Topic
Using Credit Wisely
5 Things to Never Keep in Your Wallet
Many of us carry around wallets chock-full of credit cards, identification and paperwork, thinking it’s a convenient place to keep important documents organized. Unfortunately, it’s a really bad idea. A wallet overflowing with your personal information is an identity thief’s dream. To reduce the risk of identity theft and credit card fraud it’s best to […]
Read MoreTips for Using Credit Cards Wisely
There’s a lot of conflicting advice on using credit cards wisely. Some experts warn that cutting up cards and using cash for every purchase is the only sure path to financial well-being, while others suggest healthy credit card use is necessary for building a good credit score. Here are 13 must-do tips for using credit […]
Read MoreTurned Down for a Mortgage? Prepare to Apply Again.
More prospective homebuyers are eager to enter the market as the economy improves. Many borrowers find it difficult to navigate stricter lending requirements and successfully reapply for a loan after being turned down for a mortgage. If you’ve been turned down for a mortgage and want to know how to prepare to apply again, start […]
Read MoreYour 2015 Financial Goals
Whether or not you make New Year’s Resolutions, the New Year is a good time to take stock of important milestones, including your personal financial situation. Did you run up some holiday debt you’d like to pay off quickly? Are you falling short of having $3,000 in your emergency fund? Or maybe you’re thinking it’s […]
Read MoreFor Better or Worse: Should Couples Marry Finances?
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 income and to […]
Read More10 Dos & Don’ts for Young Credit Card Users
Responsible use of a credit card is one of the ways young adults can establish good credit. On the flip side, using credit cards irresponsibly is one of the quickest ways to damage a fledgling credit score. Whether you’re a young person with your first credit card or a parent deciding if your child is […]
Read MoreCredit Card Promotional Offers – Understanding the Fine Print
Credit card mailers and banner ads offer a dizzying array of perks. But buried beneath the headlines is the ugly fine print, where you’ll learn the real story behind those credit card promotional offers. Of course, not all credit cards are bad, but it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of perks that […]
Read MoreFree Resources to Help Improve Your Credit
Establishing and maintaining good credit is an important part of any financial plan, but it can be hard to strike a balance between building credit and building debt. With a steady stream of credit card offers arriving in your mailbox or popping up online, it’s easy to obtain new credit – but how do you […]
Read MoreHow Do I Deal with Debt Collector Harassment?
Dealing with calls from a debt collector can be unpleasant at best; dehumanizing at worst. Most debt collection agents are paid on commission and receive minimal training, which can lead them to behave aggressively. The law forbids them from using threatening language or profanity. (That doesn’t mean they won’t, however). Fortunately, the Federal Trade Commission […]
Read MoreHow Do Young Adults Establish Good Credit?
Establishing good credit is an essential step for young adults who are looking to purchase a car, a home and achieve other milestones. Additionally, many employers now review applicants’ credit histories as part of the hiring process. Establishing and maintaining good credit is vital to future success, but it can also be challenging. Here are […]
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