Lifestyle & Trends - Money & Finance

A bad credit score doesn't end car loan and credit opportunities

Americans rely heavily on cars and credit cards, and when a credit score gets in the way of obtaining one or both of these items, it can make life difficult. It's no surprise that you should maintain a good credit report. But with the recent economic decline, you might not have a sterling report any longer. Still, you should know what's on your report so you can work toward improving it.

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Smart household savings start in the laundry room

For many families, household budgets are still tight in the wake of the recession. But whether times are tough or not, it makes sense to save money wherever you can. There are plenty of small ways to start cutting costs. One of the best places in your home to start saving is the laundry room.

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Five bank fees you should stop paying

Irritation with unnecessary banking fees is the No. 1 reason consumers switch banks, according to a recent survey. If you're paying these five fees, it's time to look for a bank that doesn't charge them.

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Cut college costs with 2010 tax breaks

Financing a college education in the 21st century is no small feat. According to the College Board, the average cost of tuition and fees at a four-year private college for the 2009-2010 academic year was $26,273 and $7,020 for a four-year public university. Add several thousands more for room, board, books and supplies. Fortunately, students, parents and graduates can get some of that money back on their 2010 federal tax return.

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When is the right time to switch auto insurance companies?

When you start looking over the family finances, that moment rarely coincides with the months your insurance policies, cable or cell phone contracts are set to renew. In fact, you're more likely to make this financial review during times of the year when you need to budget for events - like Christmas, or when school tuition bills come due.

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Smart ways to save money on summer home improvement projects

With summer in the air, you're just itching to get that home improvement project going. It's a great time to install a rain garden, improve storm-water runoff in your yard, redo your windows or siding, or even change the look of one of the rooms inside your house with new paint and furniture.

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Simple steps to get 'gorgeously green' on a budget

Going "green" is great at any time of the year. No matter the season, there are always "green" steps that can be introduced into everyday family routines that can lessen our negative effects on the environment and our health while helping us to save money at the same time.

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Smart online shopping tips to save Moms time and money

The average American mother spends nearly an hour a day purchasing products and services and more than two hours a day on household activities like housework, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Clearly, streamlining tasks like shopping can help mothers save money and make their lives easier.

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What you should know about credit before you go car shopping

Before you set foot on a dealer's lot or peruse the auto section of the newspaper, take these steps to ensure you're in a position of power when it comes time to negotiate your auto loan.

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Need money for college? Follow these tips

Even though the economy has slowed down, college applications are up. Many people are enrolling in undergraduate programs or going back to school for an advanced degree. There is money out there to help you pay for tuition and room and board -- you just have to find it. Here are some tips.

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