How to fix mistakes on your credit report to boost your credit score
From data entry mistakes to the results of identity theft, errors on your credit report can lower your credit score. That in turn can limit your ability to qualify for favorable interest rates on loans or new credit cards. If you monitor your credit reports on a regular basis, though, you can fix mistakes before […]
How to identify potential cryptocurrency scams
Americans lost billions to cryptocurrency scams in 2023, according to a recent report from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation. Financial losses “involving the use of cryptocurrency, such as bitcoin, ether or tether” last year totaled over $5.6 billion, per the agency’s 2023 Cryptocurrency Fraud Report. That’s up 45% compared with 2022, according to […]
Financial fraud targets older adults. How to recognize it
10’000 Hours | Digitalvision | Getty Images In an increasingly digital world, the specter of financial fraud looms large, especially for older adults. My experience with an 81-year-old client offers a stark illustration. While assisting “Emma” (not her real name) with email issues, I witnessed her vulnerability to scams firsthand. Despite my repeated warnings over […]
How to negotiate real estate agent commissions
Fuse | Corbis | Getty Images When you buy or sell a home, your real estate agent’s commissions can trim thousands of dollars off the sale price — but many consumers don’t realize you can negotiate those terms. Nearly a third, 31%, of homebuyers and sellers negotiated commissions with their agents, according to a new […]