Friday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: This year, resolve to leave no gift card unused. Also in the news: A new episode of the Smart Money podcast on saving for your dream retirement, how to have the wedding you want for less, and comparing car insurance rates.

This Year, Resolve to Leave No Gift Card Unused
Most gift cards are spent within a year, but billions of dollars remain unspent and about 1% to 2% of gift card dollars typically go unused.

How to Have the Wedding You Want for Less
When planning a wedding, there’s pressure to create a perfect event. But you can still have the day of your dreams with a wedding budget of any size.

Smart Money Podcast: Saving for Your Dream Retirement
Budgeting pro Marissa Lyda talks with Sean and Liz about saving and how she’s made a full-time job out of YouTube.

Compare Car Insurance Rates
The NerdWallet guide to finding the best car insurance rate

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

Today’s top story: Your best financial move is also best for the environment. Also in the news: Why you should fly first class at least once, surprising factors that inflate your car insurance rate, and the best and worst states to retire.

Your Best Financial Move Is Also Best for the Environment
Looking at your carbon footprint.

Why You Should Fly First Class at Least Once, and How to Afford It
Treat yourself.

5 Surprising Factors That Inflate Your Car Insurance Rate
Not just about accidents.

Best and worst states to retire
Did yours make the cut?

Friday’s need-to-know money news

Halloween CashToday’s top story: Can your budget survive a serial killer? Also in the news: Hidden money lessons in scary movies, financial discussions you should be having with your kids, and the lesser known factors that determine your car insurance rate.

5 Budget ‘Serial Killers’
Can your budget survive?

5 scary Halloween movies with hidden money lessons.
Norman Bates has some advice for you.

7 Tough Money Topics You’re Not Discussing With Your Kids — But Should
Conversation starters.

The Lesser-Known Factors That Determine Your Car Insurance Rate
Don’t get taken for a ride.