Bad credit can happen to good people. The tough economic times in recent years led to an increase in delinquent loan payments, bankruptcies, vehicle repossessions and home foreclosures, even amongst people who normally managed their finances very well. These problems are serious and cause major damage to credit reports and scores, but these circumstances are still workable and can be improved. If you are in a situation where you want to reestablish positive credit but are not sure where to begin, Read more [...]

It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year again, but the holiday season is right around the corner. If you’re like me, you get a little stressed with all the holiday get-togethers, shopping and spending. Thankfully, there are some simple ways to maintain your sanity and keep the holidays affordable this year. 1. Set a budget for the holidays. Budgeting is always a great idea, but it’s hard to know where to start. My suggestion? Review your expenses from last year’s holiday season. Be Read more [...]

There are benefits to having a mobile world of information at your fingertips, including banking. Find out the best and safest methods of utilizing banking tools on your smart phone. In this day and age, it’s hard to find someone without a mobile phone attached to them like an additional appendage. Well, except for my mom, who is still holding out because she doesn’t “want to be found.”  I always tell her, "You don’t have to answer you know …," but that is a conversation for another Read more [...]

Financially, navigating the holiday season during an economic slump can be a little tough, but with early planning and a little DIY creativity, you can eliminate extra expenses associated with last minute preparation. Believe it or not, you can be frugal and still dazzle your friends and family. Get a head start Early planning allows you to get a bigger picture of what’s ahead. Think about things you’ll need to prepare for (food, gifts, décor, etc.), set a spending limit and stick to it! When Read more [...]

Lose weight. Save money. Quit smoking. Pay off debt. 2010 brings new resolutions, and most of us could benefit from setting some financial goals for the year ahead. The beginning of the new year is the perfect time to evaluate your financial situation and set up a budget to help you save time and money in 2010 and beyond. Getting started A good starting point when establishing a budget is to put together a budget worksheet. There are many premade budget worksheets available for free online, Read more [...]