Written by Jean Chatzky Why finances can cause relationship conflicts and what to do about it. Do one thing: If you find it difficult to talk about money, it’s time to get some practice. Confide in your partner or a trusted friend and set a time to have a talk on one topic, which can be...Read More

Written by Chris O’Shea Why signature loans with no credit checks are not a smart financial move. When cash is tight and you get hit with an emergency expense, you might find yourself considering a signature loan with no credit check. It can be a risky move due to the high interest rates, but it...Read More

The big banks and brokerages are “calling” high-rate CDs! Do you know what that means? CD rates are falling, but you locked in a nice high-rate CD with a big bank or brokerage firm, so you think your returns are safe, right? Don’t bet on it! Many high-rate CDs are “callable,” meaning the big bank...Read More

Written by Chris O’Shea Things you should know about installing solar panels on your home. Adding solar panels to your home can reduce your environmental footprint and save you some cash. However, while there’s no denying the former, the latter can be a bit tricky. Here’s what you should know about the costs and considerations...Read More

Written by Chris O’Shea The pros and cons of 401(k) loans. A 401(k) loan can be a useful financial tool. As the name suggests, it allows you to borrow money from your 401(k) and use that money on other expenses. There are a few factors where it may make financial sense as an alternative to...Read More

(That Aren’t Snowball or Avalanche) Written by Jean Chatzky Consider these methods for paying down your high-interest debt. Do one thing: Set aside an hour and take a look at your last two months of financial statements. Review credit card expenses and checking account expenditures to see where your money is going.  Debt Weighing Heavy on...Read More

Written by Jean Chatzky A quick and painless way to shave dollars off your monthly bill and hundreds of dollars off your total interest paid. Ever thought about refinancing your car loan to capture a lower interest rate? It can be done.Unlike refinancing a home mortgage, the process is quick, and easy, with relatively low...Read More

Written by Chris O’Shea Looking at HVACs and if a home warranty can help with repairs If you’re a homeowner who has had to make significant repairs to your HVAC system, you know how financially painful that can be. The numbers back that up. Not only are HVAC systems some of the most expensive items...Read More

Written by Jean Chatzky Consider these tips before you sign on the dotted line — for a new car and loan. Do one thing: Before you let a car dealer provide financing, check out the loan rates for new and used automobiles at your local credit union or bank. Often, that’s where the best deals...Read More

Written by Jean Chatzky Want to dig yourself out of high-interest debt? Here’s how: Do you have a wallet full of credit cards and carry balances from month to month? Figuring out how to pay those growing debts off can sometimes feel impossible. Ask yourself the following questions: Should I only make the minimum payments?Do...Read More