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Resources & Knowledge for a Secure Financial Future
Take Charge America is dedicated to improving financial literacy among people from all backgrounds facing a variety of financial challenges. Bookmark this page to reference whenever you have a financial question, concern or opportunity.
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The Latest Financial Guidance
Financial Lessons from the Tiny House Movement
Have you heard about the tiny house movement? As the name quite accurately suggests, it’s a growing movement of people who are giving up traditional residential housing in favor of structures that measure a maximum of 500 square feet (most measure between 225-400 square feet). Often, but not always, mobile, these tiny homes feature many […]
Read MoreSecured, Unsecured and Prepaid Cards — Which is Best?
As the financial landscape becomes more and more complex, consumers have more choices than ever before. And while that can be a good thing, it’s important to understand the options available when making important decisions. That’s especially true when it comes to the types of credit cards available. Here’s a breakdown of what makes secured, […]
Read MoreEverything You Need to Know About Budgeting
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 […]
Read More5 Things to Never Put on a Credit Card
When used wisely, a credit card is a valuable financial tool that can help build and maintain good credit. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to fall back on credit cards as a means of paying for things we don’t need or can’t afford. And sometimes, even if something is a need (and not a want) […]
Read MoreLearn How to Monitor Your Credit
No matter what your financial goals are, knowing your credit score, how to read your credit report, and how to address errors on the report will help you take the steps necessary to achieve your goals. Use the following information as a guide to learn how to monitor your credit. YOUR CREDIT REPORT Your credit […]
Read MoreThe True Cost of Rent-to-Own Services
You have probably seen commercials or received mailers from rent-to-own furniture and appliance stores promising to rent you the latest and greatest models of popular electronics, furniture and appliances for a low weekly fee. Then at the end of the lease term, you own the item outright. Renting-to-own might appear to be a great way […]
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About Identity Theft
Identity theft is an unfortunate fact of life in the digital age. You must stay vigilant and take care to protect your personal and financial information from those who wish to misuse it for their benefit. Read on to learn how to learn what you need to know about identity theft. Signs of […]
Read MoreMake the Most of Credit Card Rewards
When used wisely, a credit card that offers perks and rewards can be a beneficial financial tool. But to make a rewards card worthwhile, you need to understand what you’re getting into and how to make it work to your advantage. Here are some tips for making the most of credit card rewards: Match Rewards […]
Read MoreSmart Money Moves Following a Raise
Being recognized for your hard work by receiving a raise is one of the best feelings there is. But it’s what you do next that will have an impact on your financial future. Many people see getting a raise as a good reason to go on a spending spree or open new lines of credit, […]
Read MoreHow to Prioritize Bills When You’re Low on Cash
It happens sometimes. Despite your best efforts to budget and save, you come up short when it comes time to pay bills. It’s unsettling, to be sure. But it doesn’t have to mean the start of a financial freefall. With a little planning and strategy, you can get through the lean time to come out […]
Read MoreAssessing Next Steps in Debt Relief
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