Lifestyle Trends

Choosing a bank that's right for you

The banking landscape has changed dramatically over the past year and a half. And whether you've been a banking customer for 30 years or are just looking to open your first account, you may find that choosing a bank - or knowing if you're with the right bank - is more difficult than ever. Read More

Protect your family's home, even after you are gone

Caring for your family is something you do every day of your life. But there might come a time when you won't be available. Mortgage life insurance is a life insurance product designed to help your survivors pay your mortgage after you pass away. Read More

A bad credit score doesn't end car loan and credit opportunities

Americans rely heavily on cars and credit cards, and when a credit score gets in the way of obtaining one or both of these items, it can make life difficult. It's no surprise that you should maintain a good credit report. But with the recent economic decline, you might not have a sterling report any longer. Still, you should know what's on your report so you can work toward improving it. Read More

Older car maintenance care: Five ways to keep your older model car running longer

When was the last time you drove a new car off a dealer's lot? Can't remember, huh? With many Americans cutting their budgets and waiting to replace their older cars, the average age of a car on the road is now about 9.4 years. Read More

Do you pay more for auto insurance than your friends do?

Best friends compare notes on a lot of things: husbands and wives or boyfriends and girlfriends, kids, how they are doing financially and what they are paying for auto insurance. Read More

When is the right time to switch auto insurance companies?

When you start looking over the family finances, that moment rarely coincides with the months your insurance policies, cable or cell phone contracts are set to renew. In fact, you're more likely to make this financial review during times of the year when you need to budget for events - like Christmas, or when school tuition bills come due. Read More

Five ways to ensure your older car costs less to keep running

Hanging on to a car - and taking care of it - can definitely save you money versus taking on a new-car payment. The key to maximizing your savings on an old car is actually to spend a little on regular maintenance. Follow these simple steps to ensure good maintenance helps you avoid expensive repairs. Read More

Looking to make your home more livable and still save money? Rely on natural light

You can use natural light to enhance your home's livability, not to mention your mood. Bringing ample natural light into your house can also help trim utility bills by reducing your dependence on electricity to power artificial lighting, and gas or oil to heat your home. Read More

Tips to help reduce debt

When you have debt, eventually it starts affecting your life. If you're unable to pay bills, creditors start calling, you're unable to sign up for credit cards or apply for loans because your credit score has dropped - it's time to re-evaluate your finances and see what options are available to you. Read More

Overdraft fee changes are on the way

There are new regulations going into effect this summer that could change the way your bank charges overdraft fees for debit card purchases. Are you ready? Officials hope the changes will help consumers avoid unexpected fees, but even after the new government rules go into effect on July 1, many banks will continue to charge a fee if you opt in to their overdraft service. It's important to know how these changes might affect you and your money. Read More