Emily Guy Birken

Emily has written 4 PF books: "The Five Years Before You Retire," "Choose Your Retirement," "Making Social Security Work for You," and her latest "End Financial Stress Now."

Emily Guy Birken's bio

Latest articles by Emily Guy Birken

How to Avoid These Common Hidden Fees

Don't let these sneaky fees blow your budget when making a purchase.

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.

How to Decide If Pet Insurance Is Worth the Cost

Pet insurance can cost a pretty penny, but it can also save you an arm and a leg.

What to Do With a Windfall

You just stumbled upon a big pile of money. Congrats! Here's what you should do with it.

What to Do Now to Prepare for Tax Season

Tax Day may seem far away, but after we celebrate the new year, it'll be here before you know it. Here's what you can do now to get ready.

Why It Pays to Be a Patient Shopper

When you want something, you want it now! But buying the first acceptable option that fits your budget could be costing you big bucks.

Why You Should Throw a Dinner Party to Talk About Death

Invite your friends over. Get the drinks flowing. Then get into a deep discussion about death. It won't be as bad as you think.

How to Protect Your Finances in Case of a Recession

When the next recession hits, you want to be prepared. Is your money ready?

3 Money Arguments That Can Hurt Your Relationships

You should really nip these common money arguments in the bud before they hurt your relationships.

How Pre-Commitment Mechanisms Can Help You Resist Impulse Buys

You might think impulse buys are impossible to resist, but if you train your brain with pre-commitment mechanisms, you can fight those urges and save money in the process.

4 Money Moves Every College Freshman Should Master

There will be lots of things to learn during your first year of college. Make sure you master these money moves between classes.

How to Resist These 4 Rationalizations to Spend Money

It can be easy to justify spending money on things you want. But there are ways to fight those urges, and protect your hard-earned money.

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.

How to Keep Office Solicitations From Busting Your Budget

Office solicitations are a sneaky budget buster. It's time to stop letting them drain your savings.

How to Use Budgeting Skills to Improve Your Time Management

Managing your time requires some of the same skills as managing your money. Here's how to master both.

4 Mindful Spending Habits That Will Save You Money

These mindful spending strategies can help you resist those impulse buys.

How to Decide If a Membership Is Worth the Price

Before you sign up for another monthly payment, make sure that membership is worth it.

How Recent Grads Should Prepare for Student Loan Payments

Now that college is over, it's time to start paying those student loans. Here's how to budget for those payments without feeling too overwhelmed.

How to Get Your Spouse on Board With Budgeting

You and your spouse may be on the same page with beliefs, and parenting methods, but are your financial goals in line?

Why Behavior Nudges Don't Always Lead to Healthy Habits

Behavior nudges have proven successful in many scenarios, but they aren't perfect. Here's why they may not be the best bet for changing your habits.