Making a plan to save at tax time The start of the New Year means its tax season again. As you gather your tax records and prepare to file, why not use this annual responsibility to take another step towards building financial security for yourself or your family? For many Americans, a tax refund is the largest check they will … Read More
Gift Giving on a Budget
By Connecticut Saves As the holiday season approaches, do you find yourself looking forward to the festivities, but concerned about the impact on your wallet? You are not alone. By doing some planning now, you can simplify your gift giving. Here are ten ways you can enjoy this special time of year and keep spending in check: Food. Consumable items … Read More
5 Holiday Mistakes That Could Cost You
By America Saves The holidays are just around the corner, which means it’s time to enjoy vacations, catch up with family and old friends, and eat great food. While the holidays are about quality time and making memories, it’s easy to get caught up with spending money. Here are five holiday mistakes to avoid this year so you can enjoy … Read More
Ask Chuck: Overcoming Holiday Comparison
By Chuck Bentley Dear Chuck, My husband and I have not been married very long. We grew up in homes where the holidays were celebrated in a grand way. I’m feeling pressure to do the same but my husband refuses to go into debt to do so. We have student loans and he wants those paid off as soon as … Read More
“Inquiries” on my credit report – what are they?
By Jim Garnett What Are “Inquiries” On My Credit Report? Q: Can you explain what an “inquiry” is on a credit report? A: An “inquiry” is the listing of the name of those who have accessed your credit file information. They have done so to “inquire” about your credit history. Four Sources Of Inquiries One source for an inquiry could … Read More
Ask Chuck: Will Closing My Credit Cards Ruin My Credit Score?
By Chuck Bentley Dear Chuck, My husband and I fell on rough times and as a result, ended up with a LOT of credit card debt. We have prayed, worked hard, and paid it down as much as we can but still have some left. Together we have approximately 15 credit card accounts but only two have balances on them. … Read More
3 Common Credit Issues and What You Can Do to Fix Them
By: CFPB Your credit history can determine if you can get a loan, and even where you live or work. Credit scores are built from your credit history and can determine how much you pay to borrow money for a car or house. Yet, many people don’t know where to start when it comes to building, improving, or protecting their … Read More
Debt Counseling Teaches You 4 Easy Ways to Get Out of Credit Card Debt RM
Credit card debt is a problem for people of all ages. Experts say cash-strapped college students often live on credit. Meanwhile, young couples use credit cards for miscellaneous wedding and honeymoon expenses. Retired people often use credit cards to supplement their Social Security income. With debt counseling, you learn about different ways to get out of credit card debt including … Read More
Christian Credit Counseling – A Better Way to Eliminate Debt RM
Credit Counseling Stands Out Anyone who has ever struggled with debt knows how debilitating money problems are. Yet most people with debt don’t realize how widespread of a problem it is. Since the Great Recession, debt has skyrocketed among average Americans. According to the Urban Institute, the average total debt for people with credit files is now $53,850. This number jumps … Read More
Debt Settlement Scams – Asking the Right Questions RM
Avoiding Debt Settlement Scams Unfortunately, there are plenty of companies out there that prey on those trying to get their debt under control. In most cases, these companies refer to themselves as debt management organizations. They often promise to act as the go-between with you and your creditors; promising a low monthly payment plan to help you pay off debt. … Read More