So many things have been different this year, and now we can add Black Friday shopping to the list. Much of the country is expected to experience a continued surge of new coronavirus infections over the coming weeks. This is why health experts strongly recommend folks opt-out of traditional Black Friday shopping in packed, poorly ventilated stores ...
If you’re expecting a baby, you have probably already started adjusting your budget for things like decorating the nursery and buying diapers, wipes, and supplies. But there are many expenses related to having a baby that takespeople by surprise. Let’s take a look at some of the unexpected expenses of having a baby. Life Insurance It...
Buying a home for the first time is a huge step. It’s a decision that can move you closer to financial stability or take you further away, depending on the choices you make during this critical time. Here are some common first-time homebuyer mistakes to avoid on your way to owning a piece of the American Dream. Draining Savings for a D...
Many consumers have had their travel plans sidelined by the COVID-19 pandemic. If you had money saved for a trip this year you didn’t end up taking, you might be wondering how to best use those funds to help you reach your financial goals. Here are several constructive things to do with your unused vacation money. Emergency Fund ...
You've probably spent more time in your home this year than usual, which means more wear and tear on your house and everything in it. It might start out as a small water stain on the ceiling, a patch of missing insulation in the attic, or a small crack in the foundation. But these small signs can mean potentially big trouble in a home, and ignoring...
As Americans continue to struggle with the economic effects of the ongoing pandemic, many adult kids are moving back in with their parents to save money. This follows a similar trend during the Great Recession when so-called “boomerang kids” needed to move home after graduating from college into a sub-optimal job market. For most, the move home...
Work-from-home scams have become more common than ever during the coronavirus pandemic. With promises of high salaries and easy work, these scams are designed to drain your bank account or steal your identity. That's not to say there aren't legitimate opportunities to work at home. But you have to do your research and know how to spot the scams mas...
Choosing a new apartment is not as big as a commitment as buying a house, but it’s still an important financial decision that determines the place you will call “home.” Here are the financial considerations you’ll want to take into account when renting an apartment. Length of the Lease The most common lease term ...
Buying a home has long been considered a key part of the American dream. It is also the largest investment most people will ever make, so it’s important to make informed decisions throughout the process. That’s why we are pleased to offer Homebuyer Education courses that empower consumers with the information they need. Let’s take a look at w...
The three major credit bureaus take several factors into account when determining your credit scores. But there is one factor that has the most impact: whether or not you pay your bills on time. In fact, payment history makes up 35% of your FICO score. Even a single late payment can cause your score to drop, so it’s essential to pay your bills on...
COVID-19 Update