family commitments.

But admissions counselors caution applicants not to use this path to that come with entering the working world for the first time.

“A lot of college seniors gravitate toward graduate school because it feels really otherwise,” Silverman Hodara says. “If you have a clear picture of what you’re going to do with your degree, if you can get very articulate about a specific door you’re trying to open, then the timing could be terrific. But if the answer, which is not uncommon, is, ‘I want to keep my options open,’ that’s usually a pretty good indication that you want to go and work first, and then pivot to graduate school.”

College students who are serious about pursuing an MBA directly after graduation should make a detailed plan that describes how that early-career business degree will fit into their overall professional goals, she says.

This approach may work particularly well for with a startup business already in motion, or students who have already accrued substantive leadership experience — for example, by working throughout high school and college or serving in the , Grushka-Cockayne says.

For these MBA applicants, “the discipline, leadership and high-stakes decision-making typically come before college rather than after it, so by the time someone finishes their bachelor’s degree, they may already have more relevant experience than many candidates who took the conventional route.”

[Read: ]

College students can increase their odds of success in the MBA admissions process by pursuing off campus and looking for other ways to take on project management duties and leadership responsibilities at school. That could include fundraising for a student group, publishing a literary journal or being captain of a sports team, Silverman Hodara says.

“You want to be able to talk about what you owned over the summer, what went wrong in a project you were working on, what you would do differently,” she says. “Anything that requires , focus, time management and all of these different ways that you learn and grow as an individual while at college can be really important, too.”

Students can also look into graduate school business programs that are specifically geared toward early-career candidates and their professional needs. For example, some business schools require MBA students to complete a full-time business internship after their first year before returning to campus, or expect admitted students to and work full time for two or more years first.

For tips on how to get into B-school, how to it and what an MBA could mean for your career, for U.S. 小萝莉影视’ twice-monthly newsletter, The Bottom Line.

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“We live in an aspirational society,” says Timothy Black, professor of sociology at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. “Being middle class provides a particular type of status. You have made it into the American mainstream.”

While many Americans still identify as middle class, rising costs have made it harder for many households to achieve the financial security once associated with that status.

What Is the Middle Class?

There is no universal definition of the middle class. People may define it based on income, assets, occupation or a combination of those factors.

Income

The defines middle-income households as those that earn two-thirds to double the U.S. median income for their household size.

The take a broader approach, defining the middle class as U.S. adults who live in households with annual incomes between $50,000 and $200,000. By this measure, more than half of U.S. adults are considered middle class.

Meanwhile, the Equifax Market Plus Index finds those in the group it calls the “pivoting middle” typically earn between $65,000 and $150,000, according to Jesse Hardin, senior advisor and economist at Equifax. Equifax estimates that 70% of Americans fall into this category based on anonymized credit, debt, income and asset data.

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Assets

A steady paycheck alone may not provide financial stability when housing, healthcare and other essential costs continue to rise.

In fact, a 2026 Aspen Institute found that nearly 3 of 4 U.S. households lack “essential wealth” — the level of assets needed to withstand financial shocks, build long-term financial security and pursue goals such as , retirement and education.

Having assets can provide a financial cushion and give households more options or economic uncertainty.

“Asset level has a huge bearing on how you’re navigating this economy,” Hardin says.

Job Status

While many people associate with middle-class status, job title alone doesn’t determine where someone falls economically. Income, assets and financial security often provide a more complete picture.

The terms working class and middle class are used interchangeably by some, but among those who make a distinction, the difference may hinge on job function. Those in the working class typically report to supervisors, while members of the middle class may be those supervisors, Black notes.

[Read: ]

How the Economy Is Changing the Middle Class

The size of the middle class has changed significantly over time. The Pew Research Center also found that the share of U.S. adults living in middle-income households fell from 61% in 1971 to 51% in recent years, while the shares in both lower- and upper-income households increased.

Now, many people talk about the post-COVID-19 world as having . That refers to the fact that some people have seen their financial situations improve markedly in recent years, while others have fallen further behind. If this pattern continues, it could mean a smaller middle class in the years to come.

“I think the term middle class almost masks the struggle of the working middle class,” says Heather Black, vice president of 211 system strategy at United Way Worldwide. She says that since COVID-19, her organization has seen a shift in the number of people dialing 2-1-1 to request assistance referrals. People who had never called before were now in need of help.

Middle Class Is No Guarantee of Comfortable Living

The United Way uses the acronym ALICE — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — to describe some families who might seem to be in the middle class but do not actually make enough to cover all their basic needs.

“It’s not that people aren’t (working), but they are not able to ,” Black says. The United Way recorded 13 million interactions on its 211 line last year, which resulted in 19 million referrals. “What we find is that the top needs are the most basic of things.”

Housing, utilities and were the top requests from people calling 211. With the savings rate now half what it was in 2021, according to Hardin, families may find themselves with less money set aside to cover .

“The reality is that the middle class is rapidly shifting,” Hardin says. He sees the K-shaped economy continuing to bisect those in the middle as households begin to move either up or down in economic status.

For many families, income alone no longer reflects financial security. Households may earn too much to qualify for government assistance yet still struggle to cover essential expenses, illustrating how the definition of the middle class extends beyond a paycheck.

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While it’s impossible to match the growth potential of small-cap stocks or dynamic in fixed-income markets, by contrast there are almost never deep declines in bond markets — making bond funds crucial in offsetting risk.

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The bond market is just as varied as the stock market, however, and investors can choose from a wide range of funds. Flavors include government debt, corporate bonds, inflation-protected securities and broad investment-grade markets, allowing each investor to find the right choice based on their specific goals and .

For investors seeking dependable income and greater portfolio , Schwab’s lineup of low-cost bond ETFs offers a variety of options that can serve as core holdings or targeted allocations within a broader investment strategy. Here are five of the best Schwab bond funds to buy now:

Schwab U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF ()

SCHZ is the firm’s flagship core fixed-income offering and one of the lowest-cost ways to gain diversified exposure to the U.S. investment-grade bond market via an ETF. This holds more than 12,000 individual investments, including Treasury securities, government agency bonds, mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities and investment-grade corporate bonds to give a full picture of the bond market. The ETF also maintains a “goldilocks” intermediate duration that is neither too short nor too long, making it suitable as a core holding for just about any portfolio. If you want to keep things simple, SCHZ offers exposure to nearly every major segment of the U.S. taxable bond market in a single fund.

Schwab Intermediate-Term U.S. Treasury ETF ()

As the name implies, this Schwab bond fund is focused on intermediate U.S. Treasury bonds. The fund has an average duration of about five years, and it holds about 100 different bonds issued directly by the U.S. government. As Uncle Sam is among the most creditworthy borrowers on the planet, that makes the risk of default effectively zero, providing incredible peace of mind. However, investors should remember the relationship between risk and reward, meaning Treasury bonds generally carry smaller yields as a result. If you don’t mind leaving a bit of yield on the table, SCHR is appropriate for investors who want higher income than short-term Treasurys without assuming the significant duration risk associated with long-term government bonds or corporate debt.

Schwab 5-10 Year Corporate Bond ETF ()

SCHI invests exclusively in investment-grade corporate bonds issued by financially strong U.S. companies — meaning no “junk” bonds from risky operators — with maturities between five and 10 years. Although investors assume modest credit risk in exchange for higher yield, the roughly 2,400 bonds are from mega-corporations like Facebook parent Meta Platforms Inc. () and Big Pharma icon Pfizer Inc. (). The bigger yield and relative stability make SCHI an appealing complement to a core aggregate bond fund or .

[Read: ]

Schwab U.S. TIPS ETF ()

First things first: The yield listed on this fund is the SEC yield as measured by a strict mathematical formula over the past 30 days. And since Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) are a special class of U.S. government bonds benchmarked to a price index, steeply rising inflation has been a tailwind. However, this tactical ETF carries risk as inflation rates are not reliable — and a downswing in prices can really hurt TIPS investors. SCHP is valuable to retirees and concerned that rising inflation could erode the real value of fixed-income investments and future purchasing power, particularly in 2026. But long-term investors should think carefully about using SCHP in their portfolio despite the big near-term yield.

Schwab Short-Term U.S. Treasury ETF ()

SCHO rounds out the list by providing exposure to an asset that is almost as good as cash. Short-term Treasury securities mature in one to three years and are tied to the U.S. government — meaning unless America goes bankrupt in the next 18 months or so, you’ll get paid just fine. This corner of the bond market has historically exhibited significantly lower volatility than the stock market as well as intermediate- or long-term bonds. While its yield may fluctuate as short-term interest rates move, the ETF generally doesn’t budge otherwise, and it provides a highly liquid, government-backed source of income. You won’t grow your portfolio by leaps and bounds, and in many ways SCHO should be seen as an alternative to high-yield savings accounts or . But it is especially well-suited for investors who are focused on capital preservation over growth.

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But no app offers the magic formula for investing success.

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Instead, they’re simply tools to access a brokerage’s services. In principle, it’s not so different from the technology of a few decades ago, when investors would call their broker to place a trade or get access to research about a stock.

“The best investing app is the one that turns you into a boring, consistent investor, not a bored one hunting for action,” says Stoy Hall, a certified financial planner (CFP) and CEO of Black Mammoth in Ankeny, Iowa.

“The app is just the tool; the habit is the wealth,” he adds.

Here’s a look at seven of the most popular apps for new investors:

— Fidelity

— Charles Schwab

— Robinhood

— SoFi Invest

— Webull

— Acorns

— Betterment

Fidelity

As the interface for a major brokerage company, the allows users to trade stocks, crypto, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options, mutual funds and fixed income, all without a commission.

Investors can also buy fractional shares starting with as little as $1 and make recurring automated purchases.

Fidelity also offers services such as bill pay and check deposits.

“If someone asked me where to open their first account, this is usually one of the options,” says Noah Schwab, CFP and owner of Stewardship Concepts in Spokane, Washington.

“Zero-commission trades and no-minimum index funds mean a beginner can start with $50 and not get nickeled to death, and the education library is genuinely good rather than a marketing funnel,” he adds.

Charles Schwab

This app puts research and education front and center, making it great for those who want to learn about investing. Research offerings include interactive charts, option chains and AI-powered insights into portfolio performance.

In addition to trading stocks, options, ETFs and mutual funds, investors get access to the thinkorswim platform for advanced users. While a true beginner could make use of these features, it may be a little too much for some, says Taylor Price, a Gen Z personal financial expert and founder of Priceless Tay in Naples, Florida.

“For more advanced investors, I love and use Charles Schwab,” she says. For investors who want to dive into financial analysis, the offers more technical data than some rivals, she adds.

Robinhood

When people were stuck at home during the pandemic with stimulus checks and no sports to bet on, was ready to grab some of their attention and dollars.

The company had a head start in the race for , which attracted young and new investors. Robinhood understood platform stickiness, as evidenced by its confetti animations, ease of purchasing fractional shares and a sophisticated mobile user interface.

All of this combined to make investing feel approachable and fun to first-time retail investors.

“Robinhood is the simplest way on Earth to place your first trade, and that low barrier is a genuine strength,” Hall says.

The same frictionless, gamified design that makes it easy to start also makes it easy to treat investing like a slot machine, he adds.

“Perfect for buying your first index fund. Dangerous if it turns you into a day trader,” Hall says.

SoFi Invest

offers a broad range of services designed to guide consumers toward keeping all their financial accounts and transactions under one umbrella.

Besides investments, SoFi customers can take out student loans or mortgages, open a credit card, trade crypto or open a checking account. The company also offers business services.

“SoFi is especially approachable for someone who may feel intimidated by investing,” says Jon Lapp, a CFP and financial planner at Haven Financial Advisors in Manheim, Pennsylvania.

“The app is easy to navigate, and the combination of automated investing and access to financial planning can help a beginner get started without feeling like they need to understand everything first,” he adds.

However, Lapp says he’s concerned that investing apps including SoFi may conflate ease of trading with good investing.

“The best platform is the one that encourages consistent contributions, diversification and a long-term plan rather than frequent trading,” Lapp says. “SoFi does offer a broad range of financial products outside of investing, so they are often a recommendation I give to someone looking for a one-stop shop.”

[Read: ]

Webull

is a zero-commission trading app popular with active, tech-savvy traders. It offers stocks, ETFs, options and crypto.

Features that attract new and seasoned investors include advanced charting, extended trading hours, paper trading and AI-powered market news.

But there are some limitations: Investors who want to buy mutual funds must open an IRA account, and Webull doesn’t offer forex trading.

However, Webull’s charting capabilities are a strength, Noah Schwab says. “If someone genuinely wants to learn technical analysis, the tools are there.”

However, he says technical analysis may teach a new investor to think in days instead of a decades-long time horizon. “The skill a beginner needs most is doing nothing for long stretches, and no charting package teaches that,” he adds.

Acorns

This app’s claim to fame is that it automatically invests spare change, removing some friction from the process of investing. Acorns also offers automated retirement accounts called Acorns Later, as well as custodial accounts for kids, dubbed Acorns Early Invest. The company’s debit card funnels rewards straight into users’ portfolios.

The app builds diversified ETF portfolios based on your individual , with the idea of encouraging a consistent, low-effort habit of investing.

“I’ve been using Acorns since 2020 to invest without overthinking it,” Price says. The app is especially well suited to the “spender” personality type. For those who struggle to save intentionally, Acorns removes the decision-making.

“If you’re a beginner, this is where I’d start,” Price says.

Betterment

is best known as a platform for balanced ETF portfolios.

It also offers automated portfolio rebalancing, which means investors never have to think about what holdings to buy or sell. Betterment features include tax-loss harvesting, goal-based planning and a .

Premium users get unlimited access to CFPs as well. And the app rounds out its retirement suite with traditional and , as well as Simplified Employee Pension IRAs for self-employed investors.

Betterment, says Hall, is the top choice for someone who wants no part of picking stocks or funds.

“Answer a few questions and it builds and rebalances a diversified portfolio for you, automatically, forever,” he says.

“Yes, there’s a small management fee, but for a beginner that fee buys the single most valuable thing there is: you leaving it alone,” Hall adds. “Set it, automate it, walk away.”

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It’s never been easier to invest in crypto indirectly via digital payment apps, online brokerage accounts and cryptocurrency exchanges. However, crypto investors who want to maintain true ownership of their digital assets still need to use a crypto wallet. Here’s what investors need to know about crypto wallets, why they are necessary and which are the best crypto wallets of 2026.

What Are Crypto Wallets?

Crypto wallets are software applications or hardware devices used to store crypto. Instead of storing hard currency, crypto wallets store private keys, which are passwords needed to send or receive cryptocurrency. Crypto wallets can be hardware devices similar to USB sticks, or they can be digital apps accessed on a smartphone or other device.

Because there is no physical crypto, digital access to must be stored in some form of wallet. Anyone with access to a wallet’s private keys has access to all the cryptocurrency stored using the wallet. Major crypto blockchains are extremely secure, but a crypto owner’s stake is only as secure as the wallet it’s stored in.

Crypto wallets help cryptocurrency users interact with blockchain networks, and there are several different types of wallets. Crypto wallets are broken into two main categories: hot wallets and cold wallets. Hot wallets, or crypto wallets connected to the internet, typically make it faster and easier for users to trade and spend their cryptocurrency. Cold wallets, wallets not connected to the internet, are relatively secure compared to hot wallets, but they typically make it more difficult for users to use their crypto.

Why Are Crypto Wallets Necessary?

In the early days of crypto investing, crypto wallets were absolutely necessary to own and use any type of cryptocurrency. In 2026, the crypto landscape has changed tremendously. Crypto wallets are no longer necessary but may still be the preferred approach for many investors.

Today, centralized crypto exchanges such as Coinbase and Kraken provide their own wallets to make buying and selling crypto easy for users. Likewise, digital payment processors such as Venmo and PayPal allow users to buy and sell certain cryptos directly in their apps without any need for a dedicated wallet. Finally, there are several spot crypto exchange-traded funds that investors can buy just like stocks within an online brokerage account. These funds include the iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (ticker: ) and the iShares Ethereum Trust ETF ().

These options offer investors convenient ways of owning crypto, but they also have one common drawback — lack of custody. Without owning and controlling your own personal crypto wallet, you do not actually own the cryptocurrency you hold in your account. Instead, you simply own a claim against the cryptocurrency based on the terms of your agreement with the cryptocurrency exchange, payment app or brokerage account that has custody over the crypto.

Because these centralized platforms actually hold the private keys to their users’ cryptocurrency, problems can arise in the event of a bankruptcy. For example, users of collapsed crypto exchange FTX were legally classified as “unsecured creditors,” and were exposed to huge losses when the company failed.

Best Crypto Wallets of 2026

Crypto users who want to use their own private crypto wallet in 2026 should consider a number of factors when choosing which wallet is best for their circumstances. Before using a crypto wallet, make sure you have thoroughly researched its reputation among other crypto users, as well as factors such as its security measures, its blockchain and token support and its recovery and backup measures.

Here are five of the best crypto wallets of 2026:

1. Ledger Nano X

2. Trezor Safe 5

3. MetaMask

4. Trust Wallet

5. Exodus

1. Ledger Nano X

Ledger is a popular cold-storage hardware crypto wallet manufacturer. The company’s hardware wallets integrate with its Ledger Wallet app, which allows users to easily and securely trade, exchange and manage their digital assets. The Ledger Nano X is one of Ledger’s mid-tier hardware crypto wallets, offering an attractive balance of features at a reasonable price of only $99. Ledger Nano X users can manage and secure more than 15,000 different coins and tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP. In addition, up to 100 apps can be installed per Ledger Nano X device, and its CC EAL5+ certified secure chip provides a high level of security.

2. Trezor Safe 5

Trezor is another hardware cryptocurrency wallet maker that served as one of the pioneers of the crypto storage industry. Trezor’s unique open-source software model makes it appealing for crypto users who prioritize both security and transparency. The Trezor Safe 5 is one of Trezor’s mid-tier wallets, priced at $129. In addition to seamlessly integrating with user-friendly desktop and mobile apps, the Trezor Safe 5’s NDA-free EAL 6+ Secure Element along with PIN and passphrase protection makes the wallet extremely secure. The Trezor Safe 5’s universal hardware wallet allows users to manage thousands of coins and tokens, and its is designed exclusively for BTC.

[Read: ]

3. MetaMask

MetaMask is a popular hot, mobile crypto wallet and browser extension that is best known for its intuitive user interface. Because of MetaMask’s advanced Web3 integration, it is a popular wallet for developers building Web3 applications, protocols or non-fungible token (NFT) marketplaces on Ethereum or Ethereum-compatible networks. MetaMask is known as a top choice for any users looking to trade Ether and NFTs, and it’s absolutely free. The wallet is also easy to set up by simply downloading and installing the MetaMask browser extension in Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge or Brave. Once installed, just create a new wallet and choose a login password.

4. Trust Wallet

Trust Wallet is a free, open-source mobile hot wallet that is one of the most downloaded crypto apps in the world. It currently supports more than 10 million digital assets, over 100 blockchain networks and more than 600 million NFTs. The Trust Wallet app also includes a built-in decentralized applications (dApps) browser that allows users to conveniently interact with DeFi platforms and dApps directly without switching to a separate browser. Trust Wallet is a great option for traders who hold several different types of digital assets and are looking for a one-stop wallet to manage everything directly on their phones.

5. Exodus

Exodus is a free desktop and mobile crypto wallet that makes owning and managing crypto as painless as possible for beginners. Exodus may not have as many features or support as many assets as other more advanced wallets, but it still supports more than 1 million digital assets. Exodus’ user interface is intuitive and clean, and it prioritizes 24/7 customer service and educational materials for all of its users to help even the most novice crypto trader confidently navigate the platform and avoid becoming overwhelmed by technical jargon. The company’s world-class security team even includes top 10 HackerOne researchers.

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CPUs are the “main brain” of a computer, handling general tasks one by one, and a GPU is a specialized chip with thousands of smaller cores built to process massive amounts of data at the exact same time (a technology called parallel processing).

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On Wall Street in 2026, investors continue to snap up shares of CPU and GPU stocks, mainly because the explosive growth of has created record-breaking global demand for high-performance microprocessors, and both chip types certainly qualify. On the AI front, CPUs still run operating systems, databases and enterprise applications, and coordinate AI workloads, while GPUs perform the parallel processing required to train and run AI models.

There’s a third essential slice of the chip market, too: Custom AI accelerators and networking chips developed by Broadcom Inc. (ticker: ) and others are silicon solutions for hyperscalers that optimize performance and reduce costs, both appealing prospects to already budget-strapped AI developers.

Taken together, these market-leading chip channels are driving heavy demand in AI infrastructure, data centers and advanced processors. The big question for investors is how to tell whether companies like Nvidia Corp. (), Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (), Broadcom or Arm Holdings PLC () still have room to grow versus simply benefiting from the AI enthusiasm that’s already reflected in their share prices.

Market experts believe investors must look at these companies on an individual basis when answering the query, as valuations are very different.

“Using calendar 2027 consensus EPS estimates, NVDA trades at 15.8x, AVGO trades at 18.5x, AMD trades at 33.1x and ARM trades at 82.1x,” Matt Stith, director of equity research at Cincinnati-based Bartlett Wealth Management, said recently.

Based on price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios, Stith says, the expectations are very different from company to company. He says NVDA and AVGO are not currently riding AI hype as much. “On the other hand, given where the multiples are, expectations and enthusiasm are much higher for AMD and ARM,” Stith says.

How does it all shake out for AI semiconductor stocks? These five CPU and GPU stocks should hold their own in the tech segment of an investment portfolio:

*As of July 30.

**Source: Finviz. Represents enterprise value to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.

Nvidia Corp. ()

For much of the 2020s, Nvidia has dominated the data center and AI graphics processing unit market with its advanced architecture and CUDA software ecosystem. Trading at about $197 per share and up a tepid 2% this year, all that success has turned Nvidia into the king of cash, producing roughly $158 billion in free cash flow in the past two fiscal years.

While market watchers say NVDA remains a stellar stock for the long haul, there are factors that could bear down on unsuspecting investors, and that goes pretty much for all chip stocks. “Beyond revenue growth, I want to see gross margins holding or expanding, because that tells you whether a company has pricing power or is just riding volume,” says Jenna Lofton, founder of StockHitter.com and a Wall Street-trained investment strategist.

Lofton also watches customer concentration closely, as companies like Nvidia and Broadcom both lean heavily on a handful of hyperscaler customers. “Consequently, any pullback in Google, Meta or Microsoft’s capex plans hits these stocks harder than people expect,” Lofton says. “Data center market share matters too, but margins are the tell that separates a real moat from a temporary tailwind.”

Contrary to popular opinion, Lofton tells investors not to just buy Nvidia and call it quits. “A more diversified approach is one dominant GPU or ASIC name like Nvidia or Broadcom, paired with a foundry play like TSMC, since basically everyone in the industry needs their manufacturing capacity; and then a memory name like Micron, since AI chips are driving serious demand for high-bandwidth memory,” Lofton says. “If you want simpler exposure without picking winners, something like the VanEck Semiconductor ETF () gets you the whole sector in one ticker.”

Broadcom Inc. ()

Serving as an indirect play on AI rather than a direct manufacturer of standard GPUs, Palo Alto, California-based Broadcom is up 7% so far in 2026. Specifically, the company co-designs custom AI chips (ASICs) directly for hyperscalers like Google, Meta Platforms Inc. (META) and OpenAI.

The company made big news this week with a new $200 billion strategic partnership deal with Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (005930.KS) that J.P. Morgan estimates could be valued at $1 trillion in future revenues for AVGO. The deal is expected to bring the two brands together on next-generation high-bandwidth memory products for .

While Broadcom doesn’t receive as much investor focus as Nvidia, larger investors have increasingly recognized AVGO as one of AI’s biggest beneficiaries, as its main business is designing custom AI chips and mastering AI data-center connectivity. Many Wall Street analysts view Broadcom as one of the premier “second-wave AI” investments because nearly every large AI data center depends on high-speed networking in addition to GPUs.

The finances back that sentiment up. Second-quarter results exceeded expectations, and future guidance suggests $29.4 billion in Q3 revenue, up 84% year over year. Meanwhile, AVGO shares are up 25% over the past year, and consensus analyst sentiment sees an average 12?month target price around $516, indicating a 35% upward swing in stock value, according to ratings site TipRanks.com.

In particular, Morgan Stanley’s Joseph Moore taps Broadcom as a clear AI favorite, citing an expected 80% market share in Google’s TPU chips as a key factor.

[Read: ]

Intel Corp. ()

Why not Intel? Trading at $92 per share and up 122% year to date, Intel is one of the tech sector’s biggest success stories in 2026. Q2 earnings were twice as high as consensus analyst estimates, a remarkable result. For starters, the CPU company reported second-quarter adjusted earnings of 42 cents per share on revenue of $16.1 billion. That doubled FactSet consensus estimated earnings of 22 cents per share on revenue of $14.4 billion. Intel has come a long way in a short time; at this point in 2025, Intel noted a loss of 10 cents a share on revenue of $12.9 billion.

While there are valid concerns over expected 2026 capital spending, Intel’s C-suite recently reported an adjusted $20 billion heading out the door, over previous estimates of $18 billion, as Intel fights to keep up with demand in the AI chip race.

“Intel is making strong and encouraging progress on its 18A and 14A manufacturing technologies, but the turnaround remains a multiyear story,” says Hendi Susanto, portfolio manager at Gabelli Funds. “The company now needs to prove it can execute at scale with strong yields, high-volume production and high profitability.”

Intel’s outlook for the PC market was also better than expected. “Demand appears to be holding up despite inflationary component costs, and management continues to improve profitability by shifting the product mix toward higher-value offerings,” Susanto says.

Additionally, Intel Foundry has made meaningful progress in reducing operating losses. “The next major milestone is successful execution of its 14A roadmap, which will be critical to winning large external foundry customers and improving long-term profitability,” Susanto notes.

If Intel is successful in that endeavor, “investors should begin to see a clearer path toward significantly higher Foundry profitability,” Susanto adds.

Advanced Micro Devices Inc. ()

AMD is trading at $486 per share after a big pop in late July following news that it’s acquired up to 2.5 gigawatts of data center capacity through a partnership with Core Scientific Inc. (). Up 101% year to date, the Santa Clara, California-based semiconductor powerhouse has seen business boom. AMD’s latest earnings report notes a quarterly revenue rate of $10.25 billion, up from $7.44 billion the prior year. Net profits were $1.4 billion over the same period, compared to $709 million in the same quarter of 2025.

Noting that the month of July has taken more than a trillion dollars off chip market capitalization without a single datapoint showing weaker demand, Ilya Margolin, founder and capital markets analyst at Margolin Consult, cites continued growth in semiconductors and for AMD in particular. “Forward earnings multiples across Nvidia, AMD, Broadcom and Arm differ by more than five times depending on which fiscal year the estimate uses,” Margolin says. “The estimates are carrying the valuation, not the prices.”

Margolin says that AMD continues to expand with leading AI companies, which should pave the way for more growth down the road. “AMD has contracted 6 gigawatts with OpenAI and 6 (gigawatts) with Meta and issued each a (performance-based) warrant for over 160 million shares,” he says. “Premium pricing, contract pricing below a company’s existing margin structure, and volume acquired with equity all land on the revenue line at identical weight.”

Analysts largely back the stock, with a consensus TipRanks analyst review showing a $576 average price target on AMD, representing an 18% hike over AMD’s stock price as of intraday July 30.

Arm Holdings PLC ()

Up 106% year to date, U.K.-based semiconductor processing company Arm Holdings was on a roll up until June 30, and has since dialed back with a 34% share-price loss over the past month, mostly due to a dip in AI chip demand that isn’t expected to last too long. However, it clawed back 7% as of midday July 30 after reporting stellar quarterly results.

Arm’s fiscal Q1 earnings were on target, with the company reporting $270 million in profits at 25 cents per share; that’s up from $130 million at 12 cents per share in the year-ago quarter. Revenues were up 22%, to $1.3 billion, while royalties and licensing numbers were also on the rise, up 22% and 23%, respectively. CEO Rene Haas said he’s seeing robust demand for Arm’s AGI CPU, as customer demand has cleared the $2 billion mark for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, about twice as much as the company pegged only a month ago (at $1 billion).

With its big AI partners tightly in the fold (Nvidia, Amazon Web Services, Google, Microsoft and Qualcomm Inc. () are all customers) and its Neoverse data-center processor core shipments surpassing 1.5 billion, Arm continues to see nothing but green lights ahead for 2026 and the long run.

What to Watch With CPU and GPU Stocks

When evaluating CPU and GPU companies, there are multiple financial and operational metrics that matter beyond revenue growth, including data center market share, gross margins, software ecosystems, customer concentration and spending.

Investors should take note of all of them before buying.

“It starts with AI infrastructure spending; without this, the demand for CPUs and GPUs would be nothing like what we are currently seeing,” Stith says.

Beyond revenue growth, when looking at corporate profitability, Stith advises focusing on gross and operating margins. “A deterioration in these metrics, at some point, could suggest a more competitive environment or weakening demand,” he says. “As companies like GOOG, AMZN and META, for example, look to do more with internally developed silicon, it’s important to understand any changes in who the CPU and GPU companies are selling to.”

Investors tend to bite off more than they can chew by focusing only on the superstar AI stocks, and while it’s understandable, it’s not a great idea, some experts say.

“The biggest mistake an investor can make is thinking that a great company means a great buy,” says Evan Mills, associate financial advisor at Scholar Advising. “Nvidia, Broadcom, AMD and Arm may all have long AI relevance, but the question is how much of the stock price already reflects that optimism.”

As hard as it is for starry-eyed investors to admit, it gets difficult to imagine these companies posting so much gain and continuing their impressive growth trajectories. “Investors last year would have said the exact same thing, and they’ve been waiting for a big pullback that hasn’t come,” Mills says. “That might be because (company) earnings reports haven’t been as bad as people expected, but it could also just mean the optimism is still in the air, that people still believe AI is the future and these companies are the future.”

There’s a good historical example of that trend with Apple Inc. (), where many market players anticipated it beating earnings again and again. “Eventually, even when Apple just matched earnings, it came crashing down, because the optimism was already priced into the stock,” Mills says.

Mills believes it all comes down to the best ecosystem, the deepest customer relationships and the ability to keep customers on their platform rather than switching to a competitor. “More and more of these companies are going to pop up, so there’ll be more competition, and the question is how the frontrunners stay in the lead, or whether they let a newer company catch up with a better product,” Mills says.

That’s not to say these companies will fall or won’t remain at the forefront, “but it’s very rare to see an early frontrunner stay this far ahead for a long, prolonged stretch,” he adds.

Perhaps the biggest risk in the AI chip industry is a pullback in hyperscaler capex. “If Google, Amazon, Microsoft and Meta ever pump the brakes on data center spending even slightly, these stocks get hit hard and fast because so much of the growth story assumes that spending keeps accelerating forever,” Lofton says. “Export restrictions are the other wildcard; anything that changes access to Taiwan manufacturing or blocks chip sales to certain countries can reshuffle who wins overnight.”

Lofton is also eyeing custom silicon from the hyperscalers themselves: “If Google or Amazon gets good enough at designing their own chips in-house, that quietly erodes demand for the merchant chipmakers.”

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Stair lifts offer a practical solution for those living with and disability issues to access upper floors. This option, however, doesn’t come cheap. Learn how much stair lifts cost, whether Medicare covers them and strategies for paying.

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Understanding Stair Lifts and Home Mobility Needs

Stair lifts are professionally installed, mechanical devices designed to transport people up and down stairs. They typically consist of a rail mounted to the treads of stairs with a chair or lifting platform attached.

Users sit on the chair or platform wearing a seat belt or safety bar and are transported along the rail. (They should not be confused with , which are normal chairs with a motorized lifting device to help people with mobility issues safely get up and sit down.)

Stair lifts are commonly used by individuals who are prone to , have disabilities or are living with chronic diseases that affect mobility, such as:

—

—

— Muscular dystrophy

— Paralysis

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— Spinal cord injuries

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Average Costs of Stair Lifts

Stair lift costs vary based on staircase complexity and layout. According to various estimates, a basic installation on a straight staircase typically starts around $2,000. However, for curved or custom-designed staircases, costs can climb to $30,000.

Key factors affecting stair lift pricing

Elements that also impact the cost include:

— Accessories. Most stair lifts come in basic and deluxe models. The costlier stair lifts offer footrests, a remote control, enhanced safety sensors and key locks.

— Operating costs. The cost of electricity to operate a modern stair lift is comparable to that of many small household appliances. You may also opt for a backup battery in case your home loses power during a storm.

— Seat features. There are several seat styles to choose from, such as collapsible, angled seats that allow users to slightly recline or swivel seats that allow the individual to get out of the chair without twisting.

— Weight capacity. Selecting a make and model of a stair lift that can support the user’s weight is an important consideration. For instance, a lightweight user with minimal stair usage may suffice with a basic model, while a heavier or more frequent user may require a heavy-duty stair lift.

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Does Medicare Cover Stair Lifts?

Unfortunately, original (specifically ) does not cover stair lifts because they aren’t considered (DME). Medicare considers stair lifts home modifications rather than DME.

Potential coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan

In certain circumstances, if deemed , you may get coverage for a stair lift through a plan.

In 2019, federal policy changes began to allow to offer a wider range of supplemental benefits, including nonmedical benefits, such as .

“Some Medicare Advantage plans do offer coverage of ‘home modifications’ that may include stair lifts as a supplemental benefit,” says Jane Sung, director of healthcare costs and access at AARP Public Policy Institute. “Consumers should be aware that coverage of supplemental benefits are typically limited, so they should contact their insurer for details.”

Government and community assistance programs

Outside of Medicare, check with local and national organizations to see if they offer any financial support for stair lifts, including such groups as:

— Veterans Affairs (VA). If you served in the U.S. armed forces, you can reach out to the VA and apply for a grant to cover the cost of a stair lift. The VA program provides certain grants to veterans who require medical devices and equipment, though specific qualifications apply.

— Area Agencies on Aging. These local organizations offer services and resources to older adults to help them and remain independent. They can provide connections to local and regional nonprofits and programs to help cover the cost of getting a stair lift.

What Mobility Devices Will Medicare Cover?

Although stair lifts, Medicare Part B does cover certain mobility devices and equipment. However, there are specific rules regarding coverage.

DME, for instance, such as canes and crutches, hospital beds, and oxygen equipment and accessories, must be ordered by your doctor, who will verify that you have a medical need requiring such assistance. This equipment must also come from a Medicare-qualified supplier, who may request and send the request and required documents to Medicare. You do not have to take any steps on your end.

Other equipment, specifically power wheelchairs and scooters, requires additional work, according to :

— You must complete a face-to-face examination.

— You must receive a written prescription from your provider.

You can only receive a wheelchair or scooter if they’re medically necessary.

After you pay your Medicare Part B deductible, Medicare will pay for 80% of the cost, and you are responsible for 20%. Depending on the type of equipment, you may need to rent or buy the equipment for Medicare coverage. If you have a , contact your plan to find out about costs and which DME suppliers you can use.

Affordable Alternatives to Buying a Stair Lift

Consider these ways to reduce the expense of purchasing a quality stair lift:

— Rental option. If you need a stair lift for only a few months, it’s generally more cost-effective to rent a stair lift instead of buying one.

— Rent to buy. Some companies will allow you to credit back part of your rental costs should you decide to purchase the stair lift. Be sure to ask about this option before you sign the rental contract.

— Preowned stair lift. A preowned stair lift will usually cost less than a new stair lift and will have been reconditioned for safety. Make sure to have the preowned stair lift inspected before purchasing.

— Private foundations: There are nonprofit organizations that will help purchase stair lifts for certain individuals in need. StairLifts for Vets, for instance, helps veterans live at home safely by offering mobility options like stair lifts.

If the flight of stairs is especially short, you might consider a less-expensive wheelchair ramp. Another option is a vertical platform lift, which provides vertical access commonly used to create access between the ground level and a porch or deck and is considered a space-efficient solution.

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From paying down debt to saving for retirement, a major purchase or even a rainy day, those cash back dollars can potentially pay you back on multiple occasions.

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What Is Credit Card Cash Back?

Credit card cash back is a type of reward offered by some credit cards that gives you a percentage of eligible purchases back in cash. The best tend to offer rewards of at least 1% cash back, with others offering rotating bonus categories with rewards of 3% to 5%.

While those percentages may seem small, they can really add up over time. For example, say you have a cash back credit card that you use to buy groceries every month. If that card gives you 2% cash back on your bill and you spend $600 monthly on groceries, you’ll earn $144 in cash back for the year. And if you pay your credit card bill in full each month and avoid paying interest, those rewards could translate to serious savings.

How Can You Receive Cash Back?

You can receive cash back from your credit card in various ways. While your options will vary based on your card, some of the most popular ways to redeem credit card cash back include:

— Cash. You can request a mailed check or an electronic deposit into your bank account.

— Statement credit. Use your accumulated rewards to remove a chunk from your credit card balance.

— Gift cards. Redeem your cash for gift cards from your favorite retailers.

— Merchandise. Many credit cards offer shopping sites where you can use rewards to buy merchandise from top brands.

— Travel. Your rewards could take you to the sky if your credit card offers miles, which can be used toward travel purchases.

Best Ways to Redeem Cash Back

If you’re looking to build sound financial habits, the best ways to redeem cash back rewards likely won’t be to buy merchandise or gift cards. Instead, you can use your rewards to improve your financial picture and save for the future. And sure, using cash back to save might not have the allure of a shopping spree or a tropical trip over winter break. However, it’s a move that could pay serious dividends today and down the line.

Pay Off Debt

If you have high-interest debt, you can use your rewards to bring those balances down. “Make extra payments or more than the minimum payment by using your cash back rewards,” says Derek Miser, chief managing member at Miser Wealth Partners in Tennessee.

Not only can this move help you pay down debt faster, says Miser, but it can also lead to substantial savings on interest. Plus, there’s a bonus when you use your credit card cash back to pay down debt because it may just increase your credit score.

Pay for a Major — or Surprise — Expense

Whether your laptop is about to break or you’re faced with an extremely expensive college textbook purchase, cash back rewards can help. You can redeem rewards to pay off a major expense, which essentially erases the purchase from your credit card bill.

It’s important to remember that many credit cards offer flexible ways to redeem your cash back, says Chris Roncari, senior vice president and head of personal loans for Happen Bank. The way you redeem rewards from month to month can vary. “Understanding that flexibility can really help you maximize the value of your credit card,” says Roncari.

Start or Grow an Emergency Fund

Instead of letting your rewards sit in your credit card account, you can redeem your credit card rewards for cash and deposit it into your savings account that earns interest. By doing so, you can build up an and potentially avoid the accumulation of credit card debt if life ends up throwing you a curveball.

“Cash back rewards put towards an emergency fund is more important than using them for a vacation,” says Miser, especially if you don’t have an emergency fund to begin with or need to build up your balance. A good rule of thumb is to have three to six months’ expenses in savings.

Save Toward Major Goals

Big goals require a solid savings commitment. Redeeming your credit card rewards for cash back on a regular basis can help increase your savings account balance. You can put those cash rewards to work in several different ways, including:

— Contributing to a college savings account, like a

— Stashing cash in a to prepare for a major purchase, like a down payment on a house

— Putting cash once a year into a for a major long-term goal

The bottom line is to make use of the current high-interest-rate environment in order to build your savings instead of keeping your cash back rewards in your credit card account.

Invest for Retirement

“It may not seem obvious, but cash back rewards can be a strategic way to boost retirement savings,” says Miser. You can use your credit card’s cash payout option to transfer money to your bank account. From there, you can contribute to your individual retirement account.

It may seem counterintuitive, but spending with your credit card could potentially be the reason why you’re prepared for retirement — of course, provided you’re paying off your balance regularly and not accumulating credit card debt. Using your cash back card is a move that could improve your financial security later in life, says Miser. The more you save today, the more money you have enjoying the benefits of compound interest. Plus, all IRAs have potential tax advantages, including the deduction of contributions or tax-free distributions during retirement.

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How Can You Maximize Cash Back?

Earning cash back rewards is one thing, but knowing how to maximize them is another. “The No. 1 piece of advice I give is to take a few minutes to remind yourself about all the benefits and rewards details on the cards you already have,” says Roncari.

These tips can help you maximize your credit card’s cash back benefits:

Know Your Spending Categories

Some credit cards pay a flat cash back rate, while others assign specific cash back rates to different spending categories. Additionally, some credit cards have rotating or custom categories that you’ll need to track so you can get the highest cash back rates. Reviewing your card’s cash back features and spending categories can help ensure you’re not missing out on valuable earnings.

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Know Your Caps

Many credit cards have caps on how much cash back you can earn in a quarter or a year. For example, your card offers 3% cash back on groceries up to $1,000 per quarter and then 1% on all purchases after that. If you spend $700 monthly on groceries for your family of four, you’re only earning $11 quarterly in cash back after exceeding the $1,000 spending limit.

To boost your cash back, you could use a different cash back credit card to earn a higher rewards rate after reaching the other card’s limit. You could also look for a different credit card that offers a higher cap on the categories that align with your spending patterns.

Know Your Perks

Some cash back credit cards have programs that could enable you to earn even more cash back with every online purchase. Whether it’s a shopping portal or a web browser extension, these programs can help you earn higher cash back rewards with participating retailers.

“When you have a choice of where to shop, check to see if your credit card has a meaningful cash back offer at specific stores to help you save even more,” says Roncari.

Browser extensions automatically detect the website you’re on and display the store’s cash back rate so you can activate the offer. When you shop through a card’s shopping portal, it will connect your purchase to your credit card.

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What do decisions like this mean for homeowners and potential buyers? Here’s how Fed policy can impact mortgage rates and what it means for you.

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How Does the Fed Affect Mortgages?

The housing market is sensitive to changes in interest rates. Don’t expect to automatically decrease, however, if the Fed targets a lower interest rate. In fact, long-term fixed mortgage rates generally react to the same conditions that drive the Fed to make its decisions and not necessarily to a Fed interest rate change itself.

“The Federal Reserve does not directly determine the mortgage rate specifically, but it has tools to indirectly control various interest rates,” says Yong Jin Park, associate professor of economics at Connecticut College. One of these tools is setting the target range for the federal funds rate, which influences short-term lending rates.

Financial institutions establish their own base rate for their lending products, called the , which is typically set a few percentage points above the federal funds rate. Loans based on the prime rate, including construction loans, some adjustable-rate mortgages and home equity financing, tend to get more expensive when the Fed increases rates.

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When setting the benchmark rate, Fed policymakers determine a target range they feel will best balance economic growth and inflation.

“Traditionally, the Fed raises interest rates and keeps them high to slow down economic activities to control inflation,” Park said. The Fed may then decide to lower its benchmark rate “only when there is enough evidence that the inflation is under control,” Park says.

When inflation is persistent, the Fed may have to keep interest rates elevated. “Sticky” inflationary conditions also tend to keep mortgage rates from falling.

How the Fed Impacts Fixed-Rate vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

Homeowners who have a fixed-rate mortgage won’t see their interest rate change regardless of moves by the Fed. Fixed-rate mortgages have rates and payments that don’t change over the life of the loan.

Prospective homebuyers shopping for a new fixed-rate mortgage could be affected by Fed decisions, however. And have rates that can fluctuate along with broader market conditions, including the Fed’s changes to the federal funds rate.

“Homeowners with an adjustable mortgage are likely more directly impacted by the Fed’s policies,” says Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com. “Many ARMs are tied to the secured overnight financing rate, which does tend to vary with the Fed’s policy rate,” she says. The SOFR is a reference rate that is often used as a benchmark for other variable interest rates.

Adjustable-rate mortgages have introductory rates that are fixed for some period of time — generally one to 10 years, with five years being the most common. After the introductory period ends, the loan begins adjusting according to its terms. Adjustable mortgage rates are tied to short-term indexes like certificate of deposit rates and Treasury bill rates, and those tend to rise along with the federal funds rate.

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How the Fed Affects HELOCs and Home Equity Loans

usually have adjustable interest rates. Therefore, if the Fed raises interest rates, HELOC rates will likely rise, too.

typically deliver a lump sum of funds with a fixed interest rate. If you already have one, your rate won’t change as a result of the Fed’s policy moves. If you’re shopping for a new home equity loan, however, know that home equity rates tend to mirror market trends. Higher overall interest rates mean you’ll likely see higher home equity loan rates, too.

What Will Happen to Mortgage Interest Rates?

fluctuate depending on many factors, including economic conditions and investor appetite for mortgage-backed securities, or MBS. MBS are effectively bundles of mortgage loans that pay investors a steady yield.

“When the economy is growing, investors generally have many opportunities to pursue,” Hale says. Therefore, they may be less interested in buying mortgage-backed securities, which are a relatively safe, and thus lower-yielding, investment. If the economy weakens, though, investors may flock to these types of assets, driving rates lower.

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How to Get an Affordable Mortgage Despite High Interest Rates

You can’t control the U.S. economy, but you can take charge of your finances. If you’re shopping for a new mortgage, home equity loan or HELOC, there are some steps you can take to .

— Compare rates. One of the most important steps in getting a mortgage is comparing multiple lenders and mortgage offers. Different loan types can have very different interest rates.

— Shore up your credit. Review your credit report, correct any mistakes and make sure your credit score is the best it can be. If you’re carrying credit card balances, paying them down will help.

— Increase your down payment. Maximize your down payment, perhaps by saving more aggressively or accepting a gift from family. Putting down 20% or more can lower the amount you need to borrow, help you avoid paying private mortgage insurance and decrease your interest rate.

— Buy down the rate. Another way to lower your mortgage rate is to . That means paying money up front (one “point” equals 1% of the loan amount) to lower your interest rate and payment. Only do this if your monthly savings over time will offset the initial cost of the . If you sell your home or refinance your mortgage before that break-even point, you’ll lose money.

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