Archive for 'Credit & Debt'

U.S. Debt Shrinks for First Time in 6 Years
May 01, 2013 - The U.S. will reduce the massive federal debt for the first time since 2007. But can we keep it up?

Feds Give Stay-at-Home Spouses Easier Access to Credit
May 01, 2013 - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has revised a 2009 rule in order to help people with shared incomes qualify for credit cards.

Review: Citi Forward Card for College Students
Apr 30, 2013 - This card can provide a much better rewards program than most student credit cards if you can qualify.

Government Collecting Consumer Data From Banks and Credit Agencies
Apr 29, 2013 - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants anonymous financial information to improve its oversight of the banking and credit industries. Banks don't see the point.

Difference Between Payday Lenders and Banks? Not Much
Apr 26, 2013 - A government study finds that banks' deposit advance products frequently trap consumers in a cycle of debt just as payday lenders do.

6 Ways to Make Saving Easy
Apr 26, 2013 - There are methods you can use to spend less and save more that won't seem like a hardship or burden.

Ask an Expert: Will Opening a New Credit Card Hurt My Credit Score?
Apr 25, 2013 - Used responsibly, a new credit card account can help you build your credit score. But what exactly does that mean?

Ask Stacy: Should I Pay Off My Mortgage?
Apr 23, 2013 - This reader has enough in savings to pay off her mortgage, but hesitates to drain her savings to do it. The math is simple, but the answer isn't.

Review: Gold Delta SkyMiles Credit Card From American Express
Apr 23, 2013 - The SkyMiles earned with this card never expire, but the card does have some drawbacks.

Ask an Expert: Can I Get a Cash-Back Card With Average Credit?
Apr 18, 2013 - It's no secret: The best rewards credit cards are reserved for those with stellar credit. But that doesn't mean those with average credit can't join in the fun.

How to Raise Your Kids to Be Losers
Apr 18, 2013 - Here are six easy steps to make sure your kids grow up to be morons about money and personal finance.

Ask Stacy: Barely Making Minimum Payments. What Now?
Apr 16, 2013 - This reader's brother is like many people I've heard from: barely making minimum payments and unable to save for emergencies. If that's you or someone you know, here are your options.

Review: Simmons First Visa Platinum
Apr 16, 2013 - If you have excellent credit and tend to carry a balance from time to time, this card may be a good addition to your wallet.

10 Key Characteristics of Debt-Free People
Apr 11, 2013 - Why do some people -- no matter how much they make -- get into debt, while others -- no matter how modest their means -- don't?

Ask an Expert: What’s the Best Credit Card to Save on Gas?
Apr 11, 2013 - If you have a road trip in your future, you can't control the price of gas but you can earn some cash back when you fill up.