Elizabeth Aldrich

Why You Should Start an Invest-in-Yourself Fund

Feb 13, 2020

Investing in yourself is crucial for both your professional and personal lives. Here's how to afford it.

I Did All My Holiday Shopping at Small Businesses. Here's How It Went

Jan 31, 2020

I set out to shop exclusively at small businesses this holiday season. Here's what happened.

7 Reasons Why Both You and Your Wallet Will Love Raleigh, N.C.

Jan 28, 2020

With a low cost of living and ample entertainment, Raleigh is a hotspot for people of all ages. Check out these top reasons to consider …

4 Reasons Why St. Louis Is a Great Place to Start Your Career

Jan 27, 2020

From ample career opportunities to a low cost of living, here's why young professionals should consider St. Louis.

This Midwestern College Town Is One of the Best Places to Save Money

Jan 26, 2020

Champaign-Urbana ranks No. 4 in The Ascent's list of the best cities for high salaries and low costs of living.

8 Ways Having No Credit Score Makes Life Harder

Jan 18, 2020

From making it harder to buy a car or house to blocking you from buying a new cell phone, being credit invisible can be costly.

Looking for Vibrant Culture Without the High Cost? Look at Kalamazoo, Mich.

Jan 16, 2020

If you're looking for an affordable place to live that's bursting with arts, culture, and good food, look no further than Kalamazoo.

6 Reasons Why Raleigh, N.C. Is One of the Best Places to Raise a Family on a Budget

Jan 15, 2020

If you want to save money while raising children, Raleigh might be the place to do it. Check out the top 6 reasons to consider …

No Credit? No Problem: Building Credit Has Never Been Easier

Jan 10, 2020

Building your credit takes time and commitment, but you can now take advantage of options that speed up the process.

7 Ways to Beat Your Parents' Credit Score

Jan 9, 2020

It's possible to have excellent credit at a young age. Follow these steps to do it.

Most Americans Think They're Disciplined With Money. Here's Why They're Not

Jan 9, 2020

Although Americans feel they're financially disciplined, their savings habits seem to indicate otherwise.

Credit Is More Accessible Than Ever -- but Is That a Good Thing?

Dec 23, 2019

From no-credit credit cards to online lenders, credit is increasingly accessible, which comes with its own set of dangers.

Here's the Average Credit Card Approval Rate by Credit Score

Dec 23, 2019

Here are the odds that you'll be approved for a credit card based on your credit score.

Report Shows How Consumers Are Getting Better at Paying Bills on Time

Dec 10, 2019

Autopay has helped consumers improve their credit card payment habits, but there's still work to be done.

7 Best Budget Destinations for Your 30th Birthday

Dec 9, 2019

Celebrate your 30th birthday at one of these beautiful, budget-friendly destinations that are full of outdoor adventures and breathtaking photo ops.

These Are the Consumers Getting Hit the Hardest by Credit Card Fees

Dec 7, 2019

No one wants to pay credit card fees, but for some consumers, they're often unavoidable.

See How You Stack Up Against Americans With Superprime Credit

Dec 2, 2019

Consumers with excellent or superprime credit are not only more likely to be approved for credit, they qualify for better perks and interest rates, too.

Credit Card Late Payments Are on the Rise -- 5 Ways to Make Sure You're Never Late

Nov 30, 2019

These handy tips will help you avoid ever missing a credit card payment again.

Keep Your Credit Utilization Below This Number If You Want Good Credit

Nov 27, 2019

The latest CFPB reports spell out exactly where you should keep your credit utilization if you want good credit.

The Safest Way to Pay When Shopping Online This Holiday Season

Nov 26, 2019

If you want to avoid online shopping fraud this year, pay with a digital wallet.

I Check My Bank Account Daily -- and Here's Why You Should, Too

Nov 26, 2019

Checking your bank account daily can help you avoid debt and build your savings.

This Is the Most Underrated Perk of Travel Credit Cards

Nov 26, 2019

Your travel credit card might come with generous trip insurance. Here's why it's important.

2 in 3 Americans Throw Away Money on This 1 Thing

Nov 24, 2019

Americans lose hundreds of dollars per year on food waste, and it's not great for the environment either.

Don't Make This Expensive Credit Card Mistake While Holiday Shopping

Nov 19, 2019

This store credit card trap can make your holiday shopping bill even larger.

5 Stats That Show We're Getting Smarter With Our Credit Cards

Nov 18, 2019

The latest credit card market report is full of hopeful signs that we're learning from our credit card mistakes.

Americans Agree This Is the Biggest Waste of Money. Here's How to Avoid It

Nov 15, 2019

Paying avoidable fees and excessive interest is a waste of money. Use these tips to make sure you don't fall prey.

Want to Waste Less Money? Start With These 4 Good Money Habits

Nov 13, 2019

Practice these good habits of people who waste less money and you'll be saving more in no time.

Here's How to Save Almost $2,000 on Your Credit Card Debt

Oct 26, 2019

Credit card interest rates are still extremely high. Here's one easy way to decrease your interest rate and pay off your debt faster.

Here's How Much Money You Need to Quit Your Job and Travel

Oct 26, 2019

Considering taking a career break to travel? Here's what it will cost you.

Avoid This Common Money Mistake When Traveling Abroad

Oct 17, 2019

If you're swiping your debit card when you travel, it's time to reconsider. Here's why.

The Only Good Reason to Open a Store Credit Card

Oct 16, 2019

If you need to improve your credit score, a retail credit card could be the answer -- as long as you watch out for the …

Long-Term Travel Can Be Cheaper Than Staying Home

Oct 16, 2019

Here's why traveling long-term can make more financial sense than staying home.

Can You Save Money on Student Loans by Going to College Abroad?

Oct 15, 2019

If you're looking to graduate from college with little or no student loan debt, this could be your answer.

The Best Budget Destinations to Travel to in Your 40s

Oct 8, 2019

These cities will fill your next vacation with once-in-a-lifetime experiences without draining your bank account.

9 Essential Tips for a Fabulous Destination Birthday on a Budget

Oct 5, 2019

Ready to get away for your next birthday? Here's how to do it without breaking the bank.

5 Best Budget Destinations for Your Wedding

Oct 3, 2019

If you're looking to travel for your wedding without breaking the bank, here are the best places to go.

The Best Budget Destinations to Travel to in Your 30s

Sep 29, 2019

If you're looking for a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure without breaking the bank, here are the best vacation destinations to travel to in …

The Average American's Finances by Numbers

Sep 29, 2019

Here's what the average American's spending habits, debt levels, and savings look like -- see how you compare.

5 Ways Moving Abroad Will Save You Money

Sep 28, 2019

If you’re struggling to maintain your standard of living, moving abroad can help save you money in ways you may not have expected.

Millennials, Boomers, and Gen Xers Alike Face This Financial Threat

Sep 27, 2019

The one thing that almost half of all middle class Americans, regardless of age, face right now is financial insecurity.

5 States Where Paying Off Debt Is Easier

Sep 27, 2019

The key to paying off debt is increasing your income and decreasing your cost of living -- moving to these states can help.

9 Signs That a Career Change Will Pay Off

Sep 23, 2019

Changing careers can be intimidating, but the right choice can also be rewarding -- personally and financially.

Here Are the Top 10 Purchases Men Hide From Their Partners

Sep 17, 2019

Financial infidelity is more common than you might think. These are the most common purchases that men hide from their partners.

The Best Budget Destinations to Travel to in Your 20s

Sep 16, 2019

If you're looking to plan the trip of a lifetime while keeping costs low, here are the best destinations to travel to in your 20s.

This Is the Only Smart Way to Use Credit Cards for Your Honeymoon

Sep 11, 2019

Don’t go into debt on your honeymoon. Use this strategy to travel big while saving money.

The Only Smart Way to Pay for a Wedding With Credit

Sep 8, 2019

There may be a way to pay for your wedding with a credit card without landing yourself in debt.

Save $1,378 or More by Completing These 7 Money Challenges

Sep 8, 2019

If you’re living on a tight budget, check out these money-saving challenges and budgeting methods to save hundreds, or even thousands of dollars each year.

Should You Take Out Student Loans to Pay for Graduate School?

Sep 4, 2019

A graduate degree can open the door to new career opportunities and higher pay, but is it worth the student loan debt?

How to Pay Student Loans While Living Abroad

Sep 3, 2019

Student loans shouldn’t hold you back from pursuing your dream of living abroad. Here’s what you need to consider to manage your loans while overseas.

Avoid Student Loans With These 7 Bad Terms

Aug 26, 2019

Some private lenders get away with predatory practices despite government regulations. Avoid these bad terms when searching for the best student loans available.

How Often Should You Refinance Your Student Loans?

Aug 22, 2019

You can choose to refinance your student loans as many times as you want, but there are drawbacks that borrowers should be aware of.

5 Times When Student Loans Might Be a Bad Idea

Aug 21, 2019

Signing up for student loan debt is not always the best idea. Here are five situations when you should rethink that loan.

4 Times You Should Do a Balance Transfer to Pay Off Debt

Aug 15, 2019

Balance transfers are a helpful tool for paying off debt quickly and saving money on interest. Here are four times you should consider doing one.

5 Times You Should NOT Do a Balance Transfer to Pay Off Debt

Aug 14, 2019

Balance transfers can help you pay off debt quickly, but they can also get you into trouble. Here are five signs you shouldn’t do one.

5 Simple Steps That Make Sticking to a Budget Easy, Even if You're Lazy

Aug 11, 2019

This set-it-and-forget-it budgeting method can help even the laziest budgeters get their finances in order and save more money.

How to Set a Timeline to Pay Off Your Student Loans

Aug 4, 2019

Millennials can expect to be making student loan payments well into their 40s. Follow this plan if you want to beat this dismal prediction.

7 Budgeting Tips for People With Student Loans

Aug 3, 2019

These realistic budgeting tips will help you pay off your student loans faster without letting the rest of your finances fall by the wayside.

7 Ways to Get Out of Paying Your Student Loans (Legally)

Aug 2, 2019

Struggling with student loans? There are ways to get out of paying them, and believe it or not, they’re completely legal.

What’s a Good Interest Rate for a Personal Loan?

Jun 25, 2019

Interest rates on personal loans can vary widely, but knowing what lenders look for before applying will help you make a smart decision.

How Do Personal Loans Work?

Jun 24, 2019

Personal loans can be a helpful option if you find yourself in need of cash, but make sure you understand how they work so you …

3 Times to Consolidate Your Debt Using a Personal Loan

Jun 18, 2019

Consolidating your debt with a personal loan could greatly improve your financial situation. Read on to find out if you should start looking for a …

Business Loan vs. Business Credit Card: How to Choose

Jun 7, 2019

Business loan or business credit card? Choosing the right one could help your bottom line. Find out how to make the right decision.

5 Reasons to Never Write a Check Again

Jun 6, 2019

Still writing paper checks? Here's why you should ditch that practice ASAP.

Personal Loan vs. Small Business Loan: Which Is Right for Me?

Jun 6, 2019

Should you use a personal loan or a business loan to fund your company? Read on to find out.

Is Google Pay Safe to Use?

May 28, 2019

With several choices for contactless payments apps, does Google Pay hold its ground when it comes to security and privacy?

5 Times You Should NOT Consolidate Your Student Loans

May 27, 2019

Consolidating your student loans is tempting, especially if it lowers your monthly payments. Here's why it's not necessarily a good idea.

If You Answer Yes to These Questions, It's Time to Cut Up Your Credit Card

May 27, 2019

Answer these questions to find out if it's time to cut up that credit card in your wallet.

Is Samsung Pay Safe to Use?

May 24, 2019

Samsung Pay is picking up steam in the contactless payment market, but is it safer than swiping your credit card?

4 Times You Should Consolidate Your Student Loans

May 21, 2019

Less than half of millennials have considered refinancing or consolidating their student loans -- here’s why that might be a mistake.

Is Apple Pay Safe to Use?

May 21, 2019

Apple Pay might be the most widely-adopted mobile payment application, but is it safe?

How Often Should You Monitor Your Checking Account?

May 20, 2019

Some say you should monitor your checking account once per month, while others believe you should be checking it every day. Here’s the real answer.

5 Signs You’re Ready for a Premium Credit Card

May 20, 2019

Premium credit cards help you travel in style for next to nothing, but are they right for you?

4 Reasons You Need to Repair Your Credit Now

May 15, 2019

Your credit score can open doors to lower interest rates and better offers. Find out why you should start repairing your credit today.

How to Get Your Teenager Building Credit Now

May 12, 2019

By following these simple steps, you can jumpstart your teenager’s financial future and help them build their credit now.

The Pros and Cons of Prepaid Tuition Plans

Apr 10, 2019

Prepaid tuition plans are designed to help families start saving for their children's college expenses, but they may not always be the best choice.

Here's How Student Loans Affect Your Credit Score

Mar 28, 2019

Student loans can hurt your credit score, but they can also help. Here’s why.

7 Things to Consider Before Opening a Kids Savings Account

Mar 26, 2019

Opening a kids savings account can be a great tool to teach your child healthy financial habits, but there are a few things to consider …

Do You Really Need That Business Checking Account?

Mar 26, 2019

Are you still using a personal checking account for your business? Here’s why that's a bad idea.

Are You Ignoring the Most Costly Credit Card Fees?

Mar 25, 2019

Are you aware of all the fees your credit card could be charging? Find out how to identify -- and avoid -- them.

4 Predictions for the Credit Card Industry in 2019

Mar 25, 2019

The credit card industry is evolving to meet today’s consumer needs and expectations. Here’s what 2019 has in store for us.

7 Signs It’s Time to Ditch a Credit Card

Mar 25, 2019

If you find yourself putting a check mark next to these scenarios, it’s time to get rid of your current credit card.

5 Reasons You Should Pay With Credit Cards

Mar 25, 2019

From rewards programs to often overlooked protections, your credit card may be the smartest and safest way to make your next purchase.

Federal vs. Private Student Loans: Which Should I Choose?

Mar 21, 2019

Whether you’ve got student loans or you plan on applying for them, understanding the difference in types could save you thousands. Find out whether federal …

5 Things to Do Before Refinancing Your Student Loans

Mar 21, 2019

The average college graduate from the class of 2016 graduated with $37,172 in student loan debt. Learn what to do before refinancing.

5 Things You Need to Know About Late Credit Card Payment Fees in 2019

Mar 21, 2019

Here’s what you need to know to make 2019 the year of no late credit card payment fees.

5 Trends to Watch for in Banking and Technology

Mar 20, 2019

As tech and banking join forces, here are some major trends that could impact your finances.

How Business Credit Cards Work

Mar 19, 2019

Still relying on a personal credit card to cover your business expenses? That might be a mistake.

Are Online Banks Keeping Your Information Secure?

Mar 18, 2019

Online banks are convenient -- but are they safe? The answer may surprise you.

Can Your Credit Score Impact a Job Offer?

Mar 18, 2019

Worried that your credit history is sending red flags to potential employers? Here’s the truth about how your credit score impacts the job hunt.

3 Times Getting a Secured Credit Card Makes Sense

Mar 14, 2019

If you have bad credit or no credit at all, a secured credit card might be the right tool for you. Find out here.

How to Monitor Your Credit Without Hurting Your Credit Score

Mar 13, 2019

Keeping an eye on your credit score can help you better understand what financial actions directly affect your credit, but will it decrease your credit …

What to Know About Secured Personal Loans

Mar 12, 2019

Taking out a loan may give you immediate access to funds, but it could have a lasting impact on your finances and credit. Here’s what …

4 Credit Card Trends We Expect to See in 2019

Mar 11, 2019

Consumers are demanding more when it comes to their finances, and credit card companies are rising to the challenge. Here’s what to expect in 2019.

7 Money Tips for International Travel

Mar 8, 2019

Traveling abroad? Make sure you follow these important money tips to avoid financial hiccups and massive fees.

How to Make This Important Finance Habit Stick

Feb 18, 2019

It can be hard to create good lasting financial habits. Here's a little help to get you started.

Avoid Doing These 3 Things When Traveling With a Credit Card

Jan 31, 2019

Traveling is costly. Here’s how to make sure you’re not spending even more than you need to.

How to Set Effective Financial Resolutions for the New Year

Jan 31, 2019

Tired of setting money goals you never achieve? Follow these steps to create New Year’s financial resolutions that stick.

These 2 Costly Credit Card Trends Could Hit Your Wallet

Jan 29, 2019

The economy is looking up -- and so are interest rates.

A Complete Guide to Chase Credit Card Benefits

Jan 29, 2019

Every benefit that comes with your Chase credit card, including some you probably didn’t know about.

Get the Southwest Companion Pass for a Limited Time by Signing Up for a Southwest Credit Card

Jan 28, 2019

Chase just announced what might be the best offer of all-time on their Southwest credit cards -- here’s how to get it.

4 Reasons to Avoid Opening a Store Credit Card in 2019

Jan 24, 2019

Opening a new store credit card may save you a few dollars up front, but these costly pitfalls can easily outweigh the discounts.

Should I Alert Chase if I Plan to Travel With My Credit Card?

Jan 17, 2019

Your bags are packed, your tickets are printed… but did you notify your bank?

How Often Does Capital One Increase Credit Limits?

Jan 14, 2019

Capital One has some rules when it comes to credit limit increases -- make sure you know them before you request one.

How to Dispute a Credit Card Charge With Discover

Jan 8, 2019

Don’t get charged for a purchase you didn’t make. This step-by-step guide explains exactly how to dispute a credit card charge with Discover.

How to Apply for a Chase Business Credit Card

Jan 7, 2019

Some of the best rewards credit cards from Chase are business credit cards. Here’s how to get one.

How to Get Pre-Approved for Discover Credit Cards

Jan 2, 2019

Don’t waste a credit card application. Discover’s pre-approval tools help you find personalized credit card offers and gauge your chances of approval.

How to Do a Balance Transfer With Discover

Dec 31, 2018

Do a balance transfer with Discover this way and you could save hundreds on interest and have your debt paid down in no time.

What Dave Ramsey Is Missing in His Financial Advice

Dec 28, 2018

Ramsey’s advice has inspired millions of people to pay off their debt, but it’s far from financial gospel. In fact, sometimes, it’s downright wrong.

7 Podcasts to Improve Your Money Management Skills

Dec 21, 2018

Dreaming of financial independence but don’t know where to start? These are some of the best money management podcasts to help you earn more, save …

What People With Credit Cards Must Know About Trump’s Proposals

Dec 20, 2018

The future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau may be uncertain, but one thing is clear: if consumers don’t educate themselves, they risk being taken …

Chase vs. Capital One Credit Cards

Dec 19, 2018

Deciding between these two popular credit card issuers can be difficult -- here’s what you need to consider.

Is The Starwood Preferred Guest® Luxury Credit Card Worth $450?

Dec 17, 2018

Check out our insights to learn if this premium credit card is worth it for you.

The 5 Best Money Management Apps For Your Phone

Dec 5, 2018

Kiss your budgeting woes goodbye. These apps make sticking to your budget easy… and even fun.

Should Credit Card Companies Cut Lucrative Sign-Up Bonuses?

Dec 5, 2018

Sign-up bonuses are causing huge losses for credit card companies, but they expect to see even bigger gains in the future. If they don’t, the …

Here Are 3 Types of Good Debt (and 2 Types to Avoid)

Dec 4, 2018

Knowing the difference between good debt and bad debt can be the difference between long-term financial gains and losses.

5 Times It Makes Sense to Use a Prepaid Credit Card

Dec 4, 2018

Prepaid cards don’t come with the perks and benefits you get from debit and credit cards, but they can be useful.

How to Choose a High-Interest Savings Account

Dec 3, 2018

Don’t lose money on your savings by choosing the wrong savings account. Here’s how to choose the best high-yield savings accounts with high interest rates …

Why You Shouldn't Drain Your Savings to Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Dec 3, 2018

Credit card debt is the most expensive form of debt, and it's only getting pricier. So take a moment to learn why it may not …

12 Ways to Accumulate Credit Card Rewards and Points Faster

Dec 2, 2018

Whether you’re a rewards junkie or a credit card newbie, these easy tricks will have you sitting on a pile of points in no time

3 Times When You Shouldn’t Start an Emergency Fund

Nov 29, 2018

Having an emergency fund is incredibly important. Saving a little money now can save you a lot of money in the long run. But it's …

This 1 Trend Proves Millennials Are Using Credit Cards the Right Way

Nov 28, 2018

Forget everything you thought you knew about millennials and credit cards.

What Is a Good APR for a Credit Card?

Nov 26, 2018

Not sure if your credit card has a good rate? Find out how your APR stacks up against the competition.

What Is a Good Interest Rate on a Credit Card?

Nov 26, 2018

A good credit card interest rate might not be the same for you as it is for your neighbor. Find out what makes the difference.

When to Apply for a Credit Card

Nov 26, 2018

The majority of people are using a credit card that isn't the best fit for them. Find out when you should and shouldn't apply for …

Does a Credit Card Application Affect My Credit Score?

Nov 24, 2018

While it’s true that credit card applications can, and often do, affect your credit score, it’s not true that they’re always bad for your credit. …

How Do Credit Card Miles Work?

Nov 24, 2018

We’d all love to travel for free, but most of us don’t fly frequently enough to earn a large number of airline miles. With credit …

How to Get a Business Credit Card Without a Business

Nov 24, 2018

Very few people know how many perks business credit cards come with. Find out how to get a business credit card even if you don't …

33 Million Americans Could Soon See Their Credit Score Jump

Oct 24, 2018

This new credit scoring model could mean an increase in your credit score by 20 points or more.

3 Credit Card Goals to Hit Before Your 50s

Oct 22, 2018

As you’re nearing your 50s, make sure you’re crossing off these three important credit card goals.

3 Credit Card Goals to Hit Before Your 30s

Oct 22, 2018

Credit cards can make or break your credit, and what you do with them in your 20s forms the foundation of your financial future. Hit …

3 Credit Card Goals to Hit Before Your 40s

Oct 22, 2018

Your 30s are an incredibly important time in your financial life. Make sure you’re keeping up by checking off these three important credit card goals …

Warren Buffett’s Credit Card Advice Isn’t What You Think

Oct 18, 2018

Should you avoid credit cards? Here’s what Warren Buffett really thinks.

This Simple Strategy Can Help You Pay Off Your Debt Once and For All

Oct 18, 2018

Balance transfers can help you pay off debt quickly at a low -- or even 0% -- interest rate.

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