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It’s Time to Purchase Like It’s 1999

With prices falling on everything from houses to boats, if you’re lucky enough to have money in the bank, there are definitely bargains to be had.

Way to Save #79: Know The Lingo

When we shop for credit cards, or any loans for that matter, the focus is always on the interest rate you’re being charged. While that’s obviously the main thing, it’s not the only thing. In the case of credit cards, you also need to inquire about “grace period.” That’s the period of time you have … Continued

Way to Save #78: Check For "Stealth" Fees

Hidden fees abound in credit cards. They include fees for going over your credit limit, transferring your balance to another company and paying late. The only way you have of finding out about these fees is to call the issuer or read the microscopic print found on the original disclosure paperwork or monthly statements. You … Continued

Way to Save #77: Give Yourself Credit

If you’re going to have credit cards, get the best possible deals. If you pay off your balance every month, get a card with no fee. If you don’t, get the lowest possible interest rate, but don’t forget to include any annual fees in the interest price you’re paying. You can find good credit card … Continued

Way to Save #76: Balance Your Checking Account

Estimates of people who don’t bother to reconcile their checking accounts range from 6% to 20%. If you don’t keep track of what’s in your account, you should just carry cash. Because sooner or later, you’re going to be paying giant fees for bounced checks!

4 Great Places for Free Job Training

Unemployment is now the highest since June, 1983. Now, more than ever, Americans need as many tools as possible to land a new job. If you’re out of work, you’re certainly not alone. But now might be a good time to enhance your future career choices by getting job training. And depending on your situation, you might find it free.

Way to Save #75: Use Direct Deposit

Go direct! Direct deposit of money you receive and direct payment of bills you owe can save you postage, gas and hassle. And it could increase your interest earnings to boot. See what your bank offers and take advantage of it.

Way to Save #74: Ask And You Might Receive

Years ago, Money Magazine called 10 credit card lenders and merely asked them to lower their interest rates. Three out of 10 did it! This could work in all areas of banking. If your bank is charging you high interest or high fees, try saying something like, “Gee, I’ve banked here for years, but I … Continued

Can You Repair Your Own Credit?

This viewer says only a professional can properly repair a consumer’s credit. What do you think I said?

Way to Save #73: Be Aware of Fee Changes

Did you know that banks most often mail notices of fee increases between Thanksgiving and Christmas? That’s because they know that you’re least likely to read it during that busy time. Don’t let them fool you. Read fee notices.

Way to Save #72: Find Fee Free Checking

Don’t pay fees to have a checking account. There are now online banks that will charge you nothing for your checking account, and even pay interest on it. Shop around, and you might even find the same with old-fashioned bricks-and-mortar banks. Eliminating the fee on your checking account could easily save you $100 a year.

Way to Save #71: Check Your Checks

There’s no law that says you have to buy checks and deposit slips from your bank. In fact, there are companies that will sell you checks you can use with your bank for 50% less.

Way to Save #70: Don't Use Passbook Savings Accounts

These accounts are old-fashioned and pay very little interest. You’re much better off with your bank’s money market account. You’ll earn more interest, your money will be just as safe, and you’ll still be able to get to it at any time. For a little more interest with just a tiny bit more risk, consider … Continued

Way to Save #69: Use Only Your Bank's ATM

Use only your bank’s ATM. Using a foreign bank racks up not only their ATM fee, but any fee your bank imposes, too. Avoid fees to get to your own money!

Shopping Your Rates is Critical: Here’s How

Most people spend more time shopping for groceries than shopping for a better rate when they save or borrow. While saving on groceries is always good, earning more when you save and paying less when you borrow can change your life.

Way to Save #68: Don't Use A Bank

Instead, use a credit union. Credit unions generally offer lower rates on loans, higher rates on savings, and lower fees than commercial banks. To find one that will accept you as a member, ask your employer or open the yellow pages and make a few calls.

Way to Save #67: Shop Your Banks

As banks consolidate, competition is decreasing and fees are increasing. Think about the services you need first, then call around and see who can deliver them for the least money. Do you do a lot of ATM transactions? Then you need a bank with lots of branches and ATM machines to avoid paying “foreign” ATM … Continued

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