Credit Card Usage Down Again

Consumers continue their third straight month of declining credit card usage.  This is a positive trend.

Now It's Time to Focus on Something Important

Hershey is coming out with a new brand of candy, it's first in 30 years.  "Lancaster" will be a soft, caramel crème.  Sounds delicious!  

Is a Good Credit Score Necessary for Decent Coverage Under The Affordable Care Act?

People in Florida are being asked to provide their credit score when signing up for the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a. Obamacare).  Health providers want know if you're defaulting on your loans before committing to take you onto their plan.  Credit scores are required to apply for some jobs now.  Get your score up and as high as possible. 

Automaker Relying More on Subprime Loans

"[GM] is relying increasingly on subprime loans [to have their cars financed], 10-Q financial reports show."  If your FICO score is close to or below 660, be cautious about what you're buying and your loan agreement.  We've seen this story play out before and the individual doesn't win when the market tanks.  Be money conscious and contact each of the credit rating agencies (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax) for a free copy of your credit report.  You may also contact freecreditreport.com for a report, but it's only free if you cancel before the 7-day free trial ends.  Otherwise, you're charged $19.99 monthly

Credit Over Debit

Are there times when using a credit card is preferable to using a debit card?  Why, yes, at least five.