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
Cut Air Conditioning Costs
Save Money on Air Conditioning Costs
Save Money on Air Conditioning Costs
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.
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?
Budgeting 101
Budgeting lies at the foundation of every financial plan. It doesn’t matter if you’re living paycheck to paycheck or earning six-figures a year, you need to know where your money is going if you want to have a handle on your finances. Unlike what you might believe, budgeting isn’t all about restricting what you spend money on and cutting out all the fun in your life.
Budgeting lies at the foundation of every financial plan. It doesn’t matter if you’re living paycheck to paycheck or earning six-figures a year, you need to know where your money is going if you want to have a handle on your finances. Unlike what you might believe, budgeting isn’t all about restricting what you spend money on and cutting out all the fun in your life.
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
Maximize Your Benefits
Maximize Your Employment Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts
Maximize Your Employment Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts
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.
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.
How to Get Out of Debt
Credit card debt is a major problem in this country. While not everyone has a credit card, those that do typically carry a balance. The interest rate on a credit card balance is usually between 10-30% APR. These high interest rates make it difficult for people to pay down their debt -- especially if only making the minimum payments each month.
Credit card debt is a major problem in this country. While not everyone has a credit card, those that do typically carry a balance. The interest rate on a credit card balance is usually between 10-30% APR. These high interest rates make it difficult for people to pay down their debt -- especially if only making the minimum payments each month.
Budget Basics
A budget is nothing more than a breakdown and plan of how much money you have coming in and where it goes. Could you imagine a business becoming successful if it didn’t keep track of its income and expenses? The same holds true when it comes to your personal finances. If you don’t know how much money you have coming in and where it goes, your road to financial success will be a difficult one.
A budget is nothing more than a breakdown and plan of how much money you have coming in and where it goes. Could you imagine a business becoming successful if it didn’t keep track of its income and expenses? The same holds true when it comes to your personal finances. If you don’t know how much money you have coming in and where it goes, your road to financial success will be a difficult one.
Your FICO Credit Score
You may have heard that your credit score is important, but what is a FICO score? FICO is short for Fair Isaac and Co. The Fair Isaac Company developed custom software back in the 1980s that helped other companies determine a credit risk based on a number derived from a person’s credit history. This number soon became a standard that was adopted by the three main credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. The FICO score ranges between 300 and 850.
You may have heard that your credit score is important, but what is a FICO score? FICO is short for Fair Isaac and Co. The Fair Isaac Company developed custom software back in the 1980s that helped other companies determine a credit risk based on a number derived from a person’s credit history. This number soon became a standard that was adopted by the three main credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. The FICO score ranges between 300 and 850.
Save on Your Wedding
According to a recent survey, the average cost of an American wedding is just over $27,000. This can be a significant burden on those who need to foot the bill, but it doesn’t have to be so painful. There are many steps you can take to make sure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck when planning that special day.
According to a recent survey, the average cost of an American wedding is just over $27,000. This can be a significant burden on those who need to foot the bill, but it doesn’t have to be so painful. There are many steps you can take to make sure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck when planning that special day.
Top Ten Financial Tips
Top Ten Financial Tips: Keys to Financial Success
Top Ten Financial Tips: Keys to Financial Success
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.
Top Money Management Software
Using software to assist in keeping your finances in order is a great way to stay on track. Most financial software will allow you to keep track of income, expenses, and even your investments. Some even have the option to automatically download or connect to your financial institutions via the Internet, which can simply the process even further.
Using software to assist in keeping your finances in order is a great way to stay on track. Most financial software will allow you to keep track of income, expenses, and even your investments. Some even have the option to automatically download or connect to your financial institutions via the Internet, which can simply the process even further.
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
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.
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
Save Money on Heating Costs
Save money by reducing heating costs
Save money by reducing heating costs
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.
Seeking Credit Counseling
Consumer Credit Counseling Services: Should You Use Them?
Consumer Credit Counseling Services: Should You Use Them?
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?
How To Balance Your Checkbook
Balancing Your Checkbook: Step-by-Step Instructions
Balancing Your Checkbook: Step-by-Step Instructions
Tweaking My Budget
Tweaking My Budget
Tweaking My Budget
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.
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.
Debt to Income Ratio
Two major components of tracking how you’re doing financially can be broken down into your income and debt levels. ¬Obviously, you’d like to have more income coming in than debt payments going out, but even if you are making more money than you owe, how can you tell if that’s good enough?
Two major components of tracking how you’re doing financially can be broken down into your income and debt levels. ¬Obviously, you’d like to have more income coming in than debt payments going out, but even if you are making more money than you owe, how can you tell if that’s good enough?
Ways for Teens to Make Money
Jobs for Teens and Other Ways to Make Money
Jobs for Teens and Other Ways to Make Money
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
Top Picks: Personal Finance Books
Top picks for personal finance books: personal finance books managing your personal finances college educations money goals corporate tools
Top picks for personal finance books: personal finance books managing your personal finances college educations money goals corporate tools
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?
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
Chances are that if you have a mortgage currently you’re making monthly payments. The typical mortgage is structured so that you make a single payment each month for a total of twelve payments per year. The good thing about this is that it means you pay the same amount at the same time each month so there are no surprises and it’s easy to budget for.
Chances are that if you have a mortgage currently you’re making monthly payments. The typical mortgage is structured so that you make a single payment each month for a total of twelve payments per year. The good thing about this is that it means you pay the same amount at the same time each month so there are no surprises and it’s easy to budget for.
Budgeting
Budgeting - The First Step to Financial Success
Budgeting - The First Step to Financial Success
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.
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.
Five Worst Car Mistakes
Five Worst Money Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Car
Five Worst Money Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Car
Setting Financial Goals
Setting Financial Goals - The Second Step in Personal Financial Planning
Setting Financial Goals - The Second Step in Personal Financial Planning
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.
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.
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
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
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
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 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.
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.
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
Roth vs. Traditional IRA
A common question many people have is what type of IRA is best. Both the Traditional and Roth IRAs have significant tax advantages, but in some situations one may be better than the other. Since we can't predict what taxes will be like 20 years from now, if you have the ability to contribute to both types of IRAs, that might be a good idea. By diversifying your tax liabilities, you can be prepared for any significant changes in tax rates by the time you reach retirement.
A common question many people have is what type of IRA is best. Both the Traditional and Roth IRAs have significant tax advantages, but in some situations one may be better than the other. Since we can't predict what taxes will be like 20 years from now, if you have the ability to contribute to both types of IRAs, that might be a good idea. By diversifying your tax liabilities, you can be prepared for any significant changes in tax rates by the time you reach retirement.
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
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
Cut Homeowner's Insurance
Ten Ways To Cut Your Homeowner's Insurance Premiums
Ten Ways To Cut Your Homeowner's Insurance Premiums
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.
Itemizing Deductions
When it comes to reducing your tax burden, itemizing deductions may be the way to go. The standard deduction is certainly easier, and might be a better option if you have a simple tax situation or don’t own a home, but if you determine that itemizing is right for you, it could lead to substantial savings.
When it comes to reducing your tax burden, itemizing deductions may be the way to go. The standard deduction is certainly easier, and might be a better option if you have a simple tax situation or don’t own a home, but if you determine that itemizing is right for you, it could lead to substantial savings.
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.
Co-signing a Loan
Co-signing a Loan: What You Need To Know
Co-signing a Loan: What You Need To Know
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.
College Student Mistakes
College students face many hard financial decisions. As a young adult they need to figure out how to pay for college, earn some spending money, and still get a good education. This is a tall order for anyone, so it’s no wonder that many college students end up making some costly money mistakes.
College students face many hard financial decisions. As a young adult they need to figure out how to pay for college, earn some spending money, and still get a good education. This is a tall order for anyone, so it’s no wonder that many college students end up making some costly money mistakes.
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.
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
What Are Bonds?
What are bonds? A simple explanation of bonds and how they work.
What are bonds? A simple explanation of bonds and how they work.
A Budget Can Improve Your Life
Twelve Reasons Budgeting Can Improve Your Life
Twelve Reasons Budgeting Can Improve Your Life
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
Top Online $ Calculators
Top Ten Online Money Calculators - Manage Your Finances More Easily
Top Ten Online Money Calculators - Manage Your Finances More Easily
Does the IRS Owe You Money?
Taxpayers unknowingly forfeit billions of dollars in unclaimed income tax refunds. Don't be one of them.
Taxpayers unknowingly forfeit billions of dollars in unclaimed income tax refunds. Don't be one of them.
Biggest Taxpayer Rip-off
Income Tax Refund Loans: Taxpayer Rip-off
Income Tax Refund Loans: Taxpayer Rip-off
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.
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
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
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?
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
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
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
Identity Theft Insurance
Should You Buy Identity Theft Insurance or Credit Monitoring Services?
Should You Buy Identity Theft Insurance or Credit Monitoring Services?
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.
Fees When Buying a Home
When buying a home, most people focus on how much it costs and what interest rate they can get on the loan. While that is certainly very important, the other fees that come with buying a home are often overlooked. Here is a list of the most common fees involved when buying a home.
When buying a home, most people focus on how much it costs and what interest rate they can get on the loan. While that is certainly very important, the other fees that come with buying a home are often overlooked. Here is a list of the most common fees involved when buying a home.
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.
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.
Contacting the IRS
Have questions on your tax return, refund status, or need help? The IRS makes itself quite accessible. You don’t have to fear the IRS. While nobody wants to talk to them about an audit, they are there to help you with your taxes.
Have questions on your tax return, refund status, or need help? The IRS makes itself quite accessible. You don’t have to fear the IRS. While nobody wants to talk to them about an audit, they are there to help you with your taxes.
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.
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.
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
Should Teens Have Credit Cards
Should Teens Have Credit Cards?
Should Teens Have Credit Cards?
How Not to Pay Off Debt
Getting out of debt is a major financial goal for many people. While it’s important to reduce your debt load and try to begin creating wealth it’s also important that you take the right steps toward repaying your debt. In fact, there are a few common methods people use to help them get out of debt that can end up doing even more harm than good. Here are a few things you may want to think twice about in your quest to become debt free.
Getting out of debt is a major financial goal for many people. While it’s important to reduce your debt load and try to begin creating wealth it’s also important that you take the right steps toward repaying your debt. In fact, there are a few common methods people use to help them get out of debt that can end up doing even more harm than good. Here are a few things you may want to think twice about in your quest to become debt free.
Insurance You Do Need
You can find an insurance policy to cover almost anything imaginable but only a handful of policies are actually ones that you need to have. You work hard throughout your life to build wealth and live a happy and comfortable life, so some types of insurance can protect your possessions, income and even provide for a loved one when you are gone.
You can find an insurance policy to cover almost anything imaginable but only a handful of policies are actually ones that you need to have. You work hard throughout your life to build wealth and live a happy and comfortable life, so some types of insurance can protect your possessions, income and even provide for a loved one when you are gone.
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.
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.
The Urge to Splurge
The Real Culprit Behind Your Urge to Splurge
The Real Culprit Behind Your Urge to Splurge
Bear Market Strategies
Bear markets present a challenge to even the savviest investors. It doesn’t matter if you have $1,000 in the market or $1 million, losing money hurts. It is during these declining markets your patience will be tested. If fear sets in, you might consider bailing out on your investment plan completely, which can do more damage than anything else.
Bear markets present a challenge to even the savviest investors. It doesn’t matter if you have $1,000 in the market or $1 million, losing money hurts. It is during these declining markets your patience will be tested. If fear sets in, you might consider bailing out on your investment plan completely, which can do more damage than anything else.
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
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.
Student Loans vs Mortgage
Don't Let Student Loans Prevent You From Qualifying for a Mortgage - Advice for Students and College Graduates
Don't Let Student Loans Prevent You From Qualifying for a Mortgage - Advice for Students and College Graduates
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
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
Why You Need a Will
Do You Need a Will? The Answer is Probably Yes.
Do You Need a Will? The Answer is Probably Yes.
Refinancing Your Mortgage
If you have a fixed-rate mortgage and mortgage rates are falling, it only makes sense to consider trying to refinance at a lower rate. But as with most things in finance, it isn’t always a simple answer. Refinancing can certainly make sense, but it also costs money to refinance a mortgage. Depending on your specific situation, a refinance may actually end up costing you more money instead of saving money.
If you have a fixed-rate mortgage and mortgage rates are falling, it only makes sense to consider trying to refinance at a lower rate. But as with most things in finance, it isn’t always a simple answer. Refinancing can certainly make sense, but it also costs money to refinance a mortgage. Depending on your specific situation, a refinance may actually end up costing you more money instead of saving money.
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.
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
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.
2009 Home Buyer Tax Credit
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides a number of items meant to stimulate the economy, and the tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers may be the most beneficial to individuals. Although this is a significant tax benefit, not everyone will qualify, and there is only a relatively small window in which you can take advantage.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides a number of items meant to stimulate the economy, and the tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time home buyers may be the most beneficial to individuals. Although this is a significant tax benefit, not everyone will qualify, and there is only a relatively small window in which you can take advantage.
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.
Eliminate PMI
Private mortgage insurance, often referred to as PMI, is insurance that lenders require borrowers to pay for when they get a mortgage and don’t have enough equity in the home.
Private mortgage insurance, often referred to as PMI, is insurance that lenders require borrowers to pay for when they get a mortgage and don’t have enough equity in the home.
Grocery Tips
Have you been shocked by your grocery shopping bills recently? You’re not alone. Inflation always has, and always will be around, but it is affecting food prices more than others. Most families find that when creating a budget, more effort is being made trying to save money on gas and groceries. Here are some tips that can help you keep your grocery budget under control.
Have you been shocked by your grocery shopping bills recently? You’re not alone. Inflation always has, and always will be around, but it is affecting food prices more than others. Most families find that when creating a budget, more effort is being made trying to save money on gas and groceries. Here are some tips that can help you keep your grocery budget under control.
Tying the Knot Financially
Tying the Knot: A Financial To Do List for Newlyweds
Tying the Knot: A Financial To Do List for Newlyweds
Credit Card Minimums Double
Your Monthly Credit Card Minimum Payments May Double
Your Monthly Credit Card Minimum Payments May Double
Retirement Savings Late Start
Ten Tips for Late Starters To Boost Their Retirement Savings
Ten Tips for Late Starters To Boost Their Retirement Savings
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
What Are Stocks?
What are stocks? A simple explanation of stocks and how they work.
What are stocks? A simple explanation of stocks and how they work.
Free Credit Reports
In 2004, an amendment to the Fair Credit Reporting Act was made that states that you can obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the three main credit reporting bureaus once every 12 months. Your credit report contains the following information:
In 2004, an amendment to the Fair Credit Reporting Act was made that states that you can obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the three main credit reporting bureaus once every 12 months. Your credit report contains the following information:
401(k) Plans
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.
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.
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.
COBRA Premium Reduction
What happens if you lose your job which also provided your health insurance benefits? This is not an uncommon problem as health insurance in this country is largely tied to employment. So, what can you do? Luckily, there is some assistance available. It’s called COBRA.
What happens if you lose your job which also provided your health insurance benefits? This is not an uncommon problem as health insurance in this country is largely tied to employment. So, what can you do? Luckily, there is some assistance available. It’s called COBRA.
Check 21 Law
Check 21: The New Banking Law That May Send Your Checks Bouncing
Check 21: The New Banking Law That May Send Your Checks Bouncing
Should You Refinance?
How to Take Advantage of Lower Mortgage Interest Rates
How to Take Advantage of Lower Mortgage Interest Rates
Top Personal Finance Magazines
Top Personal Finance Magazines for the average person
Top Personal Finance Magazines for the average person
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.
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
Check Your Tax Refund Status
Have you filed your tax return and are now awaiting a refund? The good news is that you don’t have to be left in the dark in regards to the status of your refund. The IRS has a great tool on their website that allows you to instantly check on your refund status.
Have you filed your tax return and are now awaiting a refund? The good news is that you don’t have to be left in the dark in regards to the status of your refund. The IRS has a great tool on their website that allows you to instantly check on your refund status.
Paying Off My First Credit Card Balance
Paying Off My First Credit Card Balance
Paying Off My First Credit Card Balance
A Financial Emergency
Have you just been blindsided by an unexpected financial emergency and don’t know what to do? Whether it’s a job loss, medical expenses, or an emergency home repair, an unexpected change in your financial situation can be incredibly stressful. The bills still need to be paid, the utilities need to stay on, and you need to put food on the table, so how should you cope with a financial crisis?
Have you just been blindsided by an unexpected financial emergency and don’t know what to do? Whether it’s a job loss, medical expenses, or an emergency home repair, an unexpected change in your financial situation can be incredibly stressful. The bills still need to be paid, the utilities need to stay on, and you need to put food on the table, so how should you cope with a financial crisis?
How Much Do I Need to Retire?
This question is frequently asked, but rarely has a definitive answer. The problem is that everyone’s needs are different. What you might need in retirement will be completely different than your friends, neighbors, or co-workers. Even though your situation is unique, there are a few ways you can estimate how much money you will need to retire.
This question is frequently asked, but rarely has a definitive answer. The problem is that everyone’s needs are different. What you might need in retirement will be completely different than your friends, neighbors, or co-workers. Even though your situation is unique, there are a few ways you can estimate how much money you will need to retire.
Open Enrollment
If you’re employed by a company that provides benefits you might be receiving a reminder in the fall about your upcoming open enrollment period. Many companies do this in the fall so that the new benefit elections take effect at the start of the new year, although your open enrollment period may be at a different time. The open enrollment period is important because it is one of the few times you can make changes to many of your employer provided benefits.
If you’re employed by a company that provides benefits you might be receiving a reminder in the fall about your upcoming open enrollment period. Many companies do this in the fall so that the new benefit elections take effect at the start of the new year, although your open enrollment period may be at a different time. The open enrollment period is important because it is one of the few times you can make changes to many of your employer provided benefits.
Importance of Credit Score
Your credit score and underlying history is one of your most vital parts of your financial life. Your credit score follows you forever and it will play a huge role in many major financial situations throughout your life.
Your credit score and underlying history is one of your most vital parts of your financial life. Your credit score follows you forever and it will play a huge role in many major financial situations throughout your life.
Build a Financial Safety Net
Building a Financial Safety Net
Building a Financial Safety Net
Get Money You're Entitled To
Find out if you're one of millions of Americans entitled to receive unclaimed money or property
Find out if you're one of millions of Americans entitled to receive unclaimed money or property
Personal Finance 20s and 30s
Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s
Personal Finance in Your 20s and 30s
Money for Couples
Money Guide for Married Couples
Money Guide for Married Couples
Beware Payday Loans
Beware of Payday Loans: Dangerous Consumer Rip-Off
Beware of Payday Loans: Dangerous Consumer Rip-Off
All About Financial Planning
One-stop resource for financial planning information
One-stop resource for financial planning information
Smart Moves for College Grads
Five Smart Money Moves for New College Graduates
Five Smart Money Moves for New College Graduates
One-Stop Income Tax Guide
All About Income Taxes - Your One-Stop Income Tax Guide
All About Income Taxes - Your One-Stop Income Tax Guide
Get Next Year's Tax Refund Now
Get Next Year's Income Tax Refund Now
Get Next Year's Income Tax Refund Now
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
Reduce Your Rates With a Call
As you are probably aware, credit card interest rates can be quite high with rates upwards of 30% annually. This staggering rate can make it nearly impossible to pay off your debt if you can only afford to pay close to the minimum each month. One way to get out of debt even faster is to reduce your current interest rates.
As you are probably aware, credit card interest rates can be quite high with rates upwards of 30% annually. This staggering rate can make it nearly impossible to pay off your debt if you can only afford to pay close to the minimum each month. One way to get out of debt even faster is to reduce your current interest rates.
Mutual Fund Fees
To make the best decision when buying mutual funds, you need to understand mutual fund fees
To make the best decision when buying mutual funds, you need to understand mutual fund fees
Comparing Life Insurance
Navigating the life insurance landscape can be tricky. You are sure to encounter a number of different policies and terms such as whole life, term life, cash value, variable life, and much more. How can you make sense of all the different types of policies and know that you’re making the best choice?
Navigating the life insurance landscape can be tricky. You are sure to encounter a number of different policies and terms such as whole life, term life, cash value, variable life, and much more. How can you make sense of all the different types of policies and know that you’re making the best choice?
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
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
What Are Mutual Funds?
What Are Mutual Funds - A Simple Explanation of How Mutual Funds Work
What Are Mutual Funds - A Simple Explanation of How Mutual Funds Work
Traditional IRA
A traditional IRA (individual retirement account) is an account that is used to save pre-tax dollars for use in retirement.
A traditional IRA (individual retirement account) is an account that is used to save pre-tax dollars for use in retirement.
Maintaining Health Insurance
If you worked for an employer that offered health benefits, when you decide to retire early or lose your job, it becomes quickly apparent how valuable that benefit was. Generally, when an employer offers health insurance coverage, the premium costs are split between you and the employer. Whether it is $20 or $300 per paycheck, you’re generally only paying a portion of the total premium in a large group plan. So, what happens when you are no longer employed and eligible for these benefits?
If you worked for an employer that offered health benefits, when you decide to retire early or lose your job, it becomes quickly apparent how valuable that benefit was. Generally, when an employer offers health insurance coverage, the premium costs are split between you and the employer. Whether it is $20 or $300 per paycheck, you’re generally only paying a portion of the total premium in a large group plan. So, what happens when you are no longer employed and eligible for these benefits?
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.
Marriage and Money
Marriage introduces changes in a new couple’s financial situation that will affect all aspects of their life together. Everything from personal financial goals to credit card debt will bring new challenges to the relationship. Understanding how to navigate through these changes can be challenging, but planning ahead can allow you to build a strong financial foundation for your relationship.
Marriage introduces changes in a new couple’s financial situation that will affect all aspects of their life together. Everything from personal financial goals to credit card debt will bring new challenges to the relationship. Understanding how to navigate through these changes can be challenging, but planning ahead can allow you to build a strong financial foundation for your relationship.
Biggest Money Mistakes
Examples of Saving Big Money On Your Mortgage
Examples of Saving Big Money On Your Mortgage
IRA Tips for Tax Time
2007 may be gone, but it isn’t too late to make 2007 IRA contributions. Unlike most tax tips that require action to be taken before December 31st, IRAs have an added benefit of being able to make prior year contributions up until April 15th. This is good news if you want to take advantage of the many tax benefits that these accounts provide.
2007 may be gone, but it isn’t too late to make 2007 IRA contributions. Unlike most tax tips that require action to be taken before December 31st, IRAs have an added benefit of being able to make prior year contributions up until April 15th. This is good news if you want to take advantage of the many tax benefits that these accounts provide.
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.
1000 Best Money Secrets
1000 Best Smart Money Secrets for Students book
1000 Best Smart Money Secrets for Students book
Credit and Debt 101
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.