Zero-interest auto loans as bad as any other car loan. Full story »

Credit cards are a bailout plan you should avoid at all costs. Full story »

Have you ever made a quick financial decision that you later regretted? In the marketing world, they call that regretful feeling “buyer’s remorse.” Here are some tips to avoid buyer’s remorse with future purchases. Full story »

Everyone wants to have a nice Christmas. And if $1,000 was all the money you had in the world, I’d be OK with you spending a little bit. But the key word in “emergency fund” is EMERGENCY. Full story »

Start by asking yourself the following question. “Do I understand how much my debt is costing me every month?” Having taught thousands of people about personal finances, I am convinced that most people do not truly understand how much their debt costs them. Full story »

Financial guru Dave Ramsey offers commonsense approach to managing money. Full story »

A strong savings account can be a powerful tool during times of economic woe Full story »

Downturn in housing market has Alabama reader wondering what he should do Full story »

Reader worries a deal on a duplex could doom friendship Full story »

Being debt-free will allow you to do what you've been put on this earth to do Full story »

Never borrow to invest; choose mutual funds over risky single stocks. Full story »

Something amazing happens when I start running. I am energized. I feel great! The health benefits are noticeable in maintaining an excellent weight, low heart rate and increased energy levels. The same thing happened when we began budgeting our money. The financial benefits were noticeable. We have an emergency fund. We became debt-free (except for the house) in just 14 months, and we have been able to live without incurring any new debt for nearly five years now. Full story »

So what have I done in response to the fear-based trading on Wall Street? I have continued purchasing good mutual funds and a few individual stocks of companies that I believe are well-positioned for excellent gains. I have always ensured that my investments are well-diversified, and that no individual stock exceeds 10 percent of my overall portfolio. Full story »

Put money aside for major purchase as soon as the need for it pops up. Full story »

As I ponder the statement “educated way beyond my level of obedience,” I realize that the No. 1 reason I have not listened to financial truths and made negative financial decisions is my impulsive nature. I see something I want, and I want it NOW! If I did not have money, I would just finance it knowing the entire time that it was a poor decision. Full story »