How to Budget for Auto Expenses: A Simple Guide to Saving Money on Your Car

,
Buying a new, or ‘new to you’ car is very exciting, though it can also be very expensive. We have assembled a few tips to save money, from driving at the speed limit to using the manufacturer's recommended fuel type. There are several simple steps you can take to help keep your car running smoothly and to reduce your overall costs.
man pretending to hold the sun as it sets over the ocean

Catch the FIRE: Financial Independence, Retire Early

,
The key to achieving long term financial success is to balance your investments and business expenses with your income to ensure that you’re operating within your means. You may need to invest in a variety of products, services, tools and technologies to help your business grow, but these investments should always be made with a sound budget in mind.
man stacking coins in three piles

Can I Get Another Loan If I Already Have One?

,
As of the fourth quarter of 2022, consumers held personal loans with an average balance of $11,116. Personal loans can be helpful when used wisely, but they can become a debt trap if not appropriately handled. There may be unforeseen circumstances where you find yourself in a situation where you need more money than your loan can provide. You may start wondering if you can take out another loan. This article explores whether you can obtain multiple loans and what factors to consider before taking on additional debt.

CCCSMD Now Offers Online Counseling!

, ,
At CCCSMD, we believe you deserve quality financial guidance that is both convenient and easily accessible. This is why we recently launched online counseling, to supplement our in-person and telephone counseling services! You can now work online with a Financial Advocate to get personalized credit, debt, and housing solutions when you have a free moment.

Are You Living Within Your Business Means?

,
The key to achieving long term financial success is to balance your investments and business expenses with your income to ensure that you’re operating within your means. You may need to invest in a variety of products, services, tools and technologies to help your business grow, but these investments should always be made with a sound budget in mind.

Planning for Car Insurance Costs and Changes in Premium Rates

,
Most people don't think about car insurance until they have to and then it can be a huge shock to learn that rates went up. To help you prepare, here is some valuable information that can help you plan for car insurance costs and changes in…

Top 5 Methods for Bankruptcy Prevention

,
Something urgent came up.  Someone got sick.  Something broke down. Someone lost their job.  Someone encouraged you to buy those new shoes you had to have! Then $100 of credit card debt turned into $500, and $500 turned into $1,000.  Before you knew it, your family was thousands of dollars in debt trying to recover from unforeseen circumstances. 

Evading and Escaping the Credit Card Trap

When used responsibly, credit cards can be very convenient and useful financial management tools. The various perks, including travel rewards, are hard to ignore; and the cash back rewards are truly free money! Credit cards also offer excellent security and protection against fraud.

Credit Card Debt and the Myths to Consider

Have you ever noticed how frequently you receive credit card offers? They may come in the mail, through email, or when you make a purchase with online retailers.  Often, these solicitations will say that you are pre-approved and that your purchase…

The Five Factors Contributing to Your Credit Score

Have you seen your credit score recently and been less than thrilled with your report? Potential lenders use this score, along with your credit history, to determine your future ability to repay the credit they consider extending you. The first…

Why You Need a Credit Report Review

Have you been getting bombarded with emails about credit reports?  Emails with subject lines like “instant credit report” or “your credit report may have changed” are trying to sell you a product that you can get for free. The Fair…

Why Join a Workshop or Webinar with CCCSMD?

, , , ,
At CCCSMD, our goal is to help you overcome financial hurdles by teaching you how to manage income, credit, and debt. By teaching our clients how to do this on their own, we know you’ll prosper independently with the skills you need to succeed. With…

Savings Part 2: Enjoying the Savings Journey

, , ,
Enjoying the Savings Journey, One Dollar at a Time I used to get very discouraged with my savings account. As soon as I managed to save $100, some emergency would come up that depleted the balance to zero again.  I knew I wanted to save 3-6…

Take Control of Your Debt

, ,
Debt Management Plans vs. Bankruptcy vs. Debt Consolidation vs. Debt Settlement When you carry high levels of consumer debt, it takes an emotional toll on your life.  The worry that looms over you about your ability to pay your creditors…
What is credit counseling

What is Credit Counseling?

Understanding your credit, working towards financial goals, paying debt obligations, and having an awareness of your monthly income and expenses are all part of your financial wellbeing. And, your financial wellbeing impacts every facet of your…