Advertise Here

Get Creative

With these hard economic times that we are living in, many of us are searching for ways to save this holiday season.  For some of us it isn’t anything new, we’ve always liked to try to spend as little as possible on our gifts, knowing that it is the thought that counts right?

So, why not put a little more “thought” into your gift giving this year and get creative.  Think about the things or activities that the people on your list enjoy and then create a gift to suit their likes and personality.  For the cook in your life, create a handmade book of recipes.  There are dozens of websites online now where you can easily find new recipes they might have never tried before.

For the book worm, why not make them a bookmark or a basket or some type box to hold their books by their nightstand or in their bathroom where they might spend time reading.

For the couch potato you could make them some coasters for their favorite beverage to rest on as they peruse the channels.

There are many, many gift ideas that you can create yourself if you just spend some time thinking, and getting creative.  It is sure to result in some great gifts as well as happy recipients and less stress on you when the holidays are over and you know you haven’t broke the bank. 

Your Money: Stepping Up to the Plate

You know what a bad hair day is, right? But have you ever had a bad *money* day? A day that becomes a week?

It all began when I made an online purchase at just under $100. I allowed three days for my echeck to clear. In the meantime, I emailed the seller.

He didn’t return my email.

(Strike One)

Once I received notice that my e-check had cleared, I waited an extra day, then emailed him again. He didn’t write back. At this point, I still didn’t have my purchase.

(Strike Two)

I dug up another email address from his site, sent him my receipt and proof of purchase, and asked him to send my product.

Later in the week, he wrote back with an apology. He also explained that his original email address was no longer valid. So, he was totally oblivious to my purchase.

Fair enough. These things happen. Right? But, then… [Read more...]

Managing Your Money

With an effervescent consumer culture marked by excessive credit card use, it is necessary to weed out the truths in managing your money. Your financial assets may not be in hot water at this time, but many Americans are finding themselves strapped for cash, downright broke or in serious debt.

There are many steps to take in navigating most everyone’s goal of perfect credit. Low interest rate credit cards, for example, are a wonderful way to erase embarrassing credit histories marked by those student loans you forgot to pay 10 years ago. However, micro-managing your finances may not be your best skill, so check out some helpful hints.

What You Should Keep in Mind:

• Learn how to budget your money! Use an Excel spreadsheet if need be.

• Keep track of all credit purchases and which card you paid with—many credit problems stem from prior planning and disorganization.

• If you choose a low interest rate credit card, try to find one that doesn’t charge an annual fee. They’re out there!

• Sign up for a credit card that offers online banking—it will save you much hassle when you can’t remember how much you threw down in Atlantic City last week.

• See if a card you’re interested in charges minimum and maximum balance transfer fees and choose accordingly.

• Take late fees into consideration—even if you’re the most organized person on the face of the Earth. Everyone slips once in awhile.

• See if your low-interest rate credit card’s fees can be raised so you won’t run into surprises.

If you are used to making default payments, it’s a habit to consider dropping as quickly as possible. 6StarReviews.com reports that many companies have considered the needs of those who aren’t in best standing with Equifax. One of the top credit cards they researched in their low interest rate credit card reviews is Advanta Life of Balance Platinum Card.

Not only does a card of this caliber offer those on the borderline of debt six percent cash rebates, customers receive amazingly low interest rates and no annual fee. There are many other credit cards available for those seeking low APR’s, which could greatly increase your shots at financial stability.

However, keeping on top of your expenses can be challenging and we sympathize with those who aren’t mathematicians. But, last-minute borrowing from your personal portfolio isn’t something to resort to every time you forget to pay a bill.

Article by: Kelly Liyakasa is staff writer for 6StarReviews. Kelly Staller is site manager at 6StarReviews.com, a site dedicated to giving YOU, the consumer, the best product and service reviews around.

Come Get To Know Us :)

We're Very Social!