Life Kit: Money (NPR)

A strong credit score can make major purchases and financial transactions much easier. Here's how to make yours better and keep it high. (This episode originally ran in November 2020.)

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It's time to get your MBA — the easy way. We're sharing an episode from Planet Money's Summer School. In this lesson: Everyone has a million dollar business idea (e.g., "Shazam but for movies"), but not everyone has what it takes to be an entrepreneur. You'll hear two case studies with founders who learned the hard way what goes into starting a small business and a biz school professor who chimes in to explain the fundamentals.

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Whether you're paying down credit cards or saving for daily necessities, the best place to start is with a budget. Some simple tools can help. (This episode first ran in November 2019.)

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Financial educator Yanely Espinal shares her don'ts when it comes to money. Don't co-sign loans. Don't make hype-driven investments. Don't spend money you don't have. If you've been making these missteps, don't worry — Espinal has advice on how to create a path forward.

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The Free Application for Federal Student Aid opens to potential college students to fill out on Oct. 1 for the 2022-2023 school year. Here's how to fill out the form to get money for college — and why you should apply now instead of waiting.

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If you wince every time you open up your credit card app or feel stressed just thinking about personal finances, here's how to curb money avoidance and train your brain to face your money woes head-on.

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We're sharing an episode of CNN's personal finance podcast, Diversifying. Host Delyanne Barros explores the question: How does money make you feel? This episode centers on an all too common but under-discussed area of personal finance: money trauma. Learn how to overcome the anxiety and stress associated with money so you can start to make better financial decisions.

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Don't let the sticker price of college paralyze you. This episode gives you smart saving strategies — including how to prioritize your own retirement savings, choosing a 529 plan and what financial aid offices really look at — so you can start saving for your child's college tuition.

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Sometimes we buy things that we later regret spending on: a new sweater that's already falling apart, or a thrifted "vintage" vase that turns out to be a mass-produced dupe. In the moment, it's difficult to resist the temptation of making a purchase. But with a few pointed questions, you can make sure you've done your due diligence and buy something guilt-free. This episode, financial experts offer a framework to help you decide whether or not something is worth buying.

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Picking health insurance takes a lot of work. It's not a one-size-fits-all type of situation, and there are a lot of confusing terms that come up every year. You also need to consider your general health and finances. So how can you make sense of it all?

That's where we come in. In this episode of Life Kit, we'll have experts guide you on where to look for coverage, how to narrow down plans — and how to get trustworthy help if you need it.

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In a financial crisis, like when you lose your job or the country is in a recession, you have to answer some tough questions: what bills should you prioritize? Who should you turn to? Is it ok to ask for a loan? Michelle Singletary, personal finance expert and author of the new book, What To Do With Your Money When Crisis Hits, answers these questions and more.

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Prenups aren't just for the rich and famous. Family law attorney Theresa Viera explains how to talk about it with your partner and decide whether it's right for you. This episode originally published August 31, 2023.

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Credit scores determine whether you can get a mortgage, credit card, auto loan and more. So if your score is subprime, how do you bump it up to above a 700? In this episode, find out how to read your credit report, navigate collections and negotiate payments.

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Talking about death makes many of us uncomfortable, so we don't plan for it. But the reality is even a small amount of planning ensures our final wishes are honored — and makes it easier on our friends and family. This episode will help you get started on making a will and an advanced directive, even if you don't have a big estate.

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If you're not good at saving money, it's not your fault: Humans are hard-wired to focus on the present. But there's a way to beat evolution and build for your future. This episode explains how to make saving automatic and painless.

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Talking about money can feel intimidating, even taboo. But it's also the key to fostering a closer connection with your partner. In this episode, financial therapist Amanda Clayman breaks down five crucial elements to a healthy financial relationship with your significant other.

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Meeting a big financial goal can feel daunting and confusing. How do you make an effective plan when life gets in the way? Credit counselor and financial expert Monique White shares tips to help you buy a laptop, a car, or even a house.

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Life Kit teams up with NPR Education to answer some common questions about student loan relief, including: What's the application process like? What loans qualify for debt relief? What if you have multiple loans?

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Car ownership can be intimidating - and expensive - especially when it comes to upkeep. In this episode of Life Kit, get expert guidance on how to spot and maintain essential safety features in a car, how to find the right mechanic for you and when it's time for a new car.

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Nearly 70 percent of people were deceived into buying a counterfeit product online at least once last year, according to research from Michigan State University. And buying knockoff versions of products can be dangerous. Kari Kammel, the director at the Center for Anti Counterfeiting and Product Protection at Michigan State University, shares tips for how to avoid counterfeit and unsafe products, especially online.

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If the words "crypto," "Bitcoin," "blockchain," "mining," feel overwhelming or confusing Life Kit is here to help. In this episode, experts to demystify cryptocurrencies and give you the tools to decide whether buying some is a good option for you.

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In this special episode, Sam Sanders of NPR's "It's Been A Minute" talks with financial journalist Hannah Seligson and Aminatou Sow from the podcast "Call Your Girlfriend" about why millennials are so financially intertwined with their parents.

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The Supreme Court has decided to strike down the Biden administration's plan to discharge some or all federal student loan debt. The decision impacts tens of millions of Americans – so what can student loan borrowers do to prepare now that the plan is over? NPR's education correspondent Cory Turner gives context and advice for borrowers.

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Tipping requests are on the rise. Businesses that never seemed to ask for a tip, like fast food joints, are now asking for one. Here's how to deal with unexpected requests and more.

A previous version of this story incorrectly said the company Square takes a "chunk of your tip." A representative from Square says while they charge a fee based on the whole transaction, including tip, the worker still gets the full amount of their tip.

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Don't let college anxiety rush you into a financial mistake that could haunt you for years. This Life Kit episode lays out the do's and don'ts of paying for college so that you don't have to mortgage your future before you get there.
Here's what to remember:
- Consider attending community college before transferring to a more expensive four-year school.
- Don't let a school's high price deter you — you may only have to pay a fraction of the advertised price.
- The FAFSA form is the gatekeeper to most student financial aid, so don't put it off.
- Find free money, from federal Pell Grants to college-based aid to scholarships for left-handed tuba players.
- If you or your parents have to borrow beyond federal student lending limits, the degree might not be worth the debt.
- Relax! You don't have to attend an elite school to be happy.

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Groceries aren't cheap but there are ways beyond just looking for sales to make budget meals. To help cut down your grocery bill, we have practical tips for saving money on the food you cook at home.

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The CARES Act provides relief to many student loan borrowers during the coronavirus pandemic. But how do you know if you qualify? What if you're enrolled in Public Student Loan Forgiveness? What about private loans? This episode, a Life Kit collaboration with Death, Sex & Money from WNYC Studios, explains the fine print of how to handle students loans during coronavirus.

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Making more money tends to lead to spending more money. It's a phenomenon known as "lifestyle creep." Paco de Leon, author of Finance for the People, shares advice on keeping your long term financial goals in check and fending off the subconscious urge to automatically increase spending when your income increases.

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Longing to quit your job and follow your passion? Or perhaps take a break to travel? Or move to a new place? First, you'll need to look at your finances. In this episode, Jill Schlesinger, a certified financial planner and business analyst for CBS News, walks through her five steps for assessing your financial situation before a possible life change.

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Dietitian Shana Spence joins Life Kit to share her tips to making nutritious meals without spending more than you have to.

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About 60% of Americans have some money in the stock market — and the markets are not doing great. Your knee-jerk reaction might be to sell. But experts explain why that's not a good idea.

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Wealth isn't just cold, hard cash, says strategic investor Dr. Pamela Jolly. It's whatever you value — and that means generational wealth can take lots of forms. TK Dutes speaks with Dr. Jolly about how to get strategic about leaving a legacy.

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Scams can happen to anyone. Experts explain how to safeguard your data and money from being exploited or stolen by fraudsters.

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If you're in debt, you're not alone. Here's how to make a plan and get yourself out.

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The five-day workweek can feel as preordained as the number of minutes in an hour, but it hasn't always been the norm. Workers fought for a Monday-to-Friday schedule before it became standard in the U.S. in the 1930s. Since then, the nature of work has changed a lot, and now, workers are once again fighting for better conditions, says U.K.-based researcher Will Stronge.

In this episode, Stronge, who co-wrote the book Overtime: Why We Need a Shorter Working Week, discusses what's changed since the 30s and what a shorter workweek offers workers and organizations.

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Money isn't just about numbers. It's about emotions, too. Tiffany 'The Budgetnista' Aliche's new book unpacks the relationships we all have with finances so you can make the most of your cash.

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The new year is a great time to update your budget, say financial experts. Here's what you can do to curb your spending, save for emergencies and keep your investments on track.

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Is unemployment taxed? What about stimulus checks? The pandemic has changed a lot when it comes to filing taxes. In this episode, we break down the filing process and tackle common COVID-19-related tax questions with a CPA.

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Just about every major streaming service has raised its subscription fees. At the same time, there are more programming bundles, membership deals, ad-supported subscriptions and streaming services overall. NPR TV critic and media analyst Eric Deggans shares a streaming strategy to help you get the most bang for your buck.

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Investing doesn't have to be hard. We explain how to grow a nice nest egg and avoid that four-letter word that starts with F ... fees.

Here's what to remember:
- Don't pick your own stocks.
- Don't sell stocks if the market crashes.
- Diversify your portfolio.
- Don't pay too much in fees.
- Invest in index funds, not actively managed funds.
- Rebalance your portfolio every year — then leave it alone.

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Money talks, but how do you make sure your money is sending the right message? Ethical investing isn't magic, but it's one way to try and put your money where your morals are. Here's what you need to know before you get started.

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It is possible to get out of debt fast, but it's a gritty marathon to get to a better place. Here's how to keep up the momentum.

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The time to file your taxes is approaching. For something that's legally required, taxes can be confusing to actually do. This guide explains when and how to hire a tax preparer, covers the latest credits and deductions — and helps you plan ahead for next year.

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There are options beyond living solo or with roommates — and one of them is called 'communal living.' In this arrangement, people don't just simply live together, but share resources and create community. In this episode, co-living enthusiasts explain how it works and how to decide whether it's right for you.

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Even if you use a credit card all the time, it can be difficult to understand the ins and outs of how they work. Whether you're a new credit card owner or just want to make sure you're getting the most out of your card, this episode will walk through the fundamentals of the credit card game.

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It's never too early to start putting away money for retirement. In this episode, NPR's Chris Arnold decodes what you should know — from the types of retirement accounts to strategies for saving. (This episode originally published in October 2020.)

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You don't need to be an expert to grow a nest egg. We'll cover how to build your portfolio, when to sell (or not sell) stocks and how to avoid fees.

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When COVID-19 began, the stock market fell off a cliff — leaving less experienced investors wondering, "should I sell to stop the pain!?" The answer, as it always is, was "NO!" The market has now come roaring back, and analysts are wondering, "Can it last, and should people sell stocks?" In this episode we talk to one of the best investors on the planet about the most successful approach to riding out stock market storms and beyond.

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Life seems full of ever-increasing piles of paperwork – bills to pay, appointments to make, school forms to sign, carpools to organize. Here's how to conquer all the responsibilities on your to-do list so you can get back to real life.

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We could all stand to stretch our cash a little further right now. Life Kit teamed up with financial expert Tiffany Aliche, also known as the Budgetnista, for tips about how to separate needs from wants, stop stress-spending and save for the future.

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The three-year federal pause on student loans is expiring soon. If your financial circumstances have changed, or you just need an explanation of the many payment plans out there, here's a refresher course on how to pay off your student debt.

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One in five Americans struggles with medical bills. The secret is that there's something you can do about it — you just have to know where to look and how to ask.

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Having a baby is one of the biggest - and most expensive - life changes a person can experience. Here's what you need to know about financially planning for a baby, according to Farnoosh Torabi, Editor at Large CNET Money. Find out if there is a magic number that tells you you're ready, what to think about ahead of time and learn what can probably wait.

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Buying a car can be intimidating. This episode will help you strategize to avoid all the potential pitfalls, so you can drive away with a good deal. This episode originally published February 18, 2020.

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Even among the closest of friends, conversations about money and privilege can be awkward. In this episode from Life Kit and The Cut, author Otegha Uwagba discusses how we can break that ice — before it's time to split the check.

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The student loan system is confusing. Sometimes it can seem designed to make borrowers fail. But if you know how to navigate it, you're more likely to save money in the long run.

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Returning to work during the COVID-19 pandemic? This episode helps workers understand their rights, including current rules about unemployment, safety concerns and underlying conditions.

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The pandemic upended work for millions of people. Now, more companies than ever are offering hybrid schedules, allowing employees to split their time between office and home. Working in a hybrid setup can be challenging as well as rewarding. Here are some steps you can take to ease the way.

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Mortgage rates have dropped significantly in recent months, and that means one thing for those who bought a home in the last couple years: It might be time to refinance. You might save hundreds of dollars a month depending on how much you owe. Here's how to get the process started.

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A couple clashes about how much money they need to save before having children. This episode is from our friends This Is Uncomfortable's podcast series on fights about money.

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The prices of goods and services have gone up. How much of that is due to Ukraine or the pandemic? What can our elected officials do to lower prices? And how does inflation slow down? NPR's Marielle Segarra and Stacey Vanek Smith tackle listener queries.

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One in 5 Americans struggles with medical bills. Here are things you do to get medical bills reduced — or even forgiven.

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It's hard to imagine a more boring (and dreaded) word than "mortgage." But if you know where to look, you might find a mortgage that will save you thousands of dollars a year or discover that you qualify for a loan when you didn't think you could.

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Should you merge your finances with a significant other? Keep them separate? Or something in between? Financial therapist Lindsay Bryan Podvin breaks down different ways to handle your finances with a partner and how to keep communication open and honest no matter what financial plan you pick.

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A strong credit score can make major purchases and financial transactions much easier. Here's how to make yours better and keep it high. (This episode originally ran in November 2020.)

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It can be awkward to discuss money when you're in a new relationship. Financial therapist Amanda Clayman suggests following what she calls the "five components of financial intimacy" to get the conversation started.

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It's time for holiday shopping — except this year, some consumers are making the deliberate choice to buy less to protect our environment. In this episode, writer Annaliese Griffin shares tips on online thrift shopping and giving meaningful secondhand gifts.

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It's easy to get into debt, but harder to get out of it — especially if you don't have a plan. This episode offers strategies to help you pay off debt.

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Home prices have shot up in the last year. But with so many people eager to buy, the competition is stiff. If you're in the market to buy a home, this episode offers some advice for how to navigate this seemingly impossible market.

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Buying a car is intimidating. This episode will help you strategize to avoid all the potential pitfalls, so you can drive away with a good deal. (This episode originally ran in Feb. 2020.)

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Ideas on how to have fun this summer without breaking the bank. Go on a "penny date." Throw a movie marathon party. Swap houses with a friend. With a little imagination, you can bring delight and joy — at a low cost — into your sunny days ahead. This episode originally published August 1, 2023.

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Getting your finances in order can be intimidating, especially for freelancers, creatives, and side-giggers. Financial planner and artist Paco de Leon shares simple, holistic advice for tuning up your finances.

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Staying at home means new challenges for your daily habits. This episode, we talk about budget tips and cooking hacks for your self-quarantine time.

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Prenuptial agreements lay out how couples deal with money both during marriage and after divorce. That includes whether you'll have a joint bank account or pay off your loans together. Here's what you should know — and how to start the conversation with your partner.

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It's never too early to start putting away money for retirement. In this episode, NPR's Chris Arnold decodes what you should know — from the types of retirement accounts to strategies for saving.

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Got a side hustle and not sure how to handle your money? Financial coach Paco de Leon, author of 'Finance for the People: Getting a Grip on Your Finances,' explains why you should put your freelance funds into a separate bank account and how to prepare yourself for tax season.

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It's easy to get into debt, but harder to get out of it — especially if you don't have a plan. This episode offers strategies to help you pay off debt

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We help you understand whether you need an adviser, and if you do want one, how to find someone who will act in your best interest.

Here's what to remember:
- Many people don't need to pay for financial advice.
- Use a "fee-only" adviser, not a "fee-based" adviser.
- Consider low-cost options like robo-advisers or Vanguard.
- You might need to break up with your adviser — but you can still be friends.
- Two online resources can help you find an adviser: NAPFA and Kent on Money.

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A strong credit score can make major purchases and financial transactions much easier. Here's how to make yours better and keep it high.

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The coronavirus pandemic has caused vast economic disruptions. Millions of people are filing for unemployment, trying to pay rent and deferring loans. If you've lost work, here are some things you can do.

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As we enter a period of high personal spending, here are 5 tips from past Life Kit experts on how to save money during the holidays and year-round.

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New, sophisticated scams are popping up all the time. Experts explain how to safeguard your data and money from being exploited or stolen by fraudsters. This episode originally published on November 11, 2023.

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High inflation and a possible recession is making life more expensive. Washington Post personal finance columnist Michelle Singletary explains how to manage debt as interest rates increase and prepare for an economic downturn.

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You've taken the leap and enrolled in college! But money issues don't end when you accept your financial aid. Paying your way through school can be stressful, but lots of folks have made it work and they have advice for how you, too, can navigate your years in college.
Here's what to remember:
- Find out what resources your college offers for students — you may have to do some digging.
- It's OK to get a job, but try to find one that's related to what you want to do.
- Make a budget. And don't miss out on that free food!
- When being thrifty isn't enough and you have no more hours for a job, talk to the financial aid office about taking out small federal loans.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help.
- Take care of yourself. You've made it to college: You belong there!

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It's never too early to start putting away money for retirement. In this episode, Washington Post personal finance columnist Michelle Singletary explains how to start building your nest egg by setting savings goals and contributing funds to your retirement plan. This episode originally aired on October 5, 2020.

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We could all stand to stretch our cash a little further right now. Life Kit teamed up with financial expert Tiffany Aliche, also known as the Budgetnista, for tips about how to separate needs from wants, stop stress-spending and save for the future. (This episode originally published in September 2020.)

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There are things we're supposed to do routinely for our health — brush our teeth, shower and exercise. There's a version of that for financial health, too. We'll talk about what those tasks are — and also go beyond the number crunching to talk about mental health and finances.

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If you're struggling to save for long-term goals, find yourself lost in a sea of clutter or are concerned about consumerism and climate change, there are ways to curb your shopping habits. This episode, journalist Stacey Vanek Smith talks to writers, influencers and activists in the sustainable fashion industry about how to reign in overconsumption, rethink our power as consumers and challenge ourselves to buy less.

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If you're not good at saving money, it's not your fault: Humans are hard-wired to focus on the present. But there's a way to beat evolution and build for your future.

Here's what to remember:
- Make savings automatic.
- Save, even if you have student loans.
- Participate in your employer's matching plan.
- Reward yourself for saving.
- Envision your future self.
- Start saving young.


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If you use credit cards in a intentional way, you can free up some valuable perks. We geek out on strategies to make credit cards work for you.

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We could all stand to stretch our cash a little further right now. Life Kit teamed up with financial expert Tiffany Aliche, also known as the Budgetnista, for tips about how to separate needs from your wants, stop stress spending and save for the future.

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Happy New Year! If you want to make a resolution that sticks, the key to success is creating what's known as a SMART goal. This episode outlines how SMART goals work and how they can help you use your time for the things that matter most.

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Dietitian Shana Spence joins Life Kit to share her tips to making nutritious meals without spending more than necessary. (This episode originally ran in October 2020.)

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Dining out with a large group and not sure how to handle the check? In this episode, chef and food writer Kiki Aranita walks us through common dining scenarios to ensure the bill is handled fairly and smoothly.

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There are things we're supposed to do routinely for our health: brush our teeth, shower and exercise. There's a version of that for financial health too. We'll talk about those tasks — and go beyond the number-crunching to explore how our mental health affects our finances. This episode originally published August 15, 2023.

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Just because you're renting your home doesn't mean you can't make it your own. Three home décor experts share their tips to make your rental homey for the long term.

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Does your landlord have to fix that? Should you be worried about that clause in your lease? If you're one of the 35% of Americans renting your home, there's a lot you should know to protect yourself best. We'll discuss rental red flags, learn how to speak the language of landlords and how to decode a lease.

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Investing is the most powerful way that we can save for retirement, college for our children and similar long-term goals. But if you're just getting started it can be hard to separate the good advice from the bad.

In this episode, NPR Life Kit host Chris Arnold offers up a few tips for those who are just entering the world of investing.

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You don't need to spend a lot of money to have fun. Have you done a chocolate bar taste test? Hosted a themed hangout? Gone to a surprise movie night? Here are some ideas to help you save money and maximize entertainment.

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Not sure which cause to support or how much to give? Kevin Scally of Charity Navigator has some advice to help you make the right decisions.

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