Whether you’re purchasing your first car or your seventh, buying a new vehicle is exciting. From the model, features, and color, you have many important decisions to make. However, that excitement can wane the minute you start talking about finances.
Retirement is an aspiration we all hope to reach – sooner rather than later! However, if you’re just starting your career journey, retirement can seem like a lifetime away. For others, it’s right around the corner, and you may be wondering if you’re genuinely prepared, financially speaking.
It’s usually not until you attempt to get a loan that you realize just how valuable a great credit score can be. Lenders typically price loans based on your creditworthiness. Lower credit scores lead to higher interest rates.
You may feel lenders are punishing you, but the reality is that financial institutions are trying to protect themselves from potential losses. A credit score provides a bird’s-eye view of your money management abilities. If you struggle to manage your money or make payments on time, lenders will perceive you as a higher risk.
When you work diligently to pay off a credit card, nothing is more satisfying than seeing the balance hit $0. It’s a eureka moment – filled with accomplishment and freedom. And your next desire may be to shred the credit card and close the account. But is that the right move?
Everyone sets goals. Typically, these goals fall into two categories – short-term and long-term. Short-term goals may consist of saving for a well-deserved vacation or shedding 10 lbs. before summer. Long-term goals focus more on what you want to accomplish in life and retirement planning.