You want to raise your credit score so you can get lower credit card interest rates, easier credit, even better job prospects? You need to understand “credit utilization.” It’s a simple ratio of how much credit you have versus how much you use, and it can make up to 20-30% of your credit score.
You probably know that student debt is a trillion dollar problem, but it doesn’t have to be a problem for you. The key is to borrow only what you can afford and pay it back fast and cheap. Here are Jean Chatzky’s favorite tips.
Mention the word “refinance” and you probably think mortgage. And paperwork and hassle. Yes, refinancing your mortgage can mean both. But refinancing your car loan, not necessarily. By reducing your interest rate, you could save on your monthly payment and over the life of your loan, save thousands. And it’s easy!
Saving money can be hard–unless you’re saving for something. Having a definite goal in mind gives you a better chance at success. Research shows that visualizing the benefits of saving makes people 25% more likely to save.
Should you buy, or rent? Pay off debt, or build an emergency fund? The trouble with money questions is the answer usually is, “It depends.” Because personal finance is more personal than finance. Here are three techniques for making good decisions.
It’s nice to think of the glass half full, but not necessarily when it comes to money. When you’re overly optimistic, it’s easy to convince yourself it will all be okay. But complacency leaves to inaction, and your financial future depends on you taking the right steps, right now. Here are three steps you can […]
If you can’t see it, and you can’t touch it, you won’t spend it. Why is saving money so tough? Because it means putting aside resources for tomorrow that you’re tempted to use today. And your brain, wired to hunt and gather right now, doesn’t like that. The solution? Mind games.
Impulse buying: We’ve all done it. In fact, the average person will spend $114,000 on impulse purchases over their lifetime. How can you avoid that fate? Skip these three shopping sins.
Once a year you go the doctor for a check-up. Twice a year you visit the dentist for a cleaning. But when was the last time you had a financial physical? Without one, you may not know if you’re financially healthy. Do you have too much debt? Are you saving enough for retirement?
Paying too much for your auto or homeowners insurance? If you haven’t shopped around recently, the answer is probably, “Yes.” One reason? Insurance sends you a bill, and you pay it. That’s costing you. Here’s how to see if other insurers can do better.