7 Ways to Use Your Tax Refund to Level Up Your Finances

Expecting a tax refund this year? If you are one of the people getting money back, why not use this as an opportunity to make a real difference with your finances? Below areย seven unique ideas for turning your tax refund into aย bigger paycheck, smaller bills, more money for the future, more peace of mind,ย or just a … Continue reading 7 Ways to Use Your Tax Refund to Level Up Your Finances

The Debt Consolidation Trap, or How I Saved My Client $48,000

A client came to me recently because of credit card debt and feeling like she never had anything left over at the end of the month.  I had her do something that I have all my clients with credit card debt doโ€”I had her make a list of all of her credit cards with the … Continue reading The Debt Consolidation Trap, or How I Saved My Client $48,000

Whatโ€™s the Difference Between Credit Profile, Credit Score, and Credit History?

Not sure about the difference between these three things? Simply put, your credit profile is made up of two things: 1. Your credit score.2. Your credit history. Your credit score is based on your credit history. But here is the thing โ€“ your credit score only matters if you are planning to get a loan … Continue reading Whatโ€™s the Difference Between Credit Profile, Credit Score, and Credit History?

Why Am I Seeing A Christmas Tree? (It’s about future planning.)

I know, we don't want to start thinking about the holidays! But now โ€” not after the fact when the bills come due โ€” is the time to start thinking ahead about what extra expenses will be coming up between now and the end of the year. This might include: holiday travel annual payments that … Continue reading Why Am I Seeing A Christmas Tree? (It’s about future planning.)

Why Your Credit Card Shouldn’t Be Your Emergency Fund

Imagine this scenario โ€ฆ Bruce has a sudden dental emergency and gets a bill for $2,500. He doesnโ€™t have any savings โ€“ who knows where the money goes each month โ€“ so he puts it on his credit card at 20% interest.  โ€œLuckilyโ€ the minimum payment is only $42 per month โ€“ he can figure … Continue reading Why Your Credit Card Shouldn’t Be Your Emergency Fund