As part of an ongoing Friday series, we talked to financial experts around the web about saving money, smart spending, and retirement planning. How much do you currently have saved for retirement? If your answer is “not much,” you’re not alone. As a growing number of people are simply living paycheck to paycheck, the whole …

Refund season is finally here! That means you can build that pool in your backyard, right? Wrong. Instead of squandering, splurging, or spending your refund immediately, why not put it to better use—toward your bills? The IRS reported more tax returns in 2014 than in any other year—15 percent more, to be exact. So in …

In a two-part series devoted to single mothers, we asked various mommy bloggers and financial experts to share their unique perspective on finances and how they found ways to save. If you haven’t yet, take a look at part 1 here. Then check out part 2 below: CG: Do you use any valuable resources for …

In a two-part series devoted to single mothers, we asked various mommy bloggers and financial experts to share their unique perspective on finances and how they found ways to save. Update: Check out Part 2 of this series here! Check out the interviews below: CreditGuard (CG): What is a good solution for a difficult challenge …

In a society where consumption is king, it’s easy to get caught up in the habit of paying a lot for a little. However, some things—which we’ll dive into below—simply aren’t worth paying extra for. In simpler terms, they’re a complete waste of money. In an effort to help you shop a little better and …

Did you know an estimated 500,000 businesses open and close each year? A variety of factors can contribute to a businesses’ bankruptcy, yet whether it’s due to an ever-changing market, declining sales, or some kind of internal cover-up, the results are always the same. But even while some business are often (wrongfully) deemed “too big …

When Hostess filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2012, people across the country felt a collective lump in their stomachs (perhaps it was indigestion?) as the once-powerful American food manufacturer began liquidating its assets. However, the long-time brand was given a new lease on life when the company was bought out late last year and …

Proper money management isn’t something that comes easy — it’s a skill that often takes years to master. If you’re having trouble keeping up with your finances, don’t fret! Instead, take a look at how you can avoid these 10 painfully common money mistakes. 1. Not knowing how much you’re saving and spending each month …

Though you may not realize it, speeding and spending are somewhat synonymous. Think about it: Some people spend recklessly, while other people drive recklessly. Both require little thought, and both can be incredibly detrimental to you and those around you. With NASCAR season gearing up, people across the country are getting pumped for some revved-up, …

Are you having trouble keeping up with all those overdue bills? Perhaps you’re using one credit card to pay off another. Whatever the case may be, living beyond your means is not only stressful, it’s exhausting. Because you may be living a lifestyle that exceeds your budget and not even realize it, take a quick …