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Credit Cards

Monday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: The average credit score is rising. Also in the news: 3 money-saving tips for buying a washer, a statute of limitations on student loans, and why you should always buy airfare on a credit card.

Credit Scores Are Rising — Is Yours, Too?
Every little bit matters.

Want to Clean Up? 3 Money-Saving Tips for Buying a Washer
Don’t get hung out to dry.

Is There a Statute of Limitations on Student Loans?
The answer is complicated.

Always Buy Airfare on a Credit Card
Additional protection.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: Why buying an energy-efficient home is a financially bright idea. Also in the news: Calling your credit card issuer for a favor, a new bundle of tax hassles for Harry and Meghan, and how to see beyond the “money fog.”

Buying an Energy-Efficient Home: A Financially Bright Idea
Good for the earth and your wallet.

Need a Favor From a Credit Card Issuer? Make a Call
Pleading your case.

Harry, Meghan and Royal Family Welcoming New Bundle of Tax Hassles
Dual citizenship could make taxes interesting.

How to See Beyond the ‘Money FOG’
Fear, obligation, guilt.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: Travel rewards can take you far – but only if you pay attention. Also in the news: How blind loyalty can cost you in the points and miles game, the states where tax bills have shrunk the most, and what to do if your credit card application was rejected.

Travel Rewards Can Take You Far – but Only If You Pay Attention
Don’t overestimate their value.

In the Points and Miles Game, Blind Loyalty Can Cost You
Keeping your rewards as rewarding as possible.

These are the states where tax bills have shrunk the most
Is yours one of them?

What to Do If Your Credit Card Application Was Rejected
Make sure your credit report is correct.




Friday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: 3 things that will change when you’re a homeowner. Also in the news: 3 times you can pay taxes with plastic and come out ahead, eight ways you can save money right now, and what happens if you default on a loan.

3 Things That Change When You’re a Homeowner
All you’ll think about is money.

3 Times You Can Pay Taxes With Plastic and Come Out Ahead
Build up your rewards.

Eight Ways You Can Save Money Right Now
Automate your savings.

What Happens if You Default on a Loan?
Don’t take it lightly.

Friday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: Should you move abroad for health care? Also in the news: What to do if you still haven’t received your tax documents, things to consider before opening another credit card, and why you should save 4% of your new home’s cost for repairs.

Should You Move Abroad for Health Care?
The cost difference can be dramatic.

Haven’t Got Your Tax Documents Yet? Here’s What to Do
The clock’s ticking.

4 things to consider before opening another credit card
The pros and cons.

You Should Save 4% of Your New Home’s Cost for Repairs
Protect yourself from unexpected costs.

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: More parents are putting limits on college help. Also in the news: Mastercard’s new rule will make some “free” trials more transparent, what you need to know about SIPC insurance, and why you should be wary of new tricks for raising your credit score.

More Parents Are Putting Limits on College Help
Limiting contributions.

Mastercard’s New Rule Will Make Some ‘Free’ Trials More Transparent
Reminding you when the trial is up.

SIPC Insurance: What It Does and Does Not Protect
Covering your brokerage.

Be Wary of New ‘Tricks’ for Raising Your Credit Score
They could end up doing the opposite.