Archive for 'Credit & Debt'

Ask an Expert: Why Should I Use Credit Cards When Cash or Debit Will Do?
Feb 21, 2013 - This reader has credit cards, but is reluctant to use them – after all, aren't they bad? As it turns out, no. In fact, they can be a consumer's best friend.

Here Comes A New U.S. Deficit Reduction Plan
Feb 19, 2013 - From two names you may have heard before: Alan Simpson and Erskine Bowles. It's an attempt to get Republicans and Democrats to meet halfway. Again.

Is the Consumer Watchdog Doomed?
Feb 19, 2013 - Some Republicans are trying to stop the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau from operating, despite the protections and money it's won back for wronged consumers.

Review: Blue Cash Preferred Card From American Express
Feb 19, 2013 - Most cash-back cards offer a paltry 1 percent rebate. Here's one that, depending on how you spend, can earn you six times as much.

Do You Have a Fragmented Credit Report?
Feb 19, 2013 - It's bad enough to have to keep track of one credit history. But it's possible you might have two, or even three.

Bankruptcy is a Time of Celebration, Not Despair
Feb 18, 2013 - If you're on the verge of bankruptcy or know someone who is, read this post from someone who's been there.

5 Tips to Find the Best Prepaid Card
Feb 14, 2013 - Prepaid cards can be a useful alternative to credit cards and checking accounts, but they vary radically in cost and convenience. Here's what to look for.

Why You Should Ignore Credit Repair Ads + 3 Steps to Fix Your Credit Free
Feb 13, 2013 - There's nothing any company can do to repair your credit that you can't do yourself free. Here are three simple steps to repair your credit.

Can Money Troubles Trigger PTSD?
Feb 13, 2013 - People who have lived through difficult financial problems can also suffer from PTSD.

American Express Users Get Discounts on Twitter
Feb 12, 2013 - Got an Amex card and a Twitter account? You can get exclusive deals, like a $25 gift card for $15.

Your Credit Report Likely Has Costly Mistakes
Feb 12, 2013 - There's a better than 25 percent chance somebody (besides you) messed up your credit report. If so, it's costing you money – but it's free to fix!

Ask Stacy: Can I Really Refinance My Mortgage at No Cost?
Feb 12, 2013 - Mortgage lenders claim you can refinance to a lower rate at "no cost." Not true.

Review: Barclaycard Ring MasterCard
Feb 12, 2013 - Barclaycard touts its new Ring MasterCard as a versatile, top-tier credit card that crowd-sources its rewards. Could this be the plastic of the future?

Sometimes Debt Collectors Say Crazy Things
Feb 11, 2013 - Like, "Pay us or we're going to take your children" and "we'll eat your dog."

Identity Thieves Used 6-Year-Old’s Social Security Number
Feb 11, 2013 - Between that and many other schemes they bought luxury cars and millions of dollars' worth of gold.