According to Yahoo, “Improving Your Credit Score” was a real mover and shaker for searches this week. No need to search, Ill give you some pointers right here…
Why Does It Matter?
Most of you know that a low credit score will hurt you on mortgage, car and credit card interest rates. But did you know that a low credit score can hurt you in other areas, too? Such as…

Car and Home Insurance
Getting a Job or a Promotion
Utility Deposits
Cell Phones
Some Medical Procedures
School Loans
Your Marriage

6 Ways To Improve Your Credit Score:
1. Make …

I received lots of comments and questions on my last article about the safety of banks and how the FDIC insurance works. Here’s a quick rundown:
Yes, you can be covered for more than $100,000 based on how the account is titled. For example, you can have account(s) for 1$00,000, your spouse can have account(s) for $100,000  and you can have joint accounts for $200,000. Note: Joint Trust accounts are not included in this ownership. For more information, see the FDIC publication, “Insuring Your Deposits.”
You can also confirm that your accounts …

Does IndyMac Bank’s failure this week make you want to run right down to the bank and take your money out?
I received that very question from some clients this morning. David and Rhonda had heard that one of our local banks was in trouble and wanted to get my opinion on getting their money out. I hope my response caught them before they made the mad dash to the teller window.
Here’s what I told them:
“I doubt there’s a big rush to pull money from XYZ Bank.”
Remember, your money isn’t really …

This is part of our Pay Debt Quickly series sponsored by
PDQ Pay Debt Quickly kit.
Question:I don’t know how to pay off my debt. My debts are more than the money I earn each month. What can I do? ~ Naomi
Answer: Hi Naomi, that’s a tough spot to be in. I’m not quite sure from your question if your total debts are higher than your monthly income or if the payments are higher than your income. I’m going to address that your debts are higher than your income but you’re …

I’m seeing more and more clients who are banking on retail therapy to get them through this recession. They’re using shopping to numb the worry and stress of unsteady income, shaky jobs, treacherous home mortgages and rising food and gas prices. When they feel bad for whatever reason, off to the mall, bookstore or even grocery store they go. We’ve all heard it: “When the going gets tough, the tough go shopping!”
Amanda recently came to see me because she was at her wit’s end. Amanda has a stressful job as …