We cover the basics and more about personal finance, answering frequently asked questions about credit and debt, identity theft, saving for college, retirement, estate planning, insurance, taxes, job hunting, and raising money-savvy kids. Check out the articles, columns, blog posts, radio shows and videos for tons of personal finance advice.
Credit Report Contains Liens, Bankruptcies And More
What can you find in your credit report? A credit report lists both good and bad credit items such as credit cards, liens and bankruptcies. Learn what bad credit items are and how to fix them on your credit report. If you don't understand something on your credit report an accountant may be able to help you.
Frequently Asked Credit Card Debt Questions
Frequently asked questions about credit cards, debt, credit history and credit score.
How Much Should You Save Each Month?
The first step to saving money is to spend less, and that includes paying off your debt as quickly as possible. Choose the loan with the highest interest rate first and pay that off, then move to the next highest interest rate, and so on.
Identity Theft: Repair Your Credit After Your Identity Has Been Stolen
If you've been the victim of identity theft, the Federal Trade Commission has made it easier for you to repair your credit. The FTC has one form for victims of identity theft to report the crime to your creditors and credit reporting bureaus. The FTC says all three credit reporting agencies and dozens of major creditors have agreed to accept the form from victims of identity theft.
Raising Money-Savvy Kids
Use these online tools to raise money-savvy kids who make smart financial decisions.
Using Inheritance Wisely To Pay Debts
Homeowners received a large inheritance and aren't sure how to use it to pay down their debts. Paying off credit card debt is the first step. After the debt is paid off, you can start thinking of investments that are right for you.
Nine Reasons To Pay Off Your Credit Card Debt
While paying the minimum amount owed each month, on time, shouldn't damage your credit score, there are good reasons to pay off your credit card debts, not to mention your other loans like auto loans and school loans, and wipe your credit slate clean. Stop paying interest. Keep credit open in case of an emergency. Improve your credit to be able to receive the best credit card offers.
Job Advice For Home Office Workers
What kind of home office is the most likely to bring you success in your job? Home offices now include computers and the latest electronics and in many cases they're no longer in basements. Home offices with good lighting and good ventilation may help you when you have a job at home.
Evaluate Your Personal Finances Before Renovation
Before you start on a home renovation project, take stock of your personal finances. Figure out how much you have to spend and then set the budget accordingly. Make sure you know what your renovation dollars will bring back to you in home value appreciation.
Personal Finance Advice: Save More Money
Each presidential administration launches new plans to help people save and invest money. The Bush administration introduced Lifetime and Retirement Savings Accounts, which were similar to Roth IRAs. Learn also about personal finance advice about saving money in 529 college savings plans.