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
4 Ways To Quit Neglecting Your Savings Account
By Chuck Bentley Looking ahead to the future is an important, but often scary, thing to do, especially when it comes to your finances. The best way to prepare for the future and give yourself a financial margin is to establish a healthy savings account. Not only will it help to ensure that you have the cash to cover expenses, but … Read More
Now Is the Time to Prepare Financially for Hurricane Season
By FEMA Survivors at all income levels have experienced the challenges of rebuilding their lives after hurricanes Irma and María. Financial preparedness is an essential part of 2018 hurricane season planning. Being financially prepared means you should: Consider the costs associated with disasters such as insurance deductibles and evacuation costs, and plan for those costs. Anticipate initial out-of-pocket disaster expenses … Read More
Disaster-Proof Your Pocketbook in Three Steps
By: FEMA Severe weather such as floods, storms, and tornadoes are threats to take seriously and prepare for. But not all disasters have to be record-breaking or historic to be catastrophic to your family. What about a wildfire that destroys your home and all of your belongings? Or a sump pump failure that damages your home’s electrical, water heater and furnace, … Read More