Topic
Using Credit Wisely
Why Did My Credit Card APR Increase?
Many credit card customers don’t realize the short- and long-term effects their cards’ APR (Annual Percentage Rate) can have on their finances. But it’s a crucial detail for credit card holders to understand. That’s because, if you carry a debt on your card from month-to-month, your APR determines how much interest you pay on purchases. […]
Read MoreWhat Are the Consequences of Late Credit Card Payments?
You might think a few late credit card payments aren’t a big deal, but the repercussions can be widespread, negatively impacting your financial goals and making it harder to secure future credit or loans with reasonable interest rates. Whether it’s just forgetfulness or you’re struggling to keep up with your financial responsibilities, late credit card […]
Read MoreKnow the Risks of Credit Card Cash Advances
When you’re low on cash, getting a cash advance from your credit card might seem like a good solution. And it’s definitely a fast, convenient way to acquire cash. But cash advances have risks and should only be used rarely if it all. Let’s look at the risks of credit card cash advances. Up-Front Fees […]
Read MoreWhen Should You Close a Credit Card?
Closing a rarely used credit card may sound like a good idea, but it’s not as simple as you may think. Many consumers don’t realize that closing a credit card can negatively impact their credit scores in the short term. But depending on your overall finances and credit situation, it may be worth taking the […]
Read MoreThe Pros and Cons of Payment Advance Apps
You’ve probably seen or heard commercials for financial app such as Chime, Dave or Earnin. They are a new breed of payment advance apps that promise consumers they can get paid a portion of their earnings early or borrow from their upcoming paychecks. With inflation, high prices and more people than ever living paycheck-to-paycheck, these […]
Read MoreThe Hidden Dangers of Buy Now, Pay Later Services
The popularity of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services, such as Afterpay and Klarna, have exploded over the past few years. In fact, they now account for more than $100 million in transactions annually. When shopping online, you will now almost always see an option to choose one of these services along with more traditional […]
Read MoreThe Truth About Payday Loans
As the cost of everything continues to rise, many people are finding themselves running out funds before their next payday. Some are turning to payday loans or cash advance stores just to make ends meet. In fact, 12 million Americans turn to payday loans every year, but only 14% are able to pay back those […]
Read MoreIs Credit Card Churning a Good Idea?
Have you heard of credit card churning? It’s a process people use to open multiple credit card accounts in a short span of time, collect new customer bonuses such as extra miles or cash back, then close the cards shortly thereafter and start the process all over again. Those who practice churning swear by it […]
Read More5 Common Questions About Debt Collectors
The phone calls. The letters. The stress. There’s no doubt dealing with debt collectors is a drag. Of course, they are allowed to pursue repayment of the money they’re owed. But many debt collectors stretch the rules or break them completely in pursuit of payment, leaving consumers vulnerable to scams, fraud and needless worry. The […]
Read MoreLearn Your Debt Consolidation Options
Juggling multiple credit card payments every month is stressful. You can set up auto-pay or set calendar reminders, but there’s still a chance you’ll miss a payment or not pay enough to cover the minimum due. Plus, multiple payments make the budgeting process more complex. Consolidating your credit card debt so you have just one […]
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