Archive for 'Credit & Debt'

Why Choosing Debit or Credit Is Like Picking Salad Dressing
Jul 21, 2011 - Paper or plastic? Low-fat or low-sodium? Window or aisle? Those are the tough questions in life. Today, we'll help you with credit or debit? And maybe ranch or bleu cheese?

College-Affiliated Credit Cards on the Decline
Jul 21, 2011 - The Penn State Alumni Association received nearly $5 million last year from banks issuing affiliated credit cards. But nationwide, the numbers are nothing to cheer about.

7 Steps to Switch to a Better Bank
Jul 20, 2011 - Banks are giving us plenty of reasons to switch: higher fees, fewer services, and instability, to name a few. If you're fed up, don't be afraid to make a change – but do it the right way.

Got Great Credit? Get a Great Rewards Card
Jul 14, 2011 - Credit card companies are once again trolling for new card customers. Their favorite bait? Rewards like airline miles. But if you want to land a great rewards card, show up with great credit.

12 Ways Americans Say They’re Saving This Summer
Jul 11, 2011 - A new Harris poll reveals how Americans have found proven money-saving techniques during the recession. Are you doing any of these? Or all of them?

5 Tips for Finding the Right Credit Card
Jul 08, 2011 - From the CARD Act to the ever-changing policies of major issuers, it's hard to keep up with the latest developments in credit cards. Here's an easy way to figure it all out - and make out financially.

Swipe Fees: Banks Win, Stores Lose
Jun 29, 2011 - The banks were expecting bad news today as the Federal Reserve stood poised to radically reduce the fees they collect for processing debit cards. But what they got instead was proof that massive lobbying pays off.

Ask Stacy: What’s the Best Company to Repair My Credit?
Jun 28, 2011 - Whether it's your car, your plumbing, or your body, if it's broken, there are pros who can often repair it. But can the same be said for your credit?

Fed To Cast Final Vote on Debit Card Fees Wednesday
Jun 27, 2011 - There's only one more vote separating banks from much lower debit card fees. If it happens, it's certain that retailers win and banks lose. But what about consumers?

Mobile Payments: Convenience at a Cost?
Jun 27, 2011 - Smartphones are getting even smarter, and may soon replace your wallet. But be careful: Paying with your phone comes with some risks.

Surprise! Study Says Americans Manage Money Badly
Jun 24, 2011 - More than one in five Americans have turned to alternative lenders like payday loans, pawn shops, or advances on payday loans during the past five years. And two in five have paid substantial interest, fees, or both due to bad borrowing habits.

Credit Card Defaults and Late Payments Decline Again
Jun 23, 2011 - There's been a lot of negative news about the economy lately. But here's some good news: More consumers are able to pay their bills.

10 Tips for This Year’s College Grads
Jun 16, 2011 - If you're a recent grad or know someone who is, here's a checklist that will help start life on the right financial foot.

Avoiding the Top 10 Financial Fouls
Jun 15, 2011 - Making too many mistakes in a game can mean warming a bench. In real life, making too many mistakes can mean living on one. Stay on the path to financial success by avoiding these pitfalls.

Ask Stacy: Is It Time to Change Credit Cards?
Jun 14, 2011 - This reader is ready to move on to new credit cards. But will that help or hurt? And how many credit cards should she have?