As a veteran financial counselor I have counseled multiple hundreds of smart people with serious financial problems. These people had different incomes, different occupations, and were from different social status. Yet their financial problems seemed to be the results of making very similar money mistakes.

I appreciate a good magic trick! But frankly, I am always a bit frustrated at the end of the show. The frustration results from the conflict between what appeared to be true and what I know to be true.

I heard a news commentator say recently, “America’s credit card is maxed out at $16.4 trillion. Congress will soon be voting to raise the debt ceiling so we can have the ability to pay our bills.”

There is a very real sense in which Thanksgiving can have a direct bearing on our financial health. What is the link between the two? Being thankful for what we have is an attitude that results in living within our means.

Is it better to buy a home or rent? The “right” answer for you depends entirely on your individual circumstances. That being said, here are 7 reasons to buy vs. 7 reasons to rent that will help you think through the situation.

I remember vividly the 76 year-old grandfather who wept in my office after co-signing for his grandson’s first car. The grandson had lost his job and defaulted on the loan after only three payments, leaving the grandfather stuck for the entire debt.

Over the years I have noticed a similarity among those who are making strides toward becoming financially healthy. Some similar traits link them together even though they come from all different walks of life, income levels, and social status. Here are 10 traits I have noticed.

In an attempt to provide articles that are helpful, practical, and different, I want to share some information with you about a topic I have never written about heretofore – Babysitting.

Choose to Live Differently. A wise proverb states: “Live like you must live now, so you can live like you want to live later.”

Do you know enough about finances to survive during these economic hard times? Take the F.A.T. Test and see. (1) It is best to pay only the minimum payment due on a credit card bill each month rather than pay your bill in full. (True or False?)