Credit Cards: Pros and Cons – A Balanced View
Credit cards have become ubiquitous tools for almost everyone, and some merchants are only accepting these plastic rectangles as a form of payment. These small rectangles offer convenience and financial flexibility, but they also come with significant responsibilities and potential pitfalls. We are here to examine both sides of the credit card equation, providing a […]
How to Use Home Equity to Manage Debt
People can accumulate debt for many reasons. It can be due to student loans, medical emergencies, overspending, or poor investment decisions. If you have debt, know that you’re not alone. As of 2024, the average American holds just under $105,000 in debt across mortgages, car loans, student loans, and credit cards. That’s a high number […]
5 Steps For Planning For Debt in Retirement
You work hard all of your life to get to retirement. Those golden years are meant to be a peaceful and enjoyable time. However, that dream might be in jeopardy if you aren’t financially secure. You need to have enough savings to enjoy retirement. According to one survey, most Americans think they need $1.26 million […]
Tackle Credit Card Debt and Boost Your Credit Score With These Proven Strategies
Having credit card debt is often incredibly stressful. Not only do you need to create a plan to pay what you owe, but you may find it difficult to access new lines of credit you need until you take care of your current debts. The high interest rates, late fees, and other charges of many […]
Refinancing Loans: How It Works and When It’s Beneficial
Americans are struggling to keep up with their debt repayments more than ever. The number of households having missed loan payments for 90+ days on some loans is at 14-year highs. If you’re having trouble paying your loans on time, one possible solution is loan refinancing. But a refinance isn’t the answer for everyone’s situation. […]
Creating a Realistic Budget in 8 Steps
Debt can feel like a storm cloud that follows you wherever you go. Whether you are drowning in credit card debt, student loans, car payments, or personal loans, debt can play a huge role in your future financial decisions and your future. But here’s the truth: You can take control. And it starts with one […]
A Guide on Loans: Auto, Personal, Student, and Mortgage Loans Explained
It’s unlikely that you’ll get through life without needing to borrow money at some point. People can get away without using credit cards, but it’s much harder to pay for life’s biggest expenses in cash. Loans are often used to finance larger purchases so you don’t have to delay the purchase by years while you […]
How Much Does Your Credit Score Matter For Your Loan?
You’ll probably need to apply for a loan at some point in your life. You might need it to purchase a car or a property, get through emergency bills, or start a small business. Whatever the reason, you’ll quickly learn that your credit plays a significant role. Your credit score will impact not only your […]
How to Protect Yourself From 7 Common Financial Scams
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost $10 billion to scams and fraud in 2023. The median loss was $500 per victim. However, more than 100,000 people reported losing over $10,000. Financial scams no longer target just the elderly. Anyone can fall victim. And the tactics used are getting trickier every year, so […]
How Saving Money and Putting It in an Emergency Fund Helps You Avoid Debt and Protect Your Finances
Life throws curveballs at all of us, including unexpected expenses for car repairs and medical bills. Likewise, sudden changes like job loss can negatively affect your budget. Without a financial buffer, these situations can lead you straight into debt. Fortunately, having an emergency fund helps you break the cycle. Savings for emergencies help you avoid […]
