Picking the right money-handling strategy for your family – separate finances, a joint account or something in between? – can make a big difference on how well you function and how well you get along.
Jason Athas
It is possible to owe debts not on your credit report
While most major lenders and creditors report to at least one of the credit reporting agencies, there is no requirement to report, and not all companies do.
Should you pay extra on your mortgage?
You’ve probably dreamed of the day when you finally send in your last mortgage check and own your home free and clear.
Paying a little extra every month on your home loan is a way to make that dream a reality faster than you thought, and with today’s historically low savings rates, it could make more sense than ever.
Beware of ATM, Debit and Credit Card ‘Skimming’ Schemes
How to help protect yourself from high-tech thieves who steal account information
You may have heard in the news that automated teller machines (ATMs) are being targeted by criminals who secretly attach high-tech devices to the machines in order to record consumers’ keystrokes and steal or, as it is sometimes called, “skim” personal identification numbers (PINs) along with credit or debit card account numbers. In addition, criminals are known to add similar devices to credit or debit card readers at checkout registers, especially at gas stations, convenience stores or other merchants where customers may be in a hurry and not notice or take the time to report something suspicious.
How can I minimize the chance of being upside down on a car loan?
When shopping, consider whether you really can afford the model you want to buy. If it’s necessary to take out a six-year loan to afford the monthly payment, it may be wise to choose a less expensive ride.
Growing wave of Social Security imposters overtakes IRS scam
Claiming to be a government authority is a tried and true way that scammers trick people into sending money. Among the most common government imposters have been scammers pretending to be the IRS – until now.
5 Ways to Control Emotional Spending
Sometimes it may seem like shopping has become America’s favorite pastime. With advertising popping up everywhere—from TV to billboards to city buses— shopping seems to be everywhere. Advertisers spend billions of dollars annually convincing us that products can make us feel successful, prevent us from being bored, help us attract a partner, and a myriad of other things. With ads carefully designed to manipulate our spending habits, it’s no wonder so many people have become emotional spenders.
Start Fresh After Bankruptcy
Getting back on your feet following bankruptcy can be a very difficult task. You’ll be starting from scratch. It’s critical to your future financial success to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes.
10 questions to ask before getting a secured credit card
It’s tough to get by without a credit card.
You need one to make a hotel or plane reservation, or to rent a car, even if you plan to pay cash. Responsible use of a credit card builds a good credit rating, too, marking the owner as mortgage-worthy.
But people who have never had credit or need to repair a poor credit history may not qualify for a regular credit card. For them, a secured credit card may be the only way to establish, or re-establish, credit.
What Is A Credit Score?
A credit score is a number lenders use to help them decide: “If I give this person a loan or credit card, how likely is it I will get paid back on time?”