Borrowing Basics

You’ve probably already heard the sweet siren song of the promotional 0% balance transfer rate. The trick is to decide whether offer an offer like this can work out for you without getting confused.  Follow these tips—and watch your step! This path might not be as enticing as it seems.  Crunch the Numbers  When you look at offers like this from big banks and credit card companies, it comes off as pretty tempting. After all, what could be better than paying no interest for several months on your debt? However, most credit card companies are not in it for your…

The holiday season has come and gone. While you can’t put a price tag on the memories, you might feel the burden of the debt accrued from making those memories. If you’re a bit anxious about paying back your holiday debt, there’s a relatively easy solution – debt consolidation.   Consolidating debt may sound complicated and more intimidating than slowly paying down your current balance. However, the process is easier than you might think, and it could save you a significant amount of money long term. It’s a win-win!   What is Debt Consolidation?  Debt consolidation is transferring one or multiple loans…

Upon reaching adulthood, your credit score is one number that can dramatically impact your life, both financially and otherwise. A good score can help you receive the loans you need and ultimately pay less interest. But it can also help when applying to lease an apartment; some employers even check your score before hiring.   While a good credit score is desired, it isn’t always easy to obtain. Life throws everyone curve balls that knock their financial plans and budgets off track. So how do you build and maintain the high credit score you desire? Below are seven habits commonly found…

We’ve scoped out the best times of year to buy some higher-ticket items so that YOU can save money throughout the year and stay on budget. Each month is listed with items that are most likely to be priced the best they will be all year, plus we’ve included the holidays when you’ll find major sales. Make sure to plan your shopping calendar and your budget accordingly!  January  Electronics: There are typically sales AFTER Christmas to encourage additional purchases after the holidays. You’ll probably find that some of your favorite electronics are on sale.  Fitness Equipment: Retailers know that people make resolutions to…

If you’re struggling with holiday credit card debt, it might feel like you’re drowning in quicksand. The more you fight to get out of this high-interest debt, the deeper you get, it seems.   But there’s a lifeline! There are practical things you can do to pull yourself out of credit card debt, once and for all. These four real-life tips can help you out:   1. Stop Using Your Credit Cards. You must understand and accept that unpaid credit card debt is bad for you financially and must be corrected. If you’ve been using your credit cards to fill in financial gaps, now is the time to break the habit for good and vow never to return.    This sounds much simpler than it is.  Do these three…