Spending Smarts: How to Save Money on Back to School Shopping

It may still be summer, but people are already starting to plan ahead for this year’s holiday shopping. But the second biggest shopping season is by far the back-to-school shopping rush that run through early September, according to the National Retail Federation.

Spending this year is expected to be higher compared to last year, with many parents and students purchasing new electronics for school purposes along with clothing and more traditional school supplies.

The average spending on BTS shopping will be $673.57, up from $630.36 last year. While the cost of heading back to school could be considered high, shoppers can find relief by taking on the task with strategy. Continue reading…

Dealing with Dealerships: How to Save Money on a New Car

If you’re in the market for a car, you probably already know that you’re bound to spend a good amount of money, on top of possibly taking out a loan to assist you with the purchase. However, just because cars are expensive, you shouldn’t have to break the bank for one.

There are ways you can effectively lower the price of your auto purchase. Through some strategy and negotiating techniques, you’ll be able to find a decent car in your price range. Continue reading…

Smart Savings: How to Build Up a Solid Savings Plan

Wouldn’t it be nice to buy a car outright? A nice shiny and new car that is all yours after signing a contract on the lot? Yeah, we all would love that. But buying a car this way is rarely done. Most people need to take out an auto loan in order to make a car purchase.

When you take out a car loan, you’ll be given an interest rate. This, along with the length of the loan, will determine how big your monthly payments will be. The higher the interest rate, the higher your payments. Here, a look at some tips to help you save more for a better car, easier payment and to implement good savings habits in the future. Continue reading…

Rising Up: Tips to Bring Your Credit Score Up Right Now

Your credit score is that important number that creditors will look at when considering whether you are creditworthy enough to receive a loan or make a purchase. The higher your score, the better off you’ll be when seeking out a new credit card, an auto loan or a mortgage. A good credit score will tell lenders that you are responsible, which will in turn result in more advantageous offers for you.

On the other hand, if your score is lower, creditors may be wary of granting you a loan. If they offer you one, the interest rates will likely be higher than they would be if your score were a few points higher, and if it’s too low, you may get turned down altogether. Continue reading…

Dealing With Debt: Tips to Manage Your High Debt Level

Having debt can be stressful. The longer it lasts, the more it costs due to interest rates that tack on fees every month the balance gets carried over. But paying it all down at once often isn’t possible for many people.

A simple rule of thumb is debt should be no more than 36 percent of your gross income, according to Money Crashers. The fact is, it’s OK to have some debt, as long as you’re paying it off responsibly. So, what can you do to manage it all? Continue reading…