Financial Education Center

Boost your credit score 50+ points in 90 days with strategic tactics designed for mortgage applicants. Learn what to do (and what NOT to do) before applying.

Master your DTI ratio to qualify for better mortgage rates. Learn exact calculations, what lenders want, and 5 proven tactics to lower your DTI in 30 days.

A day-by-day action plan to get pre-approved for your first home. Includes document checklist, credit prep, and exactly what to do before applying.

Quick financial wins that prepare you for homeownership. Each move takes less than a month but can save you thousands on your mortgage.

A month-by-month, step-by-step roadmap to help you save, plan, and purchase your first home. Includes checklists, milestones, and links to all key resources.

Compare different mortgage options like fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, FHA, and VA loans to find the best fit for your home purchase.

Compare all major mortgage types side-by-side, see pros and cons, and use our quick quiz to find your best fit. Includes a visual table and decision helper.

Learn how MIP adds thousands to your FHA loan costs. See exact calculations for upfront and monthly premiums, and discover when refinancing to remove MIP makes financial sense.

Discover why 30-year mortgages offer better flexibility than shorter terms. Learn when shorter terms make sense and how to effectively pay off your mortgage early without the risk of higher required payments.

Learn how to save for your down payment efficiently, understand minimum requirements by loan type, and discover down payment assistance programs that could help you buy a home sooner.

Get a detailed breakdown of all closing costs, learn which fees are negotiable, and discover strategies to reduce your closing costs. Includes a comprehensive closing cost calculator.

Use our suite of mortgage calculators to estimate payments, compare loan options, and plan your home purchase. Includes principal and interest, extra payment, and refinancing calculators.

A step-by-step guide to purchasing a home, from securing financing and finding the right property to closing the deal.

Learn how to maximize rewards, minimize interest, and use credit cards as effective financial tools rather than debt traps.

Discover how USDA loans make homeownership possible with no down payment, low fees, and flexible eligibility. Includes official resources, eligibility map, and step-by-step application guide.

Practical approaches to minimize the tax burden on your investment portfolio, including asset location, tax-loss harvesting, and strategic investment vehicle selection.

Learn when refinancing makes financial sense, how to calculate potential savings, and explore different refinancing options including rate-and-term, cash-out, and streamline refinances.

Exploring strategic alternatives to traditional cash emergency funds that may provide better returns while maintaining appropriate financial security.

Essential financial strategies for self-employed individuals, including tax planning, retirement options, and managing irregular income.

Compare various tax-advantaged account types beyond retirement accounts, including HSAs, 529 plans, and specialized savings vehicles.

Discover the different types of financial advisors, how they're compensated, and what questions to ask before hiring one.

Understand how these low-risk investment vehicles work, their benefits for cash management, and potential limitations.

Explore various approaches to building income streams that require minimal ongoing effort, from dividends to digital products.

Learn how to strategically realize investment losses to offset gains and reduce your tax liability while maintaining your overall investment strategy.

Discover strategies for managing your investments during market downturns and how to position your portfolio to emerge stronger.

Protect your purchasing power with investments and approaches designed to outpace inflation over the long term.

Explore practical strategies for reducing money-related anxiety and building a healthier relationship with your finances.

Build a comprehensive system of protections including emergency funds, insurance, estate planning, and support networks.

Discover how HSAs offer triple tax advantages and can be a powerful tool for both healthcare expenses and retirement planning.

Explore popular ways to earn additional income outside your main job, with tips for finding the right opportunity for your skills.

Master proven techniques for negotiating better compensation, from research and timing to counteroffers and non-salary benefits.

Discover how to maximize your short-term savings with high-yield accounts, including features to look for and potential pitfalls.

Understand how income taxes work, including tax brackets, deductions, credits, and strategies to legally minimize your tax burden.

Explore the concept of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) and strategies to achieve financial freedom on your terms.

Learn how to properly distribute your investments across different asset classes to optimize returns and manage risk.

Discover how to create SMART financial goals and develop a practical plan to achieve your short and long-term objectives.

Understand the fundamentals of real estate investing, from rental properties to REITs, and how to evaluate potential investments.

Explore different ways to save for education, including 529 plans, Coverdell accounts, and other education savings options.

Explore the different types of insurance you need and how to choose the right coverage for your situation.

Learn how to assess your risk tolerance and build an investment portfolio that matches your comfort level.

Understand how credit scores work, what factors influence them, and how to improve your credit health.

Compare two popular debt repayment strategies and learn which one might work best for your financial situation.

Discover strategies to minimize taxes on your investments and keep more of your returns working for you.

Learn why an emergency fund is crucial for financial stability and how to build one that works for your situation.

Understand how consistent, long-term investing can turn small, regular contributions into significant wealth over time.

Divides after-tax income into needs (50%), wants (30%), and savings/debt (20%) for a balanced financial life.