Tim Lemke's blog

Is Layaway Still Worth It?

Layaway faded away back in '90s, but this different way to pay is making a comeback. Is it worth it?

9 Ways Being Too Responsible Can Cost You

It's always smart to do the sensible thing, right? Usually — until being sensible starts costing you real money.

The 7 Debt Payoffs That Boost Your Credit Score the Most

If you've got more than one kind of debt to repay, target the debt that hurts your credit score the most and watch your rating improve — fast.

8 Reasons the Easter Bunny Should Give Money Instead of Candy

While you're letting your kids gorge on candy, consider weaving in these lessons in personal finance.

The 10 Biggest Lies We Tell Ourselves About Money

Who are you trying to kid, anyway? Quit telling yourself these major money lies.

7 Money Lessons We Can Learn From Beyoncé

Men and women alike can take away a few critical money lessons from Queen Bey herself.

11 Financial Moves to Make the Moment You Get Fired

Getting fired can feel like your world is falling apart. Make these financial moves right away and you'll start putting it back together again.

7 Investment Accounts All 30-Somethings Should Have

You're not a kid anymore. It's time for you, and your money, to grow up.

8 Assets You Can Count on During Tough Times

When the going gets tough, the tough get going toward these eight dependable assets. What's backstopping your finances?

8 Surprising Ways Cheap Oil Impacts Your Wallet

The price of oil keeps on dropping — and that's good, right? Mostly, but there are some negatives, too, even if you don't work in the oil patch.

8 Signs You've Crossed From "Healthy" Debt to "Problem" Debt

There's a razor-thin line between "healthy" debt and a big financial problem debt. Have you crossed it?

11 Investing Tips You Wish You Could Tell Your Younger Self

If you could go back 20 years and give your younger you some investment advice, would it echo any of these 11 pearls of financial wisdom?

8 Things Americans Were Better at in the 1950s Than Today

Americans used to be so good at basic skills — like saving money. Things have gone a bit downhill since the 1950s.

Stop Making These 10 Bogus Retirement Savings Excuses

Your nest egg needs attention now if you want to ease smoothly into retirement later. No more excuses!

12 Financial Moves to Make When a Loved One Dies

Putting off money matters is common even in the best of times. But in the weeks following the death of a loved one, these money decisions can't wait.

Do These 10 Green Appliances Actually Save You Money?

What's good for the environment can be good for your wallet. Find out how much that little Energy Star logo is really saving you.

7 Ways Being Debt Free Can Cost You

Generally speaking, debt is bad. But sometimes taking on debt is unavoidable — and can actually be good for you.

11 Ways the Government Pays You to Live Green

The government can help you save green — by going green! Make these eco-friendly lifestyle changes today and watch your savings grow.

6 Retirement Products That Aren't Worth Your Money

These retirement products promise stability and wealth in your golden years, but the truth is, you're better off without them.

10 Money Goals All 30-Somethings Should Have

You're not 29 anymore. Do you have your act together, financially?