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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
Save Money on Summer Activities and Entertainment
Many of us spend more money during the summer because we’re surrounded by more temptations. Too hot? Head to the cool movie theater. Kids bored? Head to a theme park. To help you save more money, we’ve compiled some cost-conscious tips and affordable alternatives to popular summer entertainment and activities: Pick a Picnic “Eating out” doesn’t […]
Read MoreInternet Banking: Is it a Good Deal?
Banks and other depository institutions by the busload are going online with their services. Not long ago the federal banking agencies estimated that more than 3500 depository institutions have active web sites. Most of these sites are informational only. They tell you what services the bank offers, where its facilities are located, and how you […]
Read MoreIdentity Theft Prevention Checklist
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that as many as 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year. Identity thieves use consumers’ information to commit fraud, theft or other crimes. It can destroy a person’s credit and ruin their good name. It can also cost a lot of time and money to fix. Skilled […]
Read MoreHow to Save Money on Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners insurance may seem complicated, especially for a first-time homebuyer. You’ve committed a sizeable portion of your income to your monthly mortgage, and now you have to set aside money for insurance, too. In addition to monthly premiums, many homeowners find the application process difficult. They must take stock of their belongings and answer an […]
Read MoreThe High Stakes of High-Cost Lending
Check-cashing and title loan companies continue to be a fast-growing area of the financial services industry. These lenders often appeal to individuals and families whose monthly budget comes up short and have low credit ratings, which leaves them few choices when it comes to borrowing cash to make ends meet. Payday Loans Payday lenders typically […]
Read MoreBack to School, Back on Budget
Many parents are filled with mixed emotions as “back to school” season comes around each year. They’re excited for their kids to venture outside of the house and hit the books, yet they’re fearful of the costs associated with it. Books, backpacks, supplies, clothes, extracurricular activities, tuition … the list goes on and on. It’s […]
Read MoreTo Rent or Buy or a Home? 4 Factors You Need to Consider
To rent or to buy? It’s a question most consumers ponder at one time or another, yet the correct answer varies as much as individual life circumstances do. While your financial state is a major factor, it’s not the only factor you need to consider. Let’s take a look at the big picture: Financial […]
Read MoreWhat to Know Before Closing a Credit Card
If you’re thinking about closing a credit card, there are some things to consider before making the call. The desire to close a card once it’s paid off is understandable, but doing so actually has the potential to harm your credit score, rather than help it. Closing a credit card can reduce your credit utilization […]
Read MoreTips for Evaluating a Home Warranty Policy
When you purchase a home – whether or not it’s brand new – you will likely be offered a home warranty, but what does it cover, and is it a worthwhile expense? What is a home warranty? It’s a form of insurance that offers discounted repair services or replacement of your home’s appliances and major […]
Read MoreDo You Need Renters Insurance?
For many folks renting housing, renters insurance is simply not on the radar. They assume their landlord will manage any issue with their apartment or rental. It’s common to think if the air conditioning goes out, my landlord will fix it. If there’s a fire in the building, the landlord will reimburse the cost of […]
Read MoreAssessing Next Steps in Debt Relief
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