The Secrets of a High Credit Score

Having a good credit score can unlock doors for you—from getting for a car loan to qualifying for the mortgage you’ve always wanted. Some lenders, including credit card companies, offer bonus incentives to people with good credit scores, including lower interest rates, mileage programs, and higher spending limits. Here are some tips to help you set healthy financial habits and watch your credit score skyrocket:

 1. Check your credit score and report.

It sounds like a no-brainer, but the first step in improving your credit is knowing how potential lenders see you. The most widely used and reputable scoring system is the FICO score, which assesses your credit  on a scale between 350 and 800. Obviously, the higher your score, the more appealing you will be to lenders, so knowing where you’re at now and where you’d like to be can give you some motivation to re-think your spending and saving … Read More

Is Your Financial Situation Affecting Your Health?

According to a recent telephone survey conducted by Harris Interactive, nearly half of the American population is highly stressed about their financial situation, and this stress is spreading to other areas of their lives. Nearly half of those stressed aren’t sleeping well and find themselves becoming impatient with friends, and 31% are eating more junk food or gaining weight.

 The startling result of the survey draws a correlation between money and wellbeing—not only can financial stress cause weight gain, poor sleep, and strained relationships with loved ones, but these negative personal consequences may even create a higher level of money-related stress.”

“This can lead to a double whammy, with ensuing physical and emotional stress potentially leading to higher long-term costs,” says CPA Ernie Almonte.

But how can you get out of this vicious cycle?

A significant cause of money-related stress is a lack of understanding of one’s personal financial situation—navigating the … Read More