Credit scores are important! A borrower with a low score could pay thousands more in interest over the life of a typical five-year car loan than a consumer with a high score. Past quiz results have indicated that many Americans could improve their credit score knowledge and ability to manage their scores. How much do you really know about your … Read More
How Credit Score Can Affect Relationships
By NACCC Personal finances are rarely discussed but often the biggest strain on a couple. Even in early courtships, a newly dating couple may fret over who will pay for dinner, or have different tastes in entertainment based on affordability. Topics such as careers, hobbies, and interests can easily spill into money talk. Money is just as important as other … Read More
Ask Chuck: Breaking the Cycle of Overspending
By: Chuck Bentley, Crown Financial Ministries Dear Chuck, My husband is tired of my overspending. I struggle living on the budget he’s made because I make quick purchases rather than planning ahead. Then I feel guilty defending my decisions when the bills arrive. How can I get out of this cycle? Spontaneous Spender Dear Spontaneous, First, be thankful you have … Read More
A Saver’s Guide to Holiday Shopping
By: America Saves Ready or not, the holiday shopping season is here. With the multiple sale days between now and the end of the year, you can avoid being served a heaping side of seasonal debt along with your plate of honey-baked ham if you keep a few smart-saver tips in mind. Set Reasonable Expectations In 2012, it was reported … Read More
How to Save During the Holidays
By: America Saves Holidays are often an exciting time of the year. Spending time with family, enjoying time off work, and celebrating with family traditions are enjoyable activities. However, the holidays can also represent added stress due to the crunch on your wallet. It is hard to look forward to a holiday if you are worried about how to pay … Read More
Ask Chuck: The Secret to a Secure Future
By: Chuck Bentley, Crown Financial Ministries Dear Chuck, I am burdened with the terrible things I hear in the news. I’ve become anxious and wake up worried in the middle of the night. I’m especially struggling with the fear of not having enough money in the future. I grew up in poverty and have worked hard to avoid that for … Read More
A No-Cost Way to Prepare Your Credit for a Big Purchase
By: CFPB Thinking about buying a house, car, or other big-ticket items, and know you’ll be using credit? Before making a big purchase, your first step should be to take a look at all of your finances. Check out these five steps to prepare your finances that won’t cost you a penny! 1. Take advantage of your free annual credit … Read More
How to tell the difference between a legitimate debt collector and scammers
By: CFPB Dealing with debt collection issues can be challenging—especially when you’re not sure if the person you’re being contacted by is legitimate or trying to scam you. When an account like a credit card, auto loan, or cell phone bill becomes past due, the original creditor may attempt to collect the amount owed. The creditor may also hire a … Read More
Ask Chuck: Should I Co-Sign A Loan?
By Chuck Bentley Dear Chuck, So, I cosigned for a student loan and now I’m stuck paying for it. Is there anything I can do? Regretful Dear Regretful, Unfortunately, the same thing happened with my Dad and we have not found a satisfactory remedy. He was approached by an employee whose son needed assistance to get a “head start in … Read More
Back-to-School Strategies to Stay Out of Debt
By Bonnie Spain, American Center for Credit Education Q: I enjoy back-to-school shopping, but no matter how hard we try to avoid it, we always end up in debt. I don’t want to be paying for school supplies until December. Can you give us any suggestions to help us stay on track this year? A: Back-to-school shopping is the second-biggest … Read More