Personal Finance

Downside of the Rolling Jubilee

The Rolling Jubilee is a great PR move — buying, then forgiving debt from real people. But in terms of change, one writer says it might hurt more than help.

5 Reasons to Use Your Credit Card for Holiday Purchases

From extended warranties to price protection to easier returns, buying holiday gifts with your credit card can give you some serious benefits.

Arguing Over Money Drives Your Kids to Credit Card Debt

Discover how your relationship with money can affect your kids' relationship with money — and how to make positive changes for you and them.

Skip the Trade-In: Why You Should Sell Your Car Privately

If you're in the market for new wheels, find out why it might be smarter to skip the trade-in and sell your old car yourself.

Investments Worth Making With $50 or Less

When it comes to investment, $50 or less might not seem like a lot of money, but there are plenty of ways to take that sum and watch it grow.

Buy a Home You Can Afford With the Mortgage Suitcase Trick

When you're thinking about buying a home, it's easy to buy more house than you need (and get stuck with a pricier mortgage). Use this trick to save.

Best Store Credit Cards

Retail branded credit cards may be a wise choice for loyal customers. But what about department store credit cards?

What You Pay in Time

You probably think about costs in terms of currency. Experiment with this alternative way of thinking that could change how you work and spend.

Save Thousands by Buying a Timeshare on the Secondary Market

A timeshare can be a frugal way to take a vacation — especially if you buy directly from the current owner. Here's how.

6 Places It Pays to Relocate To

Looking for a change? From paying you for your smarts to just plain paying you, these six locations want you so much, they're willing to pay you to move.

Quiz: Am I Really Ready to Buy a Home?

Buying your first home is a big accomplishment, but it comes with a lot of responsibility. Take our quick quiz to find out if you're ready to take the plunge.

How the Election Will Affect Your Credit Cards

How will credit card companies react to the U.S. Presidential election? We have some predictions — and some things you should do to prepare yourself.

12 Annoying Bank Fees and How to Avoid Them

Account fees have become big business for banks and a major drain on consumers’ pocketbooks. Protect your balance by avoiding these 12 common fees.

The Housing Market Is Finally Rebounding

The housing market is rebounding, and the buyer's market is ending. But should you rush to buy a home now? Read this article to help decide.

The Lincoln Guide to Personal Finance

President Abraham Lincoln invested most of his presidential paychecks in Treasury Bonds. Discover why his method is still good advice today.

7 Secrets to Refinancing an Underwater Mortgage

An underwater mortgage can drag you down. Learn how to refinance and why now is a great time to contact a lender — even if you were previously denied.

Preparing for the Fiscal Cliff

There's a good chance that the "fiscal cliff" America is about to go over will be a non-issue. But that's no reason not to do a bit of preparation.

What Happens at a Foreclosure Auction?

Property buyers with cash can save as much as 30% off the market price at a foreclosure auction. Here's what to expect on the courthouse steps.

How Rewards Cards Make Money

If you think you're gaming your credit card company, think again — you might be one of its biggest money makers. Learn how to avoid the trap.

Preparing Financially for a Natural Disaster

Hurricane Sandy's devastation served as an important reminder for many — when it comes to emergency planning, you need an emergency financial plan too.

Latest Articles in Personal Finance

How to Dispute Mistakes On Your Credit Report

Notice something amiss on your credit report? Don't fret. This is how you can dispute any mistakes.

The 8 Most Eye-Opening Money Attractions in the U.S.

Make your next vacation money-themed, and check out these eight amazing attractions across the U.S.

Someone Took Out a Loan in Your Name. Now What?

A fraudulent loan can have dire consequences for your personal finances. Here's how you can fix the problem, stat.

5 Things to Know Before Adding Someone to the Deed

Before you add someone to the deed on your home, you should be aware of these five things.

Banks Still Offering Free Checking and Savings with Great Interest Rates

Tired of fee-gouging from your old bank? Here are the banks with the best checking and savings terms.

Capital One 360: A Competitive Banking Option

CapOne 360 is a great option for those looking for low fees and great interest rates!

5 Best Online Checking Accounts

Whether you're looking to earn interest or for great customer service and reasonable fees, these five online checking account are all wise choices.

5 Ways Gig Economy Workers Can Save for Retirement

Even if your full-time job consists of several gig economy jobs, you can successfully save for retirement — here's how.

5 Renovations That Don't Increase Your Resale Value

Before you get started on a new home renovation, make sure you know if it'll increase your resale value.

How to Protect Yourself From Credit Card Theft

Don't let a scammer get a hold of your credit card number. Here's how to keep your account secure.

5 Reasons Not to Use Debit Cards When You Shop Online

Before you place an order through your favorite online retailer, consider these reasons to use credit instead of debit.

How Cosigning On a Student Loan Could Impact Your Finances

Before you cosign on a student loan, these are four important things to keep in mind.

16 Small Steps You Can Take Now to Improve Your Finances

Believe it or not, you can improve your finances in a big way by making several small money moves.

How to Maximize Rewards on Everyday Spending

If you're not using your travel or cash back card for certain expenses, you're leaving valuable rewards on the table.

How to Stay Calm During a Market Fluctuation

If you're tempted to bail on investments when you hear scary financial predictions, it's important you learn how to keep your cool.

The Pros and Cons of Refinancing an Auto Loan

Before you refinance your auto loan, here's what you need to know.

How to Make Better Financial Decisions

Focusing all your efforts into reaching one financial goal is a fairly straightforward process. But what about when you have more than one financial goal? This guide will help.

The Pros and Cons of Paying Off Your Debt Early

You dream of being debt-free, but is it all it's cracked up to be?

5 Things Keeping You From a Life of Financial Independence

These are common obstacles that could be standing between you and sweet financial freedom.

Should You Use a Personal Loan or a Home Equity Loan to Remodel Your Home?

Looking to remodel your home? Here's how to decide between a personal loan and a home equity loan to pay for it.