Using credit wisely

For homeowners, a common financial goal is to pay off the mortgage as soon as possible and avoid paying extra interest. The lower the interest rates, the less you will owe down the line. That’s why it’s important to find a loan with the lowest possible interest rates, usually represented as annual percentage rate (APR), and other fees associated with the lending process. Use this guide to help you find the best mortgage rates to save money over time.

The true cost of your credit card depends on a range of factors, including how much you spend and how much and how often your card issuer charges interest on the unpaid balance.

It’s always a good idea to know exactly how much you’re paying every time you use your credit card. What may seem like an innocuous purchase could come back to haunt you down the line after you calculate the interest and other related fees. You should be aware of how much you will have to pay down the road when using a credit card, including how soon you will need to pay it off, the annual interest rate and any other guidelines for using the card. Use this guide to find out how much you’re really paying every time you swipe.

Interested in signing up for a new credit card? Choosing a credit card can be daunting for some consumers. With so many vendors and options, these cards may look alike. However, every type of option comes with its pros and cons. Making the right decision depends on your finances and what you want to achieve with the card. From credit scores to interest rates, and valuable rewards, the card’s terms can significantly impact your finances. Use this guide to find the right credit card based on your needs and lifestyle.

If you’ve ever been to a department store or chain retailer, the salesperson probably asked you if you wanted to open a store credit card. A store credit card is like a normal credit card except that, in most cases, you can only use it at participating stores and businesses. Some of the biggest chain outlets and retailers, such as Target, Home Depot, Walmart, Macy’s and other clothing retailers offer this option. 

But how do these cards work? And can they actually help you save money? Let’s find out.

If your credit card debt is getting out of control or you’re having trouble making payments, you should consider consolidating your credit card debt. Depending on which route you take, you may be able to lock in a lower interest rate, which will help you pay off your debt sooner. Consolidating your debt will also make it easier to manage, especially if you have an outstanding balance on more than one card. You will only have to make one monthly payment instead of sending money to multiple creditors. There are several ways to consolidate your credit card debt but choosing the right option depends on how much money you have and the current outstanding balance. Some options could leave you with a higher interest and even more debt, so make sure you understand how these changes will affect your finances. Use this guide to learn how to consolidate your credit card debt the right way.

Nowadays, debit and credit cards are used as the primary way to pay for purchases. They are designed to be easy and convenient to use on the go, so you don’t have to carry around large quantities of cash. You can also freeze the card if it is lost or stolen to limit your exposure to fraud. But credit and debit cards work in different ways. A debit card gives you a direct line to the money already in your checking account, while a credit card means buying something on credit. You will then need to pay off the balance on the card plus any interest that has accrued. Credit cards can enhance your credit score, while debit cards do not impact credit history. Additionally, credit cards frequently offer rewards and benefits, such as cash back or points. Learn how to find the right type of card for your situation and ensure you use these two cards responsibly.

If you’ve ever wondered what you can do with good credit, the answer is quite a lot. One, a high credit score opens doors to better interest rates. Two, it grants access to premium credit cards, exclusive loyalty programs, and other perks. In essence, a good or excellent credit score is a financial launchpad. You can leverage it to turn your financial aspirations into realities—whether you want to buy a home, finance a new car at a low interest rate, or qualify for attractive travel rewards cards that make your next vacation more affordable.

So, what can you do with an excellent credit score specifically? You could negotiate more favorable terms on major loans, tap into 0% introductory APR credit union credit card offers, and qualify for high-end financial products. It could mean fewer hassles when applying for rentals or landing that dream apartment. A top tier score also helps you keep more money in your pocket over the long run. With lower interest charges and fewer fees, you can channel your savings into investments and retirement accounts or simply enjoy more of your hard-earned money.

When lenders size you up for a mortgage, credit card, or small-business line, they aren’t reading your diary—they’re scanning your credit score. According to Experian, the average U.S. FICO Score was 715 for 2024 (Horymski, 2025), placing much of the country in the “good” range. However, that average hides lower scores for millions of consumers who stumble into common credit score pitfalls.

Beginning your career after college is meant to bring optimism as you start a new phase in your life. Unfortunately, many Americans are weighed down by student debts. With different repayment options, interest rates, and loan terms, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, with some strategies, you can manage your student loan debt and avoid default.

Since debt management is critical for long-term financial health, we'll provide student loan management tips to help you stay on track and achieve financial stability.

It’s probably no surprise that the holidays tend to be one of the most expensive times of the year. Between holiday shopping, gift-giving and traveling, the holidays can be hard on your bank account. If you’re looking for a temporary way to increase your spending power this holiday season, you might consider using your credit card or applying for a personal loan. Both options can help you cover seasonal expenses, but they come with pros and cons that can have lasting impact on your finances.

To help you get the most out of your credit card, we wanted to share some ways to establish and improve your credit. Building a solid credit history is essential for financial health, as it influences loan approvals, interest rates and even employment opportunities. By monitoring your credit regularly and maintaining good credit habits, you can build and maintain a strong credit history, opening doors to better financial opportunities in the future.