emergency fund

How to Factor a F#@! Off Fund into Your Budget

Tax Refund: 5 Good vs. Better Ways to Use It

This America Saves Week: Take Action to Improve Your Financial Situation
Relatively Easy Money Goals That are Said to be Impossible
When talking to friends, family, and even associates about your large financial goals, the first response from them is usually a dismissive one. And if you “dare” to inform them of the nearly impossible financial goal that you have achieved, most of them will automatically think that you are lying or exaggerating the truth. Some […]
Take Control of Your Financial Fears This Halloween
With Halloween less than 48 hours away, what better time to conquer your biggest financial fears head on. One thing to remember is just like any other types of fear, financial fears are only terrifying when you avoid them. The most powerful antidote for any fear is action. Taking action makes you feel more in […]
Steps to Achieve Your Short and Long-Term Financial Goals
Financial success doesn’t happen overnight. Just because you dream about it, it doesn’t mean it will magically happen. That’s why establishing goals is crucial to turn those dreams into reality. Most experts recommend that we set short and long-term goals when planning our financial future. Short-term goals are easier to accomplish and take less commitment. […]

4 Easy Ways to Get Involved in America Saves Week and Save Successfully
Have You Planned Ahead for These Common Emergencies?
Many people are aware that financial emergencies can occur at the drop of a pin, and plan accordingly by saving a small sum to cover these potential disasters. Unfortunately, a greater number of individuals carry the “it won’t happen to me” mentality, which can put their financial security in jeopardy. Some aspects of financial prosperity […]
8 Ways to Make the Most of Your Holiday Bonus
No matter where you work, there’s always a glimmer of hope you’ll find something extra in your paycheck around the holidays. In the event such dreams actually do come true, a windfall of cash can make us do some strange things. Suddenly, even the most frugal shopper is looking for any excuse to spend their […]
Ask Yourself These Questions Before Your Next Big Purchase
by April Lewis-Parks It’s happened before and it’ll happen again. You’re shopping for a new belt or accessory and suddenly you see something you’re sure you can’t live without. Before you know, you’ve made a credit card splurge or dipped into your “for emergencies only” fund to cover the costs. Breaking down and making impulse […]
When should you tap into your emergency savings?
by April Lewis-Parks Saving money for unexpected expenses so important! A rainy day fund can not only keep you covered should your car break down or if you are saddled with a medical expense, but it can also protect you from having to drain your hard-earned savings or max out your credit cards. But having […]
Economic growth improves, but don’t rush to the mall yet
As the U.S. economy shows signs of recovery, you might feel it’s time to swipe your credit cards again in all your favorite stores, but not so fast… Even though the economy has grown, permanent hiring remains stagnate and the housing market has not improved. The Federal Reserve reports that consumer borrowing in the U.S. […]

Retirement Planning Tips to Implement Sooner Rather than Later
Declaring Your Financial Independence
The Fourth of July holiday is a good time to resolve to clean up your finances and start freeing yourself from debt, particularly because it often starts the two months of overspending on summer fun. Make this the year you tighten up your own personal economy and sharpen your long-term money plans. Steps to achieve […]
How to Measure Your Debt Load – Healthy vs. Unhealthy
Credit-card debt doesn’t have to be bad – but it must be managed properly. Using credit cards is one of the primary ways Americans establish a healthy credit score. Credit cards also act as great emergency fund resources when a big unexpected cost comes up – but using credit cards must be done with caution […]
Don’t Take a Vacation from Your Finances – Strive for Financial Independence!
Make this summer the time you tighten up your own personal economy and sharpen your long-term money plans. Here are some essential steps to achieve financial independence: 1. Pay yourself first. This personal finance adage is one of the wisest, but Americans tend to make it a priority only in challenging times. Set aside a […]
10 Easy Ways to Start an Emergency Fund
The car breaks down, the furnace in your house blows, your child needs braces and you don’t have the disposable money to cover the financial consequences. It happens every day and many people are stuck paying by credit card or financing for months into the future at alarming interest rates, putting themselves further into debt. […]