With the option of traditional banks, online-only banks and credit unions, consumers have more choices than ever when it comes to where to conduct their financial business. Many factors go into choosi...
When was the last time you took a good look at your paycheck stub? It’s probably been a while, especially if you have direct deposit. Many companies now manage all payroll tasks electronically, whic...
One of the most important things you can do to help you reach your financial goals is establishing and following a budget. Though it may seem overwhelming at first, breaking down the process into manageable steps can help you succeed. GETTING STARTED First, you need to know how much money is coming in, how much is going ou...
Most advice on budgeting makes the assumption that you’re working with a set amount of income each month. But what if you’re not? People who are self-employed, freelancers, artists, or whose income relies heavily on tips and commission are all subject to inconsistent income that fluctuates from month-to-month.   I...
One of the most important parts of planning and sticking to your budget is understanding the differences between fixed, variable and periodic expenses. Knowing what types of expenses you have and how to plan for them can help you manage your money more effectively and get off the paycheck-to-paycheck merry-go-round.  Fixed ...
By now, you probably know that a high credit score is better than a low one, but do you know all the reasons that’s true? A good credit score and solid credit history can have a positive impact on many facets of your life. If you’re not there yet, don’t worry! You can improve your score over time. For reference, a “goodâ...
We could all use more in our paychecks every two weeks, but negotiating for a raise can be an intimidating process. Asking for a raise can leave the impression that you're dissatisfied with your current position or unwilling to continue working hard unless you see more money. But handled correctly, negotiating for a raise will ...
Buying a house is the single largest investment most of us will make. For many new homeowners, it’s a joyful experience, earned through hard work, careful planning and prudent saving. For others, the financial impact of home ownership – and the extra costs they didn’t plan on – puts a damper on buying a home, creating on...
In the not-too-distant past, couples didn’t think much about combining their finances. After marriage, they would open joint bank accounts, take out a mortgage together, and share all of the income and household expenses. But things have changed since the 1950s. Today, it’s more common for both partners to earn their own ...
Reviewing your credit report at least once a year is an important part of managing your personal finances. Ensuring the information contained in the report is accurate can help you when making a large purchase, such as buying a new vehicle or applying for a mortgage. Many employers now check prospective employees’ credit re...