20 Little-Known Things That Could Help With Bills If You're Living On Just Social Security

These Social Security Changes That Could Put More Money in Your Pocket in 2026

Social Security is a major source of retirement income, and in 2026, several changes could mean more money in your pocket. Here's what's changing and how it could help you.

1. A 2.8% bump to your monthly check: Social Security benefits are going up 2.8% in 2026. For the average retiree, that's roughly $56 more per month. It may not sound like much, but over a year that's an extra $672.
2. The maximum possible benefit just hit a new high: If you've been a high earner, the ceiling is higher than ever. The maximum monthly benefit at full retirement age is now $4,152. And if you can wait until 70 to claim, that number jumps to $5,181 per month.
3. You can earn more without losing benefits: If you're collecting Social Security early and still working, the earnings limits are higher in 2026. You can now earn up to $24,480 before any benefits are withheld, and up to $65,160 in the year you hit full retirement age.
4. A new $6,000 tax deduction for seniors: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act created a new deduction for taxpayers 65 and older: up to $6,000 per person ($12,000 for qualifying married couples). You can claim it whether you itemize or not. It phases out above $75,000 MAGI for singles and $150,000 for joint filers, and it's only available for tax years 2025 through 2028.

These changes could help stretch your benefits further and lower your tax bill in retirement. If you're looking for even more ways to make your money go further, check out these offers from our partners below:

Use this card to pay no interest for 15 months (yes, it is kind of remarkable)

Imagine getting 15 months with 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers (APR then 17.74% - 26.74% (Variable); Balance transfer fee applies). Sounds great — right? You could dramatically change your financial picture with one of the industry-leading no-interest cards - the Discover it^® Cash Back (Rates and fees) - and pay no interest into 2027 on purchases and balance transfers!

If you want to kick high-interest credit card debt to the curb, this is one of the leading cards available. Transfer high-interest debt to this card with a 0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers (APR then 17.74% - 26.74% (Variable)). Cardholders also get a generous intro APR of 0% for 15 months on purchases (APR then 17.74% - 26.74% (Variable)). Your payments can go directly to paying down your balance without incurring a pile of additional interest charges. That could save you hundreds of dollars in interest!

The best part? The Discover it^® Cash Back is accepted by 99% of merchants (according to the February 2025 issue of the Nilson Report), boasts an exceptional cash back rewards rate, and has no annual fee.

Click here to apply now for the Discover it^® Cash Back

Ohio Driver? Cancel your car insurance

Before you renew your current car insurance policy, you owe it to yourself to see what else is out there. Many drivers stick with the same provider for years without checking if they could pay less … and that's exactly how you could end up missing opportunities to save.

Getting a Farmers quote takes just a few minutes, and what you find could surprise you. People who make the switch could end up saving up to $550 on average.¹ <p>Based on average nationwide annual savings of new customers surveyed, excluding HI, SC & Farmers GroupSelect℠, from 2/1/23 to 9/19/24 who switched their Auto insurance policy to a Farmers® branded policy, responded to the survey, and realized savings. Potential savings vary by customer and may vary by state and product.</p> That could be real money back in your pocket every single month.

If you want to see if you could be paying less with Farmers, here's what to do:

1. Click the link below and enter your zip code.
2. Answer a few quick questions about your car and driving history to get matched with a quote.
3. If you find a better rate, switch your policy and start saving.

Get your quote now and see if you could pay less for the same coverage.

Lame Credit Card Bonuses: Try this one instead that lets you earn a $200 bonus + up to 5% cash back! 

Apply for the Chase Freedom Unlimited^®(Rates and fees) and you could earn a $200 bonus after spending an easy $500 in the first 3 months. This card is criminally underrated with one of the best spend-to-bonus ratios we've ever seen. The bonus is worth almost half the spend!

No additional work is required. Apply for the card, see if you're approved, spend $500 within 3 months, and earn a $200 bonus. Boom!

The Chase Freedom Unlimited^®(Rates and fees) also lets you earn cash back on everything you buy: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Plus, if you want to finance large purchases or pay down high-interest debt, you can also do that with this card. Take advantage of 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months. After the intro period, the APR is 18.24% - 27.74% Variable. Do not skip this card, it's a sleeper hit with insane value and NO annual fee. 

Good or excellent credit (typically 670 or higher) is recommended.

Click here to Apply Now to the Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

See if your credit card debt is eligible for this debt relief program

If you have a lot of debt, getting out of it can feel stressful (and nearly impossible). Here’s the problem: the longer you put off tackling it, the harder it may get to fix. If you don’t take control of it early on, it can add undue stress to your life for years. But what if there was a way to get out of debt once and for all?

National Debt Relief could help. If you have more than $30,000 in debt from credit cards, medical bills, collections, or personal loans, their certified debt specialists may be able to help you settle your debt for less than you owe — with one low monthly program payment.

Best of all? There are zero upfront fees, and you could be debt-free in 24-48 months. To get started, just answer a few simple questions and get connected with a caring debt specialist. The consultation is completely free and only takes 30 seconds to see if you qualify!² <p>Please note that all calls with the company may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance and training purposes. Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 45% before fees, or 20% including our fees, over 24 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating. "Debt-Free" applies only to enrolled credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Not mortgages, car loans, or other debts. Results vary.</p>

See if your $30k+ in credit card debt is eligible for National Debt Relief

Get a free stair lift estimate before you sink $10,000s into renovating your home

If you or a loved one struggles with stairs, do not move to a new house or spend $10,000+ on a home elevator or renovation. An affordable custom stair lift could be a faster solution (and $1,000s cheaper) and this free in-home consultation can help you find one.

Leaf Home Safety Solutions is actively helping senior homeowners get custom stair lifts without spending a fortune. They offer straight, curved, and outdoor options, installed by pros and backed by a limited lifetime warranty. You could stay in the home you love without a renovation.

Skip the stress of researching stair lift companies on your own. Leaf Home brings trained local experts to your door for a free, no-pressure estimate.

You might be a good fit if: 1) You own your home, 2) You or a loved one has trouble with stairs, and 3) Your ZIP code qualifies.

Complete this short form to get started

See if you’re eligible to cancel your money-draining timeshare contract

Are you stuck in a timeshare contract? The average timeshare owner pays roughly $1,200 a year in maintenance fees,³ <p><a href="https://aaronsonlawgroup.com/8-hidden-timeshare-fees-to-watch-for/">Source</a>: American Resort Development Association (ARDA), 2024 industry data, reporting average annual timeshare maintenance fees of $1,260.</p> and those fees tend to rise 5% or more annually, often for a property they no longer use.

The Stonegate Firm provides legal and advocacy services to help consumers pursue legitimate exit options from their timeshare contract. If your contract qualifies, their attorneys work to identify violations of federal consumer protection laws and negotiate directly with resorts.

See if your timeshare may be eligible:

1. Answer a few questions about your timeshare and contract.
2. A Stonegate Firm specialist will review your case.
3. If you qualify, they walk you through the cancellation process.

You’re in good hands. The Stonegate Firm is BBB Accredited with an A+ rating.

Check Your Cancellation Eligibility Free - 30 Second Assessment

Tax Debt: Born before 1989? See if you could get $10K+ in tax debt forgiven or eliminated

If you owe $10,000 or more in tax debt, nobody can really stop you from trying this. And right now, it might be the #1 thing we can think of to potentially resolve outstanding tax debt. You could significantly lower the amount you owe or even eliminate your tax debt completely!

It’s called Guardian Tax and it’s 100% free to check eligibility. If you were born before 1989 and owe $10,000 or more in past-due taxes and have some income to make small payments each month, you could most likely qualify.

No more anxiety or being emotionally or physically drained from tax debt. And no more worrying if the IRS will threaten wage garnishment and huge fines. Guardian Tax could help you get everything settled faster than you thought possible.

They hold an A+ BBB rating with a fantastic 4.16/5 stars from customer reviews. The IRS settled $192 million in 2024. See if you could be next by scheduling a fast, free consultation at the link below.

$10,000+ in tax debt: See if you qualify for this tax debt relief program

How Ohio homeowners are preventing roof rot, mold, and foundation damage for good

Most homeowners think of gutters as just a cleaning chore. The bigger risk is what happens when they clog. Overflowing gutters can lead to water damage, roof rot, mold, even foundation problems, the kind of repairs that run into the thousands.

If you own a home in Ohio, HomeBuddy offers a powerful, one-of-a-kind gutter guard built to prevent exactly that. Their micromesh filter keeps common debris out, so your gutters stay clear and your home stays protected. And because it actually works, you may be able to stop hiring gutter cleaners altogether. The company will even clean out and realign your gutters before they install.

Don't waste money on cheap, ineffective guards that claim to be clog-free. This one's built to last.

See if you qualify today: Click the link below, enter your ZIP code and home info, and a representative will reach out to schedule a free estimate.

See if you qualify

Get up to $600,000 from your home (no monthly payments ever)

This is really cool. If you own a home and want to take equity out (to pay down debt or fund home renovations, for example) you can — but usually, you have to make payments each month. This company gets rid of that.

It sounds crazy, but it’s called Point, and it lets you take money out of your home right now without making monthly payments.⁴ <p>Point partners with and invests alongside the homeowner in the property. Subject to underwriting approval, Point will pay you an upfront, lump sum amount in exchange for a portion of your home’s future appreciation. Future appreciation is based on using the risk adjusted Appreciation Starting Value and calculating any gain or loss based on the final appraised value of your home at the time of exit. Point charges up to a 3.9% processing fee (subject to a $2,000 minimum) and other third party paid closing costs such as appraisal, escrow, and government fees. The term is 30 years. Point will place a lien on your home to secure performance of the underlying agreement. There are no monthly payments or interest accrual. Homeowner’s repayment amount is based on the future value of the subject property at the time of exit, as outlined in the underlying agreement.</p> It's called a home equity investment (HEI), and it’s a partnership with you and Point where you get money now in return for a portion of your home’s future appreciation in value.

Point can give you access to up to $600,000, but you can take what you need based on what you qualify for. You can also leave the partnership at any time by buying back your equity. To get started, go to their website, enter your address, and put in the amount you need. It’s incredible.

Enter your address here to get started

Hearing Aids: Get a 45-day no-risk trial for these revolutionary German-engineered hearing aids

Have you noticed voices sounding muffled or find yourself asking “what?” more often? Hearing conversations clearly makes all the difference, whether it’s sharing laughs with family or catching every word with friends. The good news? There’s a simple way to bring back the clarity.

Horizon IX hearing aids by hear.com offer crystal-clear speech understanding using advanced German technology. These nearly invisible, medical-grade devices provide twice the speech clarity of competitors, even in noisy places.

The aids connect to a simple smartphone app that makes them easy to set up and use. Plus, Horizon IX lasts up to 19 hours on a single charge, so no more dead batteries.

hear.com is trusted by over 500,000 customers worldwide, has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and a 4.9/5 rating at Consumer Affairs, and is known for their award-winning customer service.

We recommend at least a 680+ credit score in order to qualify for flexible financing. Click below and enter some information including your phone number. They will contact you via phone and take care of getting everything set up.

Get a 45-day no-risk trial and see if you qualify for flexible financing

Have $2M saved for retirement? What can you actually spend per year?

It's one of the most common retirement questions out there - and honestly, there's no simple answer. The right number depends on your tax situation, Social Security timing, investment mix, healthcare costs, and other things many people don't think about until it's too late.

The smart move? Ask a pro.

Advisor.com free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area and are legally required to act in your best interest - not their own. You can have a free introductory call with each match before you commit to anything.

Here's how it works:

• Answer a few quick questions to find a match near you
• Get connected with vetted fiduciary advisors in minutes
• Chat with them for free and choose who you actually want to work with

No pressure, no strings - just a clearer picture of what your retirement can actually look like.

Get matched with a financial advisor today

Earn 3% cash back at Walmart, gas, or dining

If you shop at Walmart even once a month, you need to see this. It's been reported that more than 40% of Americans buy their groceries at Walmart,⁵ <p><a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/shoppers-spoken-41-americans-buy-170019917.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACQm6ZcadD4NrR51SZpDQrtjnfHLUEFMM_QeO7REDQ9UJ3i5_G7QXKQDdE_efQGjWD5JqtcwmKGIDzX75HPkkNp6ukmp2ye4JUPvRra-PLUh11wUL35Lc6fL5oNJ1vcyhwyL-YSfvt_ckALxlKGaSHl41Sjtg2kjZtnU4ojGT7fI">Source</a></p> but if you pay with a regular debit card, you could be missing out on a chance to earn solid cash back.

OnePay changes that. You can earn 3% cash back at Walmart every month on up to $150 spent.⁶ <p>Cash back is earned as OnePay Points, redeemable into a OnePay deposit account or other available options. You must select your cash back category in the OnePay app monthly and you begin earning on the date it is selected. Eligible purchases are based on MCC. See terms at&nbsp;<a href="http://onepay.com/rewards-terms">onepay.com/rewards-terms</a>.</p>

But you don’t just earn cash back at Walmart with OnePay — you can also earn on gas, dining, and more. When you bank through OnePay, you get a mobile banking app and secured credit card with no monthly fees, no minimum balances, and no overdraft fees.⁷ <p>OnePay is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Coastal Community Bank or Lead Bank, Members FDIC. The secured OnePay Builder Mastercard® is issued by banking partners pursuant to a license by Mastercard® International Incorporated.</p>

Plus, you can earn 3.35% APY on your savings⁸ <p>3.35% annual percentage yield (APY) applies to the Savings balance of OnePay deposit accounts. APYs are as of 8/1/2026, but may change at any time before or after account opening.</p> and can get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit⁹ <p>Direct Deposit is required. Funds may be available up to 2 days in advance, depending on when your employer sends paycheck data</p> and fee-free cash withdrawals at 55,000+ Allpoint ATMs worldwide.¹⁰ <p>For all other ATM transactions, the Cash Out fee will apply and third-party ATM fees may be incurred.</p> And you can earn 25¢/gallon extra cash back on your first gas purchase.¹¹ <p>Bonus Term 10/27/2025 – 12/31/2026. Bonus applied to your first purchase of gas using an Upside Offer for gas (“Gas Offer”). Use of a Gas Offer must be made during the Bonus Term to earn the Bonus. Limit of one per customer. Cash back is provided as OnePay Points, which can be redeemed as a deposit into a OnePay deposit account, or other available options. Gas Offers are not available in New Jersey or Wisconsin. Cash back amounts and caps vary by gas station and are subject to change at any time. Any gallon or spend caps applicable to a Gas Offer will also be applicable to the Bonus. See <a href="https://www.onepay.com/legal/onepay-rewards-terms?%24web_only=true&amp;_branch_match_id=1207782460763901308&amp;utm_medium=marketing&amp;_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAAwXBQQqAMAwEwBfZ3AXx4EOk4moLbRM2gd58uzMlwnwVKWhNkw6kbCbEzLx9CbD7%2FhEPyDre86JOB7ejUDt%2B8XOCZz0AAAA%3D">onepay.com/rewards-terms</a>.</p>

And for parents, you can add your teen (ages 13-17) as a user on your account - teens learn smart money habits while parents stay in control.  Teens can set goals, track progress, and also earn 3.35% APY on Savings.⁸ <p>3.35% annual percentage yield (APY) applies to the Savings balance of OnePay deposit accounts. APYs are as of 8/1/2026, but may change at any time before or after account opening.</p> Teens can also earn 3% cash back on Walmart, gas, or dining on up to $150 spent per month.⁶ <p>Cash back is earned as OnePay Points, redeemable into a OnePay deposit account or other available options. You must select your cash back category in the OnePay app monthly and you begin earning on the date it is selected. Eligible purchases are based on MCC. See terms at&nbsp;<a href="http://onepay.com/rewards-terms">onepay.com/rewards-terms</a>.</p> Plus, everyday purchases with the Builder Card can help your teen build credit before they turn 18.¹² <p class="">Builder Card helps adults build credit by reporting your Builder Card activity to the credit bureaus unless you opt out.&nbsp; Any changes to your credit score are independently determined.&nbsp; OnePay deposit account is required. Teens are authorized users on their parent or guardian's Builder Card.&nbsp; Beginning at age 18, Builder Card activity dating back to age 16 will be reported to the credit bureaus, provided they are still an authorized user, their SSN has been verified, and credit reporting has not been turned off.&nbsp; Credit score impact is independently determined.&nbsp; If eligible, your spending power is based on your Checking balance.&nbsp; Transactions using your virtual debit card are not reported.&nbsp; Credit scores are based on your overall financial behavior, results may vary and are not guaranteed.&nbsp; See OneProgress Services LLC (NMLS ID 2460509) Licenses.&nbsp;</p>  

Bank through OnePay and earn 3% back at Walmart

Try this free service helping seniors in Ohio get a new shower

Your shower should be easy to get in and out of. But if it’s outdated, has a tub that’s hard to step over, or hasn't been updated in years, it might be time to make a change. And a walk-in shower does a lot more than just modernize your bathroom.

Here's what a walk-in shower could do for you:

• Remove the tripping hazard of stepping over a tub edge
• Lower your water bill, since showers use far less water than filling a tub
• Stand up to daily use with fewer parts that can break than a traditional tub setup
• Give your bathroom a cleaner, more modern look that makes the space feel bigger
• Possibly add resale appeal, since updated bathrooms are among the features buyers tend to look for

If you own a home in Ohio, HomeBuddy makes it easy to get started. Answer a few quick questions to see if you qualify, and get connected with pre-screened local contractors in your area.

Do you qualify? Check these 3 boxes:

1. You own your home.
2. Your tub or shower is outdated or hard to use.
3. You live in a qualifying ZIP code.

Get your free estimate to get started

Paying Full Price on Travel and Restaurants: Over 50? Your first year of AARP is just $15, and it could pay for itself the first time you use it

If you’re over 50 and don’t have AARP, you could be missing out on huge perks. An AARP membership is only $15 for your first year (about $1.25 a month) and gets you massive discounts on:

• Restaurants (save up to $450 per year!)
• Airfare, hotels, cruises and rental cars
• Meal deliveries
• UPS shipping
• Eyeglasses and even prescriptions that aren't covered by insurance

Plus you’ll also get insider info on social security, caregiving, retirement planning and you can add a member for free. That’s double the perks and potentially hundreds in savings for the same price.

Joining takes about two minutes:

1. Click the link below, choose your free welcome gift, and select "Join Today"
2. Create your account by answering a few quick questions
3. Start using your discounts and perks right away!

Join AARP for only $15 your first year (renews at $20/yr). Start saving today.

Pay less when you stay at hotels and dine out

Best Western Senior Discounts: Minimum 10% discount on room rates for guests aged 55 and over.

Denny's Senior Discount: Special discounted menu for guests aged 55 and above. Additionally, AARP members receive 15% off their total bill at participating locations.

AMC Theatres Senior Pricing: Discounted ticket prices for seniors aged 60 and above.

Diversify your hard-earned retirement savings with gold

GoldTrustGuide is actively helping Americans find greater retirement security with precious metal investments like gold. In fact, from 2005 to 2020, the price of gold increased by 330%. And during the stock market crash of 2008, the value of gold increased by 25%.¹³ <p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2026/01/28/gold-price-surpasses-record-5300-amid-weakening-dollar-fed-independence-concerns/">Source</a></p> They match you with top-rated providers offering physical gold and silver IRAs with a proven track record during unstable markets.¹⁴ <p>Investments carry risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future performance.</p>

Protect your savings today in 3 easy steps:

1. Answer 4 quick questions on your goals and timeline.
2. Get matched instantly with a top-rated provider suited to your goals.
3. Speak to a specialist for a free, no-obligation consultation.

They hold a Top Rated designation from the Business Consumer Alliance and earn a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot and 4.8 stars on Google. Get your free Gold IRA match today.

Lock in up to 80% savings on ED meds today

If you want to get harder faster and stay ready longer, triple-action ED meds can work in 15 minutes or less.¹⁵ <p>Timing and results vary. Some men may feel effects in as little as 15 minutes, while others may take longer. Your provider will help determine the right treatment and dosing for you.</p> And this company we found called Direct Meds gets them to you for up to 80% cheaper vs. brand-name ED medications!¹⁶ <p>Savings comparison based on DirectMax promotional pricing of $7.45 per dose versus brand-name Viagra at U.S. retail, commonly $65 to $140 per tablet and approximately $86 per tablet for a 30-count of 50mg. Actual savings vary by dose, pharmacy, and promotion. Generic sildenafil is available at a lower cost than DirectMax. DirectMax is a compounded medication and is not FDA-approved.</p>

It might sound crazy, but DirectMeds operates on a cash-pay basis and does not accept insurance. This is how they keep pricing simple and transparent with no hidden fees and no monthly membership.

Skip the awkward appointments, pharmacy lines, and the long wait for traditional options. Plus, get one on one medical support from a dedicated nursing team when you go through Direct Meds. You could finish the online visit in just a few minutes.

Limited Time Offer: Right now you can get 33% off instantly, on top of their already incredible pricing compared to name brand meds.

Take the quiz to get up to 80% off brand-name ED med prices (as low as $7.45/dose).

Try this service helping homeowners in Ohio get a roof replacement

Your roof is your home's first line of defense. But if it's more than 15 years old, has leaks, or shows signs of storm damage, it might be time to replace it. And a new roof does a lot more than just keep the weather out.

Here's what a new roof could do for you:

• Stop leaks and water damage before they reach your walls and ceilings
• Lower your energy bills, since modern roofing seals better in summer and winter
• Stand up to heavy rain, wind, and hail
• Add curb appeal and resale value
• Possibly earn you insurance benefits, since a lot of insurers reward homeowners who replace aging roofs

If you own your home, your roof is over 15 years old, and you live in a qualifying ZIP code, you may qualify.

Getting started only takes a few minutes:

1. Enter your zip code at the link below and click "get estimate"
2. Complete the questionnaire about your roof and home (takes just a few minutes)
3. Enter your name, email, and phone number and submit your request

Complete the short questionnaire to start the process

Turn your home’s value into extra cash

If you want to pay a large expense now, like a home improvement project or credit card debt, you may have considered using your home equity as leverage to borrow a large sum of money.

But with interest rates rising in recent years, a cash-out refinance or home equity loan may not make financial sense.

Here’s a potential solution: Get a home equity line of credit (HELOC) instead.

Using LendingTree’s simple HELOC matching tool¹⁷ <p>LendingTree, LLC is a Marketing Lead Generator and is a Duly Licensed Mortgage Broker, as required by law, with its main office located at 1415 Vantage Park Drive, Suite 700, Charlotte, NC 28203, NMLS Unique Identifier #1136. LendingTree, LLC is known as LT Technologies in lieu of true name LendingTree, LLC in NY. LendingTree technology and processes are patented under U.S. Patent Nos. 6,385,594 and 6,611,816 and licensed under U.S. Patent Nos. 5,995,947 and 5,758,328. © 2026 LendingTree, LLC. All Rights Reserved. This site is directed at, and made available to, persons in the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii only. Terms and Conditions may apply. </p> (yes, the company from the commercials), you can compare rates and see what works for you.

How a home equity line of credit is different: Your line of credit acts similar to a credit card, where you can withdraw funds when you need them, and you’re only responsible for minimum monthly payments for what’s called the “draw period,” which is usually 10 years. After this borrowing period ends, you pay off the rest of your balance during an extended repayment period, which is usually 20 years.

Plus, as a revolving line of credit, rates are usually variable, so you won’t be locked into a fixed rate if they ever go lower.

To get started:

1. Check out LendingTree’s HELOC matching tool.
2. Answer a few questions.
3. Be matched with personalized offers for you.

Visit LendingTree

Advisor Fees: You could be overpaying for your retirement planning

Fees matter. High fees can cut into your returns and affect your overall nest egg. But the ways fees are levied vary. Some are “fee only,” charging a flat rate regardless of usage. Others take a percentage of all assets under management. Some earn commissions directly from mutual funds or other financial products, which presents a significant conflict of interest.

This free matching quiz helps Americans get matched with up to three fiduciary advisors who serve their area so they can compare and decide which advisor to work with.

Paid Non-Client Promotion

FinanceBuzz doesn’t invest its money with this provider, but they are our referral partner. We get paid by them only if you click to them from our website and take a qualifying action (for example, opening an account.)

Limited Time Offer: Earn 75,000 miles + $300 Capital One Travel credit — worth over $1,000 toward travel

Limited time offer: If you're planning a trip, apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (Rates and fees) here and you can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months — plus for a limited time, a $300 Capital One Travel stays credit. That's worth over $1,000 toward travel!

Plus, earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, every day, 5 miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5 miles per dollar on Capital One Entertainment purchases — with a low annual fee of $95 and no foreign transaction fee.

The card could help you offset the annual fee: You'll get a $300 stays credit towards hotel and vacation rental bookings through Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, a $50 experience credit on every Lifestyle Collection hotel or vacation rental stay, up to $120 toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, and complimentary Hertz Five Star status.¹⁸ <p class="">Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply<br></p>

This card could help you earn $100s in rewards to use toward travel. Don't delay — this limited time offer won't last forever. Apply today!

Click here to apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card now

Recommended Credit Score FinanceBuzz credit ranges are a variation of FICO®️ scores, one of many types of credit score lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good

670-739

Excellent

740-850

Identity Theft: In 2025 older Americans lost over $1.9 billion to identity theft and fraud

That's right. According to the FTC, older Americans lost over $1.9 Billion to fraud and identity theft in 2025.

But you can safeguard your data with all-in-one identity theft protection services from Aura which comes with $1,000,000.00 in identity theft insurance¹⁹ <p>Identity Theft Insurance underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group‚ Inc. The description herein is a summary and intended for informational purposes only and does not include all terms‚ conditions and exclusions of the policies described. Please refer to the actual policies for terms‚ conditions‚ and exclusions of coverage. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions.</p> per adult, to cover you should you have eligible identity theft-related losses.

An individual plan starts at $9 per month, and you can choose a family plan that outmatches most others - includes Dark Web monitoring to scour data breaches and leaks for your sensitive personal data — such as Social Security numbers (SSN), Medicare information, and phone numbers.

Before you make your next online purchase, protect what you’ve built for a fraction of what it could cost you if your data were compromised.

Save up to 68% when you sign up for protection today!

This plan protects select Ohio homes from many expensive appliance and home repairs (seniors, lock in your ultra-low rate)

Sounds crazy. And maybe you’re not even sure if this is real. But … you’re probably curious anyway. If you live in Ohio and own your home, Choice Home Warranty could make it so you don’t have to pay $1,000s on home repairs anymore.

They’ve been around since 2008 (so you know they’re legit) and they offer affordable plans to cover appliances and systems in your home that could break down. Just make your claim online or give them a call. Their team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.²⁰ <p>CHW reserves the right to offer cash back in lieu of repair or replacement in the amount of CHW's actual cost (which at times may be less than retail) to repair or replace any covered system, component or appliance. In the event that CHW makes such payment, CHW will provide written notification of the basis for the amount of the payment. First Month Free with purchase of any single payment home warranty plan. The product being offered is a service contract and is separate and distinct from any product or service warranty which may be provided by the home builder or manufacturer.</p>

Choose a plan here and you could still lock in their ultra-low 2026 rates for a limited time. You could tap into immense savings for nearly any system or appliance in your home that’s covered.

Not everyone is eligible for this plan so here’s how to check:

1. Click the link below and enter your zip code.
2. Answer a few simple questions.
3. See if your home qualifies and lock in your rate.

Choose a plan here and and see if you’re eligible for $50 off and 1 month free

P.S. We negotiated a special deal for FinanceBuzz readers who sign up using the link above. Use it this week to get $50 off and 1 month free. We don’t know how long it will last, so take advantage of it today before it disappears.

Tap the equity in your home without adding another monthly payment (home must be worth at least $200,000)

If you own the home you live in but don't want to touch your mortgage rate or go for a traditional HELOC, a Home Equity Investment Product, or HEI, could be perfect.

How it works: A HEI bets that your home's value will go up. They give you cash now, and when you sell, refinance, or pay back in cash, you give them a small portion based on how much your home is worth then.

(By the way, if your home value decreases, the value of the percentage home equity investor is entitled to also decreases. That could be a lot safer for you.)

They work with single family homes, condos, townhomes, and 2- to 4-unit properties. No mobile or manufactured homes. Use the money however you like. Pay off debt, renovate, invest … all without worrying about additional monthly payments OR touching your current mortgage.

Why choose a HEI?

• Cash Payment Now: You can qualify to get between $15,000 to $500,000 in one lump-sum cash payment.
• Have a home worth at least $200,000.
• Have a credit score of 500+.
• No income requirements.
• Don’t want to affect your current mortgage.
• Don’t want monthly payments.

Answer a few questions here to see if you pre-qualify in less than 2 minutes (see how much you can get)

Overpaying on Windows: Ohio seniors could save big on new windows

Old windows drive up your home's electric bill. But if you live in Ohio and your windows are 5+ years old, you could save $1,000s.

Renewal by Andersen is actively helping senior homeowners score these huge savings. Their certified experts install energy-efficient windows that can cut monthly bills and instantly upgrade your home’s comfort and value. If your windows are aging, this is one of the fastest ways to lock in huge savings.

Slash the cost of new windows by tapping into Renewal by Andersen’s seasonal promotions (see BONUS below), high-impact per-window discounts, special financing offers, and qualifying ENERGY STAR® tax credits most homeowners never even realize they can claim.

Get started now if you check these 3 boxes:

1. You own your home.
2. Your windows are 5+ years old.
3. You live in an available ZIP code.

Complete this short form and access up to 40% off!

BONUS: For a limited time, buy one get one 40% OFF.²¹ <p>DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 12/31/2025. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Buy one (1) window or entry/patio door, get one (1) window or entry/patio door 40% off, and 12 months no money down, no monthly payments, no interest when you purchase four (4) or more windows or entry/patio doors between 9/30/2025 and 12/31/2025. 40% off windows and entry/patio doors are less than or equal to lowest cost window or entry/patio door in the order. Additional $200 off your entire purchase, minimum purchase of 4 required, taken after initial discount(s), when you purchase by 12/31/2025. Subject to credit approval. 12-month Promo Period: while no payments are due, interest accrues but is waived if the loan is paid in full before the Promo Period expires. Any unpaid balance owed after the Promo Period, plus accrued interest, will be paid in installments based on the terms disclosed in the customer's loan agreement. Financing is provided by various financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Savings comparison based on purchase of a single unit at list price. Available at participating locations and offer applies throughout the service area. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. License numbers available at renewalbyandersen.com/license. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. See Renewal by Andersen® Products and Installation Transferable Limited Warranty for detail "Renewal by Andersen" and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2025 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.</p> Plus, get $200 off your purchase!²¹ <p>DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 12/31/2025. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Buy one (1) window or entry/patio door, get one (1) window or entry/patio door 40% off, and 12 months no money down, no monthly payments, no interest when you purchase four (4) or more windows or entry/patio doors between 9/30/2025 and 12/31/2025. 40% off windows and entry/patio doors are less than or equal to lowest cost window or entry/patio door in the order. Additional $200 off your entire purchase, minimum purchase of 4 required, taken after initial discount(s), when you purchase by 12/31/2025. Subject to credit approval. 12-month Promo Period: while no payments are due, interest accrues but is waived if the loan is paid in full before the Promo Period expires. Any unpaid balance owed after the Promo Period, plus accrued interest, will be paid in installments based on the terms disclosed in the customer's loan agreement. Financing is provided by various financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Savings comparison based on purchase of a single unit at list price. Available at participating locations and offer applies throughout the service area. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. License numbers available at renewalbyandersen.com/license. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. See Renewal by Andersen® Products and Installation Transferable Limited Warranty for detail "Renewal by Andersen" and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2025 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.</p>

Stop getting ripped off by credit card companies

If you have credit card debt, you know that paying your bill each month is anxiety-inducing … and sometimes close to impossible with what you have in the bank.

If that’s you, a company called LendingTree¹⁷ <p>LendingTree, LLC is a Marketing Lead Generator and is a Duly Licensed Mortgage Broker, as required by law, with its main office located at 1415 Vantage Park Drive, Suite 700, Charlotte, NC 28203, NMLS Unique Identifier #1136. LendingTree, LLC is known as LT Technologies in lieu of true name LendingTree, LLC in NY. LendingTree technology and processes are patented under U.S. Patent Nos. 6,385,594 and 6,611,816 and licensed under U.S. Patent Nos. 5,995,947 and 5,758,328. © 2026 LendingTree, LLC. All Rights Reserved. This site is directed at, and made available to, persons in the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii only. Terms and Conditions may apply. </p> wants to help.They can match you with loan providers that could help you pay off your debt quickly.

Think about it this way: For example, $30,000 in credit card debt at 25% APR will cost you $622.60 every single month in interest alone. But, with a rate as low as 6.50% APR (possible through LendingTree’s lenders), you’d only pay $160.69 interest.

That’s over $460 a month you’d get to keep for yourself in this scenario! Even better, you don’t need a perfect credit score, and checking for loans won’t affect your credit.

Truthfully, this company exists to help you get ahead in life. They have a 4.5/5 rating on TrustPilot with more than 15,000 verified reviews, and you can see your options in a matter of minutes. It’s certainly worth a shot if you’re feeling suffocated by debt.