It’s time again for new graduates to toss their caps high aloft, celebrate – and get down to the business of working and earning an income. Many grads have secured entry-level positions and are launching their careers. Others are still in the hunt and will land that first job soon. Next up: Getting the first […]

Key takeaways: You may think wills are only for older people, or richer people. But the reality is that everyone should have not only a will, but a range of documents that allow for all your belongings — including you! — to be taken care of as you wish if you aren’t able to make […]

Debt consolidation can be a confusing term. It really just means combining and downsizing debts so they are easier to repay. In effect, you’re getting all debts “under one roof” and at a good interest rate – and you can do so in one of several ways. In considering these common options, keep in mind […]

If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, you’re not alone. In 2022, NBC analyzed IRS data and found that 43 million – or roughly 30% of taxpayers – waited until the three weeks before Tax Day to file their returns. With Tax Day coming up on April 18, we’re officially in crunch time. Here are some strategies […]

Are you looking to eliminate debt, pay down student loans or save up for a home renovation? Maybe you’d like to build up your emergency fund or you find that your budget is telling you your expenses are exceeding your income. A side gig – aka second job – is a great way to generate […]

“Spring cleaning” may conjure up visions of decluttered closets, spotless refrigerators and dust-free baseboards. Just as you may give your home a polishing, spring is an ideal time to do the same with your finances. These seven steps can get your finances in top shape for the rest of the year.  Directing some of that […]

Key Takeaways When you’re buying a home, the laundry list of fees and charges thrown at you can feel dizzying. But there’s one charge you must make sure you understand. Homeowner’s Association fees, often abbreviated as “HOA fees,” are critically important — and sometimes pricier than buyers realize. HOA fees are also sometimes called “common […]

Key Takeaways: Budgeting and saving are key components in financial success and moving your finances forward. But if you’re one of the nearly 10 million Americans who are self-employed, work as freelancers or consultants, work on commission, or have joined the gig economy, you may think budgeting is too difficult or even impossible to do effectively. […]

You may be in the depths of winter, whether shoveling, reeling from high heating costs or tired of the shorter days. But spring – and tax season – are just around the corner. This year, a weekend and a District of Columbia holiday – Emancipation Day – are pushing the usual tax filing date to […]

This is the time of year when many of us resolve to get healthy. We typically vow to adopt a variety of lifestyle changes, from hitting the gym to eating better to getting more sleep. While those are admirable goals, research suggests that we should also be making resolutions to improve our financial health.   The […]

Inflation continues. Daylight hours are waning. Temps are dropping. It may not sound like it, yet there’s a lot to love about winter. It really is possible to find activities that are fun and easy on the wallet. Here are a few that may work for you…or spur your imagination to create a season you’ll […]

While the holidays are a time of joy, they can also cause a great deal of financial stress. Buying gifts, hosting holiday gatherings, and traveling to see family and friends can add up, leaving many consumers feeling cash strapped and unsure about how to manage increasing expenses. As a result, holiday shoppers often rely on […]