How to Improve Your Financial Knowledge During the Coronavirus Pandemic
The COVID-19 crisis has impacted the U.S. economy in a very meaningful way. With countless small businesses shuttered and millions of Americans out of jobs, it's now more important than ever to get a handle on your finances. Here are some helpful resources you can use to boost your knowledge and arm yourself with information at a time when you might otherwise feel helpless.
How can I set up a budget I can easily follow?
A budget can help you manage your income, whatever it looks like these days. Here's an easy-to-follow guide on setting one up.
>>>Read more: Ask a CFP: How do I create a budget?
I need a new credit card. How can I find the right one?
The right credit card could open the door to valuable perks and rewards. Here's how to navigate the many options and land on a credit card that's right for you.
>>>Read more: How to choose a credit card in 9 easy steps
I'm in debt and want to get rid of it. How do I do that?
Debt can strain your financial resources and be a major source of stress. This guide will walk you through your options for paying off debt and explain why it's so important to do so.
>>>Read more: How to pay off debt
I'm not sure if a balance transfer is a good idea. Where can I learn more?
If you have outstanding debt, a balance transfer could help you pay it off more affordably. Here's an in-depth look at how balance transfers work and what you need to know about applying for one.
>>>Read more: A complete guide to balance transfers
I keep hearing about my FICO® Score but want to understand more about what that means
FICO is the most commonly used credit scoring model, and understanding how it works can help you improve your credit. Here's what you need to know about how credit scores are calculated.
>>>Read more: The complete guide to your FICO® Score
I know having good credit is important. How can I raise my score?
The higher your credit score, the more likely you are to get approved for a loan, and an affordable one at that. These are the steps you need to take to bring your credit score up.
>>>Read more: 12 ways to increase your credit score
My credit score needs work. How can I build it up?
Poor credit doesn't have to hurt you forever. If your credit needs work, this guide will show you what it takes to improve and open up your borrowing options.
>>>Read more: The definitive guide for rebuilding your credit
I've never invested before. Where can I find the right brokerage account?
Ready to start investing? Choosing a brokerage account may seem like a complicated process, but this guide will show you what features to look for so you can start building a portfolio of your own.
>>>Read more: How to open a brokerage account: A step-by-step guide
I'm new to investing and want to learn the ropes. Where can I get some tips?
When you start investing, the process can be intimidating. This guide will walk you through some basics so you're better equipped to start putting a portfolio together.
>>>Read more: 6 things to know as a new investor
Am I earning enough? How do I know if I'm bringing home a reasonable wage?
Knowing how your income stacks up can help you assess your earnings and strategize about boosting them. In this research study, you'll see how much Americans earn by race, family size, gender, age, state, and occupation.
>>>Read more: Are you well-paid? Compare your income to the average
Are there resources available for immigrants? Where can I learn more?
Immigrants often face unique challenges establishing themselves financially. This thorough guide will help you get your finances in order.
>>>Read more: The ultimate guide to personal finance for American immigrants
I'm worried about what falling ill from COVID-19 will do to my finances. Where can I get some guidance?
Medical emergencies can happen even outside a pandemic, and it's important to be prepared for them. Here are some crucial legal and financial steps to take to protect yourself and your loved ones in the event of an illness or injury.
>>>Read more: Medical emergencies: Managing finances before, during, and after
I'm interested in a more environmentally friendly way of living. Will it save me money? How do I start?
An eco-friendly lifestyle could help improve your finances while also doing good for the planet. Here are some steps you can take to conserve resources and reduce your carbon footprint, all the while boosting your savings.
>>>Read more: The definitive guide to saving money by going green
I know I'm supposed to have emergency savings, but how much do I need?
The COVID-19 crisis has taught us the hard way that having a safety net is crucial. Here's how to determine how much money you need to have socked away to protect you against unplanned expenses or job loss.
>>>Read more: How much money should you have in an emergency fund?
I'm having a hard time saving money, and I know I need cash on hand for unplanned expenses. Any tips?
You may have an idea of how much money to save for emergencies, but how do you actually get there? These useful tips will help you eke out more savings.
>>>Read more: 4 steps to building your emergency fund
I've heard about personal loans, but I'm not sure how they work. How can I get more information?
Personal loans are a good way to borrow money for any purpose. Here's what you need to know about personal loans, and how to navigate the terminology you're likely to encounter when you apply for one.
>>>Read more: Personal loans made easy
I'm interested in getting a personal loan. What do I need to do?
Snagging a personal loan requires some effort on your part. These are the steps you need to take prior to applying for one.
>>>Read more: How to get approved for a personal loan
I need a mortgage. How do I apply and what type of home loan is right for me?
If you've never applied for a mortgage before, the idea can be overwhelming. This guide will explain what you need to do to secure a home loan, how different mortgage programs work, and how to increase your chances of getting approved.
>>>Read more: Beginner's guide to home loans
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