Lifestyle and Budget

Credit bureaus add a new section to credit reports showing whether you carry a credit card balance, giving card issuers and others a more detailed portrait of your financial habits

Using one or more credit cards to get out from under the burden of student loan payments can seem tempting, but it's a step in the wrong direction

What's that hologram on your card? And why all the numbers? Here's what makes a credit card.

Marriott Rewards consistently wins travelers' awards for best hotel rewards in the Americas, but there are other cards to also consider if you'll be traveling a lot for business

What do you do do when your wages are garnished to pay for a repossessed car that was jointly owned by you and your ex?

As a parent, there's an easy way you can help your son or daughter establish credit.

What does a first-time credit card holder need to know?

It's been four years since the law went into place, and consumer groups are urging lawmakers to make a host of fixes and enhancements.

Disputing a credit report error? The bureaus will no longer discard your evidence.

While your first priority after experiencing a life-altering tragedy may be to rebuild, ignoring your debts can hamper your recovery

If a rewards card is frozen during bankruptcy, you may still have access to most of the points you've earned. It depends on whether the card is co-branded with a travel partner.

More states now accept electronic proof of car insurance. Here is how to show it properly.

New citizens should follow these tips to building a solid credit score.

The shame of a declined credit card is bad enough. Why did it happen? Can you avoid it?

The fastest way to rack up credit card rewards is through sign-up bonuses. If you don't want a new card, there are still ways to boost your earning potential

Credit card surcharges are now legal, along with minimum purchase requirements for customers who want to use credit cards. But for some convenience store owners, is the money worth the business they'll lose from irritated customers?

Thinking about sharing a card account with someone? Take heed. Your liability for the debt could vary greatly depending upon the type of account you choose.

While everyone's desired retirement goal is different, you can, with just a bit of math, come up with a rough idea of your savings goal. Here's how.

The federal CARD Act of 2009 created rules about how payments should be allocated when there are multiple rates, but not for multiple balances.

A study by a pair of University of Michigan sociologists finds people who are ill and don't seek treatment because of the cost are more likely to have credit card debt than other forms of debt.