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Monday’s need-to-know money news

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Today’s top story: Should you use your emergency fund during the COVID-19 outbreak? Also in the news: A new episode of the SmartMoney podcast on the Coronavirus relief checks, why you should join a money community for financial support, and 13 tips to help protect your online financial information.

Should You Use Your Emergency Fund During the COVID-19 Outbreak?
Don’t be afraid to use it when you actually need it.

SmartMoney Podcast: ‘Where’s My Coronavirus Relief Check?’
Finding your $1200.

Why you should join a money community for financial support
Strength in numbers.

13 Tips To Help Protect Your Online Financial Information
Cybercrime never rests.

Wednesday’s need-to-know money news

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PayRentPiggyBank.157131716_stdToday’s top story: How paying rent can affect your credit. Also in the news: How to protect yourself from cybercrime while banking with your phone, why you shouldn’t consider something “yours” until it’s completely paid off, and financial strategies for creative types without steady incomes.

How Paying Rent Can Affect Your Credit
Rent-reporting services can boost your credit.

4 ways to dodge cybercrime when banking, shopping on mobile phones
Convenience can come with a hefty price.

Avoid Saying You “Own” Something Until It’s Paid Off
It isn’t yours until the last payment is made.

The #1 Reason Artists Struggle With Money, and 3 Simple Strategies to Turn Things Around
Advice for creative types.

Thursday’s need-to-know money news

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taxesToday’s top story: Should you do your own taxes or hire a professional? Also in the news: How to be a frugal foodie, why you should check all three of your credit reports, and what to expect if you get audited.

Tax Preparer Vs. Software: How To Choose
Deciding whether to get help or go it alone.

8 Ways to Be a More Frugal Foodie
Eating well doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Checking All 3 Credit Reports Pays Off
Don’t assume they’re all the same.

What to Expect if Your Tax Return Gets Audited
First, don’t panic.

3 Terrifying Things Cybercriminals Can Hack
It goes way beyond your computer.