Author: Elizabeth Blessing
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Credit Freezes Are Free: How to Lock All Three Bureaus
A security freeze is free at all three credit bureaus, blocks new-account fraud, and takes about 15 minutes to set up. Here is how to place and thaw one.
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Why Water Bills Keep Climbing and What Can Help
Water and sewer bills keep rising nationwide. Here’s the $625 billion repair bill behind the increases — and the fixes and help that lower yours.
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401(k) Vesting: The Money That Isn’t Yours Yet
Your 401(k) statement shows one balance, but part of it may not be yours yet. How cliff and graded vesting work, and how to check before you switch jobs.
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Wire Transfer Fees vs. Zelle vs. ACH: What Each Costs
Wires, Zelle and ACH all move money — at very different costs, speeds and protections. Which to use when, and the fraud rules behind each.
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Small Claims Court: Suing Over a Bad Refund Yourself
When a company owes you money and won’t pay, small claims court is built for people without lawyers. What it costs, what you can win, and the steps.
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Medicaid and Your House: What Estate Recovery Means
States can seek repayment of Medicaid long-term care costs from your estate — often the house. Who is protected, what varies by state, what to do.
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The July 4 Cookout Index: What a BBQ Costs This Year
Farm Bureau’s 2026 survey prices a July 4 cookout for 10 at $73.82, up 4%. What got pricier, what got cheaper, and how to grill under the index.
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Secured Cards: Rebuilding Credit With a Small Deposit
A secured credit card turns a few hundred dollars into a working credit history. How the deposit works, what to check first, and how to graduate.
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Auto Insurance Discounts You Can Ask For Today
Insurers offer discounts for bundling, low mileage, safe cars, good students and more, but many only apply if you ask. Here is the list to run through.
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Old Savings Bonds Stop Earning: How to Cash Them In
Savings bonds stop earning interest after 30 years. Here is how to check a drawer full of paper bonds, use Treasury Hunt, and cash them in the right way.