US Consumer Spending Sparks 6.4% GDP Growth

U.S. consumers helped push the economy nearly out of its pandemic hole, increasing first-quarter GDP by 6.4% and putting 2021 on track for the best growth in decades.

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Here's What's in the Proposed American Families Plan

President Joe Biden proposed a series of ambitious reforms this week, attempting to profoundly affect family finances and the affordability of childcare and education.

THE BALANCE MORTGAGE CALCULATOR

How Much Home Can You Afford?

Monthly mortgage payments depend on your home price, down payment, and more. This mortgage calculator makes it easy to get a sense of what you can afford.

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Perspectives: The Financial Panther Talks Side Hustles and Safety Nets

The ongoing economic crisis has reshaped people's financial priorities. In this Q&A, we speak with Kevin "Financial Panther" Ha about the value of side hustles.

Initial Claims Fall Again, Set Third Straight Low

The number of initial claims for unemployment dropped for the third week, setting a pandemic-era low again and building confidence that the jobs recovery has begun.

Another New 2% Cash Back Card, Gemini Crypto Card Details, and Barclays' BNPL Plans

This week brings fresh point value data, a new 2% cash back card, details about an upcoming Gemini cryptocurrency rewards card, and more news you may have missed.

Investing in IRS Can Help Pay for Biden's Spending Plan

$1.4 Trillion - That's how much unpaid tax the IRS may be able to recoup from tax cheats if the government makes the kind of agency investments the president proposed.

Minority Communities Have Most Complaints About Financial Firms

Consumers in minority communities report more complaints about how they've been treated by financial companies than people in non-minority communities.

Refinancing Just Got Easier for Low-Income Homeowners

The government is giving certain low-income homeowners a new way to refinance their mortgages, offering an average savings from $100 to $250 a month, the FHFA says.