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Friday’s need-to-know money news

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Zemanta Related Posts ThumbnailToday’s top story: The increase in identity theft makes checking your credit an absolute necessity. Also in the news: How to prepare your college freshman for financial realities, how to pay off your debt for good, and five ways small businesses can get the most out of their credit cards.

Another Reason You Really Need to Remember to Check Your Credit
Staying on top of your credit is absolutely vital.

How to Prepare Your Child for the Financial Realities of Freshman Year
Better get used to ramen, kid.

Step-By-Step Guide: How To Pay Off Debt For Good
Could this method work for you?

Small-Business Credit Card Basics: 5 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Card
Always paying on time is key.

Review and Improve Your Budget With These Three Questions
Using your money on what truly matters most.

The minus side of PLUS loans

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Student-LoansParent education loans can help your child attend the college of her dreams — and sink any dreams you had of ever retiring.

The grim reality is that the federal PLUS loan program allows parents to borrow far more than they can comfortably, or even ever, repay.

In my column for Reuters, I explain why the easy lending practices of PLUS loans can lead to a lifetime of debt.

In DailyWorth, I do a little mythbusting of “good” credit habits that are actually bad for you.

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

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law-technology-podcasts-300x300Today’s top story: Seven money podcasts you should be tuning in to. Also in the news: Why your parents’ financial advisor keeps asking about you, how small business owners can prepare for an interest rate hike, and a guide to debit vs credit cards.

7 Money Podcasts You Should Be Following
Making your commute more enjoyable and profitable!

Why Your Parents’ Financial Advisor Asks About You
A different kind of inheritance.

3 Ways Small-Business Owners Can Prepare for an Interest Rate Hike
The days of zero percent interest rates could be coming to an end.

A Simple Guide to Debit vs. Credit Cards
Which is best for you?

Want to Get Out of Debt? Study Finds Best Way to Do It
Where should you start?

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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mortgage2Today’s top story: Common mortgage roadblocks and how to fix them. Also in the news: How to make your retirement nest egg last longer, why you should try haggling when renting an apartment, and ten back-to-school supplies that teachers say are a waste of money.

4 Common Mortgage Killers & How to Survive Them
Common roadblocks and how to fix them.

Dreaming of Early Retirement? Make Your Nest Egg Last Longer
Retiring a decade early? It could be done.

Why you should always try to haggle when renting an apartment.
It’s rare, but possible!

Teachers Say Don’t Waste Money On These 10 Back-To-School Supplies
Don’t overspend.

Being a Bridesmaid or Groomsman With No Financial Regrets
How to celebrate a big day without the big expenses.

Monday’s need-to-know money news

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1403399192000-retire-workToday’s top story: What you cannot ignore on your retirement statement. Also in the news: How to improve your finances in a single day, how teens can save money on car insurance, and why mental accounting can be dangerous.

4 Things You Can’t Ignore on Your Retirement Statement
Pay close attention.

10 Ways to Improve Your Finances in One Day
It only takes a day!

One way teens can actually save on car insurance
Letting your teen behind the wheel doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Be Aware of “Mental Accounting” When You Save Money on a Purchase
Convincing yourself you’re saving money is a big mistake.

5 Simple Ways to Save Money as a New College Student
The more they save, the fewer times they’ll call looking for money.