What you need to know about credit and borrowing
Everyone is faced with financial decisions – from borrowing money to buy a home or go to college, to choosing insurance and investing for retirement. Before you make a big decision, consider your options carefully. With our Money Matters resources you can evaluate your alternatives, and before long you’ll be on your way to financial security.
Writing a Will in 5 Simple Steps
A simple will can take less than one hour to create, sign with two witnesses and store for safekeeping. Learn the five basic steps to creating a legitimate will and ensure your assets are protected.
Insurance: Risk vs. Reward
While there is no way to avoid risk completely, learn how purchasing insurance can help reduce the financial losses that result from unexpected events.
Mutual Funds
A big problem facing small investors is how to diversify one’s assets over many types of stocks or bonds in order to reduce their overall risk. If you are buying individual stocks and bonds, you’d need thousands of dollars in a range of investments in order to be adequately diversified. But there is another option: mutual funds.
Building Wealth
By following a few simple principles, anyone can build a solid financial foundation over time.
Car Loans
How often do you negotiate an auto loan? Car salesmen do it every day… Before you head to the lot, get prepared with key tips on third-party financing, new vs. used cars, and the truth about “0% interest.”
Compound Interest
It’s been called the “most powerful force in the universe” and is the preeminent mechanism by which wealth accumulates in the economy. Learn why compound interest is so important not only to bankers and investors, but to those of us who are looking to save for retirement.
Credit Reports
Want to know how credit reports work, what is or is not in them, and why they’re such an important part of your financial situation? Our introductory guide will help you learn the basics.
Credit Scores
What’s your credit score? Why’s it so important? Who determines it? And how can you build and improve your credit score over time? We have the tips and links to answer all your questions.
Mortgages 101
Your house will probably be the biggest purchase you ever make. Before you take the plunge into home ownership, read our online guide. We can help you understand subprime mortgages, avoid common pitfalls, and find the loan that’s right for your budget.
Retirement Savings
If you’re saving for retirement, there are some tax-advantaged alternatives that can help you reach your financial goals. Our Saving for Retirement section covers 401(k) and 403(b) plans and Roth and Traditional individual retirement accounts (IRAs).
Short Term Loans
We know that things don’t always go according to plan, and sometimes there’s not enough money in your bank account to pay your bills on time. When used responsibly this option can save you money and allow you to avoid costly –and often hidden- bank and credit card fees. Get the real story on how a sensible borrower uses short-term loans.
Student Loans 101
Borrowing money for school can be a very smart idea. Did you know that a college bachelor’s degree is worth almost $1 million more in lifetime earnings than a high school diploma? We’ve got the inside scoop on what you need to know before you apply for student loans.