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• In a Tough Economy, the Federal PLUS Loan May Give Parents Extra Cash Needed for a Child's College Tuition
  If you have a son or daughter in college, the recession may have impacted your savings and investments at a time when you were depending on those resources to pay for college. With lenders tightening up requirements to qualify for personal or home equity loans you may be looking for other financial
• How to Repay
  Before you left school you should have received a coupon book from the school, lender, or agency that gave you your loan. No, these aren’t coupons you can use to get a few bucks off take-out pizza.. u should have received a coupon book from the school, lender, or agency that gave you your loan. No,
• What You are Repaying
  When you got your student loan you were loaned a certain amount of money (the principal) and agreed to repay that amount of money plus interest – the fee that your lender charges you to make you the loan. The check you send in every month, or the money that you send in through your online bill-payin
• Repayment Plan Options
  While you might not like the idea of having to repay your student loan, the good news is that most likely you do have some choices about how you repay it. Let’s look at each type of loan and what repayment plan options are available: Direct Loan Program If you have a Direct Loan under the Stafford L
• Types of Federal Student Loans
  So you got a loan to go to school. Maybe it’s a Perkins loan, or maybe a Stafford Loan.. o school. Maybe it’s a Perkins loan, or maybe a Stafford Loan. Maybe you’re too embarrassed to admit that you don’t know what kind of loan you got! If you’re out of school, or you’re about to be, it’s time to figure out what
• New Student Loan Law Creates Big Changes for Borrowers
  College is expensive and according to FinAid the majority of college students (65% obtain some form of financing to help pay for their two year, four year or graduate degree programs. If you or your child has a loan for. College is expensive and according to FinAid the majority of college studen
• What Every Homebuyer Needs to Know Before Agreeing to a Mortgage
  Are you or a loved one considering becoming a homeowner? Taking on a mortgage loan to purchase a home can be an intimidating and confusing process. A Federal Reserve study for the Federal Trade Commission found that a significant percentage of homebuyers did not understand key features and costs of
• Help for Subprime Mortgage Holders
  If you obtained a subprime mortgage between January 1, 2005 and January 31, 2007 and you are either having difficulty paying the mortgage now, or think you will have difficulty paying it when the interest rate "resets" you may be able to qualify for help. The federal government has worked with mortg
• Law Protects Military Members from High-Interest “Payday” Lenders
  A law to help protect military families will cap interest rates set by payday lending companies for military borrowers and their families at 36 percent. Payday lenders, many of whom set up shop near military bases across the U.. A law to help protect military families will cap interest rates set by payd
• Refund Anticipation Loans
  If you watch TV, you’ve seen ads for them. If you use a tax preparation center for help in filing your taxes, you’ve heard about them.. If you watch TV, you’ve seen ads for them. If you use a tax preparation center for help in filing your taxes, you’ve heard about them. What are they?
• What Happens When the Loan Comes Due
  Fourteen days after your payday loan is approved, the loan is due. That means that you now owe back the full amount of the money that the store/company lent you.. Fourteen days after your payday loan is approved, the loan is due. That means that you now owe back the full amount of the mo
• If You Have Left, or are Contemplating Leaving, School
  Sue had always struggled in school but she wanted to try earning a college degree at a small nearby university. She was nervous about the workload and how much money it would take to finance her education.. Sue had always struggled in school but she wanted to try earning a college
• Managing Your Student Loan
  Learning how to manage your personal finances – including repaying your student loan – is an important part of the road to financial independence. If you’re like most college students with a student loan, this is your first experience having to repay a formal loan.. Learning how to manage yo
• But What if You Really Can’t Make the Loan Payments
  If you are unable to make your full monthly payment on time, contact your lender as soon as possible. Explain your situation.. If you are unable to make your full monthly payment on time, contact your lender as soon as possible. Explain your situation. Your lender may grant yo
• Subprime Loans
  "Subprime" loans carry a higher than average interest rate and typically charge more fees than traditional loans. You can get a subprime loan when applying, for example, for a home mortgage or a car loan.. Subprime" loans carry a higher than average interest rate and typically cha
• Mortgage Foreclosure Alternatives
  Once you contact your lender and let them know that you want to stay in your home, there are several alternatives that your lender may consider. These alternatives are also called a “mortgage workout.. Once you contact your lender and let them know that you want to stay in your home, there are several
• Consolidating Student Loans
  Consolidating student loans is a process whereby you combine two or more of your student loans into one new loan. While not all student loans may be eligible for consolidation, consolidation may offer several advantages such as streamlining your bill paying and possibly reducing your interest rate a
• When to Begin Repaying Your Student Loan
  If you have a student loan, one of the first big questions you probably have is “when do I have to begin paying back this loan? The answer is: it depends. It depends on the type of loan you have.. n, one of the first big questions you probably have is “when do I have to begin paying back this loa
• Refinancing Your Mortgage as an Option to Hold onto Your Home
  For many homeowners who obtained an adjustable rate mortgage over the past few years to buy a home, both time and the economy have not been on their side. Millions of homeowners holding adjustable-rate mortgages are trying to determine if they can refinance their current home loan to be able to affo
• Budgeting on a Military Salary
  Budgeting can seem very difficult on a military paycheck, especially if your servicemember is not earning a lot and if you, as a spouse, are unable to bring in steady additional income to supplement the military pay. Often it can be difficult for a military spouse to earn additional regular income b
• Who Uses Payday Loan Companies and Why
  When or why would you consider obtaining a loan from a company that could charge you upwards of 700% interest? Perhaps you are considering getting a loan through a payday loan company because: you don't know how these kinds of loans really work and you don't know where else you could get the money y
• What Would Happen if You Didn’t Repay the Loan
  A student loan is a formal, legally-binding loan just like a car loan or a home loan. That means that when you took the money to pay for school, you agreed to send in the full monthly loan repayment amount on time by the set due date.. A student loan is a formal, legally-binding loan j
• Borrowing against Your Home’s Value
  If you own your own home you may want to consider taking out a loan against the equity, or savings, you have built up in your home by taking out a home equity loan. If you have good credit – meaning that you have made your monthly mortgage payments in full and on time – you may be eligible to take o
• Government Loans
  The U.S.. nt’s Federal Student Aid (FSA) program is the largest source of student financial aid in the country. FSA programs provide more than 60 billion a year to students. The Department makes two types of student loans: Federal Perkins Loan. This is a fixed, low-interest loan (5%
• What Payday Loan Companies Offer
  Payday loan companies are businesses that will "advance" you money on your paycheck. In other words, they will loan you money in advance of your actually receiving your paycheck from your employer…but there is a price.. Payday loan companies are businesses that will "ad
• What It Means to Have a Student Loan
  When you got your student loan maybe your parents – and you – breathed a sigh of relief that you had a way to finance your education. It took some of the burden off your parents to take on extra jobs or find other sources of income to pay for your schooling.. When you got your student
• Other Options to Payday Loan Company Loans
  If you do find yourself in a situation where you need to borrow or come up with some money relatively quickly, consider these options instead: Ask a friend or relative to make you a short-term loan at a reasonable interest rate. Make it a formal loan by writing up who the loan agreement is between (
• Insurance Policies and Individual Annuities with AIG
  AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government is stepping in to make sure AIG’s parent company would not go bankrupt. The government made an 85 billion bridge loan (charging 11.. AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government is stepping in to make sure AIG’s paren
• Finding Money to Pay Down Your Debt
  After you have listed all your debts – credit cards, medical bills, department store bills, mortgages, car loans, etc. - you may be tempted to panic and say “But I just don’t have any money to even begin paying my debt off! Realize that you may have options you’re not aware of..
• Insurance Policies and Individual Annuities with AIG
  AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government made an 85 billion bridge loan (charging 11.5% interest) to provide the liquidity that the company needs to keep functioning.. AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government made an 85 billion bridge loan (chargi
• What is interest?
  Interest is a fee. It's the amount of money you either earn on an investment or the money you owe on a loan.. Interest is a fee. It's the amount of money you either earn on an investment or the money you owe on a loan. When banks or other financial institutions give you credit, such a
• Integrating Your Student Loan into Your Financial Lifestyle
  Getting out of school can be an exciting time. Perhaps for the first time you are living on your own, earning your own money and choosing what to spend your income on.. Getting out of school can be an exciting time. Perhaps for the first time you are living on your own, earning your own money
• Your Home Mortgage - A Financial Tool
  As you pay off your mortgage you are building up equity, or savings, in your home. As your savings accumulate and your needs change, or outside economic factors change, you may want to make changes to your mortgage.. As you pay off your mortgage you are building up equity, or savings, in you
• Who Will Be Helped Under the Making Home More Affordable Program
  The Obama Administration’s 75 billion “Making Home Affordable” housing plan is designed to help approximately 9 million people who are at-risk for either defaulting on their mortgage loans or going into foreclosure. The plan is part of the 400 billion “bailout” package approved by Congress in Fall
• Refinancing
  When you buy a home you obtain a mortgage, also called a purchase loan by mortgage professionals. It’s simply a loan to purchase a home.. When you buy a home you obtain a mortgage, also called a purchase loan by mortgage professionals. It’s simply a loan to purchase a home. The bank or f
• Car Financing
  If you’re thinking about buying a car, it’s obvious to say, you will need money to buy it. Either you already have the money and can pay out-of-pocket or you will need to borrow money to finance the purchase.. buying a car, it’s obvious to say, you will need money to buy it. Either you already have the money
• Avoiding Additional Debt
  It’s important to encourage the person you are trying to help to avoid taking on debt or increasing existing debt if at all possible during this time. While it may not be possible to avoid borrowing some money during this crunch urge them to: try to only use cash when shopping keep a record of charg
• Where You Can Buy Life Insurance
  As with other forms of insurance (car, health, etc. there are several ways that you can purchase a life insurance policy: A life insurance company agent An insurance broker A financial advisor Your employer Online Let’s consider each option: An insurance company agent. Insurance company agents work
• Scholarship Information and Sources
  Many returning adult students may not think that scholarships are available for them. The good news is that as the number of adult students returning to earn, or complete a degree, is increasing so is the number of scholarship opportunities.. Many returning adult students may not think that s
• The Foreclosure Process
  Foreclosure is a legal process. It occurs when a homeowner fails to make his her monthly mortgage payment according to the terms of the loan and the lender then either sells or repossesses the property. The foreclosure process doesn’t happen. Foreclosure is a legal process. It occurs when a h
• Mortgage Loans
  The housing market’s decline has triggered the bankruptcy of several banks and mortgage lenders. If the bank or mortgage lender that currently holds your loan files for bankruptcy, it will first sell or transfer your mortgage to another firm.. The housing market’s decline has triggered the ban
• What Happens to Homeowners Holding Interest-Only Mortgages When Interest Rates Rise
  Starting in early  2001 millions of Americans took advantage of record low interest rates and bought a home. But the down side of that good news is that while interest rates were at record lows, housing prices soared to record highs.. Starting in early 2001 millions of Americans took
• Determining Your Down Payment Amount
  How much money do I have to save to have enough for a down payment?  The amount of money that you will need to save for a down payment on a home varies by: (1) how much the home costs and (2) the type of loan you qualify for. While most people begin looking at home sale prices first, it’s actually be
• Mortgage Loans
  The 2007 – 2008 housing market decline triggered the bankruptcy of several banks and mortgage lenders. If the bank or mortgage lender that currently holds your loan files for bankruptcy, it will first sell or transfer your mortgage to another firm.. The 2007 – 2008 housing market decline triggered t
• Financing Your Computer Purchase
  Buying a computer may be one of your very first “large” purchases. Take a few minutes to really consider how you’re going to pay for this purchase so that you’re not paying more than you want to and for a longer time than you expect.. Buying a computer may be one of your very first “l
• Rising Interest Rates and the Mortgage Crunch and What It May Mean to You
  The initial housing boom began in early 2002 - 2003. Interest rates were falling to all-time lows.. The initial housing boom began in early 2002 - 2003. Interest rates were falling to all-time lows. A surge of homebuyers eager to take advantage of the low interest rates on mortgages began pushing ho
• Reverse Mortgages
  If you are 62 or older and own your home you have access to a special type of financing that can help you turn your greatest asset – your home – into supplemental income, enabling you to meet your other financial obligations and reach important life goals. A reverse mortgage is a financial tool that
• Mortgage Center: Frequently Asked Questions
  What is an ARM? An ARM is an acronym for "adjustable rate mortgage. That refers to a home loan where the interest rate charged on the amount of money you're borrowing to purchase the home adjusts, or changes, over time as the government raises or lowers the rate of interest that banks charge each ot
• Transferring Military Homeowners to Get Expanded Assistance
  Military service members, their families, and federal Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees who stand to lose a lot of money on the sale of their home as a result of a transfer order may be able to get some much- needed financial assistance. The U..
• How can I make interest rates work for me?
  Again, the key is to make sure that you're earning the most interest possible on money you're saving and investing and that you're paying the least interest possible on money you're borrowing. Before you deposit your savings in a savings account or before you invest your savings, you'll want to call
• Things to Consider When Evaluating Policy Options
  Purchasing homeowners or renters insurance is a financial investment. So just like anything else that you pay money for, you’ll want to take your time to do a little research, ask the right people the right questions and feel confident in the answers before making a commitment..
• Who sells annuities?
  Only people who hold a license to sell insurance and mutual funds can legally sell annuities. These people may work for different financial institutions—banks, brokerage firms, financial planning companies—or they may be independent licensed financial advisors.. Only people who hold a li
• Who sells annuities?
• Keeping Your Job in Tough Economic Times
  If you are thinking about delaying retirement because you lost savings and investments that you were counting on to help with your post-work lifestyle, your focus should be on maintaining your current job. As an older worker you are likely earning more money than other, younger employees at your wor
• When You Need Money Fast: Are Payday Loan Companies The Way to Make Your Money Stretch Until Payday?
  You have probably seen them as you drive past strip malls; storefronts with names like "Fast Cash," "Cash Express," or "QuikCash." Or maybe you have seen their ads pop up while roaming the Internet.. You have probably seen them as you drive past strip malls; storefronts with
• More about Debt Financing
  Although banks and financial institutions may advertise how much they enjoy lending to small businesses, do not expect to qualify for a loan without a solid business plan and some track record of success. Small business loans from banks usually have at least a 50,000 minimum because the banks canno
• Equity vs. Debt
  In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business.. In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business. Technically, they ta
• Creating a Location-Independent Job with Your Current Employer
  If you’re interested in having a location-independent job you may think that you have to strike out on your own, however that’s not necessarily true. Before you hand in your two weeks’ notice to find a job that doesn’t require you a commute to punch a clock you should think twice.. aving a location-independ
• Responding to Requests for Money
  It is very possible that the person needing help may ask you to help them financially, especially if the person is a family member. He or she may ask for money or another form of financial support, such as co-signing a loan.. It is very possible that the person needing help may ask you to help them f
• Stocks
  Stocks: A share of stock represents a piece of ownership in a publicly traded company that has met the qualifications for having its shares listed on a stock exchange, where shares trade throughout the day. If a company has one million shares of stock outstanding, each share is worth one one-million
• The Financial Side of Homeownership
  Buying a home is the single largest financial commitment that most people ever make. By taking some time to think about and plan how you will maintain your investment and stay current on your mortgage, you can create some good financial habits at the outset of homeownership that will pay off for yea
• The Single Male
  Scenario: Steve is a 32-year old single male, working as an accountant for an oil drilling firm in Texas. He has been with the company for 2 years and currently earns 48,000 about 39,000 after taxes.. Scenario: Steve is a 32-year old single male, working as an accountant for
• What Is Mortgage Foreclosure
  Sadly some people end up having their homes foreclosed upon simply because they were too embarrassed to contact their lender, or didn’t know what foreclosure is and what options are available to them to avoid foreclosure. Let’s start by getting clear on what foreclosure is: Foreclosure is a legal pr
• How Your Credit Score Can Be Used
  You may be surprised to know how many types of businesses can use your credit score, and what they may use your score for. Once a lender pulls a copy of your credit report and views, or calculates, your credit score, they will use that score to determine their risk in making you a loan or extending
• More about Debt Financing
• More about Debt Financing
  Although banks and financial institutions may advertise how much they enjoy lending to small businesses, do not expect to qualify for a loan without a solid business plan and some track record of success. Small business loans from banks usually have at least a 50,000 minimum because the banks canno
• Equity vs. Debt
  In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business.. In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business. Technically, they ta
• Equity vs. Debt
• Working with Your Doctor’s Office Manager and Billing Department
  All doctor’s offices have some type of office manager and/or billing department that handles the financial aspects of their practice. When you first choose and visit a doctor you will have to fill out several forms to give their office personal contact, health and financial information including if
• Shopping for a Mortgage
  As the song goes, "My Momma told me, you better shop around." When it comes to buying a home, shopping around means not only finding the right home, but also finding the right mortgage.. As the song goes, "My Momma told me, you better shop around. When it comes to buying a home, shoppin
• Selecting a Lender
  Congratulations. You invested some real time last month to educate yourself about the not-so-simple-to-understand mortgage.. Congratulations. You invested some real time last month to educate yourself about the not-so-simple-to-understand mortgage. Now that you know the basics about what a mortgage
• Places to Avoid Turning If Possible
• Places to Avoid Turning to for Financial Help If Possible
  It is not uncommon for single moms to feel panicked about how they will be able to meet normal living expenses, especially if they do not have adequate savings, insurance or access to credit. If you are considering the following sources of funds, instead think through the previous suggestions as the
• Comparing Mortgage Costs
  There are several costs associated with borrowing money to buy a home including the interest rate you’ll be charged to borrow the principal (loan amount) points, mortgage insurance closing costs and the down payment. Interest Rate One of the most important pieces of information you need from a lende
• Before You Go Back to Finish Your Degree or Get Another
  Before Caroline had finished her undergraduate degree she knew that she wanted to go to grad school and get her Master’s degree…maybe even eventually get her Ph.. hed her undergraduate degree she knew that she wanted to go to grad school and get her Master’s degree…maybe even eventually get her Ph.D. in psycholo
• Asset Allocator
  ASSET ALLOCATION is a crucial first step in creating a well-diversified portfolio. The worksheet below will help you tailor your asset mix to your own particular needs.. ASSET ALLOCATION is a crucial first step in creating a well-diversified portfolio. The worksheet bel
• The FHA Secure Mortgage Loan Refinancing Program: What Is It and Could It Help You?
  An estimated 60,000 qualified homeowners with strong credit histories who have fallen behind on their mortgage payments because of rising interest rates initially offered on their adjustable-rate mortgages (called “teaser rates” will now be able to refinance into a government-insured “FHASecure” mor
• Finding an Insurance Company
  It’s wise to shop for car insurance the same way you would shop to compare prices on any major purchase. Following are some suggestions for how and where you can locate a potential insurance company: A good first place to start is your state commissioner’s website to learn what type of coverage you
• Ways to Afford, and Pay for, Your Home Heating Bill this Winter
  If the rise in home heating prices is really more than your budget can absorb, there are resources to help you. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a government-funded and run program to help eligible low-income families meet their home heating needs.. If the rise in home heati
• If You Already Have Homeowners or Renters Insurance
  Over time the value of your home and personal possessions can change. If you already have homeowners or renters insurance you might want to take a few minutes to review your policy and evaluate your current coverage by answering the following questions: How much would it cost to rebuild your home to
• Being Approved or Denied Credit
  Once you have applied for credit it may take your lender hours, days or even weeks to approve your request. You should keep the contact information for the person with whom you filed your application so you can call or email to check on the status of your request.. Once you have applied for
• Credit Issues
  More than likely both of you have used credit prior to this point in your relationship – that, for example you have: used a major credit card (VISA, MasterCard) used a department store credit card, taken out a car loan, or applied, and been approved for, a home loan (mortgage) a car loan or student
• What to Do If You Think You Are a Victim of Identity Theft
  The more quickly you notice and report that your identity has been stolen and misused, the less damage is likely to occur. If you think your identity has been stolen, following are immediate first steps to take: Contact your credit card companies, banks, utility companies, phone companies, etc. to r
• Obtaining and Paying for Coverage
  Some private insurance companies offer separate windstorm, or “wind and hail, insurance policies. In some states where no private windstorm insurance is available, the state has created a high-risk insurance pool to provide wind and hail coverage to residents living in specifically designated high-r
• Thinking About Your Student Loan(s), Credit Cards and How You Spend Money
  While there are some exciting benefits about entering the “real world” – like having new measures of independence like a job, possibly a place of your own to live, a car and freedom over your schedule – there is also the reality of work and bills and deadlines, which for some graduates, whether they
• Debt Collectors and Your Rights
  When you start not paying your credit cards or bills, you will first receive late notices in the mail. Then you are likely to get phone calls notifying you that you are behind on your payments.. When you start not paying your credit cards or bills, you will first receive late notices in the mai
• Closing on a Loan
  Closing, sometimes called “going to settlement, on a home is like the part of the wedding ceremony where the bride and groom exchange vows. It’s where you and the seller seal the deal! Closing on a home loan is when you sign all the papers transferring ownership of the property from the seller to th
• Flood Insurance
  Do you have insurance that would cover or help offset some of your losses in the event of a flood? Look at your policy. Most standard homeowners and renters insurance policies specifically do not provide financial protection in the event of a flood.. Do you have insurance tha
• Paying for (and Lowering) Your Car Insurance
  Once you have identified a company (or companies) that you like, and a policy that you want, you will sign a contract to purchase the insurance. To get and keep the insurance you will have to pay something called a premium.. Once you have identified a company (or companies) that you like, and a poli
• Filing an Insurance Claim
  When you purchase health insurance your employer or the health insurance company should give you a benefit booklet that outlines what they will and won’t cover (pay for) how they will pay for your medical bills, how to file a claim requesting that they pay a bill and how to file a complaint or an ap
• Equity Investments – Stocks
• Equity Investments – Stocks
  Equity is ownership – buying something and hoping that whatever you own increases in value. When you hear the word “equity” relating to your investment choices that most commonly refers to purchasing stock.. Equity is ownership – buying something and hoping that whatever you own inc
• The 4 Types of Car Insurance Coverage
  What is Car Insurance? Car insurance is actually one policy that can provide four different types of coverage. Let’s look at the four types of coverage you can get with auto insurance.. What is Car Insurance? Car insurance is actually one policy that can provide four different types of
• What the Housing Recovery Bill Could Mean for You
  The housing recovery bill that went into effect on October 1, 2008 has the potential to help millions of American homeowners and homebuyers. There are several ways that you or a loved one may be able to qualify for financial assistance through the bill.. The housing recovery bill
• How to Improve Your Credit Score
  Your credit score is not set in stone; it changes over time as you use, manage and maintain your credit. If you have recently learned that you have a low credit score, the good news is that there are things you can do to improve your score: Request and review your credit report on file with each of
• Short Sales: What They Are and Why a Homeowner Might Pursue One
  Homeowners who are pressed to make their mortgage payments – or are already behind – may consider trying a short sale as an option to letting the bank foreclose. A short sale is when a mortgage lender agrees to accept less money than the amount the homeowner owes on the loan.. d to make their mortgage
• Financing the Purchase of a Foreclosed Property
  Unless you are able to pay cash for your purchase you will need to find financing – which means getting a loan to pay the required costs and agreeing to repay the money lent (plus interest) over a specified period. y cash for your purchase you will need to find financing – which means getting a loan to pay the req
• Buying a Real-Estate Owned (REO) Property Owned by a Lender
  In certain cases a foreclosed property may not be sold at auction. There are several reasons a foreclosed property may not be sold at auction including if the lender accepts the deed to the home “in lieu of foreclosure” from. In certain cases a foreclosed property may not be sold at auction. There ar
• First-Time Homebuyers Can Use Tax Credit for Down Payment, Closing Costs for FHA Mortgage
  If you, like many potential home buyers, are leaning toward buying a home in part due to the 8,000 federal tax credit you may be in for a very nice surprise. Instead of having to purchase a home, file a federal income tax return and only then get the tax credit, buyers who choose to apply for a.
• I've gotten myself into a financial mess.
  Have a few late bills? Do you chronically miss credit card payments? Have you defaulted on a loan? Having a poor credit history can wreak havoc when trying to plan for your future. For example, you may end up being turned down for loans or you may be approved for a loan, but at a higher interest rat
• Credit Card Reform Begins to Take Effect
  As of August 20, 2009 credit card companies are required to give customers at least 21 days to make their monthly bill payment and at least 45 days advance notice of changes in their card terms and conditions. These changes were part of the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure (C
• Ways to Save Money on Prescription Drugs
  Buy Generic. Because prescriptions can be costly especially for people with no, limited or fixed incomes, each state has a law that lets pharmacists substitute less expensive generic drugs for many brand-name drugs.. Buy Generic. Because prescriptions can be costly e
• Working with Creditors
  Once the person you are trying to help has identified his or her financial priorities, commitments and resources he or she will have the necessary information to talk with creditors. Encourage him or her to collect paperwork on each outstanding loan they hold, to calculate how much they could afford
• Clarifying their Financial Commitments and Resources
  In stressful situations it is often difficult to think rationally, logically and methodically. Often the person you are trying to help will respond that they don’t have time to really figure things out financially, that they don’t know how or can’t or don’t want to or shouldn’t have to-for some reas
• How Much Coverage Do You Want for Your Home?
  Let’s start at the beginning. Imagine that your home was completely destroyed.. Let’s start at the beginning. Imagine that your home was completely destroyed. What it would cost to rebuild your home entirely?  What would it cost to replace the possessions inside?  Beginning to thin
• Your Home as a Source of Retirement Funds
  If you own your home you may have another option for creating a stream of income during retirement: a reverse mortgage. A reverse mortgage is a financial tool that allows you to tap into the equity you have built up in your home to help with one-time or everyday living expenses once you reach the ag
• Brokerage Accounts
  With the sale of Bear Stearns and Merrill Lynch and the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers, many investors are concerned about the safety of the money they invested in brokerage accounts. How can you know if the money in your investment brokerage accounts is safe? First, if you had a brokerage account at
• Debt Investments - Bonds
• Debt Investments - Bonds
  A bond is a loan you make to an institution. Governments, municipalities and corporations raise money by issuing bonds.. A bond is a loan you make to an institution. Governments, municipalities and corporations raise money by issuing bonds. A bond is like an IOU – you, as an investor, loan an or
• The Dangers of Accumulating a lot of Credit Card Debt
  Tania and Juan got married when they were 23. They always intended to be wise with their money but let their credit card spending get out of control quickly.. Tania and Juan got married when they were 23. They always intended to be wise with their money but let their credit card spen
• Be prepared for a lengthy insurance payout process.
• How much home can I afford?
  Buying a home is typically the largest financial commitment most people make. It can also seem like one of the most confusing and overwhelming processes you've ever navigated.. Buying a home is typically the largest financial commitment most people make. It can also seem like one of the most confusing
• Questions to Ask When Considering Disability Insurance
  Whether you are evaluating a short or long-term disability insurance policy offered through your employer or purchasing an individual plan through an insurance company or agent, consider asking the following questions before making a commitment: How do you define disabled?  In other words, when am I
• Your Rights when Using Credit
  When you use credit you are entering into a business transaction and relationship with a lender. As part of that relationship you have certain legal rights, including the rights to: Know why a credit application was rejected - if you ask within 60 days of receiving notice of the denial the creditor
• Using Life Insurance as an Asset
  While the primary benefit of life insurance is to provide your dependents with income after your death, consumers with permanent life insurance policies are increasingly viewing, and using, life insurance as an asset. That means that they are using the money they have built up in the policy for othe
• 16 Warning Signs You Could Be Heading for Financial Trouble
  We’ve all done it before – forgotten to pay a bill on time, charged more on our credit cards than we should, etc. But there are some financial “red flags” you should pay attention to realize that without a course correction, you’re headed for financial trouble.. – forgotten to pay a bill on time, charged more on
• Questions to Ask When Comparing Plans
  Health insurance is an important financial tool that can help preserve your family’s physical and financial health. Make sure that you know exactly what services and benefits you are purchasing.. portant financial tool that can help preserve your family’s physical and financial health. Make
• Specific Next Steps for Southern California Wildfire Victims
• Overcoming Obstacle Number Two: Finding Money
  Unlike students who have not entered the workforce, adult students are often unsure about how – or if – they can afford to leave full-time work with its wage/salary, benefits (including insurance, paid vacation, etc. and career advancement possibilities.. Unlike students who have
• Can I afford to stay in my current home?
  You can do a little math to figure out how your current monthly mortgage compares to your current income. If you're not sure what your monthly mortgage is (perhaps you're not the one who pays the bills) it's a good idea to contact the bank that holds your mortgage to find out.. You can do a little math
• What to do when Downsizing?
  Most people cite "being able to stay in my home" as one of their top financial priorities. If your finances are tight, you might want to do a little math to figure out how your current monthly mortgage compares to your current income.. Most people cite "being able to stay in my home" a
• Government-Based Prescription Drug Assistance
  Medicaid is a state-based health program for people with low income and assets covers most prescription costs. This federal program has strict eligibility guidelines.. Medicaid is a state-based health program for people with low income and assets covers most prescription costs. This federal p
• A Single Mom
  Scenario: Candy is struggling right now. She works at a local super mart.. Scenario: Candy is struggling right now. She works at a local super mart. She has two kids and wants to do the right things but just can’t seem to get things to go her way. She can’t make ends meet, there is more month than m
• Identity Theft
  Identity theft. While it may be a relatively new form of crime, it’s catching on frighteningly fast.. Identity theft. While it may be a relatively new form of crime, it’s catching on frighteningly fast. In fact the FBI calls identity theft one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States and est
• Possible Benefits that Credit Unions Can Offer
  There are a variety of reasons that people use credit unions. Credit unions are typically smaller organizations than most banks or savings and loan institutions and can sometimes focus on providing levels of personal financial services or community focus and connections that seem more relevant or in
• Generation X (Born between 1968-1983)
  The generation that has grown up in the shadow of the Baby Boomers is accustomed to relying on themselves. However the economic recession has sent a strong message to Generation X workers: “you may have had unrealistic expectations about the kind of financial returns you can expect on your investments..
• Should You Borrow from Your 401(k) or 403(b)?
  These days more than 85% of workers with 401(k)s can borrow money from their retirement plans. And a growing portion of 403(b) plan participants can too.. These days more than 85% of workers with 401(k)s can borrow money from their retirement plans. And a growing portion of 403(b
• The Single Woman
  Scenario: Rosa is a 40-year old single woman living in Rhode Island. She is a manager of media development for a large Fortune 500 company.. Scenario: Rosa is a 40-year old single woman living in Rhode Island. She is a manager of media development for a large Fortune 500 company. She earns
• Getting a Credit Card for the First Time
  You probably get a credit card offer in the mail almost every day. Be careful before signing up.. You probably get a credit card offer in the mail almost every day. Be careful before signing up. You need to read the fine print carefully. Remember that what you're signing is a legally binding agree
• How Your Credit Score is Calculated
  There are different methods to determining a credit score. The “gold standard” of credit scores – the one that most lenders use when making credit-related decisions - is called the FICO score, named for its developer, the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO). There are different metho
• Will I get the same interest rate everywhere I go?
  No. Banks and financial institutions set their own interest rates.. No. Banks and financial institutions set their own interest rates. Car dealerships, check cashing stores, department stores, credit unions…the interest rates they offer for purchases vary. It's important that you compare inte
• Cash Collection
  By far the most common way to send money abroad is using a remittance company, such as . By far the most common way to send money abroad is using a remittance company, such as Western Union or MoneyGram . These com
• Identifying the Factors Creating the Current Financial Crunch
  Sometimes the reason for a financial crisis is obvious – a wage-earner in a family was laid-off, or a family member got sick and there was no health insurance to cover mounting medical bills, etc. But often even just one obvious issue (i.. Sometimes the reason for a financial crisis is obv
• Before re-entering the work force
  Research your potential future employers. Look for an employer offering a defined contribution (401(k) or defined benefit retirement plan (pension). Research your potential future employers. Look for an employer offering a defined contribution (401(k) or defined benefit retirement plan (pension) Cl
• Before re-entering the work force
• Money Market Funds
  Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market funds and money market accounts are different.. Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market
• Alternatives to Getting a Refund Anticipation Loan
• Alternatives to Getting a Refund Anticipation Loan
  There are options likely to be less expensive than an RAL if you need the amount of money that you will get from your tax refund quickly. For example: If you simply want to speed up getting your refund, file your income tax forms online (visit www.IRS.gov ) and you can have your refund check either
• Housing Benefits
  One of the most popular military benefits is the ability to apply for a VA Guaranteed Home Loan. VA Guaranteed Home Loans are home loans – mortgages - made by private lenders (banks, credit unions, etc.. One of the most popular military benefits is the ability to apply for a VA
• Ongoing Homeownership Responsibilities
  In addition to paying your mortgage there are other financially-related items to keep track of and take advantage of such as deducting the interest on your mortgage from your taxes, considering a home warranty, and keeping home records. Claiming the Mortgage Interest Deduction on Your Taxes There is
• Disputing a Claim Denial
  If you have a complaint about your claim or you would like to appeal a denied claim (meaning the company refused to pay on the claim) put your complaint/appeal in writing, make a copy to keep, and send it certified mail to your insurance company. Ask that they respond in writing..
• Minimum Payment Required on Credit Cards Going Up
  Credit card companies typically required customers to make a minimum payment of just 2 percent of their total card balance. That 2 percent only helped pay your interest and fees and didn’t help make a dent in the actual principal amount you owed.. Credit card companies typically required customers
• What difference does the interest rate make
  Even a small difference in interest rates can make a big difference in how much you'll owe or you'll earn. The key is when it comes to debt you want a low interest rate and when it comes to saving and investing you want a high interest rate.. Even a small difference in interest rates can make
• What Does Earthquake Insurance Cover and What Does It Cost?
  This is very important to clarify. Earthquake insurance policies typically cover major property damage or loss due to earth movement – sinking, rising or shifting.. This is very important to clarify. Earthquake insurance policies typically cover major property damage or loss due to earth m
• Trip Insurance
  Imagine that for you have been saving and planning for a special family reunion at a wonderful location but at the last minute your spouse or child becomes so ill your family cannot go. Or an approaching hurricane or forest fire forces the event to be cancelled.. Imagine that for you have
• Money Market Funds
  Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market funds and money market accounts are different.. Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market
• Trying to Keep Your Home – How the Homestead Exemption Works in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
  One of most people’s concerns is being able to keep their home. It’s important to know that a Chapter 7 bankruptcy DOES NOT MEAN YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE ABLE TO KEEP YOUR HOME.. One of most people’s concerns is being able to keep their home. It’s important to know that a Chapte
• Tax Effects of Repaying Student Loans
  You may be able to deduct the interest you have paid on your loan(s) (up to a 2,500 limit) from your federal income taxes. Single taxpayers earning up to 55,000 may be able to partially or fully deduct the interest they paid on their loan(s). You may be able to deduct the interest you have pa
• Secured Loans and Credit Cards
  If you are having difficulty getting approved for credit, you may want to consider applying for a secured credit card or secured loan instead to begin establishing a credit history. These credit cards and loans are “secured” by money that you deposit in an account.. If you are having difficu
• Borrowing Against Your Retirement Savings
  While experts don’t recommend tapping into your retirement savings for any reason- because you are putting savings and potential interest and growth opportunities at risk- you may be considering this as one of your only options. Before you do anything, let’s look at what’s involved in borrowing agai
• Borrowing Against Your Life Insurance
  If you have a cash value life insurance policy you may be able to either take money out of the policy or taking a loan out against the policy to help pay for your child’s college tuition. Typically you can withdraw or borrow a percentage of the cash value you have built up in the policy – limits var
• Tips to Lowering and Managing Your Healthcare Costs
  There are some preventive measures you can take to lower your health care costs or keep them in check: Avoid unnecessary emergency room visits. Most doctors’ offices have an off-hours answering service that can put you in touch with a doctor, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner if you need a
• Who Uses Check-Cashing Stores and Why?
  Rojare’s situation is a perfect example of why some people use check-cashing stores. Some people have never used a bank or are too afraid to use one.. Rojare’s situation is a perfect example of why some people use check-cashing stores. Some people have never used a bank or are too afraid to use one.
• When Things Change
  They say that the one thing that is constant in life is that it changes. The same is true for owning a home.. ng that is constant in life is that it changes. The same is true for owning a home. Things can change over time. Utility costs can increase. The interest rate on your mortgage can change. You need a n
• Questions To Ask When Evaluating Long-Term Care Insurance Policies
  When evaluating long-term care insurance, consider asking a provider the following questions: Are you licensed to sell long-term care insurance in this state?  Make sure from the start that the person you’re talking with is legally able to sell this insurance product to you. What is your company’s ra
• Adapting to Long-Term Temporary or Independent Contract Work
  Since the recession of 2008 employers have been slow to re-hire people for positions that they cut. If you lost your job, you may have started working with a temporary staffing firm or working as an independent contractor, or freelancer, to help make ends meet.. 08 employers have been slow to re-hire people for
• Don’t Get Scammed
  If you aren’t able to make your current job location-independent you may want to look for other opportunities. However you should beware, “virtual” jobs can be a minefield for scam artists.. e your current job location-independent you may want to look for other opportunities. However you should beware, “virtual” jo
• How to decide if you really want to own a home
  It seems obvious but the first place to start is to decide whether or not you really want to own a home. No doubt, there are definite benefits to homeownership, including: Tax benefits.. It seems obvious but the first place to start is t
• 10 Simple Steps to Start Saving Money Now
  Develop a simple, easy to implement plan with Tomorrow's Money “Personal Savings Schedule” Click here to link directly to the site’s . Develop a simple, easy to implement plan with Tomorrow's Money “Personal Savings Schedule” Click her
• Permanent Life Insurance
  Permanent life insurance is known by many names such as whole life, universal life, cash-value insurance, and variable universal life insurance. It is considered “permanent” because unlike term life insurance, there is no time limit to the policy.. Permanent life insurance is known by many names su
• Making Home Improvements
  Whether you have purchased a real “fixer-upper” or you are considering modest “cosmetic” changes, making home improvements can be a way to make your home better fit your family, lifestyle and/or financial goals when re-selling. Deciding on Improvements and Setting Your Budget Making home improvement
• What's New This Month
  July '09 : IOUs Issued by the State of California Strapped for cash, the state of California has started issuing more than 3 billion in IOUs to businesses, individual tax payers and county governments to whom it owes money. California state government officials have indicated that the IOUs – which
• Finding Funding
  Every business has start-up costs. Even if you plan to offer your special skills as a service, you still need to cover your own cost of living until you get your first payment from a customer.. Every business has start-up costs. Even if you plan to offer your special skills as a service, y
• Finding Funding
  Every business has start-up costs. Even if you plan to offer your special skills as a service, you still need to cover your own cost of living until you get your first payment from a customer.. Every business has start-up costs. Even if you plan to offer your special skills as a service, y
• Franchising
  Franchising is sort of a middle ground between being your own boss and working for a company. A lot of “chain” businesses—fast food restaurants, lawn care businesses, retail stores and carpet cleaners to name just a few—operate as franchises.. Franchising is sort of a middle ground between bei
• Important Considerations for Saving and Investing: In Your 30s
  While retirement may still feel like a lifetime away this decade is critical for saving and investing. You still have plenty of time to save and invest and reap the benefits of compounding interest and long-term gains.. l feel like a lifetime away this decade is critical for saving and investin
• Health Insurance Issues
  Health insurance is a vital part of your, and your family’s, medical and physical health. Unfortunately too many Americans currently don’t have health insurance.. al part of your, and your family’s, medical and physical health. Unfortunately too many Americans currently don’t have health insurance. If you don’t
• Personal Insurance Options for the Self-Employed
  Increasingly Americans are viewing self-employment as a work solution to meet their financial needs, their family life needs or both. However one of the most commonly cited concerns about self-employment is insurance.. Increasingly Americans are viewing self-employment as a work solution to me
• One Thing You Don’t Want to Do
  Often when credit card holders receive a notice that their credit limit is being lowered they may automatically want to cancel the card, especially if they feel slighted by the credit card company because they have always paid their bills. Often when credit card holders receive a notice th
• Two Options When Your Credit Limit is Cut
  If your credit limit has been cut (or you receive notification that your creditor is planning to reduce your limit) you have two options Contact the creditor to ask for your current limit to be maintained or reinstated. Collect copies. If your credit limit has been cut (or you receive
• What It Means to Have Your Credit Limit Cut
  It used to be that you only had to worry about your credit limit being lowered (meaning you could borrow less) if you were chronically late on making your payments or if you simply stopped paying altogether for a period. It used to be that you only had to worry about your credit limit being lowe
• Life Insurance: A Key Consideration for Unmarried Couples
  Considering life insurance is an important part of every person’s financial plan however it should be an even higher priority for unmarried couples because they typically do not have the ability to enjoy all the same financial benefits as opposite. Considering life insurance is an important part of
• Investing as an Unmarried Couple
  Investing can be where the rubber hits the road for unmarried couples. That’s because it requires both partners to agree on numerous decisions such as the amount of money to invest how long you want to leave your money invested. Investing can be where the rubber hits the road fo
• I could never be an investor.
  FALSE.   You already are an investor even if you do not yet own a single . FALSE. You already are an investor even if you do not yet own a single stock , bond or mutual fund . If you’ve ever spent time on raising kids, learning to cook, or improving
• I could never be an investor.
• Apply for Disaster Assistance
• Credit Card Companies Face Significant Changes Under New Law; Consumers to Benefit
  The new credit card legislation signed into law by President Obama contains numerous provisions that will have a real impact for Americans who use credit cards as a personal financial tool. More than 700 million credit cards are used by Americans (Nielson Report, 2008) and the total amount of debt A
• Should You Refinance?
  KNOWING EXACTLY when is the perfect time to refinance would require a bit of psychic ability on your part. That's why many experts say if you find a good deal that saves you a significant amount of money, it's probably not worth trying to beat it by predicting mortgage-rate moves. So what rate would
• How Much Coverage Do You Want for Your Possessions?
  In addition to insuring your home’s physical structure, you’ll want to consider how much to insure your physical possessions for. You can insure your possessions for either the items’ actual cost (how much it would cost today to buy the same item) or the cost it would take to replace them..
• A Guide to Using a Bank and Bank Services for the First Time
  If you don’t use a bank, credit union, or thrift/ savings and loan institution you are like nearly 10 percent of the American population. There are a wide variety of reasons that people don’t use banks.. If you don’t use a bank, credit union, or thrift/ savings and loan instituti
• 401(k)
  What is a 401(k) and Why Should I Have One? Enron. Six months ago most Americans wouldn't have recognized the name.. What is a 401(k) and Why Should I Have One? Enron. Six months ago most Americans wouldn't have recognized the name. Now we're painfully familiar with
• 401(k)
• Advantages of Using a Bank
  There are several advantages to using a bank. Banks: Provide a measure of security for your funds.. There are several advantages to using a bank. Banks: Provide a measure of security for your funds. Instead of worrying about the safety of keeping you
• Tips for Maintaining Specialty Insurance Coverage
  As with any insurance, once you have obtained coverage it’s important that you do everything you need to in order to maintain coverage. Here are some tips to do so: Whether you are purchasing an annual policy or a single-time/one-use policy (i.. As with any insurance, on
• Financial Advisor-Related Questions
  Once you have a grasp on your basic financial picture, you may decide to look for some outside help in managing your finances or making decisions involving your finances. To find the right financial professional, it's important to first ask what type of help you're looking for..
• Questions to Ask
  When considering whether to purchase earthquake insurance, consider asking an agent the following questions: If you are a California homeowner, ask if the insurance company participates in the CEA program or if the policy they offer is not affiliated with the CEA. Ask how their policy compares with
• What are the costs and risks involved in annuities?
  The costs of owning an annuity can include: annual fees for the insurance company’s guarantees and administrative services annual or periodic management fee charged by the mutual funds or other underlying investments and the sales commission paid to the salesperson. These fees will usually be quoted
• What are the costs and risks involved in annuities?
• Who are annuities good for?
  Any investment choice depends on many factors including your personal circumstances, your age, the amount of risk you feel comfortable taking, the amount of time you have before you need the money, and your other assets, investments and financial realities. When you are young, it’s typically better
• Who are annuities good for?
• What is an annuity?
• What is an annuity?
  Annuities are investments that you can use to turn savings into a dependable income stream for retirement or to provide financial support for your loved ones after your death. An annuity is a contract between you and a life insurance company.. Annuities are investments
• Insurance
  What forms of insurance do you have that you could tap into or could help with the costs of a move? Long-term care insurance is designed to help people pay for extended or occasional care by a home health aide or licensed medical professional either in-home or at an assisted living facility, senior
• Socially-Responsible Investing
  As people become more interested and personally committed to changing their impact on the environment, they want to know that the companies they invest in share their values. Socially responsible investing (SRI) is an investment strategy that incorporates your social or environmental beliefs into ho
• Socially-Responsible Investing
• New Tax Law Allows Seniors to Keep More of Retirement Plan Funds Invested in 2009
• New Tax Law Allows Seniors to Keep More of Retirement Plan Funds Invested in 2009
  Initially designed as a way to help retirees who have seen the value of their retirement investments drop in the economic downturn, Congress passed a new law that allows IRA and 401(k) plan holders age 70 ½ and older to not have to take a minimum required distribution (MRD) in 2009. The MRD is based
• Stocks are just one big gamble.
• Stocks are just one big gamble.
  FALSE. It’s true stocks are risky.. FALSE. It’s true stocks are risky. The stock market sometimes has big drops, but if you look back at its performance since 1926 you will see that the overall trend is upward. The longer you can keep your money invested in sto
• Mutual funds
  Mutual funds are investment companies that pool the money invested by many people and create a professionally managed portfolio or group of securities with a stated investment objective. Each mutual fund share represents an equal piece of the entire portfolio. A fund’s “ net asset value , which dete
• Diversification
  In addition to knowing and investing according to your time horizon, diversification is an important way to reduce the potential investment risk. If you think about how risk would work if you invested all your money into one single stock and lost all of it, you understand that you could try to reduc
• Diversification
• Check Your Progress and Readjust as Necessary
  When Seth left his job at a graphic design firm to work as a freelance graphic artist he loved the flexibility that self-employment offered and the idea that he could be his own boss. He also enjoyed being able to set his own schedule and take on jobs that really interested him..
• Use Job Placement Assistance
  When you’re looking for a job it can be tempting to think that a professional could help you land the perfect job. Companies that provide job placement assistance can help match your experience and interests up with a similar open position.. When you’re looking for a job it can be tempting t
• My Budget Summary
  Congratulations! Creating a budget takes time, patience, and, admittedly, a little bit of courage. By taking this first step you’ve empowered yourself.. Congratulations! Creating a budget takes time, patience, and, admittedly, a little bit of courage. By taking this first step you’ve empowered yourself
• Educational Benefits
  The military offers a variety of educational benefits for active duty servicemembers, members of the National Guard and Reserves, college students preparing for military service, veterans and military spouses and dependents. Let’s first look at educational benefits specifically for servicemembers: M
• Repair or Establish your Credit Record
  Divorce can be financially devastating. It often means having to meet regular expenses on half, or less than half, the income prior to the divorce, on top of new, extraordinary expenses related to the divorce such as lawyer’s fees and court costs.. Divorce can be financially devastating. It often m
• Insurance
  Insurance is an important part of your overall financial planning. It will ensure that you can maintain your income, your assets and keep you on track with your financial plan.. Insurance is an important part of your overall financial planning. It will ensure that you can maint
• Debt Negotiation
  Debt negotiation is also commonly referred to as debt settlement. It is one approach to solving unsecured debt problems (typically credit card debt) that may be an option for people who may not be able to make the minimum payments of a debt management plan (DMP). Debt negotiation is also
• Changing Your Thinking about Credit for Everyday Expenses
  If you are bridging financial gaps by using credit as a supplemental source of income it's important to remember that unlike income, credit is not simply an always-available source of free cash but rather a loan. Every time you use credit you are, in essence, taking on a loan and you will be require
• Changes You Could Make at the Office
  Just like making changes around the house, there are things you can do during your workday to feel better about the impact you and your co-workers are having on the environment. Create a recycle box.. Just like making changes
• Utilities and Appliances
  Ask most people what the single largest contributor to global warming is and you’re likely to get a variety of opinions. But the answer is the production of electricity.. Ask most people what the single largest contributor to global warming is and you’re likely to get a variety of opinions. But
• Brokerage Accounts
  How can you know if the money in your investment brokerage accounts is safe? When one firm acquires another (as Bank of America acquired Merrill Lynch) brokerage accounts are simply transferred from one company to the otherOver time you might see a change in your financial advisor or broker or in co
• Caring for Dad
  Scenario: Bill is 54, married with 2 kids and living in Michigan. His father, John, a widower, suffered a stroke 6 months ago and had to be moved to a nursing home.. Scenario: Bill is 54, married with 2 kids and living in Michigan. His father, John, a widower, suffered a stroke 6 months ago
• Boat Insurance
  If you are a boater you know the fun – but also the financial reality – of owning a boat. If you have homeowners or renters insurance and have a small-sized boat (i.. If you are a boater you know the fun – but also the financial reality – of owning a boat. If you have homeowners or renters i
• All About Long-Term Care Insurance Benefit Payouts
  If you need to use your long-term care insurance to pay for needed care and services, it’s important that you know when your policy will begin paying for care, how it will pay for services, and for how long. Let’s look at each component: What Your Insurance Will Pay We’ve already discussed what type
• Work with your employer to keep or make adjustments to your job.
• When You May Not Have Enough Money: Turning to Friends, Families and Others
• Evaluating Homeowners and Renters Insurance
• Places to Turn When Money is Tight
  No matter how much you work and plan and take wise financial first steps, like those outlined in the “11 Things Single Moms Must Do, there are times when financial issues can become overwhelming and money seems impossibly tight. Take heart.. No matter how much you work and plan and take wise
• Transitioning from Homebuyer to Homeowner
  Congratulations! In buying a home you have joined millions of Americans who have made the same significant financial and life choice. But signing your name to the final mortgage loan papers or closing documents is really just the end of one process – home buying – and beginning another one - the pro
• Working for a Public Employer
• Working for a Public Employer
  Teachers. Police officers.. Teachers. Police officers. Firemen. Librarians. Air traffic controllers. Bridge inspectors. Public health department lab technicians. Our communities work in large part because of the day-in and day-out work of people who work for “public employers”
• Homeowners’ and Renter’s Insurance
  Your home and your belongings are probably your largest financial asset.  So how do you protect them? If you own a home and have a mortgage (loan that you are paying off to own the home outright) then your lender will require that you carry home insurance.. Your home and your belong
• Questions to Ask When Considering Joining a Credit Union
  If you find a credit union and determine that you are eligible for membership, consider asking some of the following questions when considering signing up to join and open an account: Does the credit union have automated teller machines (ATMs) If you use ATMs frequently you might want to find out wh
• Other Financing Options
  If you can’t pay cash for a computer, consider a few alternatives before taking on a potentially expensive loan or charging the purchase on your credit card. For example: Determine what system you would like to get and then really competitively shop both at stores in your area and online. You might
• Preparing Yourself for Unexpected Expenses
  When the crisis is past, try to set up even a small emergency fund that you add to if you have any extra money. Creating an emergency fund gives you a financial reserve to draw upon instead of having to consider getting a short-term loan the next time money gets tight.. When the crisis is past,
• How to Think About Credit Cards
  The first thing to know is that credit cards aren’t “bad. It’s all about how you use them.. The first thing to know is that credit cards aren’t “bad. It’s all about how you use them. Here are a few things to think about before getting, or first using, a credit card. One of the most important
• Rising Prices, Fewer Financial Choices
  It's not just families that have suffered an unexpected job loss that are using credit to make ends meet. More and more American families are finding that their income doesn't go as far as before.. It's not just families that have suffered an unexpected job loss that are using credit to make ends
• The Price You Pay for Using Credit
  The price you pay for being able to use credit is called interest. Lenders charge interest in order to make a profit and to help offset a loss if a borrower does not repay the money.. The price you pay for being able to use credit is called interest. Lenders charge interest in order
• Private Loans
  Your bank or credit union very likely offers loans that you could take out to help pay for your children’s education. Check to see what interest rate would be compared to your child applying for a federal student loan (such as a Federal Perkins or Stafford loan). Your bank or credit union
• How Thieves Can Steal Your Identity and What Happens When They Do
  It’s frighteningly simple for someone to obtain your personal information. Think about how many times a day you purchase something online, fill out an application or throw out a credit card receipt or piece of mail.. It’s frighteningly simple for someone to obtain your personal information.
• Questions to Ask When Considering a Windstorm Insurance Policy
  When considering a windstorm insurance policy – whether you are thinking about purchasing a policy from a private insurance company or from a state insurance pool – you should gather as much information as you can before making any formal, written commitment. Following is a list of questions you may
• Questions to Ask about a Potential Policy
  Once you have identified a company and/or broker that you would consider doing business with, you want to ask a series of questions about the policy you are considering: What coverage does this policy include? What is my premium for this policy? What are the minimum insurance requirements in my stat
• Bill-Paying Tips
  You have a lot to juggle and make time for – kids, work, maintaining a home, etc. Consider processes that can reduce the time it takes to pay your bills and make it easier to create savings automatically for your future.. You have a lot to juggle and make time for – kids, work, maintaining a home
• A Baby on the Way
  Scenario: Eddie and Ellen are both in their early 30s, have been married for 3 years and are living in Connecticut. They bought Ellen’s grandmother’s house when she decided to downsize.. Scenario: Eddie and Ellen are both in their early 30s, have been married for 3 years and are living
• Can I charge my tax bill?
• Can I charge my tax bill?
  Yes. The IRS accepts American Express® Discover® MasterCard® and Visa®. Yes. The IRS accepts American Express® Discover® MasterCard® and Visa® However, think twice before pulling out the plastic. Financing a steep tax bill at a high interest rate charged by your credit ca
• Franchising
• Preparing for Your Job Interview
• Preparing for Your Job Interview
  It's a good idea to practice before the actual interview. How? Ask friends and family members to help you work through answers to potential questions.. It's a good idea to practice before the actual interview. How? Ask friends and family members to help you work through answers to potential questions.
• Conduct Informational Interviews
• Conduct Informational Interviews
  One of the best ways to prepare for a job interview is to, well, interview. Sound confusing? Informational interviews are interviews that you set up with friends, colleagues, and professionals working in your industry for the purpose of learning more about their jobs and related positions within the
• Narrow Your Search
  You will have a much better chance of landing a job for which you are suited if you focus on what you have the desire and skills to do and then narrow your search. This is where knowing yourself and thinking through some important decisions before you begin job-searching will really help you feel in
• Narrow Your Search
• Tips for Keeping Your Credit Habits Under Control
  Try to have only 1 or 2 major credit cards Unless you're trying to establish credit for the first time, don't get cards for individual store accounts. Shop around for the best, lowest-cost credit card.. Try to have only 1 or 2 major credit cards Unless
• Empowering Them to Move Forward
  Taking charge of their personal financial life is a significant, positive step for the person you’re helping. Be mindful to affirm his or her successes, to celebrate accomplishments, and to encourage him or her as they pursue developing new skills and healthy lifestyles.. Taking charge of their pe
• Who Extends Credit
  Various organizations, businesses and financial institutions extend credit. For example Department stores offer store credit Utility companies (phone, gas, electric, water) provide services on credit (meaning people receive/have the ability to use those services and are charged afterwards for their
• How Do I Open a Brokerage Account?
• How Do I Open a Brokerage Account?
  You can open a brokerage account in person or online. You will be asked to sign a new account agreement.. You can open a brokerage account in person or online. You will be asked to sign a new account agreement. Review all information in the agreement, ask questions and do not sign
• Manage your financial assistance and insurance payouts wisely while waiting to rebuild.
• Debt Consolidation and Debt Management Plans
  One of the services that credit counseling agencies provide is debt management plans, or DMPs. A DMP is a plan that a counseling agency develops with a client's creditors to help a client consolidate (pool together) and pay off their debt.. One of the services that credit counseling agencie
• Online Banking
  Most banks now offer online banking – a service where you can check your account activity and balances, pay bills and transfer funds between accounts over the internet. Make sure you know if your bank charges you a monthly fee to be able to use their online banking service.. Most banks now offer onli
• Finances
  The personal finance statistics for military families are sobering. A 2006 national survey found that: 22% of all servicemembers reported occasionally or usually having trouble paying bills 26% of all servicemembers have not invested for their future financial needs and goals within the past two yea
• How to Balance a Checkbook
  Elise dreaded paying bills. By the time she was finished she was so grateful to have the job done that she didn’t want to tackle balancing her checkbook.. Elise dreaded paying bills. By the time she was finished she was so grateful to have the job done that she didn’t want to tac
• Opening an Account
  To open an account, a bank’s customer service representative will first explain the account options, benefits, fees and services. Then he/she will ask you to complete an application and provide at least one form of personal identification with a photo (such as a driver’s license, passport or militar
• Questions to Ask About Calling Plans
  When evaluating potential calling plans ask the following questions: What are the peak and non-peak times? What are the set rates for calls within my home calling area during peak times?  Non-peak times? What is the “per minute rate” for roaming” or non-local calls during peak times?  Non-peak times?
• Preteens or ”Tweens”
  As children reach their preteen or “tween” years they need to begin taking greater responsibility for their spending and saving choices. Show your children your family’s budget and then help your child create his/her own personal budget Consider having your child sit down with you on a monthly basis
• Setting up Direct Deposit
  Direct deposit is when you choose to have payments due to you directly deposited into your bank account instead of having a paper check, money order or cash mailed to you at your workplace or home. Types of payments that you can have directly deposited into your bank account include: Paychecks Tax r
• Saving
  Saving money is not something that we, as Americans, are very good at. In fact the U.. hing that we, as Americans, are very good at. In fact the U.S. Department of Commerce reported that America’s personal savings rate is the lowest in the industrialized world. .Saving money is a critical habit to develop a
• Counteroffers and Closing
  Don’t get discouraged or worried if you decide to make a counteroffer. Typically buyers and sellers reach agreement by the second or third go-around.. Don’t get discouraged or worried if you decide to make a counteroffer. Typically buyers and sellers reach agreement by the se
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities
  Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) can be a very attractive housing alternative because they offer the security of knowing that your long-term housing, services and nursing care will all be provided in one development as you age. CCRCs are age-segregated, meaning that it is a housing com
• Mutual Funds
  Mutual funds represent a pool of money from many investors whom choose to buy a type of investment, such as stocks or bonds or a mix of both. With mutual funds, you, as the investor do not manage the money yourself, rather your money is invested by a professional money manager..
• Mutual Funds
• What the New Healthcare Law May Mean for You
  With the passage of the healthcare reform law affecting the U.S. Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories, a lot of things about your health insurance may be changing over the next several months and years. What could it mean for you, your spouse and family? . With the passage of the h
• To Buy or to Lease?
  SHOULD YOU lease or buy? Conventional wisdom says if you lease you'll have nothing to show for your money when the term is up. But that ignores the opportunity cost inherent in buying: after all, the money you pay up front for the car could be invested instead..
• Your Bank and Bounced Checks
  If you’re like most people with a checking account, chances are you have bounced at least one check in the past. “Bouncing” a check – meaning that you wrote a check for more money than you had in your account – is at the least embarrassing and at the worst, possibly a very costly financial mistake..
• Staying in Financial Control While You’re in College
  Going to college can be exciting, fun…and expensive. And we’re not just talking about tuition, room and board.. Going to college can be exciting, fun…and expensive. And we’re not just talking about tuition, room and board. There can be a lot of unexpected, small expenses that can add up
• Making a Plan
  Before you make a plan for your business, you need a plan for yourself. First, you should make a budget of your personal expenses to see how much you need to survive each month.. Before you make a plan for your business, you need a plan for yourself. First, you should make a bud
• Health Insurance
  When you were a child, you probably didn’t think about health insurance. If you needed to go to a doctor, the adults in your life took you.. When you were a child, you probably didn’t think about health insurance. If you needed to go to a doctor, the adults in your life took you. They helpe
• Past Debt
  More than likely both spouses in a blended family situation come into the new marriage with existing debt. It is CRUCIAL to both your new family’s financial and emotional health that you sit down and talk honestly and openly about your financial situations prior to marriage or as early on in the mar
• Mortgage Counseling If You're Having Trouble Paying Your Mortgage
  If you are having difficulty making your monthly mortgage payment or even facing foreclosure you cannot afford to wait and hope that you can resolve the issue later. If you are behind on your mortgage you can be faced with foreclosure, and sooner than you may realize.. If you are having difficu
• Best Way to Use Credit
  Now before you think that you should never use credit cards, it’s actually a good idea to use them…IF you can use them wisely. Why? Well, establishing a good credit history makes it more likely that you’ll be approved for loans you might apply for later like a home mortgage or car loan..
• Why Invest in Bonds?
• Why Invest in Bonds?
  There are numerous benefits to investing in bonds including: Financial Security - There's a reason that a bond is called a “fixed-income” security – not only are you highly likely to get back your principal but you can also count on receiving interest on your investment. Portfolio Balance & Dive
• Making a Plan
• Financial “Things to Do” Before the Year’s End
  With the holiday season officially underway it can be easy to spend most of your “financial thinking” on all of the holiday gift-giving, traveling and entertaining you will, or would like to be able to, do. But there are five simple things that you may want to consider doing to tie up some financial
• Evaluating Healthcare Insurance Options
  According to the U.S.. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 45 million Americans do not have health insurance. Not having health insurance can take a tremendous toll on individuals and families. Harvard Professor Elizabeth Warren found that medical bills contributed to half of all personal
• Single Women Managing Money
  For the first time in American history more women are single than married. Single women are earning more money than ever before, are making more financially-related decisions than ever before and yet most single women still do not feel adequate or empowered to successfully navigate their own financi
• When There is a Gap Between Income and Expense
  That’s another way of saying that you’re spending more than you’re earning! Instead of feeling automatically overwhelmed or fearful, consider it just as a piece of information that can help you determine what you’re fearful of or concerned about. Even though the thought of having more debt/expenses
• Is That Balance Transfer Worth It?
  LIKE MANY PEOPLE THESE days, 69-year-old Ira Stoller uses cash-rebate credit-cards for all of his purchases, lowering his bills by as much as 5% But these savings are nothing compared with the profit the traveling salesman from Butler, N.. LIKE MANY PEOPLE THESE da
• Moving Day
  The big day is almost here. Moving day.. The big day is almost here. Moving day. Before you get to enjoy the excitement of moving into your new home, you’ve got to make it through the tedium and trial of actually boxing up and moving all your possessions. Having your tools and materials rea
• More about Equity Financing
  When small companies get bigger and have a more proven potential to succeed, they can attract equity investors by offering shares of stock or ownership privately or through the public stock markets. To access the stock market, a business has to “go public” or undertake an initial public offering (IP
• To Incorporate or Not
  You want to set up your business in the legal structure that makes the most sense for you. This legal structure helps define liability or responsibility for the cost of things that can go wrong.. You want to set up your business in the legal structure that makes the most sense for you. This lega
• Good Financial Behaviors You Can Model for Your Children
  In addition to finding ways to teach your children about money there are things you can do on a regular basis to model good financial habits.. In addition to finding ways to teach your children about money there are things you can do on a regular basis to model good financial habits such as:
• Tax Changes that Could Affect Your 2008 Tax Bill
  There are a few new changes to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. These changes are important to know about especially if you’re preparing your own taxes.. es to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. These changes are important to know about especially i
• Finding a Location-Independent Job on Your Own
  If you’re interested in striking out on your own and working for yourself from home there are numerous resources available to help you find that type of work.. triking out on your own and working for yourself from home there are numerous resources available to help you find that type of work. For example, you
• Moving Forward
  After you have taken the first steps to identify the source of your financial problem(s) and your current budget the next step is taking action Talk to your creditors. If you’re behind on bills or if something has changed (i.e.. After you have taken the first steps to identify the source of your financi
• Who to Work With to Maintain Your Coverage and Get Answers to Your Questions
  If you obtain your health insurance through your, or your spouse’s, employer, you will most likely interact with the Human Resources (HR) staff/benefits managers to get questions answered regarding your plan. They will give you a booklet detailing your plan information and a coverage card with conta
• Baby Boomers (Born between 1946-1967)
  Baby boomers that already were planning and ready to celebrate retirement were perhaps the hardest hit by the recent recession, and now are the most disillusioned about when they will be able to exit the workforce. The MetLife Mature Market Survey found that of the 11% of boomers born in 1946 who pl
• Interest Rates and Credit Limits
  Two of the biggest tools credit card companies have at their disposal is being able to change their cardholders’ interest rate (the amount of money they charge you for borrowing money from them when you use the card) and credit. Two of the biggest tools credit card companies hav
• Buying a Foreclosed Property from the Government
  When homeowners default on their Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or Veterans’ Administration (VA) mortgage loans the federal government repays the lender for the unpaid balance on the mortgage, assumes the title, and then seeks to resell the property. Several government.
• Buying a Foreclosed Property
  In a difficult economy – when people are losing jobs and losing income – an increased number of homeowners have difficulty making their mortgage payments. If they can’t work something out with their lender to get current on their mortgage,. In a difficult economy – when people are losing jo
• Sharing Financial Accounts or Keeping Them Separate?
  In addition to deciding how you will handle household expenses, you will also need to, or should, talk about your financial accounts. Financial accounts include checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, credit cards, non retirement related investment accounts (i.e..
• I don't know where to turn for help.
  Once you're comfortable knowing your own financial situation, and have begun making some small, but very important steps, toward saving and investing you may want to get additional help. There's a wealth of good, easy-to-understand, free help available by going online or doing some simple research a
• No More Excuses
  If you're feeling guilty or panicked for not already having a personal financial plan in place, you're in good company. Would it help you to know that most people who haven't begun saving and investing for their future have the same excuses for not doing so? This section is designed to help you face
• I don't know where to begin.
  The most important part about beginning to save and invest is just that…beginning. In fact, changing your attitude toward saving and investing may be the biggest hurdle you have to overcome.. bout beginning to save and invest is just that…beginning. In fact, changing your attitude toward saving and investing may be
• Questions to ask when considering Bridge housing or Congregate Housing, CCRCs, or Assisted Living Facilities
  How much of a security deposit do you require? Is there an entrance fee, and if so, how much? Is it refundable? What is the length of my contract? Can I leave at any point or would I incur penalties? What would my monthly fee be and what does that include? Could I see a typical meal plan? Can dietar
• Banks Change Overdraft Policies
  The Federal Reserve has announced that as of July 1, 2010 banks will have to get their customers’ consent before charging them overdraft fees on their ATM and/or debit card transactions. Specifically banks will have to notify all new and existing customers about how they handle situations when an ac
• When You Lose Retiree Benefits
  Karen was enjoying retirement after 32 years of work as a registered nurse. Her Social Security and savings provided a modest, but adequate, income and she was grateful for a generous retiree benefits package from her former employer which included a pension and health insurance.. ment after 32 years of wo
• When You Lose Retiree Benefits
• How Unemployment Benefits are Calculated and What Happens When They Run Out
• How Unemployment Benefits are Calculated and What Happens When They Run Out
  When you lose a job you may be eligible for temporary unemployment benefits which can help you bridge the uncertain – and often financially worrisome period – between jobs. If you qualify, unemployment benefits will provide you with a percentage of your take-home pay for a specified period of time,
• Managing Maternity/Paternity Leave
  You may need, or want to, take leave before the baby is born – due to medical or other reasons, and you will certainly want to take at least some time off after delivering your child. You’ll want to check with your employer to learn about their maternity/paternity leave program.. take leave before the ba
• It takes a lot of money to be an investor
• It takes a lot of money to be an investor
  FALSE. You have probably heard that it takes money to make money, and that’s true to a degree, but it does not take a lot.. FALSE. You have probably heard that it takes money to make money, and that’s true to a degree, but it does not take a lot. If your employer offers a r
• Handling Your Finances
  Handling money matters is intimidating for a lot of people. Maybe it is for you.. Handling money matters is intimidating for a lot of people. Maybe it is for you. You may be overwhelmed or uncertain as to how to start facing your finances. Money matters can seem like a bottomless p
• Bill-Paying Tips
  All of us have to deal with paying bills. And most of us dread it.. All of us have to deal with paying bills. And most of us dread it. Having a plan and a process for bill-paying can make it easier. Following are some tips to create some good bill-paying habits and reduce stress when it comes
• First Steps to Understanding Your Health Insurance Benefits
  If you, or your spouse, have health insurance do you know what your health insurance plan benefits are? According to CIGNA HealthCare, nearly 50 percent of all Americans give themselves only a “C” grade, or lower, when it comes to understanding their health benefits and programs available to them th
• To Rent or to Buy?
  THINGS BEING EQUAL it's almost always better to own your home rather than to rent. After all, you build equity and get to write off your mortgage interest.. THINGS BEING EQUAL it's almost always better to own your home rather than to rent. After all, you bu
• Fixed Rate or Adjustable?
  WHICH TYPE OF LOAN is best? That depends several factors: how long you plan to stay in your home, your interest-rate outlook, your budget, and your tolerance for risk. Adjustable-rate mortgages are initially cheaper than fixed-rate loans..
• How Much Interest Will You Pay?
  DOES YOUR credit card balance keep inching upward? Then before you charge one more thing, you should assess the cost of that debt. A balance of just 5,000 at 15% will cost you 421 in interest if you manage to pay it off within a year..
• Digging Out of Debt
  THE SECRET to paying off credit-card debt is really very simple: All you need to do is earn more than you spend, and apply the savings toward paying down your debt. So then what makes tackling credit-card debt so hard ? Sadly, many seem to be losing the battle of the credit-card balance. Consider th
• Writing a Check
  Checks provide a convenient way for you to make purchases and pay bills. When you open a checking account you will order checks.. Checks provide a convenient way for you to make purchases and pay bills. When you open a checking account you will order checks. Your check will proba
• Do You Have Too Much Debt?
  NEARLY EVERY red-blooded American is walking around with at least some debt. After all, most of us have mortgages.. NEARLY EVERY red-blooded American is walking around with at least some debt. After all, most of us have mortgages. Many of us have auto loans. Parents
• All investments are scams.
• All investments are scams.
  FALSE. Some investments are scams.. FALSE. Some investments are scams. Most are not. Investment scams make promises that are impossible to keep. If someone tries to sell you an investment using these words or phrases, beware: No money down Guaranteed Low risk,
• No financial advisor would want to talk to me.
• No financial advisor would want to talk to me.
  FALSE. Most financial advisors got into the business because they love investing and wanted to help others make money from it.. FALSE. Most financial advisors got into the business because they love investing and wanted to help others make money from it. These days many of them
• Signing a Lease
  Depending on your timeframe and the market for rental properties in your area you may need to sign a lease quickly, in which case you need to understand what the lease outlines and what you’ll need to provide. If you’re renting from a large property management company (like those that own large apar
• Step 1: Identify your income
• Homeownership
  Homeownership is often referred to as “the American dream. However buying a home is typically the most significant and complicated financial commitment most people make in their lifetime.. Homeownership is often referred to as “the American dream. However buying a home is typically the mo
• Getting Professional Help
  If you’re at a point where you are having credit card problems, facing staggering debt, are receiving overdue notices, or getting calls from collection agencies you may feel scared. If you’re overwhelmed, can’t figure out how you are going to get out of this, or just feel like you could use someone
• What Happens if I’m In Over My Head?
  Okay, so maybe you’re reading this and you’re thinking “It’s too late for me! I’ve already maxed out my cards! Don’t panic – there are some steps you can take to get control over you credit card spending and on the path to financial stability: Write it down. Gather your credit card statements and fi
• The Cost of Using Credit
  When you make a purchase or payment with your credit card, you’ll be paying not just that amount, but possibly a few other fees as well. Let’s look at a few of the fees associated with credit cards: Annual fee.. When you make a purchase or payment with your cred
• I am not sure how to help someone who is in financial trouble and is looking to me for assistance.
  Every day people find themselves facing sudden, unexpected or unwanted life changes that affect their ability to earn money, pay bills, and make choices to keep life working for themselves and their families. Young people, college graduates, seniors, single parents, middle-aged workers – none of us
• Foreclose
  When the bank seizes your house/ takes ownership of it and sells it because you haven't made good on the mortgage loan.. house/ takes ownership of it and sells it because you haven't made good on the mortgage loan.Summary When the bank When the bank seizes y
• Mortgage Payment
  The check you write to the bank each month to pay off your home loan.. Summary The check you write to the bank each month to pay off your home loan. . The check you write to the bank each month to pay off your home loan. .
• Mortgage Interest
  The amount of interest you pay on your home loan each month.  . The amount of interest you pay on your home loan each month.. Summary The amount of interest you pay on your home loan each month.   .
• Mortgage Interest
• Get a Summer Check Up
  Why not give your credit report a summer check up? Call or go online to the . Why not give your credit report a summer check up? Call or go online to the Annual Credit Reports website to learn how you ca
• Insurance
  Health Insurance While the exact type of health insurance varies across federal, state and local governments, every public employer offers health insurance coverage and benefits to full-time workers and often to part-time workers as well. The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB) offers h
• Making Future Home Renovations for Safety
• Distressed Homeowners May Get Foreclosure Postponement Help from Project Lifeline
  Homeowners at risk for losing their homes may be eligible to receive help through a “Project Lifeline” program. Through the program six major lenders – . Homeowners at risk for losing their homes may be eligible to receive help through a “Project Lifelin
• Questions to Ask About a Policy
  When you are ready to begin comparing policies there are some basic questions you will want to ask, including: What do you require for me to qualify for your policy (i.e.. When you are ready to begin comparing policies the
• What Happens if I Can’t Get Coverage?
  If you can’t find any car insurance that you can afford, or if you have been turned down for coverage, there are options. Consider checking to see if your employer or any associations you belong to offer reduced-rate policies.. If you can’t find any car
• What Type of Bond Do I Want to Buy?
• What Type of Bond Do I Want to Buy?
  Most bonds are issued by one of three groups: the U.S.. Most bonds are issued by one of three groups: the U.S. government or federal agencies; state and local governments, and corporations. Here's a breakdown of the types of bonds
• Mortgage Foreclosure Scams to Be on the Lookout For
  Unfortunately there are people who look to prey on people in financially vulnerable situations like those facing foreclosure. There are two main types of scams to be on the lookout for: Equity skimming.. Unfortunately there are p
• Where to Get Insurance
  Most people get their health insurance coverage through their employer, their spouse’s employer or through membership in an association, union or group that offers health insurance coverage as a benefit. Typically employers will offer you the choice to select health insurance as a benefit when y
• Spending
  In order to keep moving forward financially we need to spend less than we earn. That doesn’t mean going without.. In order to keep moving forward financially we need to spend less than we earn. That doesn’t mean going without. It means making spending choices based on a well-defin
• Borrowing Against Your Current Assets
  If you have explored all the other options in putting together a “package” of ways that your family will pay for your child’s education—and you get to the point where you are looking for additional sources of income or assistance to help fund your children’s college tuition, you may want to, or need
• Budgeting and Reducing Variable Expenses
  Budgeting is an important financial discipline to help plan spending, and create and invest savings. Encourage the person you are helping to . Budgeting is an important financial discipline to help plan spending, and c
• FDIC Bank Deposit Insurance – What It Is and What You Should Know
  With the recent news of a handful of banks failing people are increasingly concerned about the safety of their bank deposits. How can you know if your money is safe when you deposit it into a bank and if your bank does fail, how much of your money does the FDIC insure? The FDIC (Federal Deposit Insu
• Car Insurance
  If you have ever been in a car accident, you may already know the value of car insurance. Buying car insurance is about buying protection.. If you have ever been in a car accident, you may already know the value of car insurance. Buying car insurance is about buying protection. It provides
• Pricing Medications
  Did you know that you can comparison shop for your prescription drugs?  Simply call your local pharmacy and ask how much they charge for that medication. You can then call other pharmacies, drug stores and even warehouse clubs that have pharmacies and compare the prices they quote you for the same me
• When Emergency Strikes
• Find a reputable contractor.
• Financial Tools
  In addition to insurance benefits your employer will likely offer various financial tools that you can use to reduce your taxable income and save for your short-term needs and long-term goals. Health Spending Accounts Healthcare spending accounts provide you with a way to pay for health care expense
• Before leaving your job
  Roll over any 401(k) savings you have accumulated into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) An IRA is an investment account you can open through a local bank branch, financial services company or mutual fund.. Roll over any 401(k) savings you have accumulated into an Individual Retire
• Before leaving your job
• Questions to ask when considering buying an annuity
  Does buying an annuity fit in well with my overall retirement savings plan that includes IRAs and employer-sponsored 401(k) plans first? Am I maximizing my contributions to other tax-free retirement investment options first? Unless you have a special need that only an annuity can fill, such as a dea
• Questions to ask when considering buying an annuity
• Starting Out in Your 20s
  When you’re just entering the workforce it’s a great time to develop some financial disciplines that will become financially-rewarding habits for your future such as: Establishing some short- medium- and long-term financial and life goals Creating, and sticking to, a realistic budget Keeping a tight
• Help! I don't know how to get a handle on my finances.
  No matter how lost you feel, or how behind in your bills you are, there are a few simple things you can do to begin getting a handle on your finances: Step 1: Identify your income. Don't overlook all your potential sources of income: Paycheck from your full-time job Income from a part-time job or oc
• Co-operative Housing
  Co-operative housing, also known as a "co-op" is also a form of ownership like condominiums. When you purchase a co-op you are buying a share in a cooperative corporation that owns a building.. Co-operative housing, also known as a "co-op" is also a form of ownership like condominiums. When yo
• Medigap
• Medigap
  because Medicare does not cover all healthcare costs you can purchase a separate Medigap policy (also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance) to cover those “gaps” in Parts A and B. Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies.. because Medicare does not
• Avoid Senior-Targeted Work Scams
• Avoid Senior-Targeted Work Scams
  Unfortunately con artists frequently target seniors with a variety of fraudulent employment offers including popular “work-at-home” hoaxes. AARP notes that con artists employ a variety of techniques to snare unsuspecting victims.. Unfortunately con artists frequently target senior
• 10 Great Things to Do with Your Tax Refund
  According to the IRS nearly 75% of all Americans will get a tax refund this year, averaging nearly 2,500. Do you anticipate receiving a refund? If so, don’t just rush ahead and spend it.. According to the IRS nearly 75% of all Americans will get a tax refund this year, averaging nearly
• Investing is just another word for saving.
• Investing is just another word for saving.
  FALSE. Both saving and investing are about putting money aside rather than spending it, but with two different goals.. FALSE. Both saving and investing are about putting money aside rather than spending it, but with two different goals. The goal of saving is to be sure
• What Can I Invest In?
• What Can I Invest In?
  There are two basic kinds of investments you can make—equity and debt. Both types of investments have important roles in providing the money you will need at each stage of life and to help you reach your personal life goals.. There are two basic kinds of investments you can m
• Dividends
• Dividends
  Dividends payments by companies to stockholders on a per share basis. By paying dividends, the company returns part of its . Dividends : payments by companies to stockholders
• Credit quality
• Credit quality
  Credit quality : a measure of the financial strength of a borrower that suggests its ability to repay its loans. Bond issuers with low credit quality have to offer higher interest rates because the investors who buy their bonds take a bigger risk that their loan will not be repaid.
• Earnings
  Earnings are the profits a company makes after it takes in revenue and pays expenses. Companies can reinvest earnings back into the business, or pay a portion of them out to its stockholders in the form of a dividend.. Earnings are the profits a company makes after it
• Earnings
• Small-capitalization (small cap) stocks
• Small-capitalization (small cap) stocks
  Small-capitalization (small cap) stocks : Shares of relatively small publicly traded corporations. Capitalization is the stock price times the total number of shares outstanding, and small capitalization (also called small-cap stocks or just “small caps” stocks typically have capitalizations of less
• How Do I Start Investing?
  Many beginning investors do not have a lot of money. The important first step is to create an investment plan that identifies the asset classes and types of funds that you might want to invest in long-term.. Many beginning investors do not have a lot of money. The important first st
• How Do I Start Investing?
• Money Market Funds
• Money Market Funds
  Money market funds are essentially a large pool of money overseen by an investment company that invests only in very safe and liquid securities (such as CDs and IOUs/bonds from the federal government and large, reputable corporations) Most do require a minimum initial investment (usually 5,000) Mos
• Restoring Financial Sanity
  The first step toward successfully paying off your holiday debt is taking it out of the emotional realm. Beating yourself up or throwing up your hands in surrender won’t solve the problem.. The first step toward successfully paying off your holiday debt is taking it out of the emotional re
• Tax Changes that Could Affect Your 2008 Federal Income Tax Bill
  There are a few new changes to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. These changes are important to know about especially if you’re preparing your own taxes.. There are a few new changes to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. Thes
• More about Equity Financing
  When small companies get bigger and have a more proven potential to succeed, they can attract equity investors by offering shares of stock or ownership privately or through the public stock markets. To access the stock market, a business has to “go public” or undertake an initial public offering (IP
• Use the Internet
• Use the Internet
  More and more employers are using the Internet as a part of their hiring process. Some companies even do their first stage of interviewing for a position online.. More and more employers are using the Internet as a part of their hiring process. Some companies even do their first stage of
• Consider Something Temporary
  If it's taking a while to land a job, consider taking a temporary or part-time job in a field of interest to you. Although you may earn less and receive fewer benefits than with a full-time or permanent job, that may just be a temporary tradeoff for possible future employment.. If it's taking a while to
• Consider Something Temporary
• Ready to Buy a Home
  Scenario: Malcolm and Gayle are a young couple living in Iowa. Both have full-time jobs earning a combined annual salary of 80,000.. Scenario: Malcolm and Gayle are a young couple living in Iowa. Both have full-time jobs earning a combined annual salary of 80,000. Their main monthl
• Our family is drowning in debt and bills due to a medical situation. Any type of future financial planning is pointless.
  It’s understandable that dealing with the financial fallout from an emergency and/or significant medical condition can be stressful and make “financial planning” seem beyond your reach. However, financial planning simply means to be intentionally aware of how you are making actively choices about yo
• I dread making a budget....
  Welcome to the club. It's unlikely that many people like the idea of budgeting.. Welcome to the club. It's unlikely that many people like the idea of budgeting. What's important is realizing that a budget is just a means to an end. It doesn't have to be elaborate or time-consuming
• I don't have enough time to figure this all out.
  Do you have 30 minutes? Then you can start implementing a personal saving and investing plan. One of the biggest barriers to saving and investing, for many people, is the lack of time.. Do you have 30 minutes? Then you can start implementing a personal saving and investing plan. One of
• If a Servicemember Dies
  It’s a difficult reality to face but it is important to discuss and plan for what would happen if your, or your spouse, die during military service. The military provides assistance and benefits for survivors.. It’s a difficult reality to face but it is important to discuss and plan fo
• Preventing Identity Theft
  According to the Federal Trade Commission, more than half a million Americans become victims of identity theft every year. As a single woman it is critically important that you take all necessary precautions to protect your identity.. According to the Federal
• Earning
  You may have one sole source of income or you may have many different “streams” of income – such as part-time jobs, seasonal work, alimony, settlement income, etc. In large part your financial security will depend on your ability to obtain jobs that will provide you with adequate income and benefits
• Avoiding Identity Theft and Scams at Tax Time
  Your tax forms and tax-related documents include information that is valuable to identity thieves such as your name, address, birthdate, Social Security number and more. There are simple steps you can take to prevent your identity from being stolen during tax time including: Contact employers and/or
• Some Questions to Ask
  When working through the decision about whether or not to purchase flood insurance, consider asking an agent the following questions: Is my home eligible to purchase flood insurance through the NFIP program? Not every home is located in an area that participates in the NFIP program, and therefore yo
• Basics of Flood Insurance
  Flood insurance is provided by the federal government through a program called the . Flood insurance is provided by the federal government through a program called the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) In order to obtain this federally-backed flood insur
• If You Live in California, Connecticut, Indiana or New York
  If you are a resident of one of these four states you may benefit from something called a “Partnership for Long-Term Care” program. When you: purchase long-term care insurance that meets certain basic Program requirements in these states; receive care in that same state; AND use all the benefits ava
• Medical Expenses and Taxes
  You may not be aware, but the IRS allows you to deduct medical costs from your federal income tax as long as they total more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.. You may not be aware, but the IRS allows you to deduct medical costs from your federal income tax as long as they total more
• You and Your Doctor
  The doctors that you choose to work with can have an enormous impact on your physical and mental health. It is important to have a positive, trusting, ongoing relationship with your medical care providers.. The doctors that you choose to work with can have an enormous impact on you
• The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005
  The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act significantly changes how, and under what conditions, individuals can file for bankruptcy. The most significant changes to bankruptcy law apply to Chapter 7 bankruptcy because under Chapter 7 debtors are able to discharge, or not have to re
• Repaying Credit
  When you use credit the lender will typically require that you repay the funds you borrow, and the interest due on the money you have borrowed, in regular installments over a set period of time. If you obtain a fixed amount of credit for a set amount of money for a specific purpose (i.e. to purchase
• Getting Credit
  In order to gain access to credit you will need to apply with an institution or organization that loans money such as a bank, credit union, savings and loan, or credit card company. You will most likely need to complete an application that will ask for two main categories of information: Personal in
• Be an Informed Buyer
  There are a few simple things you can do, or think about, to ensure that you have the information you need to make the best decision possible about your computer purchase. Research systems online.. There are a few simple th
• Warranties and Insurance
  If you are buying a new or used car from a dealership they will likely offer you a warranty. There are two main types of warranties – factory warranties and extended warranties.. If you are buying a new or used car from a dealership they will likely offer you a warranty. There a
• Tips to Save on Your Home Heating Bill this Winter
  There are some simple things you can do now to take the bite out of your home heating bills this winter. Consider asking your local utility company or an independent "energy auditor" to check your home for its energy-efficiency.. There are some simple thi
• Your Current Debt and Ways to Save for a Mortgage Down Payment
  The amount of debt you currently have and your credit score (which tells lenders how reliable you are about repaying your debt and loans) will also affect how much interest you will be charged on your loan. You should consider getting a free copy of your credit report now, early on in the home-buyin
• Credit Unions
  Perhaps you have heard of credit unions, but don’t know much about them. Credit unions are nonprofit cooperative financial institutions.. Perhaps you have heard of credit unions, but don’t know much about them. Credit unions are nonprofit cooperative financial institutions. Let’s break t
• Bank Services
  In addition to accounts, banks can offer a wide variety of services such as: Check-cashing. Banks will typically cash checks for their customers for free.. In addition to accounts, banks can offer a wide variety of services such as: Check-cashing. Banks wi
• Getting Married
  Scenario: Jennifer and Kevin are a newly engaged couple, living in Colorado, beginning to plan their wedding. Jennifer is a 25-year-old teacher earning 28,000 a year.. Scenario: Jennifer and Kevin are a newly engaged couple, living in Colorado, beginning to plan their wedding. Jennifer is a 2
• Planning for Health Costs
  Part of improving, or maintaining, your physical and financial wellness is preparing for future needs and making plans to meet those needs. Physically that involves keeping an eye on the food you’re eating, the calories you’re taking in, making time to exercise and getting regular checkups..
• To Incorporate or Not
• What Damage Qualifies for Coverage
  In order for your claim to be approved under your windstorm insurance policy, typically it must be caused by a “trigger” event. Trigger events vary by insurer and state, but in coastal areas the events are typically one or more of three conditions: An official “hurricane watch” issued by the Nationa
• Motor Home or Recreational Vehicle (RV) Insurance
  Motor homes and RVs are larger, more difficult to maneuver and require different insurance than standard auto insurance that you can carry for a car. When looking into purchasing motor home or RV insurance, or comparing potential policies, look at the policy and/or ask an agent: What types of motor homes or RVs.
• Motorcycle Insurance
  Motorcyclists can find it difficult to insure themselves (as a motorcycle rider) and their bike. Most standard auto insurance will not provide coverage for motorcycles.. Motorcyclists can find it difficult to insure themselves (as a motorcycle rider) and their bike. Most standard auto insurance
• Wedding Insurance
  Dresses, tuxedos, photographers, flowers, cakes and limousines…weddings are exciting, and expensive, events. But after all the planning, deposits and down payments, what happens if a weather emergency cancels your plans? Or what if the bride or groom becomes injured or ill? What if one of your key v
• Collectibles and Valuables Insurance
  Did you inherit family china or jewelry? Do you collect antiques or artwork? Are you a hobbyist with a valuable collection of baseball cards, dolls, stamps or books? It’s important to know that most standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover the repair, restoration or replacement costs of collect
• Apartment
  Apartments are often attractive alternatives for people who are living on their own in a single-family home, condo or townhome, are physically able to live independently but no longer want all of the financial or physical obligations that their current home requires. In some urban areas it is possib
• Apartment
• Retiree Health Benefits
• Retiree Health Benefits
  If you are fortunate enough to have health insurance coverage through a former employer as part of your retirement benefits package you are one of the lucky ones. According to a 2008 Kaiser Family Foundation report less than 33% of all companies with 200 or more workers offer retiree health benefits
• Why Do You Want to Work
  Knowing why you need or want to go back to work can help you make more informed employment decisions. For example if… you want to find less expensive health insurance then you may want to be more flexible on the type of position you’re looking for, which industry you work in, and focus only on full-
• Make your home safer to better stand a potential future disaster.
• The Process of Filing for Bankruptcy: How It Happens and Who Can Help
• Earthquake Insurance
  If you live in an earthquake zone, where you’ve felt the tremors of small quakes, or been through a big earthquake, you know that few things can be more frightening. Earthquakes have caused damage in all 50 states and approximately 90 percent of all Americans live in seismically-active areas..
• Term Life Insurance
  Term life insurance is so named because it offers a set coverage amount for a limited “term” or period of time, typically between 1 and 30 years. That means that if you keep current on your policy premiums and you die within the term of the policy, your beneficiaries will receive the set death benef
• Life Insurance
  Does anyone depend on your ability to work and make money? What financial resources would they have if you died and suddenly weren't there to support them? Are you married? In the U.S.. Does anyone depend on your ability to work and make money? What financial resources would they have
• Rent to Own: Quick Convenience or Overpriced Commitment?
  The rent-to-own industry is a multi-billion dollar industry that attracts consumers with the promise of taking quick possession on "big-ticket" items, like furniture, appliances, computers and electronics (TVs, DVD players, stereos, etc. with no down payment, no credit check and often no upfront cas
• Repaying Your Student Loans
  Every year thousands of college graduates leave their campuses, usually with a degree, but almost always with debt. In fact, a recent study by the National Center for Education Statistics shows that nearly 50% of college graduates have student loans averaging 10,000.. Every year thousands of c
• Making the Decision to Go Back to School
  Frances felt stuck. She had been with the same company for 10 years and had worked her way up to a position in internal sales.. Frances felt stuck. She had been with the same company for 10 years and had worked her way up to a position in internal sales. But with two children a
• Starting Your Own Business – Thinking Like an Entrepreneur
  Have you always dreamed of being your own boss?  Have you hit the ceiling of opportunity at your current company?  Are you between jobs, or concerned about how long your current employment may last and feeling as if you’d rather depend on yourself than yet another employer? Whatever the case, lots of
• Creating Credit When You Have None
  Most likely at some point in your life you will need to, or want to, use credit. Establishing credit can help you get a job, rent an apartment, buy a car, qualify for a personal loan, finance a college education, purchase a home and more.. Most likely at some point in your life you will ne
• The Credit Basics
  Do you have a credit card? How about a home mortgage or student loan? Do you use services that you pay for on a monthly basis (i.e.. Do you have a credit card?  How about a home mortgage or student loan?  Do you use services that you pay for on a monthly basis (i.e. utilities) All of
• If You Choose to Use a Check Cashing Store
  While it makes more sense financially to cash checks and send money abroad through an established financial institution (such as a bank, credit union or savings and loan) there may be times when you choose to use a check cashing store. If you do, at least make sure you know what you’re paying for th
• What is a Debit Card?
  In the 1980s banks began to issue ATM (automated teller machine) cards to customers. These cards enabled customers to withdraw money directly from their account at ATM machines.. In the 1980s banks began to issue ATM (automated teller machine) cards to customers. These cards enabled customers to withdra
• Travel Tips
  There’s no time like the holidays to visit friends and family. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, about 5.. There’s no time like the holidays to visit friends and family. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, about 5.8 million Americans make
• The Process of Filing for Bankruptcy: How It Happens and Who Can Help
  If you are seriously considering filing for bankruptcy, you should consult with an attorney who knows your state’s bankruptcy laws and has experience in handling bankruptcy filings. While you don’t need to retain a lawyer to file for bankruptcy, this is a major decision and you will probably want to
• Tips for Using Credit Wisely
  Julia was a 19-year-old college sophomore when she got her first credit card application in the mail. The campus post office floor was littered with them.. Julia was a 19-year-old college sophomore when she got her first credit card application in the mail. The campus post office
• Credit from Local Stores
  You may want to consider using programs offered by smaller and/or local stores that allow you to make a purchase and pay the bill off in monthly installments over a set period of time. By using it responsibly (paying your bills on time and in full) you are building a strong credit history that will
• Co-Signers
  If you are unable to get approved for credit on your own you may want to consider asking someone with a good, established credit history if he or she will cosign on a credit application with you. When someone co-signs on a loan application they are agreeing to pay any debt that you accumulate by usi
• What Creditors Will Look For and How to Build Credit-Worthiness
  There are several steps you can take to begin the process of applying for credit. First, it’s a good idea to know what creditors look for when considering your application for a loan or credit card.. There are several steps you can take to begin the process of applying for credit. First, it’s a good
• Gifts or Loans from Family Members
  While you may not be comfortable with the idea of getting funding from family members for graduate school, it can be a less expensive way of financing your education than getting a loan from a lender. Family members may be able to deduct a portion of the money they give you for school from their tax
• Employer Tuition Assistance Programs
  Depending on your, and your student’s, financial resources you may want to encourage your child to look into working for an employer that has a work/school or tuition assistance program. However, there may be restrictions on the type of undergraduate programs an employer may pay for..
• Standard Homeowners Policy Coverage
  A standard homeowners policy offers coverage for four major areas: your house’s physical structure, your personal belongings, liability (financial protection) for you as a homeowner, and expenses in the event that you are unable to live in your home following damage or theft. Your home’s physical st
• Types of Health Insurance Policies
  There are four major types of health insurance policies – indemnity plans, HMOs, PPOs, and POSs. Indemnity or “Fee-for-Service” Plan – Indemnity plans are pay-for-service “coinsurance” plans.. There are four major types of health insurance policies – indemnity plans,
• Goal Setting
  Think of the last time you felt really proud of yourself. What was it that you achieved that you took pride in?  Was it an award that you won at work?  Losing a certain amount of weight?  Finishing coursework toward a degree?  Chances are that whatever it was, you thought about it, planned for it and wo
• Tag-Team Parent-Led Child Care
  Millions of families with two working parents face regularly the same stresses and choices in arranging and paying for child care that Andy and Christine face. They have to make tradeoffs between their work schedules and child care availability, and they are worried about the mounting cost of qualit
• Tough Situations, Tough Decisions
  Business is competitive, and not everyone out there wants you to succeed. You will need a healthy amount of skepticism to determine when people are telling you the truth and when they are not.. Business is competitive, and not everyone out there wants you to succeed. You will need a healthy am
• Tough Situations, Tough Decisions
• Can You Afford Not To?
  You may find that starting your business is more of a necessity than a choice. If your employer closes or moves and you don’t have many other job opportunities in your area, working for yourself may be your only option.. You may find that starting your business is more of a necessity than a choi
• Write a Resume
• Write a Resume
  If you’re applying for a job, you will likely need a resume. The companies or organizations may have a formal application that you need to fill out, but, depending on the type of job you’re looking for, it’s considered standard to also have your resume on hand.. If you’re applying for a
• Disputing a Bill
  If you find an error on your medical bill you should contact the hospital, doctor’s office or lab that sent you the bill and ask for an account supervisor or someone in the billing department. Let them know of the error, ask them to make the correction and to send you a copy of the correct statement
• Keeping Copies of Your Personal Medical Files
  Every time you see a doctor he/ she will make notes in your file. That files is not the sole private property of your doctor – it’s your information and you have the right to know what’s in there and in fact you should request copies.. Every time you see a doctor he/ she will make notes
• Alternatives to Using a Check-Cashing Store
  There are alternatives. While it can seem more convenient and even comfortable to use a check-cashing store, the truth is that there are much better, less expensive options that will perform the same services and leave you with more money in your pocket or to send home.. There are alternatives. W
• Buying Green When it Comes to Groceries
  One of the hallmarks of the “green movement” is buying food that is either more locally grown (to reduce the cost and environmental impact of shipping food) and/or buying organic. By buying locally-grown food you are reducing the transportation cost (and environmental impact of that transportation)
• How to Protect Your Identity
  Preventing identity theft sounds difficult. How can you prevent something when you’re not really sure how it happens? It can help to think about preventing theft by thinking about HOW a potential thief might be able to get, or access, information about you.. Preventing identity theft
• Living on Less: What to Do When Your Pay is Cut
• Living on Less: What to Do When Your Pay is Cut
  Every day workers of all types, across all industries, get the bad news from their boss that their pay is going to be cut. Whether it’s because your company is going through a tough financial stretch, or because the economy at large is making it impossible for your employer to make payroll, or becau
• Stretching Your Retirement Spending Dollar
  During retirement you are going to have to make your income and savings stretch further than before to reduce the risk of outliving your financial reserve. To do that you will need to start with a plan for how to strategically draw down your retirement savings and investments , and then mindfully ma
• Selling Your Home Part 1
  Every year millions of Americans sell their homes. Some of the most common reasons for selling a home are: Relocating for a job Needing or wanting more room for a growing family Moving after retirement Downsizing Moving to a more desirable or convenient neighborhood for work or school This month we’
• Eleven Steps Single Moms Need to Take
  Single moms have mastered the art of multi-tasking. Working, making phone calls, vacuuming, paying bills, feeding kids and taking them places, responding to emails …. Single moms have mastered the art of multi-tasking. Working, making phone calls, vacuuming, paying bills, feeding kids and ta
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
  A long-term disability can be financially devastating. While you may be able to use personal savings to cover your expenses temporarily while not working, most people are financially unprepared to be suddenly out of work for an extended period of time, or be permanently unemployable..
• What to Do When the Deployment is Extended
  Imagine learning that your spouse has 24 hours to report for duty and be deployed for combat. Now imagine that the day before the scheduled homecoming, you are notified that he/she won't be coming home for another 12-15 months.. Imagine learning that your spouse has 24 hours to report for duty and be de
• A Basic Computer System Overview
  If you have never purchased a computer before, the jargon can get confusing and the choices can get overwhelming. Most computer systems that you will probably consider will include basic hardware, an operating system, and software.. If you have never purchased a computer before, the
• Tax Changes that Could Affect Your 2010 Tax Bill
  There are a few changes to the tax law that could affect your 2010 federal income tax bill. These changes are important to know about especially if you’re preparing your own taxes. The good news is that most of these changes have the potential to reduce or even eliminate the amount you owe the feder
• Pros, Cons and Options for Location-Independent Jobs
  With the aid of modern technology more people than ever before are able to pursue, or consider, “location-independent” jobs – work that does not require you to be physically on-site at a specific location. Perhaps you would like to become location-independent.. chnology more people than ever before are able to
• Start Out Smart! 7 Money Moves to Make Now
  Congratulations – you have a job! Your first full or part-time job can be exciting, overwhelming and scary…all at the same time. The biggest benefit is of course having a real paycheck! Before you run out and spend that entire first paycheck, there are a few wise financial “first moves” you should c
• Condos and Co-ops
  Housing stock, meaning the type of housing available, varies across the country. In some markets, including large cities such as New York, Boston and San Francisco, cooperatives, or co-ops, are popular housing options.. Housing stock, meaning the type of housing available, varies across the cou
• Preserving the Value of Your Home and Community When the Housing Market Changes
  With the increased rate of home foreclosures nationwide, many homeowners, and home sellers, are facing tough questions about how to maintain as much of their home's value as possible, how to sell a home in a slowing real estate market, and how to ensure that their community remains a desirable place
• Finding Free or Low-Cost Training to Boost Your Employability
  If you are currently out of work and looking for a job, or if you are currently employed but would like to find a different job that perhaps offers better pay and benefits, you may need to learn new skills to become a more attractive job candidate for a prospective employer. However you may not have
• Millennials (Born 1984-1992)
  If you’re a member of “Generation Y” you’re either just starting out in the workforce or have a few years under your belt. For most millennials retirement seems like, well, a millennium away.. neration Y” you’re either just starting out in the workforce or have a few years under your belt. For most millennials retire
• Insurance Benefits
  It can be easy to think that it’s not financially possible for your family to afford insurance. But with some work and help from the staff in your family support center you may be able to find affordable forms of insurance to provide for and protect your family’s future.. hat it’s not financially
• Investing
  One of the most common questions single women have as they begin taking control of their finances is “how do I become an investor? Too often women are under the wrong impression that there is some sort of “one size fits all” way to invest. There isn’t.. estions single women have as they begin taking con
• Comparing Credit Card Offers
  IT'S NO SUPRISE that so many people still carry credit cards with annual percentage rates (APRs) of 13% or higher. After all, there's a whole industry of card issuers out there devoted to using hidden fees and interest rate gymnastics to gouge you as best they can..
• Where to Buy a Car
  As with most things nowadays you have a lot of options when it comes to where, and from whom, you buy a car. Let’s look at your choices: Traditional car dealership.. As with most things nowadays you have a lot of options when it comes to whe
• 10 Tips to Protect Yourself from Investment Scams
  Everyone wants to “get rich quick” but no one will, at least not legally. Unfortunately the investment world does include a few fraudsters and con artists who try to enrich themselves by taking advantage of other people’s weaknesses, needs and desires.. Everyone wants to “get ri
• Your First Car
  Nothing spells freedom like having your own car, right?  If you’re thinking about buying a car, take some time to think through your needs and get educated on what’s involved in buying a car so you’re not the one being taken for a ride. It can be intoxicating to walk onto a new car lot – all that hor
• In Your 40s
  As retirement becomes closer your investing time horizon is shortening; saving and investing for retirement must become a high financial priority if you want to be able to reach your retirement lifestyle goals. Here’s how: Define your strategy..
• Investing in Your 20s
  Starting out in the workforce you have a huge advantage working for your retirement planning: time is on your side. By creating the habit of saving and investing for retirement now, time will enable you to reap the benefit of both compounding interest and long-term gains.. Starting out in the workf
• How Work May Affect Your Benefits
  If you are already retired and considering re-entering the workforce you’ll want to make sure you understand if, and how, your current retirement benefits could be affected including your Social Security, pension, Medicare and retiree health benefits. Social Security If you have already begun receiv
• How Work May Affect Your Benefits
• Dealing with Deployment
  Deployment is a stressful time for every member of the family. By taking time to talk together as a family, and separately as a couple, you can better manage both the emotional and logistical aspects of being apart from your servicemember.. Deployment is a stressful time for every member of
• What kinds of annuities can I invest in?
  There are many different kinds of annuities designed for investors: of different ages with different life goals, with different investment needs and in different tax brackets. Most annuities available today have some combination of these features: Single Premium or Flexible Premium With a single pre
• What kinds of annuities can I invest in?
• Decisions to Consider Making
  As you become more comfortable talking about financial issues, sharing thoughts, opinions, plans and paperwork you should start working through some important decisions. Areas to talk about include: Goal-Setting.. As you become more comfortable talking about finan
• How do I know if I’m getting the best service from an advisor that I’m already working with?
• How do I know if I’m getting the best service from an advisor that I’m already working with?
  If you've already begun working with a broker or financial advisor, it's a good idea to periodically evaluate what type of advice and service you're getting and if it's helping you achieve your financial goals. Here are a few questions to ask: Has he/she helped you determine how much risk you feel c
• Help If You are Concerned about Being Able to Pay Your Mortgage
  If you own your own home but still have a monthly mortgage payment that is probably one of your highest financial priorities. If you find yourself in a situation where your finances are so tight or that you have such quickly mounting debt that you are having difficulty making your mortgage payment i
• What to Do When It Becomes Difficult to Pay Your Mortgage
  Change happens. When you bought your home you may have budgeted carefully and never anticipated having difficulty making your mortgage payment.. Change happens. When you bought your home you may have budgeted carefully and never anticipated having difficulty making your mortgage payment. But ma
• Making it a Home
  You have finished the hunt for a new home, signed the papers and moved in. Now what?  How can you begin to really make this new place a welcome home for you and your family?  Home Safety Owning your own home means that you are now financially and legally responsible for what happens to people while th
• Selling Your Home Part II
  Once you have decided to sell your home, and prepared it to put it on the market you have several choices to make.. Once you have decided to
• Similarities between Health and Money
  Let’s consider some of the similarities between your health and your money, and then address small ways that you can begin making positive steps in both areas. Barbara O’Neill and Karen Ensle at Rutgers University have identified some interesting, practical similarities between money and health and
• Choosing a Phone
  Increasingly cell phone companies offer customers free phones, or steep discounts to purchase a phone, when they sign up for service. Before you decide to use the phone you’re offered by your service provider for free or you decide to upgrade, it can be helpful to know the two major types of cell ph
• Managing Your Income During Retirement
  In retirement, perhaps more than any other time in life, you will need to take control of your personal finances.  If you are fully retired (meaning that you are not doing any type of paying work) you will not have a consistent income stream from work or employer-based benefits.. re than any other time in
• Managing Your Income During Retirement
• Managing Your Grocery Bill When Food Prices Rise
  Climbing grocery prices have caused millions of Americans to reconsider purchases. Unfortunately, according to the US Department of Labor, food inflation is expected to continue.. Climbing grocery prices have caused millions of Americans to reconsider purchases. Unfortunately, ac
• Buying a Newly Built Home
  At some point most of us have thought about our “dream home. Wouldn’t it be fun to choose your floor plan, appliances, carpet and paint? It’s also nice to think that you could be the home’s first owner.. At some point most of us have thought about our “dream home. Wouldn’t it be fun to choose your floor
• 10 Smart Ways to Make a Little Extra Savings Go a Long Way
  Regardless of your age, how much or how little you already have saved, or how little you feel like you can save, it's never too late to start saving for your future Every little bit - at every stage - can add up to a significant amount.. Regardless of your age, h
• Working with a Realtor or Going it Alone
  One of the first impulses most people have when thinking about buying a home is finding a Realtor® But who exactly is a Realtor? And is a Realtor (capital R) the same as an agent? And what about a broker? Who exactly can help me? Real estate professionals can be very helpful in the home buying proce
• Ways to Invest and Grow Your Savings for College Tuition
  It’s not enough to want to help your child afford college you need to have a plan to make it actually happen. However, putting money into a savings account at your bank or credit union won't earn enough interest to foot the bill.. It’s not enough to want to help your child afford
• Offers & Counteroffers
  When you've found the home you want the next step is decide whether or not you want to make an offer, meaning that you want to tell the seller that you want to purchase the home. Making an offer is where you put pen to paper and outline exactly how much money you're willing to pay for the home and u
• Selecting a Reputable Credit Counseling Agency
  A reputable, accredited credit counseling agency may be able to provide you with the help you need to get on the road to financial recovery. However not all credit counseling agencies are alike.. A reputable, accredited credit counseling agency may be able to provide you with the help you need t
• Story File
  The SIFMA Foundation for Investor Education seeks to provide you with the best information, tools and resources available to help your followers become more financially literate. We have compiled this story file based on year-round evergreen topics.. Investor Education seeks to provide you with the b
• Catching Up on Retirement Savings If You Start Late
  Bob’s budget was tight when he first began working but he put a little bit aside each paycheck into his employer’s 401(k) He figured it was a good way to save some money on taxes if nothing else.. en he first began working but he put a little bit aside each paycheck into his employer’s 401(k) He
• Ways to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Elder Financial Abuse
  What is elder financial abuse? Simply put, it’s a crime. It is when someone – an individual, company or organization – wrongfully takes a senior citizen’s money, property or other financial resources.. What is elder financial abuse?  Simply put, it’s a crime. It is when someone
• Ways to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Elder Financial Abuse
• Giving Wisely
  Every year millions of people support nonprofit organizations to care for people in their communities, strengthen causes they feel strongly about, and reach out to people affected by disasters. Giving is a noble and generous act of caring and service.. Every year millions of people support nonprofit or
• Parents Dealing with their Single Adult Child’s Deployment
  Most often deployment information and support is directed to the servicemember’s spouse. But what about the single servicemember?  What happens when he/she is deployed?  After being out of the family home and living on his or her own, suddenly he or she needs family members to help with the paperwork