Predatory lending can cause significant hardship for vulnerable consumers – although many don’t realize it until it’s too late. If you’re in a dire financial situation, being able to pocket cash the same day could be exactly what you need to bring much needed relief. But it’s crucial to understand what predatory lending is and how to avoid it since signing on the dotted line could make matters...

Scammers continue to use the same slick tactics to steal money and valuable information from unsuspecting victims. But there’s good news. Because these crooks stick with tried-and-true methods, you can more easily identify these fraud schemes. While they might tweak their strategies to fit the situation, you can still keep your financial data and personal information secure when you know how to...

First things first, what exactly is FICO short for? FICO is an abbreviation for the Fair Isaac Corporation, the first company to offer a credit-risk model with a score, and named after Bill Fair and Earl Isaac, the founders. What is a credit score? A credit score is a numerical expression of your creditworthiness. Scores typically range between 300 and 850 and are based on credit history data...

Here are three main areas of contrast between the two types of financial institutions. Relationship Does the financial institution see you as a customer or a member? Banks are publicly traded or privately owned institutions with customers. Credit unions are not-for-profit institutions with members. As a customer, expect a relationship where the bank holds power and typically answers to its...

Here are seven ways to save for an annual splurge. 1. Open a separate savings account. It’s essential to designate a specific account as your splurge fund. Earmarking a separate account will help you stay disciplined and focused on your financial goal. Plus, keeping some funds somewhere besides your checking account reduces the desire to spend that money on something else. 2. Commit to a realistic...

Combining certain tax strategies with routine planning and other opportunities such as charitable gifting can help to maximize deductions, especially in a high-tax year, says Alvina Lo, Wilmington Trust’s Chief Wealth Strategist. Here are some tax moves to keep in mind for every year, not just 2023: Contribute to Tax-Advantaged Accounts Contributions made to 401(k), 403(b), and Health Savings...

If you went through anything out of the ordinary in 2022, here’s a rundown of what to consider as you (or your tax professional) prepare to file. If You Lost Your Job If you received unemployment benefits in 2022, you should receive form 1099-G in the mail. It will show the gross amount of unemployment income you received and how much was withheld for taxes. If it seems counterintuitive that you...

When you first start teaching kids about money, it doesn’t have to feel like a lecture. It can be experiential, fun, and as engaging as you make it. Your goal is to help them develop the kind of healthy spending habits that will turn them into grown-up savers and investors you’ll be proud of. Toys Can Lead The Way Using the idea of buying a toy is a great way to teach children about money, says...

While all this can seem a little overwhelming at first, with a strategic approach, you and your family can prepare for the exciting days ahead. Here’s a look at some of the best ways to financially approach a new bundle of joy. Look at the Big Picture Kids can give us a new perspective and really ground us in what’s most important,” says Ashley Feinstein Gerstley, mother, CEO of the Fiscal Femme...

D espite the high prices, there are always some deals that are better than others. That’s why shopping around is a smart way to ensure you get the most out of every dollar you spend. Here’s what to focus on when you’re buying a car, according to auto experts. Start On The Internet Yes, we know. You want to take a test drive. That’ll come. For now, head to a couple of the big car sites and start...