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Front Page | I want to manage spending and credit

Manage Spending And Credit

Articles

  • Don't Let Fake Check Scams Fake You OutIf you’re not careful and fall victim to a fake check scam, you could be left holding the bag to the tune of hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Know what to look for and how to protect yourself.
  • Guard Against Senior ScamsKnow how to spot a fraud, and take steps to reduce the likelihood you’ll be a victim.
  • What Budgeting System Is Best for You?It doesn’t matter how you budget. What matters is that you find a system that works for you and stick to it.
  • It Pays to NegotiateNegotiating for the best price, while a little more work, is well worth the extra effort. Try these simple negotiating tips to land a bargain on just about anything.
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 3
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 4
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 2
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 1
  • Health Club Memberships: Get Fit, Be SmartExercise is good for your health, but joining the first fitness club you visit can wreak havoc with your finances. Do some sleuthing before you sign on the dotted line.
  • Can You Count on Social Security?Given the cloud of uncertainty hovering over Social Security, should you be worried? Saving on your own now to complement whatever the government will give you later is a good strategy.
  • Small Blunders Contribute to Retirement CalamitiesDespite your best intentions, there are many ways to sabotage your retirement. Become familiar with these nine blunders so you don’t fall victim to a retirement calamity.
  • Retirement Living: What Will It Cost?As you plan for retirement, you’ll need to find a balance between anticipated expenses and income. Get a handle now on the kinds of expenses you’ll have later on.
  • Compile Your Financial NotebookA financial notebook doesn't have to be fancy. It can be as simple as a three-ring notebook that serves as a road map for you and your loved ones.
  • Financial Plan: Don't Stop in RetirementIf you don't have a plan in place to handle the highs and the lows of your financial retirement life, you could turn your golden years to bronze.
  • Boomers Urged to Choose Direct DepositThe U.S. government is trying to convince workers—particularly baby boomers—to have paychecks direct deposited. Getting in the direct deposit habit now will mean big savings for the fed once boomers start receiving benefit retirement checks.

    • Audio

  • New Credit Card Terms Better for ConsumersGetting hit with high fees and payments only adds to the struggle for those buried in credit card debt. Gail Cunningham, vice president of public relations for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, Silver Spring, Md., tells how the new credit card law provides greater relief for consumers.
  • Audio: Build Your Rainy Day FundIt’s time to expect the unexpected. Join Kenneth Watts, president/CEO, West Virginia Credit Union League, as he discusses the importance of being financially prepared to cover unforeseen expenses.
  • Audio: Your Credit Score
  • Audio: Killer C's That Ruin Your BudgetWhen it comes to achieving your financial goals, have you ever heard yourself say, “Where am I going to find the money to do that?” Join David Palmieri, community relations and education manager, GreenPath, Inc., as he talks about the “killer C’s” that ruin your budget—coffee, cable, cigarettes, and cell phones.
  • Audio: Using IRAs Effectively Before 59 1/2Most of the time you’re told not to touch your retirement account until you’ve reached full retired age. However, there are times when it may be necessary to start tapping those accounts sooner. Join Bill Stecker, CPA, principal owner of the Marble Group, Ltd., as he talks about knowing when and whether you’re qualified to tap those accounts before age 59 1/2.
  • Audio: Your Credit ReportJoin David Rubinger, vice president of communications and public relations for Equifax, as he discusses what you should know about your credit report. David tells you who has access to your credit information as well as how you can obtain your credit report yourself—free of charge.

    • Calculators

  • Calculator: Budget Blueprint
  • Calculator: How Can I Pay Off Credit Card Debt?
  • Calculator: What's My Debt-to-Income Ratio?

    • FAQS

  • FAQ: Have Card, Will TravelPaying for purchases while youre traveling just got easierand safer. Learn how prepaid travel cards work, and why paying with a travelers check isnt the preferred option anymore.
  • FAQ: Credit CardsUsing credit cards responsibly is key to long-term financial success. Understand both the advantages and potential pitfalls when you tuck plastic in your wallet.
  • FAQ: Credit ScoresKnowing what influences your score and how you can improve it can have a big impact on your financial future. These frequently asked questions will help you sort out the facts.
  • FAQ: Credit Reports 101One of the most important financial documents about you is your credit report. It pays to know what’s in it, who can look at it, and why you should care.

    • Qtip

  • Be a Better Online Coupon Clipper
  • Steer Clear of Sneaky Work-At- Home Schemes
  • Do Your Own Energy Audit
  • Use Web for Small Biz Health Insurance
  • Use Web to Help Manage Recession Finances
  • Recognize, Avoid Charity Fraud
  • Keep Tabs on Credit Accounts, Credit Limits
  • Go Easy on Scissors When Cutting Family Budget
  • Use 'Step-Down Principle' to Save Money
  • Time Your Purchases to Cheapest Days to Buy
  • Nip High Cost of College Textbooks in the Bud
  • Reduce Unwanted Catalogs
  • Cut Costs by Clipping Online Coupons
  • Guard Against Credit Card Fraud

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