Getting a new credit card can be exciting, but it’s important not to get carried away. Having too many credit cards can lead to things like multiple card inquiries and falling into debt, which can directly impact your credit score. This is why you need to find the right balance to help you manage your credit wisely to avoid these potential risks. In this article, we explore factors you should consider when determining how often to apply for a...

Credit cards can be a useful financial tool, making it easy to make purchases and help your credit. But, what happens if you don't use your credit card for a long time? In this blog, we explore what can happen if you don’t use your credit card and provide tips to help keep your account active and in good standing. We also discuss how neglecting your credit card can negatively impact your credit score, lead to fees and penalties, and even result...

Cash stuffing is a new trend that is quickly gaining popularity. It is a simple and effective way to save and budget your money. And it can help you to stay on track with your financial goals. What is Cash Stuffing? Cash stuffing is a budgeting method where you physically take cash out of your bank account each month and divide it  into envelopes with each  labeled for a different expense. For example, you might have an envelope for rent, one...

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of "soft saving." This refers to a less restrictive and more flexible method of saving money than traditional methods, such as setting up a savings account or investing in stocks or bonds. There are several reasons why soft saving has become so popular. One reason is that it is more accessible than traditional methods. With soft savings, you can save money without making a large initial savings...

Most college students simply can’t afford to ignore the importance of budgeting their money while working toward an education. Expenses such as tuition, room and board, monthly utility bills, books, food, and transportation costs can quickly add up and become impossible to manage when you aren’t carefully monitoring your finances. By budgeting your money as a college student, you can help ensure  you have sufficient funds to cover your costs...

What is Tax Debt? Tax debt is any tax that you owe the IRS. This includes forgetting to pay, file, or even making a mistake on your taxes. Here we help explain tax debt and the best ways to handle it. How Do I Know If I Have Tax Debt? Here are a few ways to know if you owe back taxes to the IRS. Notice Via Mail The IRS may send a notice to you for various reasons. For example, you might receive a notice for balances owed, a request for...

Paying for tuition is costly. A college education comes with a hefty price tag, making students wonder how they can cover the cost. That often can lead to the idea of paying tuition with a credit card. While you can pay tuition with a credit card, make sure it's right for you. This blog explores key factors you should consider before using a credit card to pay for tuition. When It Does (and Doesn’t) Make Sense to Pay Tuition with a Credit Card...

When you least expect it, emergencies happen. Whether big or small, they are unexpected and can severely strain an individual and their financial well-being. Preparing an emergency fund, an account for money to be placed aside to cover unexpected expenses can help you stay on your feet when an emergency occurs. What Is an Emergency Fund?  An emergency fund is a sum of money set aside to cover financial surprises that may come your way. This...

Debt is something that most of us have. Debt can allow us to gain access to money when we are in need, then pay back the amount over a certain period. According to CNBC, consumer debt hit a record high of $15.6 trillion last year. People between 40 and 55 have the most debt, recorded at an average of $140,643. Debt, however, is something that people can have as early as age 18. When you are in too much debt, it can be tough to manage your...

Retirement is supposed to be an exciting time in your life. It’s when you step away from the workplace and get a chance to unwind, sit back and enjoy life. Unfortunately, this is not how things are for people who haven’t saved for retirement. When you fail to save for retirement, this time in your life may instead come with worries and stress. An estimated 25% of Americans have no savings plan in place for their retirement. This guide will help...