Three Reasons to Pay with a Credit Card

Credit cards aren’t evil and they don’t automatically trap the people that use them under a mountain of debt. When used properly, there are many financial advantages to using credit cards to pay for day-to-day expenses. Here are three of the best reasons to prefer plastic:

Posted in Consumer Tips

The FDIC Offers Tips on Choosing and Using the Right Bank Account

Having a bank account brings important benefits, including deposit insurance and access to a variety of financial services. The latest FDIC Consumer News features simple tips on how to choose and manage a checking or savings account wisely. The Summer 2016 edition also has articles on depositing a check using a smartphone or tablet, avoiding credit and debit card frauds, and preparing financially for a flood, fire or other disaster. Here is an overview of what is in this issue.

Posted in Consumer Tips

Three Tips to Raise Your Credit Score and Keep it High

Your credit score affects many aspects of your life, including making large purchases, obtaining loans, renting an apartment and even applying for a job! Do you know your current credit score? When was the last time you checked your credit report? Here are a few simple steps you can take to help improve your credit score and keep it working for you, not against you.

Posted in Consumer Tips

Tips for Back to School Savings

Summer may be in full swing, but fall will be here before you know it. That means back to school shopping is on its way. Have you budgeted for school supplies and new clothes yet? The average family will spend an estimated $673 on back to school expenses, according to a recent survey from the National Retail Federation. However, creating a strategic budget and planning ahead can help you keep your family’s costs down. Here are a few simple tips to help you stick to your budget during this year’s trip through the “back to school” aisles.

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Tips to Save Money at Home this Summer

When the temperature goes up, so do energy bills, water bills and a host of other home-related costs. Here are a few tips on how to stretch your household budget this summer and still stay cool.

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Budgeting for Homebuying

The Federal Reserve may have raised interest rates slightly, but mortgage rates are still near historic lows. It’s still a great time to buy if you’ve been considering a new home! But how much house can you really afford? This is a difficult question, particularly for first-time homebuyers. Here are a few important points to consider when setting your house-hunting budget:

Posted in Buying A Home, Consumer Tips

Shopping Tips for Loans and Credit Cards

Posted in Consumer Tips

Avoid Holiday Season Scams with These Essential Tips

Now that Black Friday has come and gone, the holiday shopping season is in full swing. As millions of shoppers are making their lists and checking them twice, so are criminals looking to take advantage of the holiday rush, preying on consumers who are looking to score a deal and avoid the stress of waiting until the last minute to find that perfect gift, especially online shoppers. Consider the following tips before making a purchase to avoid falling victim to a scam.

Posted in Consumer Tips