Personal Finance
Alliance Images / Shutterstock.comIf you’re collecting rewards points from your credit cards or loyalty programs, don’t let them go to waste. With a little strategy, those points can unlock amazing travel perks, from free flights to luxurious hotel stays. Here are seven smart ways to use your rewards points to…
Prostock-studio / Shutterstock.comThe job market is constantly evolving, and understanding the economic trends shaping it can give you a competitive edge. Whether you’re actively searching for a new role or planning your next career move, staying informed is crucial. Here are five critical economic trends every job seeker should know…
KonstantinChristian / Shutterstock.comCash might seem like a safe and straightforward way to pay everyday expenses, but it’s not always the smartest choice. For certain purchases, paying with cash can lead to lost opportunities, lack of protection, or even financial setbacks. By choosing alternative payment methods, you can unlock valuable benefits…
If you spent a pretty penny on holiday-related shopping and activities in recent months, you’re not alone. Between Nov. 1 and Dec. 26, 2024, U.S. retail sales (excluding automotive) increased 3.8 percent year-over-year, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse. This included increased spending growth of 3.6 percent on apparel, 4 percent on…
ESB Professional / Shutterstock.comComing into unexpected money—a windfall, inheritance, or lucrative new job—can bring great opportunities. But it can also attract unwelcome attention. Friends and family may come to you with financial requests, from small loans to investment opportunities. Setting boundaries is critical. You don’t want to damage relationships, but…
rebeccaashworthearle / Shutterstock.comOur dogs are more than just pets — they’re family. They greet us with wagging tails, unconditional love, and endless loyalty, so it’s natural to want to show them how much they mean to us. While it’s tempting to splurge on the latest dog toys, gourmet treats, and…
When times are good, we must celebrate our excess investment returns because we sure as heck aren’t celebrating when times are bad! When times are bad, it can feel downright terrible due to a psychological concept called loss aversion. The pain of losing $10,000 often feels far worse than the…
Winning the lottery is incredibly rare, but someone has to win. If you’re one of the lucky ones, the financial windfall can be life-changing. But winning the lottery isn’t an instant ticket to lifelong financial freedom. Some sources suggest that as many as 70 percent of lottery winners eventually declare…
phM2019 / Shutterstock.comKeeping your furry friend fit and happy doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a bit of creativity and effort, you can provide physical activity, mental stimulation, and bonding time that will improve your dog’s quality of life. Here are seven low-cost strategies that can make a big…
Maskot/Maskot/Getty Images The top premium rewards cards generally have high annual fees. Thankfully, some cards help minimize the sting of that cost with annual statement credits on popular expenses like travel, dining and shopping. The best credit cards with annual credits offset all or most of the fees by themselves…
