Carrie Kirby's blog

Should You Save for College Using a 529 Prepaid Tuition Plan?

Prepaid tuition plans let you buy your kid semesters of college, locked into today's pricing. Are these a good idea?

How to Protect Your Child From Identity Theft

Identity theft is scary. When your kids are the target, it's positively terrifying.

9 Halloween Treats You Can Make in an Instant Pot

Make extra special Halloween treats for your family (and yourself) this Halloween. All you need is America's favorite new kitchen gadget and some inspiration.

Should You Take Out a Loan Backed by Your Investments?

Your investment bank or brokerage firm may have offered you a securities-based loan. Make sure you understand what you're signing up for before you sign up.

9 Signs Your Identity Was Stolen

Usually, you know when you're the victim of a crime. But identity theft can be a sneaky, subtle scam. Watch out for these warnings.

Job Hunting With a Long Employment Gap

You've been out of the workforce, and now you're ready to jump back in. Don't let an employment gap keep you from finding a new gig.

How to Keep Food Waste From Spoiling Your Budget

If you're looking to cut your grocery budget, pay attention to how much money you're taking out with the trash.

9 Ways Expats Can Maintain Their Credit Scores

You may be leaving the States for a while, but there's one element of American life you should never leave behind: your credit score.

10 Places to Try the Airstream Lifestyle Before You Buy One

Before you buy, give the airstream lifestyle a try at these killer campsites.

12 Surprising Ways to Get More College Financial Aid

College tuition can send you right into a nightmare of debt. But there are ways you can make it more affordable.

It's Now Easier to Get a Home Loan Even If You Have Student Loan Debt — Should You?

Fannie Mae is making it easier for buyers with high levels of student loan debt to getL a mortgage. Sounds great — but is it?

8 Valuable Rights You Might Lose When You Refinance Student Loans

You can refinance your mortgage to chip away at federal student loans faster. But be cautious: It comes at a cost.

These Apps Turn Saving Money Into a Game — Are They Worth It?

These apps promise to gamify your savings and investing, but is gamification really the key to better finances?

These Apps and Extensions Find Online Deals for You — Automatically

To save big bucks while online shopping, you just need to add some plugins to your browser.

7 Affordable Destinations for Nature Lovers

You don't need to drain your budget to enjoy a beautiful vacation in the great outdoors. Get out there!

Everyone's Using Spare Change Apps — Are They Really Worth It?

Micro-investing apps are the modern-era change jars. Can they really help boost your finances?

6 Things You'll Encounter When Taking Over a Loved One's Finances

Chances are most of us will eventually have to manage our parents' money. It's not as easy as it looks.

How Long Does It Take to Break Even With an Electric Car

Electric cars come with rebates, fuel savings, and ... a premium price tag. How long will it take you to break even?

How to Cash In On Getting Bumped From a Flight

Nobody wants to get bumped from a flight, unless there's a way to make some serious cash from it.

12 Times Your Credit Card Has Your Back

In times of trouble, your best resource could be right in your pocket. Yes, your credit card totally has your back!