Financial planners recommend building an emergency fund that can pay for major repairs and also cover necessary bills, such as rent, should you become unemployed or suffer an emergency. A good rule of thumb is to have an emergency fund that covers living expenses for at least six months. Unfortunately, some folks lack such a fund and instead rely on credit lines. Even if … [Read more...] about A credit card doesn’t count as an emergency fund
Finance
Now you can find out how much your hospital charges
For most major purchases that we make, we pay close attention to price and services.But, when was the last time you asked the price of a surgery? When was the last time you shopped prices?Insured patients go in for procedures and services without any real concept of costs, and hospitals have not been required to disclose pricing for certain services in advance. A new … [Read more...] about Now you can find out how much your hospital charges
Ask the Expert: How to read a mortgage loan estimate
When applying for a mortgage, one-and-done is not your best approach. You stand to save money if you shop around for the best loan for you, and this means you should know how to decipher the documents that come your way.A mortgage loan estimate is a three-page form you receive after applying for a mortgage. A lender must provide you with a mortgage loan estimate within three … [Read more...] about Ask the Expert: How to read a mortgage loan estimate
A big payoff in taking the optimistic view
If you're an optimist, you believe that any defeat is a temporary setback or a challenge. It doesn't knock you down.Using this theme in your life helps you move forward in your work. A positive view helps to prevent illness, improves relationships and increases self esteem. According to Mayo Clinic Proceedings, one study showed that optimists live longer, are healthier, and are … [Read more...] about A big payoff in taking the optimistic view