Articles

Getting utility services ― gas, electricity, water ― has a lot to do with your credit history. The better your credit history, the easier it can be for you to get services. And your on-time (or late) payment history with utility companies can be an important factor for your credit in the future.

Shopping around for a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit can help you get better terms and a better deal.

We hear a lot about credit — credit reports, credit scores, credit freezes, credit monitoring. What does it all mean for you? Your credit matters because it affects your ability to get a loan, a job, housing, insurance, and more. If you understand what your credit is, it’ll help you protect it.

Need cash fast to deal with an emergency, bills, or rent? A payday loan or car title loan might be tempting. But these are expensive loans and they can trap you in debt. Find out how they work and about other possible ways to get money or credit quickly.

When you cosign a loan for a friend or family member, you put your finances and creditworthiness on the line. Here’s what you need to know before you cosign a loan.

Your tenant background check report can affect whether you get rental housing, the terms of your lease, and how much you pay for rent or a security deposit.

Here’s what to know about how to dispute errors on your credit report and avoid credit repair scams.

If a debt collector files a lawsuit against you to collect a debt, it’s important to respond — either yourself or through an attorney. And remember, you have rights when it comes to dealing with debt collectors. Here are answers to some common questions you might have about the process.

Are you having trouble paying your car loan and thinking about doing business with a company that promises to get you a loan with lower monthly payments? Not all refinancing companies play by the rules. Learn how to recognize, avoid, and report auto loan refinancing scams.

Do you owe back taxes and don’t know how you’re going to pay them? Tax relief companies say they can lower or get rid of your tax debts and stop back-tax collection. They say they’ll apply for IRS hardship programs on your behalf for an upfront fee. But in many cases, they leave you even further in debt. Your best bet is to try to work out a payment plan with the IRS for federal taxes or your state comptroller if you owe state taxes. 

Here’s what to know about the rules and your rights when a collector contacts you about a deceased relative’s debts.

Scammers promise to make changes to your mortgage loan or take other steps to save your home, but they don’t deliver. Never pay a company upfront for promises to help you get relief on paying your mortgage.

Reverse mortgages let you cash in on the equity in your home: these mortgages can have serious implications.

Signing over your disability settlement payments to raise cash fast can hurt your finances in the long run. You may end up without enough money to live on. 

Learn how, why, and when to order copies of your free annual credit report.

Some companies promise you a low-interest loan or credit card, but want a fee first. They’re scams. Learn the warning signs.