Cilar

Cilar is a personal finance expert sharing practical strategies to save money, budget effectively, and make smarter financial decisions. CentstoSense provides actionable tips, top finance apps, and insights to help readers achieve financial stability, reduce money stress, and build long-term wealth.

Which Cryptocurrency Transactions Does Sydney Need to Report to the IRS?

Which Cryptocurrency Transactions Does Sydney Need to Report to the IRS? Sydney reviewing her cryptocurrency transactions, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, with IRS forms and laptop on her desk, representing taxable crypto reporting.

 Sydney bought cryptocurrency and then converted some to dollars, sold some, exchanged her bitcoin for ethereum, and used some to buy a plane ticket. Many people ask: which actions involving cryptocurrency does Sydney need to report to the IRS for tax purposes? This comprehensive guide explains exactly which transactions are taxable, how to report them, […]

Why Dana Cannot Claim Bed Sheets, Towels & Cookware as Educational Expenses on Taxes

Why Dana Cannot Claim Bed Sheets, Towels & Cookware as Educational Expenses on Taxes Dana in her dorm room looking at receipts for bed sheets, towels, and cookware, realizing they cannot be claimed as educational expenses on taxes.

Dana is disappointed that she cannot claim her dorm room supplies—like bed sheets, towels and cookware—as part of her educational expenses. This guide explains, in plain English and with IRS-backed rules, the best reason those items don’t qualify, what *does* count, possible exceptions, and smarter ways to reduce college costs on your tax return. Quick […]

How Can a Budget Help You Reach Your Financial Goals? Proven Tips to Succeed

How Can a Budget Help You Reach Your Financial Goals? Proven Tips to Succeed Person reviewing a budget planner with charts, graphs, and money icons, representing achieving financial goals through budgeting.

Managing finances can feel challenging, especially when you have multiple goals, bills, and expenses. Many people struggle to save money, invest wisely, or achieve their dreams simply because they don’t have a plan. That’s where a budget comes in. But how can a budget help you reach your financial goals? In this article, we’ll dive […]

What Does Pay Yourself First Mean? Why This Strategy Can Change Your Financial Life

What Does Pay Yourself First Mean? Why This Strategy Can Change Your Financial Life Illustration showing a confident person holding a piggy bank and cash, representing the 'Pay Yourself First' strategy for financial growth and security.

 Managing personal finances can feel overwhelming, but simple strategies can make a huge difference. One of the most effective methods for building wealth and financial security is the “Pay Yourself First” strategy. You might be asking, what does pay yourself first mean? In this article, we’ll explain the concept in depth, show practical ways to […]

Best Savings Options for Emergencies: How Lilly Can Secure Her Money

Best Savings Options for Emergencies: How Lilly Can Secure Her Money Lilly planning her emergency savings with a piggy bank, cash stacks, and digital savings app interface for unexpected expenses.

 Emergencies can strike at any time—whether it’s a sudden medical bill, a car repair, or an unexpected job loss. Proper planning and choosing the right savings feature are essential for financial security. In this guide, we explore the best savings options for emergencies and answer the question: Lilly wants to save money for unexpected situations […]

How Your Saving Age Impacts Compound Interest: Start Early to Earn More

How Your Saving Age Impacts Compound Interest: Start Early to Earn More Illustration showing how starting to save early increases wealth through compound interest, with young and older adults and growing stacks of coins.

Many people wonder how does the age that a person starts saving impact the amount they can earn in compound interest. The answer is simple yet powerful: the earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow exponentially. Compound interest is often called the “eighth wonder of the world,” and for good reason. […]

Why the Savings Rate Increases Between December and February: Hypothesis Explained

Why the Savings Rate Increases Between December and February: Hypothesis Explained Calendar showing December, January, and February with rising stack of coins and piggy bank, illustrating early-year savings increase.

One of the most intriguing trends in household financial behavior is that the savings rate increased every year at some point between December and February. Hypothesize why this might be. Observing this pattern across multiple years raises questions about the underlying causes. Is it driven by seasonal habits, economic factors, or behavioral patterns? In this […]

Which of the Following Are Things a Skilled Consumer Does? Top Tips You Must Know!

Which of the Following Are Things a Skilled Consumer Does? Top Tips You Must Know! Confident shopper holding shopping bags and checklist with icons of money-saving and smart shopping tips in a store aisle.

Being a skilled consumer isn’t just about buying products—it’s about making informed choices, maximizing value, and avoiding common pitfalls that lead to waste or overspending. Whether you’re shopping for groceries, electronics, clothing, or services, cultivating the habits of a skilled consumer can save you both money and stress. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything […]

10 Top High-Yield Savings Accounts 2025: Compare Rates, Fees & Features

10 Top High-Yield Savings Accounts 2025: Compare Rates, Fees & Features Comparison of top 10 high-yield savings accounts 2025 with bank names and savings growth chart.

 In 2025, high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs) remain one of the safest and smartest ways to grow your money without risking it in volatile markets. Unlike regular savings accounts, HYSAs typically offer interest rates 10–15 times higher than the national average, while still being FDIC-insured for peace of mind. With rising interest rates and more online […]