Some little things that may make a difference in the number. 740 is the new 720. If you want to refinance or buy a home or pass muster with a lender, a landlord, an insurer or even a possible employer, it will help to have a...
WEEKLY QUOTE“It is better to be absolutely ridiculous then absolutely boring.” – Marilyn Monroe WEEKLY TIP Don’t “fake it to make it” – that is, don’t live as if you are wealthy to create a perception of success. This is a very good way to get into debt, and to...
Today’s yields can’t beat inflation. CD investors are effectively losing money. According to Market Rates Insight, a research firm tracking bank rates, annualized inflation has surpassed long-term certificate of deposit rates since February. In April, 12-month inflation hit 3.16% while the highest-yielding 5-year callable CD on...
WEEKLY QUOTE“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” – Maya Angelou WEEKLY TIP How much money do you spend on coffee annually? $1,000? More? If you are looking to save some money, buy instant and make coffee at home – or cut...
How about $6? $7? When will we see relief? How high will pump prices go this summer? Many analysts think we will pay $5 a gallon for gas this summer – and some think gas will cost much more than that. On April 20, the AAA’s...
Amid all the hype and euphoria, some history is worth remembering. America’s got gold fever. Internet headlines inform you that gold settled at another record close today. Nightly news segments show you footage of excited sellers and beaming commodities traders. Radio commercials remind you that gold...
WEEKLY QUOTE“If you’re too big for a small job, you’re too small for a big one.” – Queen Rania of Jordan WEEKLY TIP Recognize the two kinds of risk in investing: the risk of losing principal and the risk of losing purchasing power. Many investors grasp the first risk, but...
Coming your way: some of the most significant changes in 30 years. The Department of Labor has promised to update the retirement plan landscape. Three major rule changes are scheduled for the near future. All retirement plan fiduciaries and administrators should be aware of them. #1: “Covered...
If you’re going to say “I do”, here are some things you might want to do. Are you marrying soon? Have you recently married? As you begin your life together, it’s important for you to start planning your financial future together and putting your finances on...
WEEKLY QUOTE“You can't talk your way out of problems you behave yourself into.” – Dr. Stephen Covey WEEKLY TIP If your adult child takes a job without health insurance, remember that he or she can be covered by your employer's plan until age 26 under the new health care laws. WEEKLY RIDDLE New...