Tips for Recent College Grads to Avoid Common Financial Pitfalls June 19, 2019 Francesca Sacco Congratulations! Your hard work has paid off. Diploma in hand, you’re ready to tackle the next phrase of your life. But the joy of graduating from college can quickly fade once graduates begin to grasp their new-found responsibilities, especially when it comes to their financial future. Navigating rent, a car payment, insurance, cable and groceries can be overwhelming. Throw student loan payments and other financial burdens into the mix, and it can be downright frightening. The worst thing recent grads can do is to start using credit cards to help them maintain their lifestyle. The average college grad owes $4,100 on credit cards at the time of graduation. Not including student loans. Roughly 69% of graduates took out student loans and owe an average of $29,800 in federal and private debt.
Four signs you might be a victim of tax-related identity theft March 10, 2018 Beth Ann Tabak Though the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that tax-related identity theft is on the decline, it’s still a possibility. Here are a few signs that could indicate you’re a victim.
Credit Report 101: What is it and why should you check it? February 9, 2018 Beth Ann Tabak Your credit report might be the most important financial tool you have, but do you know why? Check out this primer on the basics of a credit report, and why it’s so essential to your financial life.
Credit Freeze vs. Fraud Alert: Which is right for you? January 14, 2018 Beth Ann Tabak If you’re concerned about identity theft, it could be in your best interest to place a Credit Freeze or Fraud Alert on your accounts. But, which one is right for you? Here’s what these tools are and how they work so that you can determine your next steps.