How to evaluate your personal finances
We all want to improve our money-management habits, but sometimes the path on how to achieve this goal is a little unclear. If you are looking to take your financial health to the next level, […]
4 financial new year’s resolutions your future self will thank you for
You can usually guess someone’s New Year’s resolution because it often involves losing weight, getting into better shape or cooking more nutritious meals. Look, we’re not trying to throw shade. If those are […]
Can you refinance a car loan with the same lender?
Editor’s note: Lantern by SoFi seeks to provide content that is objective, independent and accurate. Writers are separate from our business operation and do not receive direct compensation from advertisers or partners. Read more about […]
How to write your own last will & testament
A last will and testament is one of those things you probably don’t want to think about on a random Sunday at the park. It’s also one of those things you’ll be glad you […]
How to save money for a house in just 6 months
There are countless ways you could save money for a house in six months. While there is no guaranteed formula that will help you achieve that goal, there are tried-and-true tools, techniques and strategies […]
Essential money rules every couple should follow
Being a new couple includes many “firsts,” including managing money together or even buying a home. From deciding whether to open a joint bank account or knowing if you should cosign a mortgage, these critical […]
Millennials & fintech are flocking to Charlotte. Here’s why
At the end of 2020, data from Realtor.com pegged Charlotte, North Carolina as number three among the hottest markets for 2021, and that prediction has been borne out in style. As of August, the median […]
Smart short-term financial goals to set for yourself
Setting financial goals is an important step toward becoming financially secure. If there is something you hope to achieve in the not-too-distant future, say buy a car or make a down payment on a home, […]
How to set money goals
There’s no doubt about it: thinking about money is stressful. In fact, a study shows that money outpaces both personal relationships and work when it comes to inducing stress. But not thinking about […]
EIDL Loan requirements: What are they?
“EIDL” is short for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and EIDL loans are available to small businesses, most private nonprofit agencies and small agricultural cooperatives. Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), these loan funds […]
How the pandemic changed American borrowing habits
Disclosure: Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we receive compensation from our partner lenders, whom we will always identify, all opinions are our […]
Boomers own the most homes in America. Here’s why
Mortgages are the largest debt owned by many Americans, which is why it’s often recommended that homeowners pay off their balances before they retire. That way, homeowners will have more money freed up and […]
3 easy steps to reach your financial goals in 2022
It’s almost a new year, and what better way to moveon past that horrible year that was 2021 than to make a plan to finally achieve your money goals? I know New Year’s Resolutions aren’t everyone’s thing, but […]
Guide to employee benefits for small businesses
To build a great team, it’s important to retain your best employees. One of the most influential factors in keeping employees happy on the job is offering benefits. Managing benefits can be tricky and costly for […]
Insurance premiums have exploded in these states
Looking at insurance premium data reveals a lot. If a location is seeing an increase in insurance premium volume, it could be a sign of economic development, as new homeowners and businesses require […]
8 real estate myths you should never believe
Real estate investment myths are all around us. However, investing in real estate is a huge step toward financial independence. For first-time investors, investing in real estate could be both a thrilling and confusing time. […]
How to plan for your future
If you were given the choice between having a secure future where you can accomplish goals and achieve dreams or being financially insecure, it’s unlikely you would make the latter choice. To help turn […]
The importance of setting your long-term financial goals
Long-term financial goals are a daunting subject. A long-term financial goal is typically something that’s at least seven years ahead of you, which can feel like forever away. But setting long-term financial goals can allow […]
How Bitcoin ATMs work
What is a Bitcoin ATM? A Bitcoin ATM is a standalone machine or kiosk that serves as a portal for customers to deposit cash and receive Bitcoins. Some crypto ATMs offer only Bitcoin, while others […]
What is a hedge fund? A jargon-free guide
If you’re confused about what a hedge fund is, you are not alone. Part of their allure is their exclusivity and secrecy. Hollywood only adds to that mystique in portraying hedge fund managers, such as […]
7 reasons all kids need to learn about money
Did you know: 50% of American households live paycheck to paycheck 44% of Americans don’t have enough cash to cover a $400 emergency expense The average American household’s credit card debt is $5,700 A third of Americans have saved nothing for retirement 80% of Americans’ retirement plan is […]
Nearly half of Americans retire in debt. Here’s how to beat the odds
They don’t call them the golden years for nothing — American consumers spend much of their lives working toward retirement, so many have probably thought about their ideal retirement and how to make it […]
3 common debt payoff strategies
In the U.S., debt is a reality for many Americans. According to the Federal Reserve’s most recent report, our total national household debt is $13.95 trillion. That’s a lot of student loans, car loans, mortgages and […]
How to plan the ultimate debt payoff strategy
Debt often has a negative connotation, but there are plenty of good reasons to have it — for example, using student loans to increase your earning potential, funding an entrepreneurial venture with a small-business […]
Should I spend my year-end bonus?
If you were lucky enough to receive a year-end bonus, way to go! It can feel great to get a pat on the back that takes the form of a deposit into your account. An […]
Your complete guide to creating the perfect elevator pitch
Editor’s Note: I am not a personal finance or mental health expert. Please seek professional advice if needed. If you’re actively looking for employment, you’re probably familiar with the standard resumes and cover letters. […]
These new homebuying startups could help you outbid all-cash offers
Policygenius content follows strict guidelines for editorial accuracy and integrity. Learn about our editorial standards and how we make money. A new breed of startups has emerged to help homebuyers who need financing to […]
20 ways to win a real estate bidding war
In a hot real estate market, finding your dream home can be frustrating, no matter how many tools and websites you use. No sooner do you find a home you love, but you find out the […]
SBA Express Loans: What they are & how to apply
Sometimes an opportunity may come up or an emergency may arise and your small business will need cash fast. That’s when the SBA Express Loan may help. If you’re looking for small business financing […]
Partial payments for debts
Whether you’re paying for college, buying a house, or starting a business, it’s common to take on debt at some point in your life. Repaying that debt typically involves making a fixed or minimum […]