penalties

6 Monthly Bills That Won't Affect Your Credit Score

It might seem like every little thing impacts your credit score, but these bills fly under the radar.

10 Pointless Fees That Are Sabotaging Your Budget

Just because you have been paying that fee doesn't mean you need to keep on paying it.

4 Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Enroll in Medicare

It's easy to make mistakes when signing up for Medicare. Here's how you can avoid the big ones.

3 Financial Penalties Every Retiree Should Avoid

By the time you reach retirement, you should know how to manage your money. Don't get hit with these financial fines!

11 Basic Questions About Retirement Saving Everyone Should Ask

Retirement savings can be complicated. Get ahead of the curve by brushing up on the basics.

Here's What to Do If You Get Audited

You're being audited. Don't panic — these steps will help you navigate the process.

7 Things You Need to Know About 401(k) Hardship Withdrawals

A financial emergency strikes, and your only resource is your 401(k). Before you take that money, there are few important things to understand.

What Every Retirement Saver Should Know About Required Minimum Distributions

Uncle Sam hasn't forgotten about your tax-deferred retirement accounts. When you turn 70½, he'll come knocking.

How to Get Health Insurance If You Missed the Open Enrollment Deadline

Missed the Open Enrollment deadline? Avoid a coverage gap by taking advantage of these other ways to sign up.

6 Age Milestones That Impact Your Retirement

You can drive at 16 and vote at 18. Don't forget, though, that important age milestones come later in life, too.

5 Mortgage Details You Should Know Before You Sign

Buying a new home is exciting, but before you sign your name on the dotted line, you need to ask — and answer — a few key questions about your loan.

How to Fix Your Finances After Missing a Payment

No one is immune to financial blunders. If you miss a payment or bounce a check, don't worry — you can fix it.

What to Do When Your Tax Preparer Makes a Mistake

The tax code is complex and even the pros make mistakes. And when they do? You're responsible for clean up.

Why Saving Too Much Money for a College Fund Is a Bad Idea

It's no secret that college is costly, but stashing too much cash for your kid's education can be a not-so-great move for your financial security.

Here's What Happens If You Don't Pay Your Taxes

If you think owing money to the mob sounds scary, try owing money to the federal government.

The Penalty-Free Way to Withdraw Retirement Money Early

For most retirement plans the penalty for early withdrawal can be hefty. Here's a surprising, if complex, alternative.

Don't Ignore These 4 Things Before Refinancing Your Student Loans

If you're overwhelmed with student loan debt, refinancing might be tempting. Before you make that call, make sure you understand the fine print.

How Late Payments Affect Your Credit

Don't let runaway late payments wreak havoc on your credit score.

5 Questions to Ask Before You Borrow From Your Retirement Account

You need quick money, and money is exactly what you have sitting in a retirement account. Is it okay to borrow from it?

5 Important Tax Changes for 2016

April will be here before you know it. Are you ready for these changes to the 2016 tax code?