Money Matters

Prospective homebuyers have many options when it comes to financing their new homes, but some loan types can offer the opportunity of homeownership to those who may not have a down payment saved. For those who qualify, USDA loans can be a great path to owning your home. What is a USDA Loan? USDA, or … Read more

As you approach your 50s, financial foresight becomes more crucial than ever. This decade is often your last chance to fine-tune your retirement plan and avoid critical mistakes. But it’s so easy to misstep and scupper your retirement plans. Here, we look at 25 common financial pitfalls you must avoid to secure a comfortable and … Read more

Understanding how Social Security changes affect your retirement spending is crucial for ensuring financial stability in your golden years. Stay informed and safeguard your retirement funds with smart strategies. A Look Back, A Look Forward 2023 saw considerable spending among older Americans, driven by an increase in Social Security incomes, while the upcoming year will … Read more

The latest report from the Federal Reserve highlights a troubling trend: Americans are now grappling with over $1 trillion in credit debt. This staggering figure reflects a deepening financial crisis for many households across the nation. High-Interest Rates Exacerbate the Issue Bruce McClary of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling points out that credit card … Read more

As the cost of living continues to climb, managing your finances smartly is more critical than ever. Adopting frugal living habits can significantly cut down your expenses, paving the way for a more secure financial future. And you don’t have to sacrifice all of your little pleasures, either. We’ve got 25 practical frugal living tips … Read more

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has discovered a loophole in overdraft fees, where banks have been charging U.S. customers more than they need to. A proposed rule has the potential to save consumers up to $3.5 billion annually, here’s the full story. A Long-Standing Issue For years, consumers with a lower income have been … Read more

The increasing financial burden of healthcare is putting many Americans in a tight spot. A recent survey reveals the challenges individuals face in paying their medical bills, suggesting a deep-seated problem that extends beyond mere affordability. A Comprehensive Study A 2024 Healthcare Financial Experience Study conducted by Cedar delves into the reasons why Americans find … Read more

As economic headwinds like inflation and rising interest rates intensify, more Americans are gearing up to focus on their personal finances. A study by Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America reveals a growing trend among Americans to improve their financial strategies in response to these challenges. Heightened Financial Awareness The Allianz Life’s 2023 New … Read more

Everyone has an opinion regarding finances, especially what someone else should do with their money. Family and friends offering suggestions mean well, but you must take what they say with a grain of salt. Sometimes, their counsel is sensible, but the advice is often terrible, and you should proceed with caution. Avoiding these financial pitfalls … Read more

As auto loans and insurance rates soar, American drivers find themselves dedicating a significant portion of their income to keep their cars, leading to financial and emotional strain. Rising Auto Loan Burdens A recent MarketWatch study revealed a worrying trend among American drivers: one in ten spends over 30% of their monthly income on auto … Read more