Lifestyle and Budget

The government's partial closure is the latest blow to federal workers that have also had their pay frozen at 2010 levels with no cost-of-living increases. To help keep their heads above water, financial experts offered the following budget tips to furloughed workers. 

The latest research suggests opening a savings account for your child may have more benefits than you would imagine.

Dave Says: When it comes to reducing your debt load there are some corners that can't be cut to help pay it off quicker.

Sure, an 850 credit score is perfect -- but would it get you a better rate?

If you're constantly pulling out your credit card because you couldn't stick to your budget, your problem probably isn't willpower. You're overlooking key expenses.

While the CARD Act has raised interest rates, it also has bolstered consumer protections.

You've worked hard to pay off your mortgage. Can that really raise your insurance costs?

Learn how criminals today are aiming to access your financial information -- and what you can do about it.

Switching banks can be complicated. Follow four steps to "check out" of your old account.

Some folks need multiple bank accounts. Ask these questions to find out if you're one of them.

If you haven't checked what it costs to raise a child today, you may be in for a shock. Here's how new parents can prepare their finances.

Dave Says: Good debt is critical to getting a home mortgage, and that takes time. 

Big companies must manage their money. Learn what families can glean about their finances.

A-Rod may be in trouble for drugs, but his errors suggest some possible money lessons too.

When it comes to credit cards, too many can really be a bad thing for your credit score. 

Are you modeling the right money behaviors for your children? Learn seven habits that can set a responsible example.

Want to file bankruptcy again because you're in another financial mess? Not so fast.

The search for a nanny that fits your child’s needs and schedule and your budget can be daunting, but these tips can make the search process easier.

Consumers who haven't tried mobile banking may be missing out on useful features, but banks that ignore this trend may be losing even more.

If you budgeted for an item you put on plastic, pay it off right away instead of waiting for the bill to arrive.