How Credit Mistakes Affect Your FICO Score

Late payments, new credit applications, and rising balances can pull a credit score down. Find out how much a score can fall, based on two hypothetical borrowers.

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What Are Discouraged Workers and How Do They Affect the Labor Force?

Discouraged workers believe there are no jobs for them, even though they have looked in the past year. It could be due to issues with training, skill set, or age.

How the Fed Raises and Lowers Interest Rates

The Fed raises or lowers interest rates through its FOMC meetings. It sets a target for banks to use for the fed funds rate. Here are the Fed tools.

Rules for Deducting Health Insurance Premiums on Taxes

Some people can deduct the cost of health insurance on their income tax returns. Find out if you're one of them and the rules that apply.

Home Improvements and Residential Energy Tax Credits

Homeowners who made energy-efficient improvements to their homes can qualify for federal tax credits through 2021, but you must meet certain rules.

How Much Money Should Retirees Have in an Emergency Fund?

Entering retirement doesn't mean the need for an emergency fund goes away. Consider saving at least a few months' worth of expenses in your emergency fund when retired.