After cutting back for three years, Americans are feeling more relaxed about borrowing and have started increasing their debt levels again. Is that smart? And how does your own financial situation compare?
borrowing
A New Way to Get Your Credit Score for Free
Almost everyone gets at least a little anxious when applying for an auto loan or a mortgage, but it’s even more stressful for people who get stuck paying higher interest rates or are turned down because of their credit. These …
Man Throws Molotov Cocktail Through Window Over $5 Unpaid Debt
When I first saw the headline that a man had burned down someone’s house over a $5 debt, I assumed that it was a press release from Capital One honoring its employee of the month in the collections division. Nope.
Credit Scores: Is 750 the New 680?
Buried in the housing data of the past few days (housing volume is down over the last month while prices are slightly up) was the most interesting release: the performance report of the Mortgage Bankers Association.
Some Say Pay Off ‘Bad Debt’ First. But Why?
There’s a lot of personal finance advice in the blogosphere that I wish didn’t exist. And one of the most annoying pieces of advice is the constant yammering about “good debt” and “bad debt” and how that bad debt must be paid off first.
Be Skeptical of Colleges Providing Student Loan Assistance
USA Today reports on a popular new trend among pricey private colleges looking to compete with more affordable public colleges: promises to help students repay their loans.
How the Recession Changed Young People’s Attitudes About Money
Everyone knows someone who grew up during the Great Depression, and as a result, eats green beans out of the can and sews up holes in socks.
Who You Calling a Deadbeat?
Turns out that all mortgage defaulters are not created equal.
And the Lord Said, Ye Shall Diversify Your Stock Portfolio
Is it wise to look to the Bible for financial advice? Many financial experts say yes (and probably “Amen” as well). By one count, the good book contains 2,300 verses that deal with how to manage your money.