Dan Rafter's blog

The 5 Best Mid-Sized Cities for Millennials

You don't have to make it there to make it somewhere. Enjoy big city living without the big city cost in these five medium-sized metropolises.

You might be dreading your next credit card bill, but don't worry — you can bounce back from a holiday spending splurge.

Stress is one bad, expensive habit. From impulse buys to overindulgence, here’s how stress is killing your finances.

We all make mistakes, which is why you shouldn't skip regular reviews of your credit reports. Any errors there can cost you.

You want out of credit card debt, and you want out fast. You have several options — which will work for you?

The Fed is raising benchmark rates for the first time since 2008's economic meltdown. Here's how this move will affect borrowers.

If you're looking for a job, spend some time over the holidays polishing your resume. The next "Best Time" to land a job is coming soon.

Don't let your mortgage lender hold out on you! They're in on these secrets — and they could save you big.

Sure, who doesn't love that new car smell? But for cars and these other seven things, you'll save mega bucks buying used.

A 15-year mortgage is a lot cheaper than a 30-year mortgage. You should probably choose the 30-year loan anyway.

Student loan borrowers have lots of repayment options, including a growing number of refinance options. Here's what to look for.

Even the humblest of down payments will eat up a sizable savings account. How can you put together a down payment on a home that won't break you?

Taking reasonable investment risks can be fun with "play money" you set aside for the purpose — just don't risk your retirement or emergency fund!

Ready to jump ship from your work-offered health insurance to your spouse's? Be sure to weigh these six key factors first.

Poor service, endless fees, inconvenient locations… Why put up with it when you can go elsewhere for banking services?

Working on the road can feel make you feel lost and lonely, but these homey hotel hacks will help you keep your routine.

Keep your credit reputation ship-shape and you'll qualify for more — and better — credit later. Here's how.

The rich get richer. You could get jealous, or you could get inspired to find out how wealthy stay that way, and copy them?

Chances are you'll make one or two financial resolutions on New Year's Eve. All we're saying is: Why wait?

You may be able to pay down your credit card debt faster with a personal loan. These are things you should consider.