Spend
How to use a credit card to get ahead financially
Credit cards often get a bad reputation — and for good reason. When used carelessly, they can lead to mounting debt, high interest charges and lasting damage to your credit score. But when used wisely, they can be one of the most powerful tools for improving your financial health. Credit cards are convenient and secure. […]
7 psychology-backed ways to curb overspending and reach your financial goals
Although overspending may feel like a failure of willpower, that’s not always the case. Overspending is often driven by how our brain responds to rewards, friction, emotions and convenience, psychologists say. From digital payments that make spending all too easy to emotional triggers that lead to impulse buys, our environment shapes how we use money […]
Choosing your first credit card as a college student
Your first credit card as a college student isn’t just a piece of plastic. It’s a financial tool that can help you build independence, prepare for life after school and start creating a credit history that follows you well beyond graduation. Learning how to choose your first credit card wisely is an important early step […]
Should you use credit cards to pay for medical bills?
A surprise medical bill can feel like it knocks the wind out of you. One minute you’re focused on recovering or helping a loved one, and the next you’re staring at a balance you have no idea how to pay. You’re far from alone. According to a Kaiser Family Foundation analysis, roughly 14 million adults […]
3 budgeting methods to help you take control of your money
Everyone wants to be better with money, but few people are ever taught exactly how to manage it. That’s where budgeting comes in. While there’s no perfect one-size-fits-all plan, there are several proven budgeting methods that can help you manage your income, avoid debt, and stay focused on your savings goals. We’ll break down three […]
How to stick to a budget while back-to-school shopping
Back-to-school season is an exciting time for kids (and let’s be honest, for parents too), but it can also be one of the most expensive times of the year. Between classroom supply lists, new clothes, sports gear and tech, it’s easy to start saying yes to everything that feels like a “need” — leaving you […]
Sun, smiles, and savings: 10 tips for summer fun on a budget
As the summer months arrive, families everywhere start looking for ways to keep their kids active, happy and engaged. But between summer camps, amusement parks and last-minute outings, costs can add up quickly. The good news? You don’t need to break the bank to make the most of summer. With a little planning and creativity, […]
Is it smart to consolidate credit card debt?
When you’re juggling multiple credit cards and trying to keep up with minimum monthly payments, it can feel like you’re getting nowhere. That’s why many people consider consolidating their credit card debt — combining several balances into one payment with the potential for a lower interest rate and a clearer path forward. But is it […]
Four smart ways to spend your annual bonus
According to the latest data from the career firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, roughly 66 percent of employers awarded a year-end bonus in 2023. With bonus payouts on the decline in recent years – as much as 36 percent at some companies – it’s more important than ever to strategize how you’ll spend any extra […]
How to prepare your finances for holiday spending
‘Tis the season to be shopping! According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend nearly $990 billion in November and December alone – an increase of 3.5 percent year-over-year. While the average holiday shopper is estimated to spend over $2,100 this winter, Empeople members are uniquely positioned to save while they spend. […]