Does your car need new tires? How about a brake job? Is the check engine light on? From regular maintenance to emergency service, there are times when you require the assistance of a mechanic. Unfortunately, this is an expense you don’t typically want to take on. Rather than call your local dealer’s service department, you may be able to save money by visiting an independent mechanic. Here are three reasons why: • You can negotiate: Good...
It’s a common myth that your credit score can keep you from getting a job or promotion. While your current or a prospective employer may check your credit, they’re not checking your credit score. In fact, a credit score may not even be useful to an employer because it doesn’t provide the information they need to make a decision about you. An employer wants to see your credit information, so they receive a modified version of your...
Summer is the time to make memories with your family and kids. However you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Below are a few great and fun ideas that are not too expensive. Library: Public libraries are free and educational. During the summer they have sing-alongs, arts, and crafts. Check with your local library for their list of activitiesBeaches: Most beaches are free, and have endless activities. Bring games, a book, and plenty...
Financial Wellness, a new term for me, is all the rage. In fact, many companies offer financial wellness as an employee benefit. But many may ask, what is financial wellness and how does it help you? Below is a general summary, and please feel free to post in the comments section for any follow up questions. Financial wellness is not just about your net income, but its about having to experience positive financial outcomings, having a...
Learning how to invest is a critical life lesson everyone needs to learn. You do not need to be an expert, but you should learn at least the basics. While it may seem very complex and you feel as though you don’t understand money well, but the first investment you make will probably be the hardest. The most common investments are stock and bonds, and depending on your risk tolerance will vary. Stocks represent partial ownership...
If you are in yours 20s (lucky you!), you have an amazing opportunity to build a solid financial foundation that will serve you well for the rest of your life. You also have a huge opportunity to reverse any bad habits or correct any mistakes you have made to date. Now you may know that you need to start thinking about money, but just don’t know where to start. Below is a general guide and some...
Are you strongly considering quitting your job to start a business? Are you both excited and concerned about making the move? Are you unsure if now is the best time to take the leap? There are many questions you must answer before quitting your job to start a business. By addressing these early on, you’ll better understand your situation and what you’re getting into. While there are countless questions to address, here are five of the...
Banks and fintech startups are increasingly offering personal loans for consumers who need to consolidate debt, make home repairs, or take care of other financial obligations. While personal loans are becoming easier to access, there still remains some risks to watch out for before you take on new debt. Fixed Monthly Payments There’s a fixed monthly payment based on your interest rate, loan amount, and repayment period. Payments can be difficult to make if you’re having...
Your health is more important than anything else, so if your doctor suggests you take a prescription medication it’s probably a good idea to follow their instruction. However, you may have concerns about the cost of the medication, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money on prescription medication, with these four strategies among the best: • Compare local pharmacies: While your current pharmacy may have the lowest price,...
Imagine this: you receive your credit card statement expecting more of the same, but are surprised when you come across a fee. There are many types of credit card fees, including but not limited to: annual fee, late fee, and foreign transaction fee. While these are all legitimate fees that you agreed to upon signing up for the credit card, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to pay them. Before you do anything, contact customer service...
