It is possible – very likely, in fact – that applying for a loan or seeking a new credit card will indeed lower your credit score. Here’s why. Anytime you apply for credit — such as a mortgage, a student loan, credit card or auto financing — a lender pulls your credit file and that […]
Will a Credit Inquiry Hurt My Credit Score? Read More »
Open enrollment season is in full swing, and that means you have the next month or so to decide what to do about key benefits your employer provides. Some people dread open enrollment season, because they think they have to painstakingly pore over mounds of healthcare paperwork, and then spend days upon days trying to
3 Easy Steps to Take During Open Enrollment Season Read More »
The average U.S. college graduate comes out of school with more than $25,000 in student loan debt, according to the College Board. And collectively, student loan debt in the U.S. now tops $1 trillion – surpassing the amount of credit card debt Americans owe. So paying off student loans is one of the most daunting
College Grads: Get the 411 on Federal & Private Loans Here Read More »
If someone steals your Social Security card or misuses your Social Security number without your permission, it’s one of the worst forms of identity theft you can suffer. Crooks can use your Social Security number to file taxes in your name, illegally snatching away a federal tax refund to which you’re legitimately entitled. Then you
Social Security Number Lost or Stolen? You Must Read This! Read More »
It’s frustrating to have errors on your credit report. But mistakes in your credit files happen all too often. In fact, consumer groups say that 70% of all U.S. credit reports contain mistakes. But you don’t have to live with these inaccuracies in your credit files. They key to getting rid of them is knowing
Clean Up Your Credit Reports and Fix Mistakes with These Tips Read More »
Are you tired of being denied credit? Do you want to raise your FICO credit score, qualify for a mortgage, or get the best interest rates on auto loans, student loans, and credit cards? Thankfully, no matter what your current credit standing, you can achieve A-1 credit. It may take some time – but probably
Bad Credit is a Drag. Here’s How to Boost Your Credit Score Read More »
Dealing with debt collectors is stressful. They call at all hours of the day and night. They hound you for money – whether you’re working or unemployed. And they generally make life unpleasant when you owe them, or one of their clients, cash. But just because you owe a company money doesn’t mean they have
Learn How to Deal with Creditors and Get Out of Debt Forever Read More »
Bankruptcy isn’t a step that should be taken lightly. But sometimes, it’s a necessity that simply can’t be avoided. If you’re overwhelmed by enormous credit card debts you can never repay, struggling with massive medical bills, or are barely staying afloat due to unemployment, bankruptcy may be a good alternative to consider. Will a Chapter
The Truth About Bankruptcy: It’s All Here – The Good and Bad Read More »
Paying with a credit card offers the ultimate in convenience when you’re taking care of all that holiday shopping, – particularly when Black Friday deals abound on the web and retailers are offering door-buster sales. But using your credit card either online or offline could put you at risk for identity theft and fraud if
How Thieves Steal Credit Cards Read More »
While everyone faces financial challenges, women often confront particular economic hurdles that require special attention. For instance, how do you deal with earning 75 cents for every dollar that men earn? What’s the best way to save for your kid’s college education if you’re a single mom? And how can you protect your credit while
Women and Personal Finance Read More »
We all make money mistakes, women and men alike. But women are often more prone to certain financial blunders. Here are five money mistakes women make – and how to fix them.
5 Money Mistakes Women Make – And How to Fix Them Read More »
Federal grants can help you cover some or all of the costs of your college education and unlike student loans, grants do not need to be paid back. Grants are often called a “gift aid” and are based on need. If you apply for a federal grant, you will need to submit a Free Application
Types of Federal Grants Available for College Read More »
Identity theft affects about 10 million Americans each year. If you’ve been a victim of identity theft and someone has misused your Social Security number, it is possible to get a new Social Security number. There’s also one other time when you can get a new Social Security number. It’s when you’ve been the victim
What Happens If You Get a New Social Security Number Read More »
Admit it: are you a shopaholic? Many of us go on shopping binges, or we find ourselves unable to resist certain things: like yet another purse or that oh-so-cute pair of shoes. It’s OK to shop. But when the shopping becomes excessive, or it drives you into debt, then that’s a problem. Here are some
Help for Shopaholics Read More »
Are your kids at that age where you’re considering giving them an allowance? If so, you’re not alone. According to a survey from T. Rowe Price, nearly half of parents in the U.S. give their children allowances. But not everyone is convinced allowances are a good idea. In my opinion, an allowance can be a
Should You Give Your Kids an Allowance? Read More »
