Financial Goals

Starting Out on My Own

If you recently graduated from high school or college, learning the financial ropes early can help you enjoy life more and stress less about your future. As soon as you have an income, start creating financial goals. Learn about how your money choices today affect your ability to live your dream lifestyle.

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Building Credit

Your credit score can influence how much you pay for financing, where you can afford to live, and even your job prospects. Before you can build a strong credit profile, you must understand how to use credit responsibly. Whether you're new to credit or need to rebuild a damaged credit history, building good credit is possible with a few consistent credit behaviors.

Resources

Articles
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Credit vs. Debit Cards: How They Differ and Why It Matters
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7 Behaviors That Hurt Your Credit Score
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Common Financial Pitfalls by Decade
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Credit Card Pay Off Calculator

Expense Management

It's the little things that matter, especially when it comes to money management. Day-to-day spending can move you closer to your financial goals or keep you from achieving them altogether. Managing your finances doesn't take much time, but it does require you to make smart choices. 

Resources

Articles
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Are Budgets Necessary?
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5 Expenses to Consider Before Getting a New Pet
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How to Build an Emergency Fund
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A Recent Graduate's Guide to Managing Finances During Uncertain Times
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Why You Need a Checking Account Cushion
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4 Financial Goal-Setting Myths - Debunked!
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Budget for These Commonly Overlooked Car Ownership Expenses
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Are You Using the Right Budgeting Method?
Calculators
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Savings Goal Calculator
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Future Value Calculator

Avoiding Financial Scams

Scammers never take a break. They are always coming up with schemes to steal identities, empty bank accounts, and wreak havoc on personal finances. Informed consumers can avoid being victims of these criminal scams when they know what to look for and how to protect themselves.

Resources

Articles
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4 Ways Fraudsters Make Financial Scams Sound Legitimate
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5 Simple Actions That Help Protect Your Account Against Fraud

Resources - Listing

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Dad assemble crib

6 Simple Ways to Save Big on New Baby Expenses
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Dad and Son

How to Handle Finances When Adult Children Move Back Home

Article
Couple wit realtor

Ready to Buy a Home? Here's What to Do Before You Apply for a Mortgage
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Family on couch with kids

The Secret to Successful Financial Goal Setting for Families
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Man and woman budgeting

Are You Using the Right Budgeting Method?
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Woman Signing for Car

Budget for These Commonly Overlooked Car Ownership Expenses