Finance Globe

U.S. financial and economic topics from several finance writers.

Using the Debt Avalanche Strategy to Pay Off Debt

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Getting out of debt is nowhere as easy as it is getting into debt. Many people start out their debt journey by putting a little bit of extra toward all their debts. Even though you may be spending putting a lot of money toward your overall balance, you may not see much progress. That’s discouraging. Having the right debt payoff strategy is essential if you want to be effective in paying off your debt, even if you...
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Frank
Great information here! I would add to seek advice and help when you are under this situation. Professional advice and advice from... Read More
Sunday, 25 November 2018 16:38
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Are Premium Rewards Worth the Expensive Annual Fee?

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The perks on premium rewards credit cards look great, but the high annual fee causes many people to run the other way. The annual fee on a premium rewards credit card can be as high as $550 and unlike many other types of credit cards, the annual fee isn’t waived in the first year. That means you have to start paying for the credit card right away. In some cases, what looks like a steep credit...
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Wanderer
Great write up! It is often hard to compare various cards as today, banks and credit unions keep changing what the benefits are! I... Read More
Sunday, 04 November 2018 11:34
Frank
From my experience they have 100% worth it and paid for themselves many times over.
Wednesday, 21 November 2018 14:08
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3 Key Things Entrepreneurs Should Look for in a Credit Card

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As an entrepreneur, keeping your finances straight can make or break your business. Using a credit card can help you organize your expenses, keeping everything in one place so it’s easier to see what you’re spending. Having a separate credit card for your business helps you keep your business and personal expenses separate. This is key when it comes to accounting and filing your taxes. Keeping your expenses separate is also important for legally protecting your...
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Frank
ability to add employer cards is critical! As you grow your business and employee base, this is a big need!
Wednesday, 21 November 2018 14:04
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The New UltraFICO Will Give Millions of Consumers a Score Boost

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Since it was created, the FICO score has been based only on consumer credit history. The score uses past credit information that's compiled by major credit bureaus to calculate a credit score that predicts a consumer’s likelihood of defaulting on a new credit or loan obligation. Next January, FICO plans to release the UltraFICO score, a score that could make it easier for millions of borrowers to qualify for loans they wouldn’t otherwise be able to qualify...
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Wanderer
Great write up! Appreciate knowing what is coming and how it will work. Likely this new credit tool will benefit people that have ... Read More
Wednesday, 24 October 2018 04:30
Finance Globe
Indeed, this will likely provide many responsible and financially independent people a more accurate credit score. Excellent news,... Read More
Friday, 26 October 2018 22:18
Frank
Very very good news! I had heard this was coming down the pipeline. Thank you for summarizing Latoya!
Monday, 29 October 2018 11:50
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How to Prepare for the Next Recession

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If you survived the Great Recession of 2008, then you know just how bad it can get. Companies layoff employees. Household income declines while unemployment and bankruptcies rises. The country and consumers experience financial hardship in a grand scale. A recession is happens when the economy declines six months in a row. It’s hard to predict exactly when a recession will hit or what will cause it, but knowing there’s a possibility means you should be...
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Frank
I would recommend at least 3 months of savings. 6 months is better, but I would recommend at least 3 no matter what.
Monday, 29 October 2018 11:43
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Credit Freezes Are Now Free for Everyone

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Placing a security freeze on your credit report is one of the best ways to protect yourself from identity theft and thanks to changes in federal law, you can now do it for free. What is a Credit Report Freeze?  Freezing your credit report locks it to new inquiries. Businesses that use credit information in their lending decisions would decline an application when they can’t access your credit report. Would-be identity thieves would fail in opening...
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Frank
I am very glad this is free now, because it can be a great tool for the consumer!
Wednesday, 26 September 2018 14:26
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What to Look for in a Hotel Credit Card

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Most major hotel chains offer a co-branded credit card that allow you to earn points that you can use toward hotel stays. Frequent travelers can benefit from having a hotel credit card. Depending on the card you choose, you may be able to earn rewards on all your credit card purchases, not just your hotel purchases. Take a look at multiple hotel credit cards and compare them to decide which hotel credit card would best suit you. The signup...
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Frank
There is an incredible American Express Marriott/SPG credit card deal going on. I would highly recommend looking into this card if... Read More
Wednesday, 26 September 2018 14:24
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How to Use a Store Credit Card the Right Way

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Much of the advice you read about store credit cards is that you should avoid them at all costs. The high interest rates and low credit limits aren’t the most attractive features for a credit card. Plus, if you’re not disciplined, you could be tempted to rack up more debt than you can afford to. Store credit cards aren’t all bad. The savings and rewards can be lucrative, especially for stores you already shop frequently. If...
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Frank
I am usually against store credit cards because the returns don't outweigh the benefits. Only in unique situations where you spend... Read More
Wednesday, 26 September 2018 14:21
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6 Tips to Bounce Back From Bankruptcy

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Bankruptcy has the stigma of ending your financial life, but if you’ve been struggling with debt for months, or even years, bankruptcy can give you the fresh start you need to get back on your feet. Once your debts are wiped out in bankruptcy, it’s what you do next that determines your future financial success.  Make sure your credit report is accurate. Bankruptcy can stay on your credit report for up to 10 years, but won't take you...
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Frank
I would add to be prepared to pay everything with cash for a very long time. No one is going to give you credit so be prepared to ... Read More
Wednesday, 26 September 2018 14:15
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10 Things You Should Know About Credit Report Disputes

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Your credit report has a major influence on your life. The information in your credit report is used for everything from your home purchase to getting a new cell phone to car insurance and even employment. A 2013, FTC report showed that one in five consumers has a credit report error. Sometimes errors are enough to hurt your credit score which leads to higher pricing and even denied applications. A credit report dispute is the best...
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Frank
Great information Latoya! Have you had dispute anything on your credit report before?
Wednesday, 26 September 2018 14:14
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