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Bills.com Budget Guide
Bills.com Budget Guide
Download this free guide which shows how to manage a budget. (PDF: 1MB)More >>
This guide explains the importance of budgets & shows how to keep track of one. (PDF: 1MB)More >>

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Why you need a will
Why you need a will
Wills are not only for the wealthy or the old. Every adult should have one.More >>
Wills are not only for the wealthy or the old. Every adult should have one.More >>
How to handle and prevent identity theft
How to handle and prevent identity theft
Every year, identity thieves misuse the personal information of more than 11 million Americans. This makes identity theft one of the fastest-growing crimes in the country.More >>
Every year, identity thieves misuse the personal information of more than 11 million Americans. This makes identity theft one of the fastest-growing crimes in the country.More >>
Financial considerations for college grads moving home
Financial considerations for college grads moving home
Tips for making the transition work for everyone.More >>
Tips for making the transition work for everyone.More >>
Why you need an emergency fund
Why you need an emergency fund
An emergency fund will help see you through an unexpected and potentially costly life event, such as a health crisis, a job layoff or a major home repair.More >>
An emergency fund will help see you through an unexpected and potentially costly life event, such as a health crisis, a job layoff or a major home repair.More >>
4 ways to make next year’s tax time easier
4 ways to make next year’s tax time easier
With just a little bit of planning and foresight, next year's tax season can be less headache-inducing.More >>
With just a little bit of planning and foresight, next year's tax season can be less headache-inducing.More >>
Know these bankruptcy facts before you file
Know these bankruptcy facts before you file
How getting out of debt can cost you.More >>
How getting out of debt can cost you.More >>
Should you consider debt settlement?
Should you consider debt settlement?
Weigh the benefits and drawbacks before you settle.More >>
Weigh the benefits and drawbacks before you settle.More >>
Determine if credit counseling is right for you
Determine if credit counseling is right for you
The demand for credit counseling has risen over the last decade. Here are the risks and benefits.More >>
The demand for credit counseling has risen over the last decade. Here are the risks and benefits.More >>
Eight facts about debt consolidation
Eight facts about debt consolidation
The payoff might not be worth the riskMore >>
The payoff might not be worth the riskMore >>
Spring clean your home finances
Spring clean your home finances
7 strategies to freshen your financial situationMore >>
7 strategies to freshen your financial situationMore >>
The best way to get out of debt
The best way to get out of debt
Two of the most popular methods are nicknamed the "snowball" and the "avalanche" methods. To determine which path is best for you, check out these pros and cons.More >>
Two of the most popular methods are nicknamed the "snowball" and the "avalanche" methods. To determine which path is best for you, check out these pros and cons.More >>
Use your tax refund wisely
Use your tax refund wisely
Eight smart ways to spend that bonus paycheckMore >>
Eight smart ways to spend that bonus paycheckMore >>
How to check your credit report for accuracy
How to check your credit report for accuracy
One in five consumers found at least one potentially major error on their credit reports, according to a recent FTC study.More >>
One in five consumers found at least one potentially major error on their credit reports, according to a recent FTC study.More >>
Credit CARD Act showing strong results for most consumers
Credit CARD Act showing strong results for most consumers
It has been three years since the Federal Reserve's Credit CARD Act went into effect. In these three years, the act has had mostly positive impacts.More >>
It has been three years since the Federal Reserve's Credit CARD Act went into effect. In these three years, the act has had mostly positive impacts.More >>
6 steps to take if you can't pay your taxes
6 steps to take if you can't pay your taxes
If you owe money this year, and lack enough money in reserves to pay the entire debt, you can take many steps to stay on Uncle Sam's good side.More >>
If you owe money this year, and lack enough money in reserves to pay the entire debt, you can take many steps to stay on Uncle Sam's good side.More >>
6 important money questions to ask before saying "I do"
6 important money questions to ask before saying "I do"
But planning your wedding, you need to have a heart-to-heart about finances. The two of you can start by asking -- and answering -- these questions.More >>
But planning your wedding, you need to have a heart-to-heart about finances. The two of you can start by asking -- and answering -- these questions.More >>
The new tax rules explained
The new tax rules explained
Congress and President Obama may have avoided the fiscal cliff, but that does not mean taxpayers escaped tax increases.More >>
Congress and President Obama may have avoided the fiscal cliff, but that does not mean taxpayers escaped tax increases.More >>
8 budget trimming tips
8 budget trimming tips
Here, a list of eight money wasters offer a chance to keep more of your money in the bank.More >>
Here, a list of eight money wasters offer a chance to keep more of your money in the bank.More >>
6 ways to make more money without a lot more work
6 ways to make more money without a lot more work
If your income falls short, consider some creative ways to bring in some extra cash without adding too many hours to the work week.More >>
If your income falls short, consider some creative ways to bring in some extra cash without adding too many hours to the work week.More >>
6 ways to get your finances on track in 2013
6 ways to get your finances on track in 2013
If you are among those who want to focus on making financial gains this year, follow these suggestions to ensure that 2013 is a robust year.More >>
If you are among those who want to focus on making financial gains this year, follow these suggestions to ensure that 2013 is a robust year.More >>
Exercise caution before joining a gym
Exercise caution before joining a gym
Joining a club can be a smart idea -- as long as doing so doesn't mire you in a costly contract, and you actually put your membership to good use.More >>
Joining a club can be a smart idea -- as long as doing so doesn't mire you in a costly contract, and you actually put your membership to good use.More >>
Dealing with the post-holiday debt blues
Dealing with the post-holiday debt blues
It is time to face a sobering reality: Creditors want to collect on the charges you made while you were caught up in the holiday festivities.More >>
It is time to face a sobering reality: Creditors want to collect on the charges you made while you were caught up in the holiday festivities.More >>
Should you cash in on the gold rush?
Should you cash in on the gold rush?
8 things to know before you sell precious metals.More >>
8 things to know before you sell precious metals.More >>
Extended warranties: Useful or wasteful?
Extended warranties: Useful or wasteful?
What you should know before you buy.More >>
What you should know before you buy.More >>
7 ways to survive the holiday shopping season without busting your budget
7 ways to survive the holiday shopping season
Retailers may be excited about robust holiday sales, but consumers need to exercise restraint.More >>
Retailers may be excited about robust holiday sales, but consumers need to exercise restraint.More >>
Avoid online holiday shopping pitfalls
Avoid online holiday shopping pitfalls
Protect yourself from identity theft and fraud with safe-shopping tips.More >>
Protect yourself from identity theft and fraud with safe-shopping tips.More >>
How debt relief has changed, two years after new FTC rules
How debt relief has changed, two years after new FTC rules
The new rules exist to protect consumers who need help with unmanageable debts, but it is still important to understand what these rules mean when seeking debt relief help.More >>
The new rules exist to protect consumers who need help with unmanageable debts, but it is still important to understand what these rules mean when seeking debt relief help.More >>
Decorating on a dime
Decorating on a dime
5 ways to furnish your home without going broke.More >>
5 ways to furnish your home without going broke.More >>
How to ditch your debt before the holidays
How to ditch your debt before the holidays
5 steps to starting the New Year with a better financial plan.More >>
5 steps to starting the New Year with a better financial plan.More >>
8 ways to prevent financial abuse against seniors
8 ways to prevent financial abuse against seniors
Every year, an estimated 7 million senior citizens, one in five Americans over age 65, become victims of financial abuse, a crime that collectively robs them of nearly $3 billion.More >>
Every year, an estimated 7 million senior citizens, one in five Americans over age 65, become victims of financial abuse, a crime that collectively robs them of nearly $3 billion.More >>
529 college savings plans: 8 things you should know
529 college savings plans: 8 things you should know
Earning a college degree is not a cheap undertaking. As universities raise tuition, more families are scrambling to find ways to finance a higher education.More >>
Earning a college degree is not an inexpensive undertaking. As universities raise tuition rates, more families are scrambling to find ways to finance a higher education.More >>
5 credit tips for recent college grads
5 credit tips for recent college grads
Here's a look at five ways to maintain a healthy credit score.More >>
Here's a look at five ways to maintain a healthy credit score.More >>
The ins and outs of repaying federal student loans
The ins and outs of repaying federal student loans
The Obama administration is looking into revising the rules on federally guaranteed student loans. Here are six things you need to know about recent changes.More >>
The Obama administration is looking into revising the rules on federally guaranteed student loans. Here are six things you need to know about recent changes.More >>
9 things to consider before loaning money to a loved one
9 things to consider before loaning money to a loved one
Perhaps the only thing more difficult than watching someone you love struggle financially is having that person ask you for money.More >>
Perhaps the only thing more difficult than watching someone you love struggle financially is having that person ask you for money.More >>
15 ways to save on groceries
15 ways to save on groceries
Grocery bills are a big weekly household expense, so it's important to shop smartly. Follow these tips to keep your spending low while filling your grocery cart.More >>
Grocery bills are a big weekly household expense, so it's important to shop smartly. Follow these tips to keep your spending low while filling your grocery cart.More >>
7 credit card pitfalls to avoid
7 credit card pitfalls to avoid
Watch out for these common pitfalls as you use your credit card.More >>
Watch out for these common pitfalls as you use your credit card.More >>
Which cards are better to use, credit or debit?
Which cards are better to use, credit or debit?
Using a credit or debit card is certainly easier than carrying a wad of cash, but both carry some risks. Here is what you should be aware of.More >>
Using a credit or debit card is certainly easier than carrying a wad of cash, but both carry some risks. Here is what you should be aware of.More >>
8 ways to enjoy a wedding without breaking the bank
8 ways to enjoy a wedding without breaking the bank
If you've said "I do" to an invitation to a friend or family member's wedding recently, you know your role involves more than showing up.More >>
If you've said "I do" to an invitation to a friend or family member's wedding recently, you know your role involves more than showing up.More >>
10 ways to save money on back-to-school expenses
10 ways to save money on back-to-school expenses
It can cost $500 to get an elementary school student ready for class, and twice that for a high school student. Here are some ways to lower that number.More >>
It can cost $500 to get an elementary school student ready for class, and twice that for a high school student. Here are some ways to lower that number.More >>
How to create a holiday budget
How to create a holiday budget
`Tis the season... for spending. Before you head to the shopping malls or online stores, take a moment to make a budget for the holidays.More >>
5 ways to avoid going broke before the holidays
5 ways to avoid going broke before the holidays
With some intention and careful management, you can sail through the holiday season and make it to 2012 without gaining too much (spending) weight.More >>
10 ways to pay for college without student loans
10 ways to pay for college without student loans
The average cost of a public college education is $21,000 per year. Private schools can cost twice that. You want your children to have the best, but how to pay for it all?More >>
The average cost of a public college education is $21,000 per year. Private schools can cost twice that. You want your children to have the best, but how to pay for it all?More >>
14 Inexpensive things to do close to home this summer
14 Inexpensive things to do close to home this summer
If your family is staying close to home this summer, think creatively for inexpensive (or free) things to do. Here are some ideas to get those creative juices flowing.More >>
If your family is staying close to home this summer, think creatively for inexpensive (or free) things to do. Here are some ideas to get those creative juices flowing.More >>
The pros and cons of timeshare ownership
The pros and cons of timeshare ownership
Is a lifetime of vacations too good to be true?More >>
Is a lifetime of vacations too good to be true?More >>
Do's and don'ts for closing credit card accounts
Do's and don'ts for closing credit card accounts
Regardless of your reasons for wanting to close a credit card account, review these basic do's and don'ts before you take action.More >>
Regardless of your reasons for wanting to close a credit card account, review these basic do's and don'ts before you take action.More >>
7 things you may not know about your credit card
7 things you may not know about your credit card
Did you know that you may be able to negotiate certain changes to your account? Learn how to use your card holder power to your advantage.More >>
Did you know that you may be able to negotiate certain changes to your account? Learn how to use your card holder power to your advantage.More >>
How to plan a debt-free vacation
How to plan a debt-free vacation
With some foresight and a little planning, you can enjoy your break without worrying about breaking the bank. Here are some suggestions to get you started.More >>
With some foresight and a little planning, you can enjoy your break without worrying about breaking the bank. Here are some suggestions to get you started.More >>
12 ways to plan a wedding without going broke
12 ways to plan a wedding without going broke
If wedding bells are in your future, read on for more cost-saving tips guaranteed to give you a beautiful, memorable day without breaking the bank.More >>
If wedding bells are in your future, read on for more cost-saving tips guaranteed to give you a beautiful, memorable day without breaking the bank.More >>
10 ways to save on everyday expenses
10 ways to save on everyday expenses
A penny saved is a penny earned, so the saying goes, and in these challenging economic times, it pays to find creative ways to save as many pennies as you can.More >>
A penny saved is a penny earned, so the saying goes, and in these challenging economic times, it pays to find creative ways to save as many pennies as you can.More >>
9 facts you should know about car leases
9 facts you should know about car leases
If you are wondering which route to take, here are some important considerations in leasing a vehicle.More >>
If you are wondering which route to take, here are some important considerations in leasing a vehicle.More >>
Should you rent-to-own a home?
Should you rent-to-own a home?
Renting (or leasing) can be a good stepping stone toward home ownership, but before you sign on the dotted line, look into these important questions.More >>
Renting (or leasing) can be a good stepping stone toward home ownership, but before you sign on the dotted line, find out the answers to these all-important questions.More >>
Should you switch to a lower interest credit card?
Should you switch to a lower interest credit card?
Making a balance transfer may save you money, but it also could hurt you in the long run. Here are six steps to take before switching credit cards.More >>
Making a balance transfer may save you money, but it also could hurt you in the long run. Here are six steps to take before switching credit cards.More >>
Answers to 10 top money and debt questions
Answers to 10 top money and debt questions
Figuring out finances can be confusing... but it doesn't have to be.More >>
Figuring out finances can be confusing... but it doesn't have to be.More >>
10 ways to use your tax refund to improve your finances
10 ways to use your tax refund to improve your finances
10 ways to use your income tax refund to get out of debt, build a brighter future.More >>
How to help aging parents cope with debt
How to help aging parents cope with debt
10 ways to help older adults manage their debt and credit card problems.More >>
8 financial questions to ask before you say ‘I do'
8 financial questions to ask before you say ‘I do'
Before you embark on a new relationship, or if you are seeking to make your partnership stronger, consider these eight questions couples should ask about love and debt.More >>
Plan annual household purchases to save money
Plan annual household purchases to save money
Looking ahead, knowing when to buy can make a difference to the bottom.More >>
How to regain your financial health after a disaster
How to regain your financial health after a disaster
Here are steps to take for financial recovery after health problems, fire or natural disaster.More >>
10 last-minute tips for a debt-free holiday
10 last-minute tips for a debt-free holiday
Avoid the holiday financial hangover by reining in spending with these belt-tightening tips.More >>
7 ways to make your holiday rich AND debt-free
7 ways to make your holiday rich AND debt-free
The post-Thanksgiving shopping spree is over, making this the perfect time to take a deep breath and take a look at whether your pile of gifts is giving you a pile of holiday debt.More >>
12 ways to find extra cash for the holidays
12 ways to find extra cash for the holidays
Here are 12 ways you can squeeze some extra holiday spirit out of your budget -- both now and over the next months.More >>
How to stretch your budget for great holiday entertaining
How to stretch your budget for great holiday entertaining
Believe it or not, it is possible to host a wonderful, festive holiday celebration with minimal impact on your wallet. Here are some tips to add to the festivities without adding to your debt.More >>
8 steps to help take control of your money
8 steps to help take control of your money
When you are sitting at your kitchen table, looking at a big stack of bills and a paycheck that may not feel as big, how do you decide what to do?More >>
How to create a budget on a fluctuating income
How to create a budget on a fluctuating income
For the 15.3 million Americans who are self-employed in the U.S., many of whom lack a consistent income, budgeting becomes a greater challenge. Here's some help.More >>
Personal finance for the self-employed
Personal finance for the self-employed
7 ways self-employed individuals can build a strong financial future even without a "job."More >>
10 great ways to save money this summer
10 great ways to save money this summer
From groceries to entertainment to home projects, make this summer more budget-friendly.More >>
6 myths of financial independence
6 myths of financial independence
Once you consider, and bust, the top myths of financial independence, you can truly be on the path to a much stronger financial picture.More >>
Winter in June? Choose the snowball or avalanche method to pay off debts
Winter in June? Choose the snowball or avalanche method to pay off debts
Whether you focus on high-interest (avalanche) or low-balance (snowball) accounts, getting out of debt is what matters.More >>
How to secure your life against identity theft
How to secure your life against identity theft
Take steps to keep personal information private to avoid fraudulent debt and credit problemsMore >>
10 ways to avoid creeping credit card debt
10 ways to avoid creeping credit card debt
Gotten yourself out of credit card debt? How can you make sure it doesn't creep up again?More >>
Plan home maintenance to avoid big expenses this year
Plan home maintenance to avoid big expenses this year
Here are some tasks that homeowners can take care of now, during the winter and early spring months, to avoid bigger bills or repair expenses later.More >>
Safe Cyber Monday shopping, online and off
Safe Cyber Monday shopping, online and off
In the old days people only needed to worry about having their pockets picked. Today, things are more complicated. This Cyber Monday, take a moment to review how to shop safely online.More >>
Have a happy holiday on a Grinch-sized budget
Have a happy holiday on a Grinch-sized budget
If you are one of those tightening their belts this holiday, following are some suggestions to help make the most of your holiday funds.More >>
Simply daily and weekly tasks to manage your money
Simply daily and weekly tasks to manage your money
Words like "budget" and "money management" can sound intimidating, but it doesn't have to be that way. Setting up some simple systems will help you get your money organized.More >>
What you need to know about credit card balance transfer offers
What you need to know about credit card balance transfer offers
A credit card balance transfer can sometimes be beneficial -- but it also can be dangerous. Before making a decision about balance transfers, consider these pros and cons.More >>
10 ways to stop impulsive shopping
10 ways to stop impulsive shopping
From malls to online retailers, it's easy to make impulse purchases. The problem is that for many people, picking up one or two items all too quickly spirals into a pattern of excess.More >>
Choosing the right credit card for your situation
Choosing the right credit card for your situation
Here are the most common types of credit cards and some information about who each type is best suited for.More >>
How to read your new credit card statement
How to read your new credit card statement
The CARD Act forced credit card lenders to make billing statements clearer. Here is an outline of the changes and what you need to know to pay off your credit card debt.More >>
Understanding "buy now, pay later" offers and obligations
Understanding "buy now, pay later" offers and obligations
Every year, many Americans open a new credit card or make big purchases with "buy now, pay later" terms. The Credit CARD Act has made these terms easier to understand.More >>
7 steps to avoid serious debt
7 steps to avoid serious debt
The facts are clear and startling. If you want to avoid serious debt hardship and find peace of mind, take time for -- and action on -- these seven steps.More >>
How should you pay: cash or credit?
How should you pay: cash or credit?
If you are making purchases with cash (or even with a debit card), you are probably making a responsible decision. However, there are times when credit is better.More >>
How to avoid impulse spending this holiday season
How to avoid impulse spending this holiday season
If you face temptation when doing holiday shopping, or at any time, try these suggestions for avoiding impulse purchases.More >>
What to do as the economic recovery begins
What to do as the economic recovery begins
If you have been walking on pins and needles in the past months, now is a good time to begin returning your personal finances to economic health. Here are eight ways to do so.More >>
A Labor Day review of job benefits
A Labor Day review of job benefits
As Americans celebrate Labor Day, here is a list of the most common on-the-job benefits -- and how to make the most of them.More >>
5 strategies for a health-savings account
5 strategies for a health-savings account
Some health plans come with a HSA which allows you to pay some health-care costs with pre-tax dollars. Here are some strategies you can use to take full advantage of the account.More >>

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Andrew Housser is a co-founder and CEO of Bills.com, a free one-stop online portal where consumers can educate themselves about personal finance issues and compare financial products and services. He also is co-CEO of Freedom Financial Network, LLC providing comprehensive consumer credit advocacy and debt relief services. Housser holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Stanford University and Bachelor of Arts degree from Dartmouth College.

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