Pros and Cons of Credit Card Use

Everyone has heard horror stories of consumers who have fallen into unspeakable credit card debt. Credit cards can be great but it’s also important to be educated to spend responsibly. Here are some pros and cons to shopping with a credit card: Pros Purchasing Power Many credit are accepted virtually anywhere and give you purchasing…
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TFSA vs. Paying Down Debt

In the new year, many people may consider pitting money into a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA). TFSAs are great, but if you’re in debt, it may be better to pay down some of your debt. Credit Card Debt vs. TFSA If you’re paying 18% in interest on your credit cards, and only 1% in…
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Over-Spending During The Holidays

People love giving during the Christmas season, but what people don’t love is seeing their credit card statements come January. On average, places offering consumer debt help see a 25 percent increase in the number of people seeking help in January and February, and most of that traffic is propelled to their doors by holiday…
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Credit card debt – What to do if you’re struggling

Credit cards are a very popular way to make purchases large and small, on line or in the store. Using a credit card (and paying it off) is a great way to build your credit. They are also a great way to earn “points” towards vacations, groceries, and many other items. The problem is, if…
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Unemployment and Debt

Unemployment can happen to anyone. I was recently talking to a man who was telling me about how busy his division was at work and how he thought they would be hiring more employees soon. Just to find out the next week that his company was downsizing and his division was being shut down. Needless…
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Debt Management Tips for Seniors

No one wants to spend their golden years struggling with credit-card debt. But, sadly, an increasing number of seniors are doing exactly that. For people living on fixed incomes, escalating debt can lead to financial ruin. Many of the debt-management options available to younger people — like getting a second job to pay off the…
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If possible, should you pay off your bankruptcy early?

Believe it or not, we have had several clients who have filed bankruptcy and then found themselves in financial excess. When this happens, clients often ask the question “can I pay off my bankruptcy and be discharged faster?” If you’re in the middle of a bankruptcy, and your financial picture starts looking rosy, it’s understandable…
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Overspending at the Holidays

I know that people may think it’s too early to talk about Christmas, but it’s not too early to talk about debt! Many people have already started shopping for Christmas, or at the very least have already begun making Christmas lists and brainstorming meal ideas for the big day. Just remember, one of the major…
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Reading Your Credit Card Agreement

Credit card agreements can be one of the most challenging financial documents to understand. The purpose of a credit card agreement is to spell out the conditions of your line of credit. According to an analysis done by creditcards.com, the average credit card agreement is written at a 12.37 grade level, while the average person…
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Saving Money At Halloween

People of all ages enjoy Halloween. It’s a fun time to dress up, eat candy, and have some good “spooks.” The real scary thing is that Halloween expenses can take a big toll on your budget if you don’t plan. If you’re celebrating, be sure to use these money saving tips to save on Halloween…
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