Sallie Mae error kills loan holders' credit scores
A change in how Sallie Mae reported to credit reporting agencies has caused the credit scores of loan holders to plummet in days. Here's what to do if you've been affected.
Keep intention clear when voiding check
Voiding a check is a simple matter, says Dr. Don Taylor.
Weekly payments don't affect FICO score
Paying your bill weekly doesn't hurt your FICO score, says Dr. Don Taylor.
12 investment mistakes couples make
Two heads often don't work as one when it comes time to invest your money.
12 money gifts for mom
Forget the flowers! Help mom get something she could really use.
Hire identity theft help or do-it-yourself
Want to reduce the risk of becoming the next victim? You can hire identity theft protection services or take measures to help yourself.
Don't say 'I do' to car loan for fiance
Never take out a loan for your beloved until you've said "I do," says Bankrate car columnist Terry Jackson.
Car-buying services shop for you
Here are six things to know before hiring a car-buying service to find your next set of wheels.
Risks of online public records
Think you've got your personal information under control? Some of it may appear in online public records -- which is yet another avenue for ID theft when enough personal information is exposed.
'Timing' market big gamble for first-time buyers
It's a real estate buyers market in most areas of the country but many would-be purchasers -- especially first-timers -- may be outsmarting themselves by waiting for prices to fall still further.
Practicing online safety
Protective software can only go so far. Your unsafe behavior can override that protection.
Son wants to saddle dad with bad loan
A son has reason to fear becoming the target of his father's lawsuit, says Bankrate car columnist Terry Jackson.
5 great used cars for bargain hunters
Don't overlook five used-car gems that are easy on both fuel and your wallet, says Bankrate car columnist Terry Jackson.
Bankrate's guide to auto buying. |
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Getting Started
Before you go car shopping, do your homework. Know what you want and how you plan to pay for it.
Shop 'til You Drop
Whether shopping online or off, discover how to track down the best vehicle at the best price.
The Buying Experience
You know your budget and did your shopping. Now, it's time to bargain with the seller.
The Leasing Experience Leasing makes sound, financial sense in certain situations and for certain people. Is that you?
Financing the Deal Shop for a loan just as you'd shop for a vehicle. Do your homework before signing on the dotted line.
Insuring Your Vehicle Buying a new car, or a different one than the one you now own, will mean a change in insurance costs. |
Bankrate's guide to understanding the fundamentals of taxes.
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Withholding
For most folks, taxes start with withholding. See if you're doing it right.
Forms and Filing
Learn the nitty-gritty of finding whether you have to file, and if so on what form and with which tax table.
Deductions
You had better know your deductions if you want to pay the least amount of tax.
Credits Credits are even better than deductions, because they reduce taxes more. Know which ones you qualify for.
Life Events and Taxes Plan to own a home? Raise a family? Start a business? As your life changes, so will your tax needs.
Tax Details These are the little details that are the difference between owing and not owing the IRS.
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Bankrate's guide to obtaining, managing and using credit cards wisely.
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Matching the Card to Your Lifestyle
The smart consumer selects the card that matches his or her spending and payment habits.
Credit Reports, Credit Scores and You
Here's how to order and read your credit reports and how your credit score is affected by the reports.
Costs and Fees
You found a credit card with a great low interest rate. Good for you. Now, what about the fees?
Managing Your Cards You pay promptly and never go over the limit. But, do you know your consumer rights?
Using Credit Wisely Savvy spenders use credit carefully. Discover when it's smart to pull out a card and when it's not.
Special-Need Card Users Here are the cards best for first-time applicants, students and for those with bruised credit.
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