
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

Jul 22, 2024 • 19min
Scams can happen to anyone — here's how to protect yourself
New, sophisticated scams are popping up all the time. Experts explain how to safeguard your data and money from being exploited or stolen by fraudsters. This episode originally published on November 11, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jul 16, 2024 • 21min
How to revamp your rental
Just because you're renting your home doesn't mean you can't make it your own. Three home décor experts share their tips to make your rental homey for the long term.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jul 2, 2024 • 13min
Check, please! The etiquette of splitting the tab
Dining out with a large group and not sure how to handle the check? In this episode, chef and food writer Kiki Aranita walks us through common dining scenarios to ensure the bill is handled fairly and smoothly.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

42 snips
Jun 17, 2024 • 26min
Healthy money habits for couples
Should you merge your finances with a significant other? Keep them separate? Or something in between? Financial therapist Lindsay Bryan Podvin breaks down different ways to handle your finances with a partner and how to keep communication open and honest no matter what financial plan you pick.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

May 27, 2024 • 13min
Summer fun on a budget
Ideas on how to have fun this summer without breaking the bank. Go on a "penny date." Throw a movie marathon party. Swap houses with a friend. With a little imagination, you can bring delight and joy — at a low cost — into your sunny days ahead. This episode originally published August 1, 2023.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

May 7, 2024 • 24min
The social etiquette of lending money
If a close friend or family member is in need of money, your first impulse might be to help out. But what if they don't pay you back? What if they need more than you can provide? How do you ensure your financial agreement doesn't harm your relationship? There are no hard and fast rules around lending money. Expectations may depend on culture, financial status or even your marital status. Advice on when to give — and how to say no.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Apr 16, 2024 • 23min
What is 'communal living' and is it right for me?
There are options beyond living solo or with roommates — and one of them is called 'communal living.' In this arrangement, people don't just simply live together, but share resources and create community. In this episode, co-living enthusiasts explain how it works and how to decide whether it's right for you.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Apr 2, 2024 • 16min
Start a financial self-care routine
Explore the importance of a financial self-care routine, setting meaningful financial goals, evaluating investments, optimizing financial health, and engaging further with the podcast for valuable financial insights.

Mar 26, 2024 • 13min
What is the new etiquette for tipping?
Tipping requests are on the rise. Businesses that never seemed to ask for a tip, like fast food joints, are now asking for one. Here's how to deal with unexpected requests and more.A previous version of this story incorrectly said the company Square takes a "chunk of your tip." A representative from Square says while they charge a fee based on the whole transaction, including tip, the worker still gets the full amount of their tip.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Mar 12, 2024 • 24min
Effective ways to repair your credit score
Credit scores determine whether you can get a mortgage, credit card, auto loan and more. So if your score is subprime, how do you bump it up to above a 700? In this episode, find out how to read your credit report, navigate collections and negotiate payments.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
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