Real financial wellness tips given by real people

Outlet stores are incredibly popular—shoppers go in droves looking for brand-name products at discounted prices. But are they really discounted prices? Are outlet stores really a good deal at all? Here are some things to think about. Understanding outlet stores Outlet stores are stores that sell brand-name products like clothes, accessories, shoes, and home goods …

Rewards credit cards are all over now—everyone seems to have airline cards, and every time you buy something at a department store or a home supply store they offer a store credit card like it’s a simple coupon. The allure of earning fun rewards while making everyday purchases is powerful, but the question lingers: are …

Understanding what you spend money on is an important step in managing your finances and reaching your long-term goals. One effective way to get insight into your spending habits is to analyze your spending by category. In this guide, we’ll delve into the process of analyzing your spending over the last year, breaking it down …

In the age of digital finance, keeping a close eye on your spending is more accessible than ever, thanks to an array of free tools designed to empower users in managing their finances. Here’s a comparison of several invaluable free tools, with a special focus on Brigit’s Finance Helper, that can help you track your …

Cooking for two on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t eat well, both in terms of nutrition and appeal. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can whip up delicious meals that won’t cost much at all. (We’re assuming you know how to cook, but really—even if you’re new to it, cooking is …

Budgeting for an apartment is an important step to make sure you end up in the right living space for you, and making sure you can comfortably afford it. Here’s how to budget for an apartment, with key things to consider and steps to take to make sure your next move is a success. 1. …

Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) plays a significant role in various aspects of your financial life, including your ability to get a loan, manage your budget, and plan for a secure financial future. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what DTI is, why it matters, how to calculate it, and how to manage it effectively. What …

A credit score is a crucial financial metric that plays a significant role in various aspects of our lives. From securing loans to renting apartments, it influences the opportunities available to us. Yet, for many, the concept of a credit score remains shrouded in mystery. In this article, we will demystify credit scores by exploring …

You may have wondered about the term FICO score vs credit score—they sound similar, but what’s the difference? While they may seem interchangeable (and a little intimidating for most of us!), they actually are two different scoring models used by lenders and credit bureaus. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between a FICO …

Teaching kids about managing money responsibly is a valuable life lesson. One tool that can help with this is a debit card designed especially for them. These cards are a way for kids to learn about spending, saving, and budgeting, with full parental control and visibility. Here’s what you should know about a debit card …

Your credit score is a constantly-changing number that reflects your creditworthiness. It’s something that lenders, landlords, insurers, and even some employers consider when making decisions about extending credit or services to you. But how often does your credit score update, and what impacts it? How often does your credit score update? Credit scores don’t update …

Saving money doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating some simple yet effective strategies into your daily life, you can watch your savings grow over time. Here are some quick tips for saving money. 1. Create a budget Start by creating a monthly budget that outlines your income and expenses. This will give you a …