Your Money

What's in your wallet?
I rarely carry much cash. That can be embarrassing sometimes when I need a few bucks for a tip. But that feeling goes away fast when I exchange my credit card points for family vacation airfare. That's why this article caught my eye...are reward programs worth it?

Credit card rewards can be enticing, offering purchase rebates and free travel opportunities. However, maximizing these rewards requires time and effort, such as finding the best signup bonuses, selecting optimal cards for different purchases, and managing bills. Annual fees and the impact on credit scores, particularly for those planning significant loans, are key considerations. In the end, rewards only make sense if you can pay off balances in full, avoid interest costs, and resist overspending to meet bonus thresholds. Ultimately, this strategy suits those with time, organization, and financial discipline, though more straightforward options like 2% cash-back cards remain valuable to almost everyone.

Is Maximizing Credit Card Rewards Worth It?
by Nick Maggiulli

Your Life

Sweet Dreams: Tips to Fall Asleep Faster
Are you having trouble falling asleep? You’re not alone! AARP’s latest article shares expert-backed tips to help you drift off quickly and enjoy better rest. From mindful breathing exercises to creating the perfect sleep environment, these simple tweaks can make all the difference. After all, a good night’s sleep is key to staying healthy and energized—no sheep-counting required!

10 Tips to Help You Fall Asleep Fast
by Michelle Crouch

Complexity Simplified

Go Nuts
Frequent nut consumption has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. Nuts, including walnuts, almonds, and pistachios, are packed with heart-healthy nutrients like unsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber. They also help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. Whether as a snack or a salad topping, incorporating nuts into your diet is a simple step toward better heart health.

Nuts and your heart: Eating nuts for heart health
source: Mayo Clinic
 

Trivia