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Budgeting & Debt

Budgeting Basics for Beginners

Do you ever wonder where your money goes each month? Does it seem like you're never able to get ahead? If so, you may want to establish a budget to help you keep track of how you spend your money.

Budgeting: Calculating your net worth

What is Net Worth? Your net worth is your personal bottom line. It's what your total holdings are worth after subtracting all of your financial obligations. In financial terms, your net worth is equa

The Spending Plan (Budget)

What is the spending plan? Your spending plan is essentially your budget. By using a more positive name, you can escape the feeling of restriction that often accompanies the term budget.

Creating a Spending Plan

Once you have a general idea of how much you need to save each month to reach your retirement goal, you need to determine where you will find the money.

All About Credit Scores

It's difficult to imagine functioning in today's world without credit. Whether buying a car or purchasing a home, credit has become an integral part of our everyday lives.

Establishing a Financial Safety Net

In times of crisis, you don't want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you're protected when a financial emergency arises.

Get Out of Debt and Save for the Future

Many Americans are consumed with anxiety and frustration over the debt that they owe, and the lack of funds to pay it off.

Debt Management

What is Debt Management?As a modern consumer, you need credit.

Protecting Your Credit

Your credit history is vital to your future, which is why it is crucial to ensure its accuracy.

Avoid Debt and Credit Problems

High debt and misuse of credit cards make it tough to save for retirement. Money that goes to pay interest, late fees and old bills is money that could have been contributed to a retirement fund.

Credit Traps for the Unwary

It's hard to imagine functioning in today's society without access to credit. However, you need to be careful not to fall victim to some of the pitfalls associated with it.

Buying a Car

Maybe you've always pictured yourself driving a shiny red convertible. Or perhaps you've had a recent addition to the family and you're looking for the practicality of a minivan.

Pay Down Debt or Save for Retirement?

You can use a variety of strategies to pay off debt, many of which can cut not only the amount of time it will take to pay off the debt but also the total interest paid. But like many people, you may

Financial Survival After a Job Loss

You may have lost your job already, or it's something you're concerned about.

Merging Your Money When You Marry

Getting married is exciting, but it brings many challenges. One such challenge that you and your spouse will have to face is how to merge your finances.

Teaching Your College Age Child About Money

When your child first started school, you doled out the change for milk and a snack on a daily basis.

Planning for the Financial Impact of Children

Children are a special blessing and their arrival brings boundless love and joy into our lives that you can't put a price on.

The Joys and Financial Challenges of Parenthood

Parenthood can be both wonderfully rewarding and frighteningly challenging. Children give gifts only a parent can understand--from sticky-finger hugs to heartfelt pleas.

6 Ways to Spring Clean Your Finances

The arrival of spring often signifies a time of renewal, a reminder to dust off the cobwebs and get rid of the dirt and grime that have built up throughout the winter season.

How can I pay off my credit card debt?

Answer: Certainly the best way to pay off your credit card debt is with a single payment.

How Student Loans Impact Your Credit

If you've finished college within the last few years, chances are you're paying off your student loans.

Debt Consolidation: One loan to rule them all

If you have a lot of debt, you're not alone. Today, more and more Americans are burdened with credit card and loan payments.

Borrowing From Your 401(k)

You may have heard the warning to never borrow from your retirement fund. However, there may come a time when a financial crisis forces you to do just that.

Coping with Financial Crisis

Life has a way of throwing unexpected financial roadblocks, detours and potholes in our path.

Everything You Need to Know About Your Credit Report

If you’ve ever applied for a credit card, a personal loan or insurance, there’s a file about you. This file is known as your credit report. It’s full of information on where you live, how you p

The Sandwich Generation

At a time when your career is reaching a peak and you are looking ahead to your own retirement, you may find yourself in the position of having to help your children with college expenses.