e-wisdom.com articles

Five things to know about auto loans

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 07:58:31 PST

Auto loans can be tricky to understand and negotiate until you learn some very basic facts about the process. For many people, a simple lack of information is the biggest obstacle to getting the best possible deal on a auto loan. Consider these five things before making your next auto loan decision.

Former students and the changing student loan industry

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 07:49:44 PST

As a former student, it is important to keep tabs on the student loan industry as a whole after graduation. Understanding the current state of the industry as well as the options that are currently available can greatly benefit graduates who will be repaying student loans of any kind.

Facts about small business credit cards

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 07:38:11 PST

Business credit cards can be extremely valuable resources for small business owners, as a well-picked business credit card can bring with it many advantages. That said, it is important to understand what makes business credit cards unique and also to have an idea of what to expect before applying, and ultimately using, this type of card.

Do you know who's looking at your credit report?

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 07:00:54 PST

Banks and other financial companies are not the only institutions that may take a peak at your credit report. Many others may access this personal information as well. If you aren't aware of what information your credit report contains, what you don't know could hurt you in more ways than one.

Five rules to follow when applying for a mortgage

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 07:39:25 PST

When applying for a new mortgage, there are five factors to keep in mind that make the overall application process simpler. Take as much of the guesswork out of the process as you can by paying close attention to the details. Being well prepared can greatly increase your chances of getting the loan amount and interest rate that you desire.

How many credit cards belong in your wallet?

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 07:59:06 PST

How many credit cards should one person own? It is a simple question but provokes a thorough and thoughtful analysis of your finances. You must take a hard look at your credit situation - past, present and future - and ask yourself a series of specific questions in order to properly estimate how many credit cards you should own.

Four things to know about credit scores

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 07:14:53 PST

It is common knowledge that credit scores are important numbers, especially when it comes time to apply for a new loan or credit card. But there are also many misconceptions about credit scores, how they can affect you and how you can affect them. Answers to four questions can help clear up some confusion.

Protect yourself and your money from identity theft

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:50:01 PST

The threat of identity theft is a real and growing concern for many people across the globe, and it can be a devastating crime for those who fall prey to it. Follow these simple steps and strategies to protect yourself and reduce your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft.

What prospective homeowners should know

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 07:25:06 PST

Becoming a homeowner in the current day can be challenging and overwhelming to say the least. Those who are persistent and prepared for the challenge have the best chance find themselves in a good situation. Find out how to safeguard yourself from potential pitfalls and make the best decision possible when it comes time to purchase a home.

Five things to know about credit cards

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 07:01:18 PST

Understanding credit cards is simple when you recognize one basic fact above all — no two credit cards are exactly the same. Learning a few of the basic facts about credit cards can help you understand how a potential credit card issuer's offer affects how you will spend, pay and manage your account.

How to get started with private student loans

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 07:02:08 PST

Figuring out private student loans can be tricky at first glance and the experience of researching and applying can be filled with unknowns. Follow this guidance step by step to get a better understanding of what to be aware of and also what to expect during the application process and beyond.

Current students and the changing student loan industry

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 07:37:12 PST

Staying informed and up-to-date can only help both current and former students when it comes to student loan debt and student loan repayment options. Current students must maintain a good understanding of the student loan industry and its most recent changes in order to experience as smooth of a transition as possible after graduation.

Tips for cleaning up an inaccurate credit report

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 07:28:26 PST

Errors and inaccuracies can show up on your credit report for many different reasons. And these kind of mistakes can really end up costing you when it comes time to buy a home, purchase a car, rent an apartment or even land a new job. This is why it is extremely important to erase any errors that you do find on you credit report as quickly as possible.

What current homeowners should know

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 07:07:07 PST

Current market conditions may make it slightly more challenging to sell or refinance your home, but you can make your property more competitive with some extra research, due diligence and the right improvements. Find out which factors affect the mortgage industry the most for current homeowners.

Credit cards and foreign transaction fees

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 07:29:37 PST

Some credit card companies charge foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside of the U.S., while others do not. Unfortunately, there are no standard foreign transaction fees, as credit card companies offer a wide range of terms. It's important for first time travelers to understand three important expenses related to buying from a foreign company.

Five things to know about student loans

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 07:18:54 PST

Although student loans can be tricky to wrap your head around, there are five major issues people should know about their student loans (this includes both private student loans and federal student loans) in order to get the most out of them while also minimizing total interest and overall debt.

How a credit score is calculated

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 07:56:15 PST

When applying for any kind of new credit, you may notice some fine print on the application calling for a credit check. Your credit score is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to over 800 that is calculated using many different factors. Although the exact methods of computing credit worthiness vary widely, there are a few basics to keep in mind when it comes to credit scores.

Wise credit card use brings fewer fees

Thu, 29 May 2008 07:06:48 PST

There is no doubt that credit cards are a huge convenience, and in today's world they are virtually a necessity. But if you don't use your credit cards wisely, the fees, interest charges and other various costs can add up quickly. Follow these simple tips to get the most out of your plastic.

Five rules when applying for credit

Mon, 26 May 2008 07:46:36 PST

The act of applying for credit sets a process in motion to determine your overall credit worthiness, and there are a number of things that you can do to improve your chances of getting approved. When you apply for credit of any kind, you should keep these five simple rules in mind.

Guide to budgeting for college graduates

Mon, 19 May 2008 07:32:59 PST

More college graduates than ever are entering the world of work loaded down with high loan payments. Learning how to create and stick to a good budget is perhaps the most important single piece of advice any newly minted college graduate can receive.

Identity theft protection 101

Mon, 12 May 2008 07:26:32 PST

Not many can argue the fact that protecting your identity is important. In order to protect your identity, you must do all you can to prevent identity theft from occuring. But exactly what type of identity theft protection is necessary for you specifically? And should you pay for identity protection?

Advantages and disadvantages of prepaid credit cards

Mon, 05 May 2008 07:46:32 PST

Paying for things with cash or checks seems to be a thing of the past. Most consumers today prefer to use credit cards, but prepaid cards are also a viable option for many. Prepaid cards are ideal for consumers on a limited budget. They provide the convenience of easy spending, while limiting the possibility of overspending at the same time.

Practical budgeting for new college graduates

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 07:48:07 PST

Making it through college is no small accomplishment, and getting out of school unscathed by student loans is even more miraculous. More and more students are taking on larger and larger debt burdens just to make it through. In order to get off to a solid start in the working world, college graduates must learn to budget effectively.

Getting your finances ready to buy a new home

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 07:00:49 PST

Are you planning to purchase a new home in the near future? If this is your first time buying a home, you might not realize all that is involved in obtaining financing. If you have gone through the process before, consider this a reminder of what you will need.

Determine the actual cost of an auto loan

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 07:36:45 PST

When shopping for a new or used vehicle, keep in mind that price tag on the vehicle is only one part of the cost equation. To get the most accurate reflection of what you will pay every month - and the actual cost of an auto loan over the full term of the loan - you'll need to take into account a variety of factors.

Understanding Stafford student loans

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 07:12:08 PST

There are many different types of federal student loan programs. When people talk about student loans, the loan program to which they are usually referring is the subsidized Stafford student loan program. In the end, both the subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loan programs are excellent choices to fund your education.

Home equity loan or line of credit – Which is the best option?

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 07:03:23 PST

Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit are similar in many ways. Each offers homeowners a means to obtain cash for home improvements or other financial needs. But it is important to understand the differences between home equity loans and lines of credit as well before deciding which is the best option.