In recent years, a growing number of homeowners have been encouraged to treat their home’s equity like a piggy bank. On social media, creators and “finfluencers” talk about the so-called “mini-refi” as if it were a clever financial shortcut to give yourself a lifestyle bump. However, behind the catchy messaging is a significant risk. You’re being encouraged to borrow against your most important asset - your home.
Staying in “money mode” for just a little longer after filing your taxes can help you use your refund wisely and confidently. Whether your goal is to build your savings, reduce high-interest debt, or simply become more financially organized, taking time to plan before you start spending your tax refund is critical.
You’ve probably seen the rise of the “finfluencer.” These creators fill your feed with quick tips, flashy graphics, and stories about money. They offer advice that feels accessible, entertaining, and free. But facts can get buried under bright editing and confident delivery. When a video goes viral, it’s often because it sparks excitement - not because it presents personalized guidance.
Debt is often viewed negatively; however, not all debt is bad. In fact, using credit responsibly is a wise strategy to achieve milestones, such as buying a home, purchasing a car, or paying for a wedding. It can also help you manage cash flow between paychecks. Yet, even when used responsibly, debt can still feel like it’s weighing you down.
Valentine’s Day is a moment to break from the routine of daily life and remind your sweetheart you care. While the moment can reignite the spark in your relationship, the flowers eventually fade. Keeping a relationship alive for years to come involves shared goals, future plans, and the desire to make the life you imagine together a reality.
We all have one and no one wants to deal with it…a junk drawer. You know the drawer in your kitchen that’s filled with pens, coupons, mail, and everything else you can imagine. Somehow, sections of our lives become cluttered without us even realizing it’s happening. If your finances feel a bit scattered right now, you’re not alone.
Debt can feel overwhelming, not just because of the balances themselves, but because of how scattered everything becomes over time. Multiple credit cards, different due dates, and interest rates that keep climbing make it hard to feel in control. Many members reach a point where they’re paying every month, but never see the balance move significantly. That’s where debt consolidation can help.
Instead of spending days reorganizing your finances or trying to build a rigid plan that doesn’t quite match real life, a few minutes of focused cleanup can make things feel more manageable. Think of it as a reset. Fifteen minutes here and there can provide structure, reduce stress, and help you feel more in control of your money again.
For many in Gen Z, money hasn’t felt simple or predictable. You’ve dealt with changing job markets, prices that keep climbing, and advice coming from every corner of the internet – especially social media. It can often feel like everyone else learned something, and somehow you didn’t get the memo. But, in reality, most people are just trying to figure things out as they go.
Most people understand why an emergency fund is essential, yet the idea of building one can feel intimidating. When you’re balancing everyday expenses, repaying debt, or income shifts monthly, saving even a small amount can feel out of reach. And when financial advice starts with “save three to six months of living expenses,” it’s easy to shut down before you ever get started.
