Kevin Johnston

When you’re struggling to repay a personal loan, it can be tempting to ignore it. Don’t. Walking away from debt is never a good idea. If you fail to repay a personal loan, you may incur fees and penalties, damage your credit, have your account sent…

Business loans and personal loans are different types of credit, but they can be used for some of the same purposes. The basic difference is obvious. Personal loans are for personal use, and business loans are for business use. But is there any…

How these two major credit bureaus work Experian and Equifax are the two largest credit bureaus in the United States. Both companies collect credit information on individual consumers, which they sell to lenders and others. Lenders, in turn, use the…

A house is one of the most significant purchases most of us will ever make. There are two main options for financing that purchase: pay cash or apply for a mortgage loan. Since very few of us can write a check for the price of a home, that leaves a…

Your business credit score is much like your personal credit score. It’s a rating of how likely your business is to pay its debts and its bills on time. Good business credit is vital in getting business insurance, small business loans, and supplier…

Many employees of privately held companies receive stock options as part of their compensation. This is particularly common with startups. Options give you the right to purchase stock, usually at a discount, for a limited period. But what if you…

FinMasters content is free. When you purchase through referral links on our site, we earn a commission. Advertiser Disclosure A car loan is a legally binding agreement. If you don’t live up to the terms of that agreement, you could lose the car.…

Lexington Law is one of the best know credit repair companies in the US, but it’s far from the only one. Many other companies offer similar services, and some get better customer reviews. Check out these Lexington Law alternatives before making a…

LegalZoom provides people with legal expertise when they need it, regardless of who they are or how much money they have. It has leveled the playing field by offering services that are much less expensive than hiring a lawyer. Though LegalZoom is a…

Payday loans are often a financial disaster to start with. These loans have extremely high interest rates and are designed to trap borrowers in a cycle of debt. Payday loan scams target these vulnerable borrowers, who are often already under deep…

People with bad credit retain credit repair companies to help them dispute entries on their credit reports and improve their credit scores. If you do choose to use a credit repair company, Lexington Law and Credit Saint will be among your top…

Many companies allow their employees to own stock in the company. They do this to give employees an incentive to perform well and to offer a more attractive pay package without having to put up more cash. Stock options are one popular way for…

Starting a small business is a goal for many Americans. If you’re about to make that move, your startup checklist should include choosing the way your business will be organized legally. New business owners are often confused about whether to form a…

The Eurozone debt crisis of 2008 to 2012 still affects the European Union today and had implications for the world economy as well. A closer look at the crisis offers insights into ways to prevent the crisis that is currently looming. What Is the…

If you own a home, you can get a break on your income taxes at both the state and federal level. You can deduct the amount of your property tax on your federal tax return, and the 41 states that have income taxes allow you to deduct property taxes. Think of property taxes and income taxes as two ends of a see-saw -- ...

Depositing a check if your name is misspelled doesn't usually require more than a conversation with a bank teller and proof of your identity, if that. This simple process can be undertake and resolved relatively quickly if you have the information you need on hand and ready to go.

Consider changing banks if your current bank no longer meets your needs and expectations. As your finances change, your banking needs change. If your bank no longer fits your lifestyle and financial goals, it’s time to consider changing banks. After…

The cost of a four-year college continues to skyrocket, leaving many graduates saddled with debt well into their careers. College isn’t the only way to prepare for the job market. Associate degree jobs are worth considering. This degree is a two-year…

FinMasters content is free. When you purchase through referral links on our site, we earn a commission. Advertiser Disclosure A credit card dispute letter is your first line of defense against unauthorized charges on your card. This is a common…

FinMasters content is free. When you purchase through referral links on our site, we earn a commission. Advertiser Disclosure If you know or suspect that you are the victim of identity theft, you must take action immediately. You can minimize the…