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 […]
Government-Backed Home Loans: Benefits and How to Apply
There’s no denying that it’s harder than ever to become a homeowner in the United States. This is mostly due to the limited housing supply and prices that have rapidly increased faster than wages. Still, the white picket fence is the definition of the American dream for many young Americans. Luckily, there are several government-backed […]
10 Steps to Build Your Credit from Scratch
As you go through life, you realize just how important your credit is. If your credit is healthy, it can open doors and opportunities for you. But, when your credit is poor, you often find yourself struggling to get ahead. The good news is that credit isn’t permanent. No matter how poor your credit is, […]
A Complete Guide to Amortization Loans
If you ever have a loan where you pay the same payment every month, you likely have an amortization loan. These loans are especially common for mortgages, car loans, personal loans, and student loans. Considering you’ll likely have an amortization loan at some point in your life, it’s crucial to understand how they work so […]
Navigating Credit Card Options: Which One Is Right for You?
A credit card is a powerful and convenient financial tool. It gives you access to a secure way to make purchases with flexible repayment options. When leveraged smartly, a credit card can help you start to build or rebuild a positive credit history, giving you access to additional credit opportunities with better terms. Many cards […]
Understanding the Differences Between Mortgage Prequalification & Preapproval
So, you’re going to get a mortgage soon. This is a monumental life step for anyone. But, if you’ve never done it before, it can also feel overwhelming. Your home will probably be the biggest purchase of your life, and there are so many steps you need to go through to ensure you get that […]
