Fed Hikes Interest Rates Again
On November 1, 2005, the Federal Reserve Bank [Fed] raised interest rates one quarter of a percentage point. Since Summer 2004, outgoing Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan has been raising interest rates on a regular basis since hitting its low point of just 1%. Now at 4%, Greenspan is expected to raise ... more...

Credit Card Debt & the Unfairness of the Universal Default Clause
Lets look at a real world example: A woman purchased a new $4,000 large screen TV a few months ago based on the knowledge her monthly payment was going to be $175, and based on the 9% interest rate charged by her credit card company. For five months straight she made all her payments on time, but ... more...

Christmas 2005: Bargains Galore
If you are one of the many millions of Americans who will be shopping this holiday season for gifts for loved ones, friends, and business associates, you are in the drivers seat when it comes to finding the best prices. Several events this past year have merchants scrambling to set prices low ... more...

What To Consider Before Applying For A Loan
Here are some useful tips on what to consider before applying for a loan. If you need money to pay bills or make home improvements, and think the answer is in refinancing, a second mortgage, or a home equity loan, consider your options carefully. If you can't make the required payments, you could ... more...

Disaster Proof Your Important Papers
In case you have to evacuate your home in an emergency, keep copies of your most vital papers in a portable container you can easily take with you.Keep original copies of difficult-to-replace documents, such as birth certificates and titles, in a safe deposit box. Make sure the box is held in more ... more...

Debt Consolidation Refinance Loans - A Great Way To Lower Your Bills
For millions of homeowners, refinancing is the perfect way to consolidate debts. You can consolidate your debts, eliminate outrageous interest rates and fees, and make one low monthly payment. Credit cards, medical bills, and unsecured loans can all be combined into one monthly payment when you ... more...

Like It Or Not, You Have A Score To Settle!
Like It Or Not, You Have A Score To Settle! (Part 1 of 2 on Credit Scoring)Just when most people finish with school and can stop worrying about test scores, theres a new kind of scoring that enters the picture. Its called credit scoring. And, its impact on your financial future can mean more to ... more...

Hurricane Recovery: Financial Institutions Step It Up
We have all heard the stories of financial institutions exploiting consumers with shady practices such as exorbitant interest rates, hidden fees, and the like. These accounts anger us and, rightfully, those that practice these deeds should be exposed. Fortunately, not all reports are bad as ... more...

Bad Credit Debt
In todays world, there are a lot of things that its very difficult to live without. One of them, is credit. Can you imagine trying to save up for a car until you had enough cash to just pay for it outright? Do you think you would be able to pay for college tuition and study at the same time? Who ... more...

My Credit Affects My Car Insurance Rate?
You probably know that lenders use information in your credit report to determine if they'll give you credit. But did you know that in some states, insurance companies also consider your credit history? Good or bad, your credit history may affect your ability to purchase homeowners or auto ... more...