Self-Help Articles

For far too many Americans, sweating it out financially until the next paycheck arrives is an all-too-common occurrence. What’s more, for those who find themselves in such a sticky situation, it’s not hard to imagine that saving money is high on the priority list. According to a recent survey from job-search site CareerBuilder, a full […]

Everyone remembers their first credit card. For some, the memory marks the beginnings of a successful financial journey… For others, it marks the beginning of a series of ill-advised purchases with the accompanying high-interest rates – and a descent into the murky waters of late payment fees, over-the-limit fees and a myriad of other ugly

When it comes to credit scores, a goal of a higher credit score is always better. Ranging from 350-850, your score can impart serious consequences on your financial life including what type of interest rate your credit cards carry, whether or not you’re approved for loans, your car insurance rate (in most states), and whether

Even when you’ve got a carefully planned budget in place, life happens. All it takes is one unexpected expense – say, a home or car repair; a random impulse purchase; emergency dental work; you name it – to knock your finances off course. Blowing your budget is frustrating, to be sure. But it doesn’t have

As much as Americans love to use credit cards – we have nearly $1 trillion in credit card debt to prove it – you’d think more of us would be well versed in the myriad of fees that often pop up on our monthly statements. But alas, many of us might find ourselves surprised at

Did you know your minimum credit card payment is rising? A new government program working to get Americans out of credit card debt is pushing credit card issuers to raise minimum monthly payments. Will you be able to make the higher monthly payment? Here are some tips for getting by. If you’re an American, your

There are credit counseling agencies that rescue people from the deepest financial holes. There are also credit counseling agencies that just shovel in more dirt. How do you tell them apart? Signs of a Reliable Credit Counseling Agency Better Business Bureau Membership The service’s website should have a BBB logo and a link to their

Thinking about conquering your mountain of debt but too scared even to give your debt much thought? Read this real-world scenario of how one person took the $10,000 credit card challenge and erase her credit card debt within a few years. Ever wonder how some people deep in credit card debt manage to come out

For many people, starting their own business is a personal dream. Before fulfilling your personal dream, it’s necessary to get your personal finances in order. At this early stage you’ll be using your own personal finances to start your business and if you want to succeed you must approach your personal finances with a professional

Tax time is spinning ever closer, but you still have plenty of time to get your small business taxes in order and be able to enjoy a worry-free spring. Here I have compiled a list of the top twelve tax tips for small businesses that will help you get your taxes done right and still