Making Sense of FICO Credit Scores

/
Making Sense of FICO Credit Scores

Have you ever wondered how FICO credit scores are determined? Better yet, have you tried to explain the process to your children in an effort to prepare them for their own financial futures? It’s important for you (and your children) to understand FICO credit scores because insurance firms, landlords and even employers can use them as a way to determine your level of responsibility. Here’s an overview to help you make sense of FICO credit scores.

Read More

10 Great Financial Blogs for Millennials

/
10 Great Financial Blogs for Millennials

According to a 2015 survey from T. Rowe Price, a more appropriate term for millennials might actually be “the Money-Conscious Generation.” Apparently, the 18- to 34-year-old set is better about tracking their spending and sticking to a budget than Baby Boomers. Here are 10 great financial blogs to help millennials increase their financial literacy, reduce their debt, and prepare for retirement.

Read More

5 Tips to Stop Overspending on Your Children

/
5 Tips to Stop Overspending on Your Children

In this age of immediacy many parents have fallen victim to adage of “more is better”.  According to T. Rowe Price's 2016 Parents, Kids & Money Survey, 57% of parents say they spend too much on things their kids do not need.  Here are five tips to help you combat the “more is better” mentality.

Read More

Debit vs. Credit: Pros and Cons of Plastic

/
Debit vs. Credit: Pros and Cons of Plastic

Using credit cards has its benefits, but not without risk and room for error. Credit cards may provide more opportunity, as long as you maintain good financial responsibility. The alternative — debit cards — have limitations that can help deter mistakes. The the advantages and disadvantages here...

Read More

Tips about the economy, the U.S. debt, credit cards, and more

/
Tips about the economy, the U.S. debt, credit cards, and more

Teaching children about the state of our economy in these economically turbulent times can be challenging for parents especially when they don’t always understand the situation and terminology themselves. The following is a list of some great tips and resources that can help parents and children make sense of the economy, and also their own financial security.

Read More

How the Government Shutdown is Affecting American Families

/
How the Government Shutdown is Affecting American Families

There’s been lots of talk in the news about the current government shutdown, and at this time, there’s no clear indication of when the situation will be resolved. But how is the shutdown affecting the American family? Here's a list of some of the ramifications of the government shutdown and how they might affect you.

Read More

Teaching a College Student About Money Management and Identity Protection

/
Teaching a College Student About Money Management and Identity Protection

20 percent of college students are facing financial hardships because of debt. To prevent your child from becoming part of this statistic, sit down and discuss money management before sending them off to college. By taking an active role early, you have the best chance of preventing your child from becoming the one in five who is struggling to control their financial situation.

Read More

Paying with cash versus credit

/
Paying with cash versus credit

According to the Federal Reserve's April 2013 G-19 Consumer Credit Report, Americans owe a hefty $850.9 billion in credit card debt, or $ 6,890 per household. If we are going to raise money-smart kids, we need to teach them the potential perils of relying on credit cards, and explain to them (and even model) the benefits of using cash. Here are some great reasons to choose cash over credit.

Read More

Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Debt

/
Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Debt

Once upon a time there lived a little girl who was loved so dearly, and it could be seen very clearly. Her name was Little Red Riding Hood, a girl so sweet and so good. Her parents gave her all the best, but did they truly prepare her for her first big test? She was popular and had many a friend, but unfortunately did not learn how to wisely save and spend.

Read More

5 Tips to Avoid Holiday Debt and Overspending

/
5 Tips to Avoid Holiday Debt and Overspending

Ever hear the expression "post holiday hang over?" That's what it feels like when we open up our January credit card statement. With a little planning and creativeness, we all can avoid holiday debt and the post holiday blues and don't forget to include your kids in the process. Here are our 5 tips for a truly money-smart holiday season:

Read More