Often, parents cosign for their sons or daughters who have adequate income but a lack of credit or employment history. By cosigning, parents help their offspring get the loan and establish credit in their own names. But many borrowers, be they the cosigner or the primary borrower (also known as the maker), don’t recognize the

Let’s play a game. I’ll give you a word and you tell me what comes to mind. Ready? “Predator.” Did you think of a prehistoric animal with claws and stabbing teeth? Or, a stealthy cheetah prowling for gazelle in the grassy plains of the Serengeti? Perhaps a portly Siamese cat stalking a house sparrow? How

You can make your own budget worksheet using either a pen and paper or a computer spreadsheet program. Think of your budget in terms of two things: money and time. Money, of course, is divided into its own two categories: Income and Expenses. Follow these steps to make your budget worksheet: List your income in

The details of our financial lives can be tricky, and without a clear road map it’s easy to feel lost. Changes in tax laws and the family structure offer potential complications in how we handle our money, so heed these tips as you make financial plans for the future. Invest. If you have extra money

If you’ve recently updated your status from single to married, you’re not alone; late spring and summertime is a popular period for weddings. Marriage also brings about some changes with your taxes. Here are several tips for newlyweds from the IRS. Notify the Social Security Administration It’s important that your name and Social Security number match on

You can make your own budget worksheet using either a pen and paper or a computer spreadsheet program. Think of your budget in terms of two things: money and time. Money, of course, is divided into its own two categories: Income and Expenses. Follow these steps to make your budget worksheet: List your income in

Manufacturers often market vehicles by offering a rebate or exceptionally low financing. Should you take the rebate or the special financing? The dealer does not give you both. For example, you have decided to purchase a vehicle for $20,000. The dealer is going to give you a rebate of $3,000 or a finance rate of

Does money trickle out of your wallet like a lazy river, a babbling brook, or rushing white water rapids? Government figures show that many households with a total income of $50,000 or less are spending more than they bring in thanks to the liberal availability of credit. This doesn’t make you an automatic candidate for bankruptcy, but

Follow our financial resolutions for a financially fit lifestyle! Save automatically. Credit unions will automatically deduct a designated amount from your paycheck for deposit in savings. This is an essential step for those who are unlikely to save on their own. Remember, even small amounts add up! Save your raise. If you get a raise,

“I can’t wait to get my own car.” Sound familiar? Before you start shopping for a used car with a teenager you know, do some homework. It may save you serious money. Consider driving habits, what the car will be used for, and your budget. Research models, options, costs, repair records, safety tests, and mileage