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  • Ann Carrns

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Tips for Lowering Your Credit Card Interest Rate

The first step, consumer finance experts say, is to ask your card issuer to reduce the rate. And with average balances now $6,500, consider using…

What to Know About New Rules for 401(k) ‘Catch-Up’ Contributions in 2026

Older high-income workers who make contributions beyond the standard amount will have to put that extra money into a Roth 401(k). That may lower their…

Your Tax Refund Could Be Taken if You’ve Defaulted on Student Loans: What to Know

Millions of people are at risk of the government’s seizing their refunds to pay what is owed on student loans.

How to Make, and Keep, New Year’s Financial Resolutions

Experts offered a variety of suggestions, including paring your list of goals, making saving automatic and avoiding spending temptations like marketing emails.

Big Changes Are Coming to Student Loans. Here’s What to Know if You’re Struggling.

Millions of borrowers who are behind can expect the government to tighten the options in 2026. Experts say take action now to get help.

Should You Donate to Charity This Year or Wait? It Depends.

Changes in the tax law will have different effects on people who take the standard deduction versus high earners who itemize.

Buying a House Is Expensive. But There Are Some Ways to Rein In Costs.

The Trump administration has proposed 50-year and “portable” mortgages to make home buying more affordable. But housing experts offer other suggestions.

How to Deal With Higher Home Heating Bills

There is still time to take advantage of federal tax credits for energy updates. But federal heating aid for low-income people was delayed by the…

New Rules Aim to Broaden Appeal of H.S.A.s

Health savings accounts have lower premiums but higher deductibles. Now, more Obamacare plans can offer the accounts.

Trump Administration Seeks to Return Medical Debt to Credit Reports

A federal rule restricting the debt’s inclusion has been canceled. Now, the consumer bureau is trying to overturn state restrictions.