Author Archive for: ‘Lori Lamb’
Always Start With a Debt Validation Letter
When a debt collector (not the original creditor) contacts you about an unpaid debt, we always recommend starting with a debt validation letter. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), that means you send a formal letter requesting that the collector provide proof that …
Should You Plan to Have a Tax Refund?
Today’s tax deadline means last-minute filers will be lining up at the post office, and many of them will probably have to pay government some amount of money to cover their full tax bills. After all, if they expected large refunds, they probably would have …
Improve Your Finances in Less than an Hour
US News & World Report ran an article from Wise Bread’s Sabah Karimi entitled “6 Smart Financial Moves That Take an Hour or Less.“ Those steps include: Review your budget. Visit a financial planner. Take a good look at your credit history. Create a credit …
What Not to Cut From Your Budget
We often offer tips and advice to help people cut their budgets and save money. But not every are of one’s personal finances should be considered for the chopping block. Here are some things that are worth keeping in your spending plan even when money …
Infographic: Seasonal Shopping Calendar
One way to make your savings goals successful is to take steps to control your spending. Knowing when to make a purchase can lead to discounts that will free up room in your budget for increasing your savings. We’ve created this seasonal shopping calendar to …
FTC Recommends Credit Counseling for Consumers in Debt
The Federal Trade Commission recently offered advice for consumers who are “Knee Deep in Debt.” Among their recommendations for financially struggling consumers are credit counseling and Debt Management Plans. Check out their “Facts for Consumers” advice at the FTC web site. Direct Link: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre19.shtm …
Holiday Shopping on a $20 Budget
Holiday shopping can be a budget-killer even in a good year. If you are eager to keep your spending under tight control, be proactive and try to establish a $20 budget. Set the limit Reach out to your friends and family early and ask them …
Identity Theft Prevention Guide, Part Seven
Should I put a security freeze on my credit report? One of the strongest tools a consumer can use to protect themselves against identity thieves is a security freeze. This will protect you from new fraudulent accounts being opened in your name. If you place …
Identity Theft Prevention Guide, Part Four
We’re back with one more round of common ways thieves gain access to your personal identifying info and how to prevent being a victim: Phishing. Thieves send fake emails that appear to be from your bank, credit union, or online services/merchants like PayPal. Those emails …
Guide to Homeownership: 10- Beware of Predatory Lenders
If you are considering homeownership, you should be aware of various scams that predatory lenders use to prey on people who are either attempting to get their first home loan, or who are trying to save their homes from foreclosure. Here are some posts to …
