Personal finance

Heading off to college is exciting, but it also comes with new responsibilities. If you’re starting college this fall or you’re currently a student, here are some expert recommendations.

The payment schedule for Social Security recipients will look a bit different for the month of August.

With headlines about inflation, layoffs, and market volatility, many people are feeling anxious about their finances. Investment educator and author Teri Ijeoma joins California Live’s Jessica Vilchis to break down four of the biggest money mistakes people make during uncertain economic times and shares practical ways viewers can build smarter financial habits and long-term wealth.

An order signed by President Donald Trump calls for a new government website where people can compare private-sector retirement savings accounts.

Budgeting expert Andrea Woroch joins California Live’s Jessica Vilchis to share simple strategies to reduce prescription costs, catch billing errors, and take advantage of benefits like FSAs and preventive care to help keep healthcare expenses down.

A major condom supplier says prices could increase 20% to 30% as the war with Iran disrupts shipping, delays deliveries and raises the cost of key materials used to make condoms. Other everyday products, including lipstick, detergent, shoes, shaving cream and tape, could also be affected.

How do you prepare for thousands of dollars in upfront costs? One option is a health savings account, or HSA.

With tax day approaching, it’s a great time to declutter your credit and get it in shape for summer. Here are practical ways to improve your credit score this spring.

The wealth gap is at a modern-day high, presenting a stark picture for millions of Americans.

Debt collectors don’t always play by the rules, and with scams on the rise, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your finances.

Years of skyrocketing home prices have made saving up for a down payment to buy a home a major hurdle for many aspiring homebuyers.

A provision of Trump’s tax legislation, Trump Accounts are meant to give $1,000 to every newborn, so long as their parents open an account.

Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill is changing how taxes will look this year. Here’s what you need to know to save as much money as possible on your income.

The White House did not respond to questions about how the president seeks to cap the rate or whether he has spoken with credit card companies about the idea.

Early and routine maintenance not only fixes visible damage but also ensures healthy living environments and protects homes’ long-term value.

California Live’s Amber Pfister sits down with finance expert, entrepreneur, and UCLA lecturer Neha Kumar to learn how AI tools can help you take control of your money in 2026. Neha shares tips for analyzing spending habits, creating smart budgets, and finding ways to save while still enjoying the things you love.

When building your goals for 2026, experts recommend focusing less on the past and more on an optimistic yet realistic vision for the future.

It’s that time of year when credit-card balances start climbing. Here are some tips for managing and paying off your debt in the new year.

The holidays may be over but your credit card statements are just getting started. Personal finance expert Lynnette Khalfani-Cox shares her tips for clearing post-holiday debt.

California Live’s Jessica Vilchis sits down with financial expert Rose Han to break down why the holidays have become such a stressful, high-pressure spending season and the simple strategies families can use to stay on budget. From setting money limits early to giving meaningful low-cost gifts, Rose shares her practical tips for keeping the season joyful without overspending.