Taking Debt Pay Down Slow: The Debt Siege

debt siege

There is a lot of talk about how important it is to pay down your debt in order to improve your life and your financial situation. Most of this debt advice focuses around paying off your debt as quickly as possible. But what if you aren’t interested in drastically changing your lifestyle in order to […]

Before You Apply: Improve Your Credit

fix credit before you apply for a loan

Unfortunately, too many consumers wait until they are actually applying for a major loan before they check their credit. If you are planning to apply for a major loan — especially if you want to apply for a mortgage loan — it’s better if you check your credit first, and then take steps to improve […]

Cost-Efficient Vacation: Use Your Credit Card

Paying with credit card while on vacation

When I travel, I like to use my credit card. Credit cards are great for travel because they come with a certain level of fraud liability protection. Plus, they can be used almost anywhere you go, and they are very convenient. On top of that, when you plan your credit card use just right, you can […]

When Should You Use Prepaid Debit as a Replacement for a Checking Account?

checking account or prepaid debit

One of the trends gaining a little traction right now is using prepaid debit as a replacement for a checking account. While a prepaid debit card can be useful in some cases, it might not always be the best way to handle your finances. Prepaid Debit: Replacing a Checking Account? In recent years, prepaid debit […]

CD Products: Market-Linked CD

market linked cd

For those looking for yield, CDs don’t often come to mind. While your money is usually safe in CDs, you won’t earn a high yield. One way to earn a higher yield, though, is to consider a market-linked CD. What is a Market-Linked CD? A market-linked CD is pretty much what it sounds like: The […]

Want Better Career Success? Portray Confidence

confident cat

Few of us are happy being stuck in a career rut. Many of us know that career success requires strategy and work. However, you might be surprised at the types of things that can help you improve in your career over time. One of the best ways to boost your career prospects now and in […]

Brokerage Review: OptionsHouse

optionshouse review

Investors who are a little more experienced with DIY investments, and who are interested in options, can get a great deal by using OptionsHouse. OptionsHouse specializes in options, and offers access to discounted stock trading as well. Fees If you are looking for low, low prices on your investing, OptionsHouse is a great choice. First […]

Really Last Minute Deductions: IRA and HSA

last minute tax deductions

The last year is over and we’re well into tax season. However, if you’re still looking for a few deductions, it’s possible for you to benefit from some really last minute tax breaks. You can still make previous year contributions to your IRA and/or HSA. Contribute for the Previous Year Until April 15 You have until April 15 […]

Should You Include Target Date Funds in Your IRA?

Target date funds in IRA

When looking for the best IRA rates and performance, many investors have been considering target date retirement funds. Before you decide that a target date fund is a good way to set it and forget it when it comes to your retirement, it’s a good idea to stop and consider the pros and cons of […]

Index Funds: A Good Place to Start Investing

investing with index funds

One of the questions I am most often asked is where someone should start when it comes to investing. For many would-be investors, the whole situation seems daunting. How do you get started? And how do you know which investments to pick? The good news is that getting started is relatively simple; for the most […]