SHOCKING: Consumer financial protection bureau - What They Never Told You

Your Spouse Dies With a Trust — What Should the Surviving Spouse Check?

A surviving spouse can inherit the house, keep using the family accounts, and remain financially comfortable without realizing that the rules governing the money have changed. A trust can make that transition easier, but it can also introduce restrictions that surprise the person left behind.

The Free Financial Advisor · Nov 10

Your Bank Refuses to Reverse a Wire Transfer — What Are Your Options?

A wire transfer can disappear from a bank account faster than a person can finish explaining why it should never have happened. Unfortunately, getting that money back rarely happens with the same efficiency. If your bank refuses to reverse a wire transfer, you still have options, but the next move…

The Free Financial Advisor · Nov 10

A Debt Settlement Company Promises to Cut Your Balance in Half — What to Check

A $20,000 credit card balance suddenly becomes a $10,000 problem. At least, that’s how the advertisement makes it look. Debt settlement companies know exactly how appealing that math sounds to someone juggling minimum payments, rising interest charges, and collection calls.

The Free Financial Advisor · Nov 9

Your Adult Child Wants to Be Added to Your Credit Card — 5 Risks to Understand

Quick Read Adding an adult child as an authorized user can help them establish credit, but the primary cardholder generally remains responsible for purchases and...

Saving Advice · Nov 7

The Fake Package Delivery Message That Could Lead to a Stolen Card Number

Quick Read Fake package delivery texts often claim there’s an address problem, unpaid postage, or a missed delivery requiring immediate action. Scammers create convincing copies...

Saving Advice · Nov 7

Can a Hotel Charge You for Something You Never Used?

Quick Read Hotels can charge mandatory resort or destination fees even when you never use the amenities, but those fees generally must be included in...

Saving Advice · Nov 7

Why a Bank’s Highest CD Rate May Not Be Its Best Deal

A bank can advertise a dazzling CD rate and still offer a less attractive deal than the competitor down the street. The number looks impressive, the promotional banner practically celebrates your financial genius, and suddenly a deposit seems like an easy decision.

The Free Financial Advisor · Nov 7

Your Credit Card Company Offers a Hardship Program — What’s the Catch?

A credit card company may offer to lower your interest rate, reduce your monthly payment, or waive certain fees. It sounds generous, particularly when a balance keeps growing faster than the money available to pay it.

The Free Financial Advisor · Nov 7

7 Things That Could Make a House Worth Less Than the Asking Price

A house can have beautiful countertops, fresh paint, and professional listing photographs while still being overpriced by tens of thousands of dollars.

Everybody Loves Your Money · Nov 7

Your Bank Closes Your Account Without Warning — What Happens to Your Money?

Your bank can decide it no longer wants your business. Unfortunately, it doesn’t necessarily have to ask your permission first. One day, your debit card works perfectly. The next, it declines at the grocery store, your banking app shows an unfamiliar message, and your checking account seems to have vanished.

The Free Financial Advisor · Nov 6