Credit

Are You Losing Money On These Sneaky Credit Card Charges?

Consumers tend to be fairly well-educated on credit card interest rates and annual fees, but there are a host of other charges that can lead to increased debt, too. Though credit card companies often fly under the radar with these money-makers, it’s possible for the savvy consumer to avoid them altogether. Read on for several of the most ... More

Debt Collection 101

Many consumers face calls from debt collectors from time to time. It can happen easily when life gets hectic and a bill accidentally goes unpaid. If your payment is more than 30 days past due, however, you may be turned over to a debt collection agency to collect payment and close the account. Don’t panic if this happens – you still have ... More

Stop Making These Harmful Credit Mistakes Before You Apply For a Mortgage

If you’re thinking of buying a home, you likely know how important a strong credit score will be. Mortgage lenders use this all-important number as the key indicator of your financial health. In fact, a less-than-stellar credit score can make or break your ability to qualify for a mortgage and buy the home of your dreams. So, how do you ... More

Using Credit Cards Responsibly Can Be Good For Your Finances

It’s a fact: when credit cards are used irresponsibly, they can lead to financial ruin. That’s why they receive a lot of attention for the negative impact they can have on personal finances. However, not all consumers fall victim to living above their means and entering a cycle of revolving debt that can be difficult to emerge from. For ... More

Start The New Year By Reviewing Your Credit Report

Aside from personal wellness goals, financial intentions are the most popular of New Year’s resolutions topics. Credit counselors recommend reviewing your credit report at least once per calendar year to ensure this all-important picture of your financial health remains accurate, and there’s no better time that the beginning of a new ... More

Unexpected Items That May End Up On Your Credit Report

If you’ve ever scanned your credit report – and you should do so annually – you’ve likely seen all the expected information: name, address, social security number, existing debts and credit applications. If you look closely, though, you may find some surprising information, as well. Here are four items you may be surprised to find on ... More

What Credit Card Companies Don’t Want You To Know

In 2015, a NerdWallet study revealed that the average American had $16,000 in credit card debt. Many try desperately to climb out of the debt hole, only to be sucked back in. While some responsibility must be taken for personal spending decisions, credit card company policies are also holding many people back from wiping out their debts. Read ... More

Can Social Media Hurt Your Credit?

It may sound ridiculous, but your social media profiles could make or break a future credit application. Some lenders have begun using a controversial new methodology for approving or denying loan applications that includes an algorithm to take into account information about your social media networks. Although this practice is not yet ... More

Three Credit Mistakes You Don’t Realize You’re Making

Your credit score is a key indicator of your financial health, and it can make or break your ability to buy a car, a home or even get a personal loan in a time of need. What’s more, some of the supposedly responsible money habits you’ve developed might actually be hurting your credit. If so, you’re not alone. Consumer research shows ... More

Got Stellar Credit? These Credit Cards Are For You

As reward credit cards continue to gain traction among consumers, banks are continually competing against one another for customers. In this case, consumers win – especially those with excellent credit ratings. The following cards offer exceptional rewards packages to those who have maintained excellent credit, especially in the areas of ... More