How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early
Want to pay off your mortgage early? Learn how extra payments and smart planning can help you pay off a $300,000 loan in 10 years and save thousands in interest.
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Advice for the Self-Employed When Business is Slow
Q: I am a self-employed massage therapist in Colorado. I have made over $50,000 a year, but this year is different. My income is down by half, and I owe $9,000 in credit card debt. I eat only when I have the money to eat. I spend nothing more that gas and dog food as extras other
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How Store Credit Cards Impact Your Credit Score
Q: I am a student at Southeast Missouri State University. About 10 months ago I opened my first student credit card. I eventually got my credit score to 728. In October, I opened an account with a jewelry store in order to buy an engagement ring. I’ve noticed a huge dive in my credit score
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Can I Close a Department Store Credit Card Without Hurting My FICO Score?
If you’re managing several major credit cards along with department store credit cards and wondering if you should start closing a few, you’re not alone. Many consumers want to streamline their credit without negatively impacting their FICO score—especially if they’re in the 700–720 range. So, can you close a department store credit card without hurting
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How Long Do I Need to Keep My Business Tax Records?
Q: My understanding was that the IRS could file up to six years later. I have a small business and have been keeping my records six years. What is the current ruling for this? A: Under section 6501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, the IRS is required to assess tax within three years after a tax
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Ready to Retire at 63? Here’s Your Smart Step-by-Step Plan
Planning to retire in 2-3 years? Discover essential steps to secure your finances and ensure a smooth transition from your nursing career to retirement.
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When a Collection Agency Wants More Than You Can Afford
If you’re dealing with a collection agency that’s demanding more than you can realistically pay, you’re not alone—and you have options. Whether the collector is asking for a lump sum or a payment plan that’s beyond your reach, it’s important to approach the situation strategically. This guide walks you through how to negotiate effectively, protect
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How Long Do Repossessions Stay On Your Credit Report?
Q: I have a car that was repossessed about 5 years ago. My credit report states that it will report for another year. Is that true that it will fall off or will it be reported by another company. If so, should I try to settle the debt? How long does a repo stay on
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Should I Do a Short Sale, Deed In Lieu of Foreclosure, or File Bankruptcy?
Question: I live in las vegas. I owe $300,000 on a house that is valued at $150,000 and dropping. What would be the best alternative for me? Should I do a short sale, deed in lieu of foreclosure, or file bankruptcy? At present I am unemployed and can not afford the payments and HOA fees.
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I have so many bills I can’t afford to save any money. What should I do?
Q: I’m a College student and my soon-to-be husband just purchased our first home. Last year I bought a car and I’m paying for college out of pocket. With so many bills, how can I save? I do have a 401(k) but I’m tired of living check to check. A: Congratulations on your upcoming wedding
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I am Broke and in College. Where Can I Get Money to Finish My Degree?
Q: I just completed 6 ½ years of school but maxed out my subsidized and unsubsidized loans. I have one class to take to get my college degree, but I have an overdue amount and late fees on my school account. I don’t work and don’t have the money to pay the fees or pay
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How Can I Remove Negative Information From My Credit Report So That I Can Qualify For A Home Loan?
Q: I am trying to get pre-approved for a home loan, so I have been tracking credit reports and scores daily. There are 3 hard inquiries that would boost my score some 30 points, once removed. They were supposed to be removed as of 02/01/2010. The inquiries were pulled on january 9, 2008. Since these
What is the Best Way to Spend My Tax Refund?
Q: I want to use my tax refund money wisely this year so I can build a strong foundation for me and my two little girls. I have not been very smart with my past money choices. How can I make my money work for me this time? A: Congratulations for wanting to improve not
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I Don’t Have a Credit File and Now I Want to Buy A Home. What Should I Do?
Q: I am a 44 year old man who has never had credit. The last time I financed anything was in 1991. I pay all my bills (including rent) on time. Now I want to purchase a home, but I have no credit score. What can I do and are there programs to help first
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Can Multiple Secured Credit Cards Boost Your Credit Score
Q: My wife had a premie baby almost 6 years ago and couldn’t work for two years. Even though I worked two, and sometimes three jobs, we got behind on our bills and now have a lot of stuff on our credit, like charge offs and hospital bills. If we got a few secured cards
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