Financial Planning: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Basic Budget Worksheet for Setting Up Your Personal Budget
Budget worksheet form for setting up your personal budget
Budget worksheet form for setting up your personal budget
How To Create a Budget
Creating a budget may not sound like the most exciting thing in the world to do but it is vital in keeping your financial house in order. Before you begin to create your budget it is important to realize that in order to be successful you have to provide as much detailed information as possible. Ultimately the end result will be able to show where your money is coming from, how much is there and where it is all going.
Creating a budget may not sound like the most exciting thing in the world to do but it is vital in keeping your financial house in order. Before you begin to create your budget it is important to realize that in order to be successful you have to provide as much detailed information as possible. Ultimately the end result will be able to show where your money is coming from, how much is there and where it is all going.
All About Personal Budgets
A One-stop Guide to Budgeting Advice and Budget Worksheets
A One-stop Guide to Budgeting Advice and Budget Worksheets
Summer Saving Tips
You can save money throughout the year, but the warm temperatures of summer provide a few additional tips that can help you save even more money. Here are some things to try during those warm months.
You can save money throughout the year, but the warm temperatures of summer provide a few additional tips that can help you save even more money. Here are some things to try during those warm months.
How to Establish Credit
When you don’t have a credit history, it can be difficult and frustrating when trying to obtain a credit card or other type of loan. Establishing your initial credit history can be a Catch-22. If you don’t have credit, not many places are willing to give you credit, yet how can you ever establish credit if nobody is willing to give you any?
When you don’t have a credit history, it can be difficult and frustrating when trying to obtain a credit card or other type of loan. Establishing your initial credit history can be a Catch-22. If you don’t have credit, not many places are willing to give you credit, yet how can you ever establish credit if nobody is willing to give you any?
Buying Diamond Engagement Ring
What You Need to Know When Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring
What You Need to Know When Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring
Bargain Shopping Strategies
Save money by knowing what items traditionally go on sale each month of the year
Save money by knowing what items traditionally go on sale each month of the year
U.S. Savings Bonds
If you’re tired of the pitiful interest rate on your savings account at the bank, you may want to look into U.S. savings bonds for an equally safe place to keep some of your savings. With most bank accounts, the safety of your money comes from being insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC. This provides insurance on up to $100,000 per depositor. Unfortunately, while your money may be safe, there is a good chance the interest rate on the account is quite low.
If you’re tired of the pitiful interest rate on your savings account at the bank, you may want to look into U.S. savings bonds for an equally safe place to keep some of your savings. With most bank accounts, the safety of your money comes from being insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC. This provides insurance on up to $100,000 per depositor. Unfortunately, while your money may be safe, there is a good chance the interest rate on the account is quite low.
Plan an Affordable Wedding
Plan an affordable, memorable wedding without going into debt or breaking the bank
Plan an affordable, memorable wedding without going into debt or breaking the bank
Your FICO Credit Score
Your FICO credit score determines your ability to borrow money and affects you in other ways that may surprise you
Your FICO credit score determines your ability to borrow money and affects you in other ways that may surprise you
Top Personal Finance Software
Top picks for personal finance software programs
Top picks for personal finance software programs
You Can Get Out of Debt
You Can Get Out of Debt, But Not by Paying the Minimum Balance on Your Credit Cards
You Can Get Out of Debt, But Not by Paying the Minimum Balance on Your Credit Cards
Cut Air Conditioning Costs
Save Money on Air Conditioning Costs
Save Money on Air Conditioning Costs
Ways for Teens to Make Money
Jobs for Teens and Other Ways to Make Money
Jobs for Teens and Other Ways to Make Money
Wedding Budget Worksheet
Click here for a printer-friendly version WEDDING BUDGET WORKSHEET Item Budgeted Cost Actual Cost PRINTING:
Click here for a printer-friendly version WEDDING BUDGET WORKSHEET Item Budgeted Cost Actual Cost PRINTING:
Budgeting
Budgeting - The First Step to Financial Success
Budgeting - The First Step to Financial Success
Eliminate Credit Card Debt
The Fastest Way To Eliminate Credit Card Debt - How to eliminate credit card debt before it threatens your financial health
The Fastest Way To Eliminate Credit Card Debt - How to eliminate credit card debt before it threatens your financial health
Personal Finance 101
Personal finance covers a wide variety of money topics including budgeting, expenses, debt, saving, retirement and insurance among others. Understanding how each of these topics work together and affect each other is important for laying the groundwork for a solid financial foundation for you and your family.
Personal finance covers a wide variety of money topics including budgeting, expenses, debt, saving, retirement and insurance among others. Understanding how each of these topics work together and affect each other is important for laying the groundwork for a solid financial foundation for you and your family.
Your Debt To Income Ratio
Do you have too much debt? Calculate your debt to income ratio to find out.
Do you have too much debt? Calculate your debt to income ratio to find out.
Introduction to Saving Money
The ability to save money is the cornerstone of building wealth. In order to save money, you need to spend less than you earn. This is often easier said than done, but there are plenty of ways to help you begin saving money on even the tightest budget.
The ability to save money is the cornerstone of building wealth. In order to save money, you need to spend less than you earn. This is often easier said than done, but there are plenty of ways to help you begin saving money on even the tightest budget.
Budget Worksheet for College Students
BUDGET WORKSHEET FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS Click here for a printer-friendly version of the College Budget
BUDGET WORKSHEET FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS Click here for a printer-friendly version of the College Budget
Guilt-free Budgeting
How to Achieve Guilt-free Budgeting and Take Control of Your Finances
How to Achieve Guilt-free Budgeting and Take Control of Your Finances
Secret to Budgeting
The secret to budgeting successfully
The secret to budgeting successfully
Save $ on Home Expenses
Tips on how to save money on your home expenses, including your mortgage and utilities.
Tips on how to save money on your home expenses, including your mortgage and utilities.
Ways to Improve Credit Score
Your credit score is a very important number that lenders use in order to determine whether or not to extend credit to you, and what the interest rate and terms of the credit or loan are.
Your credit score is a very important number that lenders use in order to determine whether or not to extend credit to you, and what the interest rate and terms of the credit or loan are.
Tweak Your Tax Withholding
Tweak Your Income Tax Withholding and Avoid Paying More or Less Than You Owe
Tweak Your Income Tax Withholding and Avoid Paying More or Less Than You Owe
Debt Snowball
The Debt Snowball is the fastest method of paying of credit debt. Here's how to do it.
The Debt Snowball is the fastest method of paying of credit debt. Here's how to do it.
Make Saving Automatic
Do you have a savings account yet find it difficult to find money to deposit into it? This isn’t an uncommon problem and most people find it hard to save.
Do you have a savings account yet find it difficult to find money to deposit into it? This isn’t an uncommon problem and most people find it hard to save.
Stay Away From Payday Loans
Quick and easy cash? There's nothing easy about payday loans.
Quick and easy cash? There's nothing easy about payday loans.
Bi-weekly Mortgage Payments
Bi-weekly Mortgage Payments: Save Tens of Thousands of Dollars on Your Mortgage But Avoid the Scams
Bi-weekly Mortgage Payments: Save Tens of Thousands of Dollars on Your Mortgage But Avoid the Scams
Top Picks: Personal Finance Books
Top picks for personal finance books
Top picks for personal finance books
How to Contact the IRS
How to contact the IRS by telephone, mail, the internet, or fax
How to contact the IRS by telephone, mail, the internet, or fax
Top Ten Financial Tips
Top Ten Financial Tips: Keys to Financial Success
Top Ten Financial Tips: Keys to Financial Success
Emergency Funds
Emergency Funds: Why you need one, how much you need, where to keep it, and the secret to saving money
Emergency Funds: Why you need one, how much you need, where to keep it, and the secret to saving money
Seeking Credit Counseling
Consumer Credit Counseling Services: Should You Use Them?
Consumer Credit Counseling Services: Should You Use Them?
Debt Warning Signs
Do you have debt that is bogging you down and keeping you from reaching your financial goals? Using credit and debt can be a powerful tool that allows you to buy a home, a vehicle, send children to college, and even provide leverage for other purchases, but when you accumulate too much debt, it can pose a serious problem.
Do you have debt that is bogging you down and keeping you from reaching your financial goals? Using credit and debt can be a powerful tool that allows you to buy a home, a vehicle, send children to college, and even provide leverage for other purchases, but when you accumulate too much debt, it can pose a serious problem.
Money and the College Student
Money Advice for College Students. Leave College Without Credit Card Debt.
Money Advice for College Students. Leave College Without Credit Card Debt.
Net Worth Statements
Calculate your net worth to get a snapshot of your financial health
Calculate your net worth to get a snapshot of your financial health
How To Balance Your Checkbook
Balancing Your Checkbook: Step-by-Step Instructions
Balancing Your Checkbook: Step-by-Step Instructions
The Roots of Overspending
To build wealth and reach financial independence, you simply need to spend less than you earn. It is an easy concept to understand, but why is it so difficult? To answer this question, you need to examine the roots of overspending. When you know what factors drive your spending, you can fight back and save money so that you can spend less than you earn.
To build wealth and reach financial independence, you simply need to spend less than you earn. It is an easy concept to understand, but why is it so difficult? To answer this question, you need to examine the roots of overspending. When you know what factors drive your spending, you can fight back and save money so that you can spend less than you earn.
Where to Keep Your Savings
So, you’ve set up an automatic savings program and you’re finally building up that emergency fund, but where should you keep your savings so that it earns the most interest for you? Luckily, there are many different savings vehicles available, but not all of them are appropriate for every situation.
So, you’ve set up an automatic savings program and you’re finally building up that emergency fund, but where should you keep your savings so that it earns the most interest for you? Luckily, there are many different savings vehicles available, but not all of them are appropriate for every situation.
Setting Financial Goals
Setting Financial Goals - The Second Step in Personal Financial Planning
Setting Financial Goals - The Second Step in Personal Financial Planning
Balancing Your Checkbook
Balancing Your Checkbook: Four Reasons You Should Do It and Step-by-Step Instructions
Balancing Your Checkbook: Four Reasons You Should Do It and Step-by-Step Instructions
Choosing a Planner
With a little knowledge and willingness to create and follow a financial plan, most people can adequately manage their own finances. Even so, there are many instances where you just don’t have the time or have a complicated situation that may need the assistance of a finance professional.
With a little knowledge and willingness to create and follow a financial plan, most people can adequately manage their own finances. Even so, there are many instances where you just don’t have the time or have a complicated situation that may need the assistance of a finance professional.
Save Money on Heating Costs
Save money by reducing heating costs
Save money by reducing heating costs
Maximize Your Benefits
Maximize Your Employment Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts
Maximize Your Employment Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts
Cut Spending Leaks
Sometimes it is the little things that add up. Stopping the little spending leaks in your life may amount to significant savings over time.
Sometimes it is the little things that add up. Stopping the little spending leaks in your life may amount to significant savings over time.
Best Places to Stash Your Cash
The Best Places to Stash Your Cash. What you should do with your short-term savings
The Best Places to Stash Your Cash. What you should do with your short-term savings
A Budget Can Improve Your Life
Twelve Reasons Budgeting Can Improve Your Life
Twelve Reasons Budgeting Can Improve Your Life
The Child Tax Credit
The Child Tax Credit - what you need to know to claim it properly.
The Child Tax Credit - what you need to know to claim it properly.
Checkbook Balancing Form
Click here for a printable version of this checkbook balancing form. Checkbook Balancing Form 1. Outstanding
Click here for a printable version of this checkbook balancing form. Checkbook Balancing Form 1. Outstanding
How Much to Budget by Category
What Percentage of Our Income Should We Budget for Each Expense Category?
What Percentage of Our Income Should We Budget for Each Expense Category?
Laddering CDs
Laddering Certificates of Deposit (CDs)to Maximize Your Earnings and Balance Risk and Reward
Laddering Certificates of Deposit (CDs)to Maximize Your Earnings and Balance Risk and Reward
Budgeting Traits
Creating a budget is incredibly difficult, but where most people fail is trying to maintain the budget. It usually starts with good intentions, but just like dieting, it doesn’t take much to derail your entire plan. Here are three traits you must posses if you want to create and maintain a successful budget.
Creating a budget is incredibly difficult, but where most people fail is trying to maintain the budget. It usually starts with good intentions, but just like dieting, it doesn’t take much to derail your entire plan. Here are three traits you must posses if you want to create and maintain a successful budget.
5 Ways to Save on Gas
Make no bones about it, gasoline is expensive and it isn’t getting any cheaper. You don’t need to switch to public transportation to cut costs at the pump. There are a few basic things you can do that could considerably save money on gas.
Make no bones about it, gasoline is expensive and it isn’t getting any cheaper. You don’t need to switch to public transportation to cut costs at the pump. There are a few basic things you can do that could considerably save money on gas.
Leasing a Car vs Buying
Should you lease your next car or buy it? Ten things you must know before buying orleasing your new car.
Should you lease your next car or buy it? Ten things you must know before buying orleasing your new car.
Get Your Free Credit Report
Get Your Free Credit Report - Now Available by Law
Get Your Free Credit Report - Now Available by Law
What Makes a Good Budget?
What Makes a Good Budget? Top Ten Features of a Successful Budget
What Makes a Good Budget? Top Ten Features of a Successful Budget
Financial Planning - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Financial Planning guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Financial Planning guide site.
Before Having a Child
Becoming a parent is one of the most rewarding things in life, but it does come at a cost. As you prepare to introduce a new child into your family, there are plenty of things you need to consider.
Becoming a parent is one of the most rewarding things in life, but it does come at a cost. As you prepare to introduce a new child into your family, there are plenty of things you need to consider.
Save Money On Gas
13 Ways To Significantly Reduce Your Gas Costs and Save Money
13 Ways To Significantly Reduce Your Gas Costs and Save Money
Choosing a Financial Planner
Advice on what to look for in a financial planner, how to know if you need one, and how to choose one
Advice on what to look for in a financial planner, how to know if you need one, and how to choose one
Co-signing a Loan
Co-signing a Loan: What You Need To Know
Co-signing a Loan: What You Need To Know
Five Worst Car Mistakes
Five Worst Money Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Car
Five Worst Money Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Car
The Secret To Saving Money
One small and suprisingly simple secret can show you to save money.
One small and suprisingly simple secret can show you to save money.
Identity Theft Insurance
Should You Buy Identity Theft Insurance or Credit Monitoring Services?
Should You Buy Identity Theft Insurance or Credit Monitoring Services?
How To Become a Millionaire
How To Become a Millionaire - Becoming a millionaire is not out of reach for many Americans
How To Become a Millionaire - Becoming a millionaire is not out of reach for many Americans
Get Out of Debt Guide
Get Out of Debt guide - What You Need To Know Before You Can Get Out of Debt
Get Out of Debt guide - What You Need To Know Before You Can Get Out of Debt
Joint or Separate Accounts?
Should You and Your Spouse Have Joint or Separate Checking Accounts? Tips on How to Decide and How to Make It Work
Should You and Your Spouse Have Joint or Separate Checking Accounts? Tips on How to Decide and How to Make It Work
Financial Advice for Your 20s
Financial Advice for Your Twenties or if You're Just Starting a Financial Plan, Regardless of Your Age
Financial Advice for Your Twenties or if You're Just Starting a Financial Plan, Regardless of Your Age
Net Worth Worksheet
Net worth worksheet for calculating how much you're worth financially
Net worth worksheet for calculating how much you're worth financially
Cut Homeowner's Insurance
Ten Ways To Cut Your Homeowner's Insurance Premiums
Ten Ways To Cut Your Homeowner's Insurance Premiums
Invest Small Amounts of Money
Start Investing With Very Small Amounts of Money Using Direct Purchase Plans
Start Investing With Very Small Amounts of Money Using Direct Purchase Plans
Can You Afford to Have Kids?
Can You Afford to Have Kids? Financial Planning for a New Baby
Can You Afford to Have Kids? Financial Planning for a New Baby
The Urge to Splurge
The Real Culprit Behind Your Urge to Splurge
The Real Culprit Behind Your Urge to Splurge
15-year Mortgages
Best Financial Moves - 15-Year Mortgages. Save large sums of money by having a 15-year instead of a 30-year mortgage
Best Financial Moves - 15-Year Mortgages. Save large sums of money by having a 15-year instead of a 30-year mortgage
Marriage - Mingling Your Money
Marriage - Tying the Financial Knot. The Way You Mingle Your Money Can Mean the Difference Between Wedded Bliss and Divorce Court
Marriage - Tying the Financial Knot. The Way You Mingle Your Money Can Mean the Difference Between Wedded Bliss and Divorce Court
Find Money to Pay Off Debt
Are you struggling to come up with enough money to pay more than the minimum on your credit card debt? It can certainly seem as if there is never enough money to go around, but you might be surprised where you can find a few extra dollars to apply towards that debt and accelerate the payoff.
Are you struggling to come up with enough money to pay more than the minimum on your credit card debt? It can certainly seem as if there is never enough money to go around, but you might be surprised where you can find a few extra dollars to apply towards that debt and accelerate the payoff.
Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey, One of America's Best Personal Finance Experts
Dave Ramsey, One of America's Best Personal Finance Experts
Why You Need an Emergency Fund
In life you should expect the unexpected, and this is why you need an emergency fund. The best you can do is to prepare for emergencies that require access to additional money and having an emergency fund is the ideal solution. Financial emergencies can come in the form of a job loss, significant medical expenses, home or auto repairs or something you’ve never dreamed of.
In life you should expect the unexpected, and this is why you need an emergency fund. The best you can do is to prepare for emergencies that require access to additional money and having an emergency fund is the ideal solution. Financial emergencies can come in the form of a job loss, significant medical expenses, home or auto repairs or something you’ve never dreamed of.
Rules of Thumb
Everyone has a unique situation, and there are no concrete financial numbers that define success, but there are some rules of thumb that can help you gauge your progress.
Everyone has a unique situation, and there are no concrete financial numbers that define success, but there are some rules of thumb that can help you gauge your progress.
Should Teens Have Credit Cards
Should Teens Have Credit Cards?
Should Teens Have Credit Cards?
Insuring Your Life
Understanding and Choosing Life Insurance - What Type of Insurance Is Best For You?
Understanding and Choosing Life Insurance - What Type of Insurance Is Best For You?
Biggest Money Mistakes
Seven Biggest Money Mistakes in Accumulating Wealth
Seven Biggest Money Mistakes in Accumulating Wealth
Dumb Ways to Pay Debt
Debt Payment Methods You Should Avoid
Debt Payment Methods You Should Avoid
Collecting Child Support
Collecting Child Support. Unpaid Child Support plunges millions into poverty. Don't be one of them.
Collecting Child Support. Unpaid Child Support plunges millions into poverty. Don't be one of them.
Top Personal Finance Magazines
Top Personal Finance Magazines for the average person
Top Personal Finance Magazines for the average person
How To Calculate Net Worth
Your net worth can be a useful tool to measure your financial progress from year to year. Your net worth is essentially a grand total of all your assets minus your liabilities.
Your net worth can be a useful tool to measure your financial progress from year to year. Your net worth is essentially a grand total of all your assets minus your liabilities.
Tying the Knot Financially
Tying the Knot: A Financial To Do List for Newlyweds
Tying the Knot: A Financial To Do List for Newlyweds
Be Prepared for Closing Costs When You Buy a Home
Here's what to expect for closing costs when you buy a home, and how to be prepared to identify inflated fees
Here's what to expect for closing costs when you buy a home, and how to be prepared to identify inflated fees
Beware Payday Loans
Beware of Payday Loans: Dangerous Consumer Rip-Off
Beware of Payday Loans: Dangerous Consumer Rip-Off
Get Started in Investing
How to Get Started in Investing With Small Amounts of Money
How to Get Started in Investing With Small Amounts of Money
Couples and Money
Couples and Money: How to Talk the Talk
Couples and Money: How to Talk the Talk
401(k) Loan
Many retirement plans such as 401(k)s and 403(b)s allow participants to borrow money from their retirement savings, but there are many things you should consider before tapping into that retirement plan with a loan.
Many retirement plans such as 401(k)s and 403(b)s allow participants to borrow money from their retirement savings, but there are many things you should consider before tapping into that retirement plan with a loan.
Top Online $ Calculators
Top Ten Online Money Calculators - Manage Your Finances More Easily
Top Ten Online Money Calculators - Manage Your Finances More Easily
Private Mortgage Insurance
Save Thousands by Cancelling Private Mortgage Insurance
Save Thousands by Cancelling Private Mortgage Insurance
Try Using Cash
If you are struggling to stay within your budget or always seem to spend more money than you should it might be a good idea to go back to using cash for daily purchases.
If you are struggling to stay within your budget or always seem to spend more money than you should it might be a good idea to go back to using cash for daily purchases.
Save Money on Credit Cards
Save money on your credit card expenses with these money-saving tips
Save money on your credit card expenses with these money-saving tips
Choosing the Best Mortgage
Choosing the Best Mortgage for You. Why It's Important and How To Do It
Choosing the Best Mortgage for You. Why It's Important and How To Do It
Suze Orman - Money Expert
What Makes Suze Orman One of America's Best Personal Finance Experts?
What Makes Suze Orman One of America's Best Personal Finance Experts?
Difference Between APR and APY
Both APR (annual percentage rate) and APY (annual percentage yield) are commonly used to reflect the interest rate paid on something, but what is the difference between the two? Understanding the difference will help you understand exactly how hard your money is working for you.
Both APR (annual percentage rate) and APY (annual percentage yield) are commonly used to reflect the interest rate paid on something, but what is the difference between the two? Understanding the difference will help you understand exactly how hard your money is working for you.
The High Cost of Credit Cards
The High Cost of Using Credit Cards. If you buy with a credit card, how much is that purchase really costing you? Find out what the credit card companies don't want you to know
The High Cost of Using Credit Cards. If you buy with a credit card, how much is that purchase really costing you? Find out what the credit card companies don't want you to know
You Can Afford to Stay Home
You Can Afford to Stay Home With Your Kids. How to Calculate What That Second Income is Really Costing You and What It's Really Worth.
You Can Afford to Stay Home With Your Kids. How to Calculate What That Second Income is Really Costing You and What It's Really Worth.
A Car or a House?
Your car payment may prevent you from qualifying for a mortgage. Choosing between owning a new car or your own home.
Your car payment may prevent you from qualifying for a mortgage. Choosing between owning a new car or your own home.
Saving for a Down Payment
In order to receive the best possible interest rates and to avoid private mortgage insurance it is still a wise decision to have a significant down payment, but how can you save tens of thousands of dollars for this purchase?
In order to receive the best possible interest rates and to avoid private mortgage insurance it is still a wise decision to have a significant down payment, but how can you save tens of thousands of dollars for this purchase?
Review W-4 Exemptions
If you work for an employer that automatically withholds taxes from each paycheck, then you have the ability to adjust how much is withheld by adjusting the exemptions on IRS Form W-4. This is important to review because many different changes in your life could impact the amount of money you should have withheld.
If you work for an employer that automatically withholds taxes from each paycheck, then you have the ability to adjust how much is withheld by adjusting the exemptions on IRS Form W-4. This is important to review because many different changes in your life could impact the amount of money you should have withheld.
Personal Financial Plan
Step by step instructions for creating your own personal basic financial plan.
Step by step instructions for creating your own personal basic financial plan.
Itemize Deductions
Reduce Your Income Taxes by Itemizing Deductions
Reduce Your Income Taxes by Itemizing Deductions
Turbo Tax Software
Product Review of Quicken Turbo Tax Software
Product Review of Quicken Turbo Tax Software
EE Savings Bond Changes
The federal government has changed Series EE savings bonds, and it's not for the better. Find out about the changes and alternatives to Series EE bonds.
The federal government has changed Series EE savings bonds, and it's not for the better. Find out about the changes and alternatives to Series EE bonds.
What is a 401(k) Plan?
Don’t let the cryptic name of the plan confuse you, these plans are actually fairly easy to understand. A 401(k) is a retirement plan offered by some employers in the United States. The plan received the name from the section of Internal Revenue Code it was named after.
Don’t let the cryptic name of the plan confuse you, these plans are actually fairly easy to understand. A 401(k) is a retirement plan offered by some employers in the United States. The plan received the name from the section of Internal Revenue Code it was named after.
The Minimum Payment Habit
One of the most costly mistakes you can make with credit cards is getting into the habit of only paying the minimum amount due each month. While the minimum amount may be affordable; it will also cost you more money in the long run.
One of the most costly mistakes you can make with credit cards is getting into the habit of only paying the minimum amount due each month. While the minimum amount may be affordable; it will also cost you more money in the long run.
Credit Score Criteria
Your credit score is a number that is calculated with a formula that lenders use to predict how much risk you are as a borrower. This score is one of the most important factors used when determining whether or not to lend you money and at what interest rate.
Your credit score is a number that is calculated with a formula that lenders use to predict how much risk you are as a borrower. This score is one of the most important factors used when determining whether or not to lend you money and at what interest rate.
Successful Budgeting 101
How to Budget Successfully
How to Budget Successfully
Personal Finance 20s and 30s
Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s
Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s
Credit & Debt Basics
Credit cards and other forms of debt can be an essential part of your financial toolbox, but you must exercise care when using credit and taking on debt. Find out the difference between good debt and bad debt, and learn how to establish credit and maintain a good credit score.
Credit cards and other forms of debt can be an essential part of your financial toolbox, but you must exercise care when using credit and taking on debt. Find out the difference between good debt and bad debt, and learn how to establish credit and maintain a good credit score.
Dealing With Divorce
Dealing with the financial impact of divorce. Know your obligations and how to protect yourself financially
Dealing with the financial impact of divorce. Know your obligations and how to protect yourself financially
Identity Theft Tips
You’ve heard about identity theft in the news, and if you’re like most people, you probably think it will never happen to you. While there is a good chance that you’ll never experience this unfortunate situation, it only takes one misplaced document or accidentally clicking on a link on the web to put you at risk. Because it is becoming easier for thieves to obtain the information needed to steal and damage your identity, it is important to take a proactive approach and protect yourself.
You’ve heard about identity theft in the news, and if you’re like most people, you probably think it will never happen to you. While there is a good chance that you’ll never experience this unfortunate situation, it only takes one misplaced document or accidentally clicking on a link on the web to put you at risk. Because it is becoming easier for thieves to obtain the information needed to steal and damage your identity, it is important to take a proactive approach and protect yourself.
Build a Financial Safety Net
Building a Financial Safety Net
Building a Financial Safety Net
Smart Moves for College Grads
Five Smart Money Moves for New College Graduates
Five Smart Money Moves for New College Graduates
Retirement Savings Late Start
Ten Tips for Late Starters To Boost Their Retirement Savings
Ten Tips for Late Starters To Boost Their Retirement Savings
Paying Credit Card Charge-offs
Payment of Charge-off recorded on credit report as a settlement instead of paid as agreed.
Payment of Charge-off recorded on credit report as a settlement instead of paid as agreed.
Financial Issues of Divorce
Financial Issues of Divorce: Dividing Property and Debt, Child Support, Alimony, Taxes, Retirement Funds, and More. Protect yourself financially.
Financial Issues of Divorce: Dividing Property and Debt, Child Support, Alimony, Taxes, Retirement Funds, and More. Protect yourself financially.
Money and Unmarried Couples
Single couples living together face unique money issues. Learn the three most critical personal finance issues facing unmarried couples.
Single couples living together face unique money issues. Learn the three most critical personal finance issues facing unmarried couples.
Two Incomes to One
Moving from two incomes to one can be a difficult transition to make. Sometimes this is a planned event while other times it comes from an unexpected job loss. Whatever the case may be, some simple planning can make this transition go smoothly.
Moving from two incomes to one can be a difficult transition to make. Sometimes this is a planned event while other times it comes from an unexpected job loss. Whatever the case may be, some simple planning can make this transition go smoothly.
1000 Best Money Secrets
1000 Best Smart Money Secrets for Students book
1000 Best Smart Money Secrets for Students book
Financial Planning - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Financial Planning guide site.
An index of HowTos for the Financial Planning guide site.
5 Mistakes When Buying a Car
For most people, a car is a necessity. We often depend on our vehicles to get us to and from work every day, transport children to events, and even for pleasure. Because they are such an important aspect of your life, you want a vehicle that is reliable, comfortable, and maybe even a bit stylish. The vehicle choices are almost endless, so finding the right combination of wants and needs with an affordable price tag can be challenging.
For most people, a car is a necessity. We often depend on our vehicles to get us to and from work every day, transport children to events, and even for pleasure. Because they are such an important aspect of your life, you want a vehicle that is reliable, comfortable, and maybe even a bit stylish. The vehicle choices are almost endless, so finding the right combination of wants and needs with an affordable price tag can be challenging.
How Bankruptcy Works
Bankruptcy - How It Works and How to Prevent It
Bankruptcy - How It Works and How to Prevent It
Debtors Anonymous Can Help
Even with all of the advice and information available to help people break their overspending habits, for some, this desire to spend and rack up insurmountable debt becomes a serious problem that overtakes other aspects of their lives. As with any addiction, this can negatively affect your performance at work, quality of life, and relationships with family and friends.
Even with all of the advice and information available to help people break their overspending habits, for some, this desire to spend and rack up insurmountable debt becomes a serious problem that overtakes other aspects of their lives. As with any addiction, this can negatively affect your performance at work, quality of life, and relationships with family and friends.
Retirement Funds and Divorce
Protect your share of your spouse's retirement plan if you're getting a separation or divorce
Protect your share of your spouse's retirement plan if you're getting a separation or divorce
Credit Card Minimums Double
Your Monthly Credit Card Minimum Payments May Double
Your Monthly Credit Card Minimum Payments May Double
Should You Refinance?
How to Take Advantage of Lower Mortgage Interest Rates
How to Take Advantage of Lower Mortgage Interest Rates
1st Step in Asking for a Raise
Important advice on how to get a pay raise
Important advice on how to get a pay raise
Budget Isn't a Bad Word
When you hear the word “budget”, what does it mean do you? If you’re like most people, you probably think of it as an unpleasant activity that means you have to financially deprive yourself. This couldn’t be further from the truth, yet this is the typical reason that most budgets fail.
When you hear the word “budget”, what does it mean do you? If you’re like most people, you probably think of it as an unpleasant activity that means you have to financially deprive yourself. This couldn’t be further from the truth, yet this is the typical reason that most budgets fail.
Choosing a Roth IRA
Choosing a Roth vs a Traditional IRA
Choosing a Roth vs a Traditional IRA
Everything Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s
Erase your debt, personalize your budget, and plan now to secure your future with Everything Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s
Erase your debt, personalize your budget, and plan now to secure your future with Everything Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s
Monthly Budget Worksheet for College Students
MONTHLY BUDGET WORKSHEET FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS (Printer friendly version of this worksheet) CATEGORY MONTHLY
MONTHLY BUDGET WORKSHEET FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS (Printer friendly version of this worksheet) CATEGORY MONTHLY
Organize Your Finances
One of the easiest things you can do to help keep your financial house in order is to get organized. Having your financial information stored and processed in a systematic manner will go a long way in helping maintain your finances.
One of the easiest things you can do to help keep your financial house in order is to get organized. Having your financial information stored and processed in a systematic manner will go a long way in helping maintain your finances.
College Money Mistakes
Top Five Money Mistakes Made By College Students
Top Five Money Mistakes Made By College Students
Using the Net to Manage Debt
Using the Net to Manage Your Debt.The Internet Makes Managing Your Debt Easier Than Ever
Using the Net to Manage Your Debt.The Internet Makes Managing Your Debt Easier Than Ever
Are Budgets for Sissies?
Do budgets really work? Find out how an average family with kids and debt amassed a fortune
Do budgets really work? Find out how an average family with kids and debt amassed a fortune
Guide Picks for Tax Software
Top Picks - Tax Preparation Software Reviews
Top Picks - Tax Preparation Software Reviews
Financial Advice for 50s & 60s
Financial Advice for Your Fifties and Sixties. Financial Planning Throughout Your Life
Financial Advice for Your Fifties and Sixties. Financial Planning Throughout Your Life
How Much Home Can You Afford?
When the time is right to purchase a home, the first question you need to be able to answer is how of a home you can afford.
When the time is right to purchase a home, the first question you need to be able to answer is how of a home you can afford.
Hidden Credit Card Fees
Credit card promotions that offer low interest rates can be quite tempting, but unless you read the fine print, you could be hit by hidden fees or unexpected rate increases. There are a few things to look out for when examining your credit card or when applying for a new card.
Credit card promotions that offer low interest rates can be quite tempting, but unless you read the fine print, you could be hit by hidden fees or unexpected rate increases. There are a few things to look out for when examining your credit card or when applying for a new card.
6 Retirement Mistakes to Avoid
We all make mistakes, but learning from our mistakes and identifying what mistakes to avoid can make a big difference. Here are six common mistakes people make with retirement planning that you should avoid.
We all make mistakes, but learning from our mistakes and identifying what mistakes to avoid can make a big difference. Here are six common mistakes people make with retirement planning that you should avoid.
Top Money Issues for Singles
Top Ten Money Issues for Singles: Here's what you need to do to build and protect your financial future
Top Ten Money Issues for Singles: Here's what you need to do to build and protect your financial future
Dollars and Sense for Kids
Teaching your kids about money to help them grow up to be financially savvy adults
Teaching your kids about money to help them grow up to be financially savvy adults
Before Buying a Home
For many people, owning a home brings a sense of pride and freedom that cannot be matched by renting. When you own your own home, you aren’t bound by a landlord’s rules, and your monthly payments are actually building equity. Although buying a home may be the first step you take toward building long-term wealth, it is important to understand the pros and cons of home ownership before taking the plunge.
For many people, owning a home brings a sense of pride and freedom that cannot be matched by renting. When you own your own home, you aren’t bound by a landlord’s rules, and your monthly payments are actually building equity. Although buying a home may be the first step you take toward building long-term wealth, it is important to understand the pros and cons of home ownership before taking the plunge.