If you’re in the market for a new house or a new car (or if you think you might be in the near future) you may want to take a look at your credit score. Bad credit scores can not only keep you from getting credit, but can raise your interest rates if you are able to secure a loan. If you don’t know … [Read more...] about How to improve your credit score
Money
Free apps that help you save money
We all aspire to make wiser decisions when it comes to spending, but we can use a little help from time to time. Put your smart phone to good financial use by downloading these money-saving apps that’ll take the guess work out of finding great deals, scoring sales, or taking advantage of coupons and … [Read more...] about Free apps that help you save money
Turn your trash into quick and easy cash
The adage, "one man's trash is another man's treasure" may be old, but it still holds true – especially in a world connected online. Below are some ways to turn your trash (or recycling) into real money.Free giftsDid you get a free gift you don't want? Someone on eBay might be interested. … [Read more...] about Turn your trash into quick and easy cash
Credit or debit? What you should know about fraud
Banks push plastic, and how! Credit cards, debit cards and cash can all be used to buy things, but they have very different costs and benefits. The more you know, the less money you'll lose in fees and fraud charges.CardHub, a website that tracks the credit card industry, released its 2013 … [Read more...] about Credit or debit? What you should know about fraud
The 411 on the FAFSA for college financial aid
If you are the parent of a college student or soon-to-be college student, you need to get all your paperwork together now so you can fill out the FAFSA.What's the FAFSA? It is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and it is the only way that families can apply for federal and state … [Read more...] about The 411 on the FAFSA for college financial aid
5 smart ways to cash in on your home
In the old days, if you wanted to make money from your home without actually selling it, your options were pretty much to do some fishing in the couch cushions or hold a garage sale. Those are still viable options (according to StatisticBrain.com, there are approximately 165,000 garage sales every … [Read more...] about 5 smart ways to cash in on your home
Does it pay to return to work after baby? Do the math
This post is by Erin Flynn Jay, author of "Mastering The Mommy Track."Many new moms have mixed feelings about whether they should return to work after a too-brief maternity leave or stay home until their kids are older. Are you undecided about whether you should quit your job and stay home with … [Read more...] about Does it pay to return to work after baby? Do the math
3 ways to maximize what you’ll get from Social Security
Once you hit retirement age, Social Security, Uncle Sam's retirement plan, can make your life a lot better. Here are three things you need to know to get the maximum benefit.Work under Social Security at least 35 years. Social Security is calculated based on the sum of your highest earnings … [Read more...] about 3 ways to maximize what you’ll get from Social Security
Extended warranties: peace of mind or money trap?
Sometimes buying an extended warranty protects your pocketbook and buys you peace of mind. Other times, the cash outlay isn’t worth the cost.What’s the scoop on extended warranties? Is buying an extended warranty worth the peace of mind -- or just another money trap? I can recall only once that … [Read more...] about Extended warranties: peace of mind or money trap?
How to make money as a mystery shopper
I love shopping. I love making money, too -- so I have more money to shop with. So I guess it's only natural that I'm a part-time mystery shopper for several companies. I have found that you will not get rich as a mystery shopper, but it can be a nice second income, and you may even get some free … [Read more...] about How to make money as a mystery shopper