Leasing a car more popular, high-credit consumers choosing to lease more than 30% of the time

Borrowers with good credit scores choose to lease more often than those with poor credit scores. (iStock) With car prices rising since the peak of the pandemic, many drivers are likely buying cars on leases rather than loans. Experian’s State of the Auto Finance Market Q1 Report. Borrowers with higher credit scores are more likely […]
Americans agree that something must be done to save Social Security: survey

A recent survey found that most Americans were unaware that Social Security benefits could be subject to cuts over the next decade. (iStock) A recent survey found that Americans who are unaware of the impending changes to Social Security are the only ones who aren’t bothered by them. According to the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, […]
Economic optimism rises as U.S. job market adds 206,000 jobs

The unemployment rate rose slightly, but employment increased by more than 200,000. (iStock) The U.S. job market is gradually stabilizing, as evidenced by the addition of 206,000 jobs in June. According to the Bureau of Labor StatisticsIndustries driving this growth include government, healthcare, social assistance and construction. Despite the increase in employment, the unemployment rate […]
Some vacationers expect to use credit card for more than $5,000 of summer travel

Vacationers will likely use credit cards to cover some of the costs of their summer trips. (iStock) A recent survey found that most Americans plan to pay for a significant portion of their vacation travel on their credit cards, even if they can’t afford it. About 83% of people plan to pay for some of […]
This week’s personal loan rates rise for 3-year loans, while 5-year rates fall
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Mortgage rates crept back up closer to 7% as home prices increase

The average interest rate on a 30-year mortgage rose to 6.95% last week. (iStock ) Mortgage rates rose sharply this week, hovering near 7%. The jump ended a string of declines this week. Rates on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.95%. Freddie Mac is. “Mortgage rates rose this week, to just below 7 percent,” explained […]
Consumers’ guide to credit card use: balancing perks with financial health

“Kudlow” panelists Kevin Brady, Art Laffer and Sandra Smith discuss why “Bidenomics” isn’t being embraced by voters. Credit cards have become a staple in American finances as individuals look for ways to gain financial benefits for the present and future. Regardless of age or income, credit card usage is common in the United States. By […]
Medicare, coverage, travel, seniors, Abroad

Victory Cruise Lines Founder and CEO John Waggoner will unveil the company’s latest vacation offerings on “The Craman Countdown.” The “golden years” of life are often a time when people are raising grandchildren, taking up new hobbies, and traveling as a couple or solo. Travel is on the rise, with solo travel among seniors increasing […]
The disability benefits application process just got a little easier thanks to SSA adjustments

Applicants will only need to submit five years of work history instead of the previous 15 years. (iStock ) The Social Security Administration (SSA) Adjusting the evaluation process To make it easier for Americans with disabilities to get the benefits they need. Typically, when an individual becomes disabled, the SSA provides benefits through the Social […]
The South is ranked highest for prospective homebuyers, despite high underwater mortgage rates

San Antonio and Tampa saw the largest increases in housing inventory. (iStock) Today’s home buying market is in the hands of sellers, competition remains fierce, and prices fluctuate. There are some states that are a bit more affordable than others. Zillow recently conducted a survey. Cities in Texas and Florida dominate Zillow’s top 10 best […]