Choose a credit card based on its APR and your needs, with rewards programs that are useful for you. — Some credit cards pack on lots of bells and whistles. Others are limited and fairly straightforward. Points, perks and extra protections abound, but so do annual fees and varying interest rates. The best way to choose a credit card is looking at your spending habits and expectations as a guide…

To boost your savings, add to them regularly, make saving part of your monthly budget. — We’re going to let you in on a little secret: anybody can save more, regardless of your income. Here’s a few tips for getting started and sticking to it. Make saving a priority, not an afterthought Let’s start with the right mindset. As money wizard Warren Buffett once said, “ Don’t save what’s left after spending. …

Buying a home is harder than ever, but with a solid savings plan, you can put away enough for a first downpayment. — One of the biggest purchases most Americans make is buying a home. It’s a huge milestone for many people, after clearing that most dreaded hurdle: saving enough for the downpayment. But the need for healthy savings doesn’t stop there. Cash reserves are also needed for closing costs as well as…

Both can impact your credit score and, with the right action, help lower the amount you pay in interest charges. — Americans use credit cards for more than a quarter of all their financial transactions, according to the Fed. Tracking your balance, as well as current purchases and charges, can help avoid costly mistakes. To manage your credit card bill responsibly, remember two terms: “statement balance” and “current balance.” Both can…

With the housing market expected to remain at historic highs, it can be challenging to buy a home. — You can call it a bubble, or you can just call it pricey. But It’s a tough time to buy a home in the US. Throughout 2022, the seller’s market is expected to continue. It’s a good time to sell a home, but not so much to buy one. Here’s…

From Fannie Mae, new programs offer help with credit scores, security deposits, down payments and more. Over the next three years, Black Americans looking to buy a home could see a lot more open doors. …

When considering a business credit card as a freelancer, look for higher credit limits, rewards and competitive rates. — If you’re a freelancer, you might think you should avoid credit cards at all costs. After all, freelancing leads to some unique financial situations and inconsistent income. But if you’re intentional about your credit cards, you can use them to your advantage. How to choose between personal and business credit cards

It’s possible to make mortgage payments with a credit card. But is it a good idea? — Technically, it’s possible to make mortgage payments with a credit card, but one question still stands: is it a good idea? Most mortgage holders will face obstacles. Mortgage lenders typically won’t allow you to use a credit card for payments, in part because they don’t want to pay transaction fees…

For beginner investors, here are 7 types of low-risk investments that can be a good place to start. — A common approach to investing requires a range of strategies, where low-risk investments balance out high-risk alternatives. Whenever you invest, consider your full portfolio and see what risk level makes the best sense. Knowing your alternatives is a good place to start. …