Monthly Archives: May 2011

Plunging commodity prices leaving investors jittery

Silver coinsPrices of gold, silver, coffee, oil, gasoline, copper and other "safe haven" investments have dropped precipitously in the last few days.

Arkansas cracks down on online payday lenders, consumer choice

Highway sign welcoming drivers to Arkansas, “The Natural State.”The Arkansas Attorney General's Office obtained court orders forcing online payday lenders out of contracts with Arkansas residents.

The basics of a credit score

FICO ScoreA credit score is a number used for many reasons, but taking control starts with understanding what is behind it.

Payday lenders thriving despite regulatory climate

Storefront of a payday loan lenderThough people are saving money more and regulatory climates are changing, payday loan lenders are continuing to thrive and expand.

Students have a hard time paying off personal loans

Students in graduation attireCollege graduates are having an increasingly difficult time paying back student loans. One in four struggle, and 7 percent are in default.

Tough choices in a tough job and housing market

calculatorBe sure to calculate the cost of living difference before you relocate for work, and check out these tips on how to sell your home.

Banks will not raise ATM fees too high for now

Automatic Teller MachineATM fees won't climb too much higher, at least for now. Chase has ended a $4 and $5 ATM fee program, as consumers can stand only so much.

Tips for starting a small business on the right foot

A small business owner turning the sign to “Open.”Getting your new small business up and running requires lots of work. Here are new small business ideas to help give you a running start.

New rule makes Social Security benefits off-limits for garnishing

Social Security cardSocial Security benefits are now a little harder to garnish, under new rules passed to make garnishing benefit payments more transparent.