Scams can happen to anyone. Experts explain how to safeguard your data and money from being exploited or stolen by fraudsters. This episode originally published November 7, 2023.

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There are ways to travel on a budget without completely draining your bank account — but you might have to let go of the over-the-top luxury travel images you see on Instagram. In this episode, we'll help you travel with intention, save ahead and maximize travel tools to get the best deals and savings on the trips you want to take.

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You want to support your loved one on their special day — but that can come with a steep financial cost. How do you choose between the three destination weddings? How do you say no to a friend's big event without damaging your relationship? In this episode, Life Kit reporter Andee Tagle breaks down the cost of being there: how much big celebrations like a bachelorette trip or baby shower might cost you and what to do if you're worried about your budget.

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As we say goodbye to 2024, let's also bid farewell to some less than ideal money habits — like unnecessary impulse purchases, credit card debt getting out of hand and the trap of lifestyle creep. This episode will give helpful tips on how to start the new year on good financial footing.

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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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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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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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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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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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This week, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by half a point. NPR's Laurel Wamsley breaks down how it may affect your financial plans. High-yield savings accounts won't yield quite so much. And for recent homebuyers, it might also be time to think about refinancing.

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