Hey! While there are a lot of ways to pay bills these days, it’s important to understand how to use checks as a payment option.

A checking account allows you to make deposits and withdraw money to make payments. In exchange for greater access than accounts such as savings or investment, checking accounts tend to offer lower interest rates or returns on your deposits.

One way to withdraw your money from an account is by writing a check. The amount on the ...

Hey! As you transition from living on a college budget to getting your first real paychecks, here are some tips to help you manage your income while paying down debt.

1. Create a simple budget. Give every dollar a purpose. The 50/30/20 approach is always a great starting point and can help you get a better picture of where your money’s going.
2. Prioritize: Step 1, emergency savings. Step 2, 401(k) contributions. Step 3, debt. Step 4, retirement savings. Step 5, long-term emergency fund.
3. Understand ...

Hey! If you’re thinking about buying a home, here are four factors to consider:

Number 1: The long-term value. Typically, homes are appreciating assets, which means the value usually goes up the longer you own it.

Number 2: Payments. A portion of your monthly payment goes to your original loan and toward owning the home. The balance goes to interest. The larger the down payment, the more the original loan or principal will be covered with your payment.

Number 3: Taxes. Bad news: ...

Hey! Did you know your marital status can have a big impact on your Social Security benefits?

If you’re married, you may have the option to receive the greater of your own benefits or up to half of your spouse’s Social Security benefits.

If you’re divorced and the marriage lasted for at least 10 years, you may still be able to receive either the greater of your own benefits or half of your ex-spouse’s benefit.

Widows and widowers are entitled to collect Survivors ...