Sometimes you need quick access to money. The car engine light came on. The refrigerator is on its last legs. You’re facing a reduction in hours at work. Unplanned expenses and financial hiccups pop up regularly. While payday loans might seem like a quick fix in a pinch, other, more affordable alternatives are available.
Interest rates continue to rise. It’s great for savers - higher saving yields provide greater earning potential. However, it’s an entirely different story when loan rates are also increasing – especially if the interest rates on your loans are variable. Sudden jumps can derail your budget instantly if you’re not prepared.
After a year of surging prices, members are still grappling with the effects of rising inflation. Add in the rocky performance of Wall Street, and people are looking for a silver lining. One such opportunity is beginning to shine as savings rates also start to climb – it’s called a certificate of deposit (CD).
If you’ve ever tried to shed a few pounds, you know there are plenty of diets to choose from. But most diets have one thing in common – they’re unsustainable. It's the same for monetary goals - from trying to save more or cut down on frivolous spending. True success involves lifestyle changes – altering how you view and interact with money (or food).
As you scroll through the news headlines, predictions of a looming recession are becoming more frequent. If you were in the workforce during the Great Recession of ’08, you know the one word that usually follows “recession” is “layoffs.” The following guide will walk you through steps you should take if you face an unexpected job loss.
The world today revolves around instant gratification - we want everything, and we want it now. But this “instant anything” mentality can have real-life consequences. For children that see and copy everything, this could cause a multitude of challenges down the road.
Today, most mortgages have terms that extend up to 30 years or more. While this makes the monthly payments affordable, decades of interest payments can add up to a substantial sum. A common question among homeowners is whether they should pay off their mortgage early. It can be a tricky question to answer.
A question that lurks in everyone’s mind is, “How much money do I need to retire?” While it’s a simple question, the answer is anything but that. Unfortunately, there is no magic number or one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone’s number will vary due to a multitude of factors. But several methodologies can help you determine a ballpark figure to assist with planning.
Estate planning is one of the most considerate actions you can take on behalf of your loved ones. It helps ensure your final wishes are enacted, your assets are distributed as you intended, and your children or pets are placed in the care of those you trust. And, thanks to technology, the process is easier than ever.
As the busy holiday season comes to an end, people around the world use New Year’s Day as a launching pad to improve themselves. Consistently among the top resolutions is bettering one’s financial position. The trick with setting and keeping financial resolutions is preparation. Use the following framework to ensure you're ready to start fresh in the new year.
