Dan Rafter's blog

5 Things You Should Never Buy With Your Credit Card

Put that plastic away! For these six expenses, you’re better off leaving your credit card in your wallet.

A foreclosure stings, but you can rebuild. Here's what it will do to your credit, and the steps to take to get it back.

Swimming pools and lavish gardens may sound great, but before you drop big bucks on a home renovation, know what it can do to resale value.

If you already have these good habits, pat yourself on the back! You're well on your way to great money management skills.

You and your spouse want the biggest tax breaks possible. So how should you file — jointly or separately?

Investing in retirement is a great first step, but if you're making any of these easy-to-avoid IRA mistakes, you're hurting your returns.

Follow the rules if you want a tax break for charitable contributions. The IRS isn't so charitable with audits.

Refinancing to a lower mortgage may sound like a no-brainer, but if you're close to retirement, consider these complications.

Can a low FICO score damage your shot at your dream job? Yes and no. Learn what a potential boss can see in your credit report.

Plastic is more secure than ever, but that doesn't mean your credit accounts can't be hacked. Find out how to lock it down after an attack.

If your three credit reports don't seem to align, you may have a fragmented report. Here's how to fix it.

You have equity in your home, and you need to borrow money. Should you turn to a HELOC or a home equity loan?

Debt consolidation can be a great help in eliminating debt, but it's not a cure all, and it isn't free. Here's what to watch for.

April will be here before you know it. Are you ready for these changes to the 2016 tax code?

Before taking on any new debt, ask yourself these four questions. Are you ready for the financial commitment?

Before you seal the deal on a new house, ask yourself: Are you prepared for the investment? Run through these questions first.

Hindsight is 20/20 and it's easy to look back and second guess ourselves. But not with these financial choices — they're right every time.

With an FHA loan you don't need great credit — nor a lot of cash — to get into a home. What's the catch?

Shave dollars off your most expensive bills with one simple move — pick up the phone!

As if you needed another reason to be a safe driver, it'll save you big bucks, too.