How To Spot A Credit Card Skimmer Before It's Too Late
Though contactless payment is common today, there are still times when you'll need to insert your credit/debit card, which can leave you vulnerable to skimmers.
Read MoreArchive for December 2023
Back to Archive IndexBanking (9)
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What Should You Do If You Lose A Check?
If you lose a check, the steps you take will depend on whether you wrote the check or received it. For either case, communication and swift action are key.
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14 Little-Known Credit Cards Perks You Should Be Taking Advantage Of
Credit cards are valuable for more than just point-of-purchase power. Used correctly, that can earn you everything from free travel to nights out.
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What Does It Mean To Wire Someone Money?
Wiring someone money is to transfer funds to them electronically. But did you know the first wire was sent some 150 years ago? In 1871, by Western Union.
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How To Find An ATM That Won't Charge A Withdrawal Fee
Convenient and ubiquitous, ATMs make it easy to get some quick cash. However, when you do, make sure you use one that's "free," as fees can be as high as 25%.
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Whatever You Do, Don't Put These 11 Things In A Safe Deposit Box
Safe deposit boxes can be a great option for storing important personal belongings, but there are many items better kept in your home.
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The One Type Of Credit Card Dave Ramsey Warns To Avoid At All Costs
Dave Ramsey's aversion to credit cards is well-known, and his disdain extends to this one type of credit card, too, in spite of its more limited spending power.
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Bad Credit Affects You In More Ways Than You Realize
Bad credit affects more than simply your ability to borrow money, and it can have far-reaching impacts across your entire lifestyle.
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One Thing You Should Always Keep In Mind When Cashing A Check
Though not as common, you may still receive a check every now and then. If you do, when you go to deposit or cash it, it's important to check this one thing.
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Budgeting (34)
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You May Want To Think Twice Before Loaning Money To Family
While you may feel obligated to help a family member or close friend out when they face a financial jam, don't ignore the potential pitfalls that could result.
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The 13 Easiest Online Side Gigs For Extra Money
As side gigs become more common, the competition to land one only grows. But, of course, first you have to find one. Here are 13 ideas to get you started.
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Here's How To Buy A House If You're Broke (But Should You?)
To buy a home, you'll need a down payment, which is typically 20% of the purchase price. This said, there are ways to pursue homeownership even if you're broke.
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Paying Off Your Student Loans This Way Could Save You Money
While repayment terms for a student loan are typically set at 10 years, it takes, on average, 20 years to pay the loan off. Here's how to save a bit as you do.
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13 Warning Signs Of Financial Infidelity You Shouldn't Ignore
Financial infidelity can be as harmful to a relationship as other forms of dishonesty, which makes transparency around money quite important.
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How Much Money Should You Tip Your Hairdresser?
While it's not required, tipping hair care professionals is fairly automatic for a majority of Americans. As for how much to tip, this is the industry standard.
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13 Things You're Paying Too Much For And Didn't Realize
It's no secret that life is getting more expensive, but there are many small hacks you can employ to keep routine costs at their minimum.
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Why Selling Your House On Your Own Could End Up Costing You
While selling your home yourself can save you on commissions, it could cost you in other areas. Before you list your FSBO, consider the potential pitfalls.
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Dave Ramsey Says You Should Have This Much Money In Your Savings Account
Dave Ramsey says, "Every savings dollar has to have a job, a mission, an assignment." And for every person, it'll be different, but here's where you can start.
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These Little-Known Credit Card Perks Can Save You Money On Travel
If you don't travel often, you might not know about some of the credit card perks (beyond points and miles) that could save you money, time, and frustration.
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What Is A Budget Deficit?
A budget deficit sounds negative, but there's more to it than that, as there are potential pros. One key is if it's a short-term situation or a sustained one.
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What Is A Budget Surplus?
The U.S. last had a surplus in 2001. But, if the country were to find itself with some extra money, this is what it would mean and what it could do with it.
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The Hidden Costs Of Pet Ownership
Owning a pet can be an incredibly rewarding experience that also provides a home for your furry friend, but there are expenses to take note of.
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Why You Should Think Twice Before Throwing Out Your Receipt
Before you toss that receipt, take a moment to ask if you might need it again. From taxes to returns, there are a number of reasons to hang on to a receipt.
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Need To Ask A Family Member To Borrow Money? Here's How To Make It Less Awkward
If you need to ask family for money, it doesn't have to be (too) awkward a conversation. Further, asking to borrow from family is more common than you think.
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Simple Tricks To Lower Your Utility Bills In The Winter
Colder months tend to drive up utility bills, but there are several simple hacks you can employ to minimize the impact on your wallet.
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13 Things You Should Never Buy Brand New
Buying items from the used marketplace saves you money, and in many cases, it actually provides a better product for the long-term.
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The Sneaky Reason An Emergency Fund Could Be Your Downfall
Having an emergency reserve fund is important, but there are a few caveats to keep in mind, especially one that could lose you the money you so carefully saved.
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Are You Responsible For Your Spouse's Debt If They Die?
For a surviving spouse, there's so much to take care of, which, unfortunately, might include their partner's debt and the lenders reaching out to collect it.
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What Happens To A 401(k) When You Quit?
When you quit, there are a number of things to wrap up before moving on, and one is your 401(k). Your options will vary, depending on how much you've saved.
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Is It Best To Pay Off Debt Or Start Saving First?
Planning for the future can be difficult when you're dealing with growing debt and little savings. However, you need to start somehow, and this is the best way.
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Common Money-Saving Tips You Should Ignore
The internet abounds with money saving tips, but the catch is that many of these tips may not apply to your situation specifically.
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Tips And Tricks To Save Money On Your Electric Bill
With energy costs rising across the United States, these simple-to-apply techniques can help you maintain control of your energy bill.
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Accident Forgiveness Coverage Isn't Always Worth It. Here's Why
With car insurance, there are various add-ons to consider, such as accident forgiveness. What exactly is this, and how much will this benefit (really) save you?
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Unsettling Financial Statistics You Might Not Want To Hear
Many people are hesitant to talk about individual finances, but data comprising society at large often shows that certain trends persist.
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Why You Should Be Concerned About Zombie Debt
As its name suggests, zombie debt is any debt that's come back to life. If this happens to you, know your rights and what to do if a collector contacts you.
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Dave Ramsey Says You Should Avoid This Type Of Life Insurance
Financial expert Dave Ramsey has a serious gripe with a particular type of life insurance. "It's not a mild dislike," he said on his radio show. "I hate it."
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This Is The Age You Should Really Start Saving For Retirement
Before you know it, retirement will be here. And while it's never to late to start saving, you can do yourself a huge favor by starting at the right time.
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17 Genius Tips For Paying Off Your Debt
Paying off debt can seem like a monumental task, but with a proper plan in place it can be done quickly, efficiently and effectively.
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How Much Money Should You Tip Movers?
While movers don't expect to be tipped, the gesture is appreciated and has become customary over time. Here's a good starting point as far as how much to tip.
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Always Ask For This One Thing Before Paying A Medical Bill
When you receive a medical bill, you may want to pay it off immediately to close that chapter in your life. However, don't do so before you have all the info.
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13 Sneaky Ways Insurance Companies Trick You Into Spending More Money
Buying an insurance policy is often a necessary spend, but it's always a good idea to pay close attention to what you're actually paying for.
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Warning Signs You're Probably Terrible With Money
Bad financial habits can impact every aspect of your life, including mental and physical health, but these traits can be turned around.
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What Really Happens When You Go Bankrupt (And How To Recover)
Declaring bankruptcy is a more nuanced decision than many people realize, and there are actually two primary ways to go about doing so.
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Collectibles (2)
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The Unexpected Value Of The $100,000 Bill Today
It's true the Bureau of Engraving & Printing once printed a $100,000 bill, the highest denomination ever issued. However, it's a bill you don't want to own.
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US Cash Isn't Actually Made Out Of What You Think
While U.S. bills are commonly referred to as paper money, they aren't actually paper. A hint to their true composition lies in the fact that you can iron them.
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Earning (2)
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How Much Money Do Backup Dancers Make On Tour?
Backup dancers, who help create the energy for of a concert, tour, or music video, work in a super-competitive field with average pay (if you can get it).
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17 Movies That Gave Actors Their Biggest Paydays
Celebrity actors make big bucks for starring in blockbuster movies, and the most successful are able to one-up their previous paydays.
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History (1)
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Do You Get Bail Money Back?
When it comes to getting bail money back, it depends; namely, on how the bail was posted and whether or not the defendant met all the conditions of release.
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Investing (4)
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Jim Cramer's Worst Financial Advice
Jim Cramer of "Mad Money" also cofounded TheStreet in 1996. While many turn to him for financial advice, here are 13 times it would've been better not to.
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The Common 401(k) Mistake That Could Cost You A Fortune
Nearly 35% of working Americans have a 401(k)-style plan. Yet, many people make a common mistake, one that can cost them something truly valuable: free money.
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This Is The Worst Deal Kevin O'Leary Ever Made On Shark Tank
Kevin O'Leary has been on "Shark Tank" since 2009, and in that time, he says there's one deal that stands out as his worst. Why? He didn't trust his gut.
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Cashing Out A 401(k) Early Can Come With Major Consequences
While you may look at your 401(k) as a cash source, early withdrawal could be costly, not only once tax season arrives but down the road in retirement, too.
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Retirement (1)
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This Is The Best State To Retire In (& It's Not Florida)
A recent study found there's a state not name Florida that offers retirees affordability, quality health care, and low crime. Hint: Its name has four letters.
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Shopping (10)
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Think Twice Before Buying A Brand New Car. Here's Why
Per Experian, it cost over $12K to own and operate a new vehicle in 2023. Suffice to say, buying a car -- particularly a new car -- takes careful consideration.
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Things You Should Never Buy Online
Shopping online is convenient and can lead to some great discounts, but depending on what you're looking for, it's important to see it in person.
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Where You Can Get The Best Discounts If You're A Senior
Senior discounts abound across the United States, with programs often offering perks for customers as youthful as 55 years of age.
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Flash Mob Theft Costs Retailers More Than You Probably Realize
The cost of organized theft goes beyond stolen goods. Here's a closer look at the impact of shrink (or theft) for retailers and how it ultimately affects you.
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Sephora Vs. Ulta: Which Beauty Store Is Better For Your Wallet?
Two of the most well-known beauty retailers, Ulta and Sephora each have their loyal fans. That said, here are some of their differences when it comes to price.
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The Hidden Downsides Of Using Survey Junkie
As its name suggests, Survey Junkie is an app that pays users for survey answers. Here's a quick overview about the money-making app, including its downsides.
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Here's When To Buy A New Android Phone If You Want The Best Price
If you want the best price on a new Android phone, then you need to be patient for the right time of year. An impulse buy simply will do your wallet no favors.
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Why You Always Need To Double-Check Your Receipt Before Leaving A Restaurant
While technology has made paper receipts less common, if you do go to a restaurant that requires your signature, make sure you take the right copy. Here's why.
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The Hidden Walmart Clearance Trick You'll Wish You Knew Sooner
Walmart is known for its bargain prices, but savvy shoppers have discovered one hack that can save even more money on routine visits.
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Buying Gift Cards From A Store's Display Rack Could Get You Scammed
2023 gift card sales are projected to reach $204 billion, a new high, while gift card scams continue to rise. Here's the scoop on the latest draining swindle.
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Taxes (12)
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The Little-Known Tax Deduction That Could Increase Your Refund
Tax deductions, such as giving to charity, help to lower your taxable income, which, in turn, could help to reduce what you owe and even result in a refund.
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When Is The Last Day To File Your Personal Taxes For 2023?
Along with filing accurate taxes, it's important to file your return on time. For 2023 returns, that deadline may be different depending on where you live.
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5 Ways State Income Tax Might Catch You By Surprise In 2023
Don't be caught off guard on Tax Day. Here's why your tax liability (or tax refund) at the state level is what is; plus, what to watch for in future returns.
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The Big Mistake You Shouldn't Make With Your Tax Refund
The average tax refund issued by the IRS in 2023 was $2,903. Unfortunately, for some, receiving such a windfall could lead them to make a big financial mistake.
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What Really Happens If You Don't File Your Federal Income Taxes By The April Deadline?
If you can't file your return by the April tax deadline, expect the IRS to be in touch. However, what exactly happens will depend on if you owe taxes or not.
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Do You Pay Taxes On Social Security Income?
When it comes to paying federal taxes on Social Security income, it depends on your combined income and whether or not it falls within a particular threshold.
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Is Paying A Professional To Do Your Taxes Really Worth It?
Come tax season, the question of whether to prepare your own taxes or hire a pro is one many taxpayers face. Before deciding, here are some things to consider.
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Don't Fall For These Social Media Tax Schemes Or You Might Get Audited
The IRS has a message for taxpayers: Don't follow tax advice from social media. While you may be intrigued by some scheme, know that the IRS is on to it, too.
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What Really Happens When You Don't Pay Your Taxes On Time
If you don't pay your taxes on time, you may find the problems that follow are greater than if you simply filed by the deadline and paid what you could.
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Forgetting This One Detail On Your Tax Return Could Get You Fined
You've cross-checked every line of your tax return with your W-2s, schedules, and financial statements, only to then forget perhaps the simplest to-do of all.
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The Red Flag On Your Taxes That Could Get You Audited By The IRS
The IRS says it'll increase the number of audits in the upcoming tax season. To avoid drawing unwanted attention to your return, keep it free of this red flag.
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TurboTax Vs. H&R Block: Which One Is Better For Your Taxes?
With the new year comes a new tax season and the decision on how to file your taxes. Here, we compare the two most well-known names in online tax prep.
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