Money Matters

Money Matters brings you expert advice on such topics as money management, credit repair, mortgages, insurance, and investing.

Simple Steps to Raise Your FICO Score
Is a low FICO score is preventing you from getting a loan or forcing you into accepting unfavorable terms and rates? Is so then there are simple, ethical steps you can take to repair and restore your credit.

Five Tips to Help Disaster Victims Recover Financially
After a flood or other disaster strikes it is important to move quickly to assess your financial situation and file any claims. The Texas Society of Certified Public Accounts offers some advice to help disaster victims get back on their feet.

Reverse Mortgages Can Leave You With Nothing, Expert Says
Aging baby boomers are being aggressively marketed for long-term care insurance funded by reverse mortgages. Lawyer Frank Darras says beware. Betting your house on an insurance policy can backfire and leave you with nothing, he says.

Finance Professors Don't Practice What They Preach
A recent survey of finance professors from universities across the United States revealed that most use passive techniques such as mutual funds to manage their own wealth. Those that do trade actively perform only basic screens on fundamentals, avoiding the complex pricing models so often advocated by professional investment advisors.

Five Easy Tips for Saving Money on Gas
Even small increases in fuel economy can add up to big savings.

Are Get Paid To Shop Opportunities for Real?
Genuine mystery shopping opportunities exist, but job seekers beware - there are plenty of scammers out there looking to take advantage of you. If you are looking for a chance to work at home and set your own hours, be sure to check out these valuable tips for getting started as a secret shopper and finding real jobs.