Articles on Personal Finance

From Beanie Babies to Baubles: 5 Unconventional Investments

If you're savvy, your unconventional investment can produce an outsize return. But be wary — these also come with a lot of risks.

The "Secret" Credit Card Perk That Saved Me $300

What to do when a purchase breaks after the warranty is over? Read your credit card fine print — you might be able to get a full, no-string-attached refund.

New Breadwinner in the Household: How Does This Affect Life Insurance?

When your family's income changes, it's important to reexamine your life insurance coverage. Here's what you need to know.

How Much Should You Invest?

Knowing how much you should invest can be a very difficult (and very personal) question. Read this overview of your options to help you decide.

The "I Knew It!" Benefit of Expense Tracking

It's worth tracking your spending because it's the only way to learn where your money is going. But it's worth doing for another reason as well.

Why We Take on Credit Card Debt

Why some of us take on so much debt — and how others manage to avoid it so well — can seem mysterious. Discover some of the reasons.

No Hassle: Capital One Cash Rewards Card

A miserly 1% cash back isn’t great, but several other attractive features make this card a good choice, especially for world travelers.

Best Money Tips: Ways to Save Money for a House

Today we found some fantastic articles on ways to save money for a house, steps to take before a job interview, and how to protect your stuff.

Stockpiling Is Rarely the Answer

Stockpiling for an emergency might seem like a good (and frugal) idea. But in reality, your time and money is probably better spent.

21 Ways to Make a Big Financial Change

Making big financial change requires vision, commitment, and inspiration. Here are 21 ways to stay the course and meet your goals.

The Power of the Customer in Banking

When big banks make big changes we don't like, it's easy to feel helpless. But the truth is that raising your voice can make a real difference.

What's a Fair Relationship Between Salary and Rent?

A recent study suggests that many workers can't afford a decent place to live. But is truth that we need to change our concept of a good standard of living?

Keep Your Credit Card Safe While Shopping Online

Whether you're doing holiday shopping or just making an everyday purchase, follow these steps to keep your credit card information safe.

7 Essential Truths for a Successful Retirement

Retirement planning can seem overwhelming, but don't let that overrule common sense. Instead, follow these seven essentials for a successful future.

7 Great Investments for First-Timers

If you're new to investing and unsure of where to start, don't fret! Check out these investments that are great for newbies.

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.