Finance

Everyone needs some financial guidance now and again. With the right management tools, you can get a hold of your finances, build your savings, work on eliminating debt or invest in your future with an IRA. Whether you’re planning to make a big purchase or just want a little insight into your personal finances, knowing all the options available to you is the first step.

What's your next step?

Build my credit Manage my debt Invest my money Secure a loan Buy or refinance a home Manage taxes and finances

Banking and credit

Explore all the banking and credit options that are available to you. Find the right bank, establish your creditworthiness and start getting the most out of your paycheck.

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Banking

Buyers guides

Resources

How to Build Credit
By Ashley Eneriz · 7-minute read
How to Check Your Credit Score
By Ashley Eneriz · 4-minute read
What Do You Need to Open a Bank Account?
By Ashley Eneriz · 9-minute read
What Is Credit and How Does It Work?
By Ashley Eneriz · 10-minute read

Debt management

Carrying debt causes financial limitations. Find out how to reduce your loan and credit card balances and manage debt through services like counseling, consolidation and settlement.

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Debt Management

Buyers guides

Resources

Debt Consolidation vs. Debt Settlement
By Chris Butsch · 10-minute read
How to Fix Your Credit
By Jessica Render · 11-minute read
How to Get Out of Debt
By Ashley Eneriz · 7-minute read
What Is a Debt Management Plan?
By Dr. Megan Hanna · 4-minute read

Investing

The right investments can increase your wealth and open opportunities. Learn about the different types of investments you can make and determine which investment company will help you achieve your financial goals.

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Investing

Buyers guides

Resources

How Much Do I Need to Retire?
By ConsumerAffairs Research Team · 10-minute read
How to Buy Stock
By Lee Huffman · 9-minute read
How to Choose a Financial Advisor
By Jacob Wade · 10-minute read
What Is a Good Investment?
By Jacob Wade · 9-minute read

Loans

A loan can help you achieve an important life goal like getting an education or opening a business. No matter why you need a loan, research all your options so you can find a lender that's right for you.

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Loans

Buyers guides

Resources

How Do Personal Loans Work?
By Jamela Adam · 8-minute read
How to Calculate Loan Interest
By Ashley Eneriz · 14-minute read
How to Get a Personal Loan
By Ash Barnett · 15-minute read
Secured vs. Unsecured Loans
By Rachel Morey · 12-minute read

Mortgages

Your home will likely become your greatest asset, but financing any property is a complicated process that takes most people months of preparation and planning. Learn about everything from eligibility requirements and loan estimates to what to expect on closing day.

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Mortgages

Buyers guides

Resources

Homebuying Checklist
By Ashley Eneriz · 13-minute read
How Much House Can I Afford?
By Jamela Adam · 9-minute read
How to Get a Mortgage
By Jamela Adam · 9-minute read
Types of Mortgage Loans
By Ashley Eneriz · 12-minute read

Taxes and financial services

Technology has changed the way people manage and protect their finances. Explore online financial services that make it easy to monitor your personal information and keep your finances safe.

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Taxes

Buyers guides

Resources

How Does Tax Relief Work?
By Christin Perry · 9-minute read
How to Choose Identity Theft Protection
By Joel Lim · 8-minute read
How to File Taxes
By Lee Huffman · 10-minute read
Who Qualifies for Tax Relief?
By Christin Perry · 13-minute read

Meet our editors

Our journalists and home experts are dedicated to helping you make confident decisions – every guide is backed by research and reviewed by professionals.