
Life Kit: Money
Being in control of your money leads to great things. From dealing with debt or student loans, to how to buy a house, NPR wants to help. Updated every time Life Kit posts an episode on personal finance or money.Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks an exclusive sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit
Latest episodes

Jun 30, 2020 • 21min
End-Of-Life Planning Is A 'Lifetime Gift' To Your Loved Ones
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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

May 21, 2020 • 23min
Don't Fall For The Unnecessary Fee Trap
It's easy to get caught in a cycle of mounting overdraft fees, credit card interest and high-cost loans. A few simple tools can help you hold onto those hard-earned dollars.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Apr 27, 2020 • 21min
Juggling Student Loans During A Pandemic
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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Mar 30, 2020 • 18min
What To Do If You Lost Work Because Of Coronavirus
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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Mar 27, 2020 • 12min
Coping With Coronavirus: Tips For Your Wallet And Kitchen
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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Mar 3, 2020 • 23min
Is It Better To Rent Or Buy A House?
Owning a home is part of the quintessential American dream, but how do you know if it's right for you? These 6 tips will help sort out the pros and cons to renting and owning — and reveal some things a rent vs buy calculator can't tell you.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Feb 18, 2020 • 24min
How To Buy A Car (Without Being Taken For A Ride)
Whether you're a pro at car buying or intimidated by the thought of stepping into a car dealership, there are always ways to play the car buying game better. This episode will help you strategize to avoid the potential pitfalls when it comes to getting a car loan, so you can drive away with a good deal.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Oct 2, 2019 • 26min
Mortgage Secrets That Will Save You Money
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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Sep 25, 2019 • 17min
Paperwork, Appointments And Repairs: Managing Adult Responsibilities
This podcast explores the concept of Life Admin and the struggle with personal administrative tasks. It highlights the importance of recognizing and managing adult responsibilities, and emphasizes the value of accountability and support. The podcast provides four takeaways for managing life admin and promotes other Life Kit episodes.

Sep 11, 2019 • 28min
How To Save For Your Kid's College Education
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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy