Buying a Private Plane

Maybe it's the security lines at airports that have you frazzled. Or you see more of the airline personnel than your own family because you travel so much. Whatever the reason, you are seriously considering buying your own private airplane. Here are a few things you need to consider before making such an important decision. Types You could buy a Cessna 152 for about $10,000. It's barely flyable. Or you could fly more safely if you spent $20,000 to $50,000 on a more modern Cessna 172. Maybe you want to move up in class to a Cirrus-22 that...

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How do I Get a Credit Report for Renting a House?

Credit health is a crucial part of financial health. If you want to have access to low-cost loans and home financing, you need to stay on top of your credit score and payment history. Fortunately, in the United States--after the passage of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)--all citizens are entitled to free credit reports. You can use this credit report to determine your creditworthiness. This could help you when you look for places to rent. ...

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How to Get Guaranteed Approval for a Credit Card

Guaranteed approval on credit cards is possible, with most credit card companies eager to add more customers to increase profits. Card companies have different requirements for various credit cards they offer, and few people are guaranteed approval for all types of cards. People seeking guaranteed approval must make sure their background qualifies them for the card. For example, a college student seeking a credit card normally reserved for people...

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The Right to Get a Free Credit Score

While consumers are legally entitled to free annual credit reports, the credit reporting companies are not obligated to offer free credit scores, though they all will provide them for a fee. You are entitled to one free credit report each year from the three major credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Credit-Reporting Agencies Each reporting agency calculates your credit score using its own data; therefore, you can have three different credit scores, one from each of the three agencies. Your credit report includes information...

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Debit & Credit Card Problems

Debit cards and credit cards can help make for easier financial transactions for many consumers. Credit cards may function as emergency reserves for sudden medical costs, car repairs or other financial challenges. In some cases, consumers receive greater protection from theft when using debit cards and credit cards. But these perks come with some serious disadvantages that can cause financial headaches for consumers. Understanding problems related...

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Statute of Limitations for Credit Card Charge-off in Texas

A credit card charge-off occurs when the card issuer believes an account is beyond collection and reports the debt as a loss for the applicable tax year. The Texas statute of limitations on credit card debt applies to the timeframe in which a creditor can sue you for delinquent debt. In either case, the debt remains valid, but the statute of limitations does limit a debt collector's rights regarding court-ordered garnishments, liens and bank levies. Timeframe Under Chapter 16.004 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, the statute...

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How to Estimate Probability of Default

The probability of default is similar to credit scoring and is taken into consideration by lenders before extending credit. Estimating the probability of default involves reviewing the applicant's financial history. Knowing how to estimate the probability of default will help a credit applicant determine if a lender will approve their application. Instructions 1 Review a recent credit report. The credit report will show how an applicant usually...

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Ways to Help Clear Credit Card Debt

Your credit card debt seems to grow larger even when you pay the required amount each month. Unfortunately, it will take you the better part of 30 years to pay them off since the interest charges are almost as much as your payments. Fortunately, there are ways for you to pay them off faster. All that's needed is planning and perseverance. Lower Your Interest Look at the statement of your credit cards and determine which one charges the lowest...

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Does Settling Credit Card Debt Hurt Your Credit?

Settling credit card debt may seem like the only way to salvage your credit and keep you afloat in a sea of debt. Settling credit card debt can have an immediate negative affect on your credit. Fortunately, the impact is only temporary, in most cases. Behind on Payments Settlement negotiation processes typically mean you have missed monthly payments. Each late or missed payment will lower your credit score, according to MyFICO. Settlement...

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Do Charge-Off Accounts Have a Zero Balance?

A charge-off is an internal accounting term and doesn't reduce your credit account to a zero balance. MSN Money reports that it is common for people to assume that they no longer are obligated to pay debts that have been charged off. That simply isn't true, as you remain legally and ethical responsible for the debt. The creditor can continue collection attempts or send your account to a debt collection agency. Eventually the creditor or debt collector could file a lawsuit against you if you continue to refuse to pay. Timeline After six...

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Free Online Credit Card Debt Advice

If you have credit card debt and are looking for advice, you should first determine what your goal is concerning your credit card debt. Online advice runs the gamut, so it's beneficial to narrow your focus when searching for free credit card advice. Consider things such as whether you want to reduce your credit card debt, find out how credit card laws affect you or learn how your credit debt affects your credit score. Considerations Government...

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The Pitfalls of Debt Consolidation

Ideally, debt consolidation improves a person's financial situation by combining multiple debts into one loan with a reduced interest rate, thereby lowering monthly payments. However, debt consolidation does have its pitfalls, including taking on more debt, consolidation scams, lower credit ratings and even loss of property. There are no guarantees with debt consolidation, and individuals should investigate a company with the Better Business Bureau...

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How to Pay Off Debts When You Don't Know Where to Pay

Debt can be frustrating and can easily get out of hand for even the most organized people. When you finally decide to get your finances in order and pay off debt, it can seem overwhelming to figure out what you owe, how much you owe and where payments should be sent. Don't be intimidated because the hardest part is deciding to get organized. Once you've made that decision and committed yourself to paying off debt, finding out what you owe is relatively...

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What Costs Are Involved With the Use of a Credit Card?

Plastic money is a fast, convenient and hassle-free way to purchase groceries, shop online and pay bills. Credit cards makes buying easier and more secure. According to Curtis E. Arnold in the book "How You Can Profit from Credit Cards," there were approximately 1 billion credit cards in the United States in the year 2008 alone, with around five cards for each American. Credit card usage is linked with various costs--besides those associated with...

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Tips on Negotiating Credit Card Debt

Negotiating credit card debt can be an intimidating process. Many people choose to use a credit counseling firm. If you choose to do so, ensure that the credit counselor is a Not-for-Profit 503(b) certified credit counseling agency that is independently accredited by a third party accrediting company (such as the National Foundation for Credit Counselors or the Council on Accreditation). However, it is possible to negotiate debt yourself. When Should You Negotiate Debt You should only negotiate debt as a last resort before bankruptcy, when...

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Credit Counselor Programs

Credit counselor programs can help you get started in a career that is expected to grow through 2015. With the increase in foreclosures and loan defaults, people are in need of financial advice more than ever. As a credit counselor, you'll be able to help people straighten out their credit problems and assist them in creating a plan that will give them hope for a secure financial future. National Association of Certified Credit Counselors ...

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Information on Credit Bureaus

A credit bureau is an agency that collects and sells information about an individuals creditworthiness. Their clients include mortgage lenders, credit card companies and banks. The information the credit bureau collects is used to screen potential clients for loans of all types and credit cards. The more you know about credit bureaus and their role when it comes to your credit, the better off you are. Facts The three major credit bureaus are Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. Even though there are three, the information they keep on their...

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How to Trade a Honda Civic With Negative Equity

When you purchase a car, you usually pay at or near the fair market value. As time passes and the vehicle accrues mileage, its value depreciates. Normal wear and tear also lowers its resale value. If you financed the initial purchase of the vehicle, you may eventually find you have negative equity, which means you owe more on the vehicle than it's worth. This is common when you finance the entire purchase price of the vehicle or receive a loan with...

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What Is the LIBOR in Loans?

You might not realize the interest rates big British banks charge each other directly affects your debt payments, but that's what happens if you have a loan based on LIBOR. In the United States, LIBOR is most commonly used with adjustable-rate mortgages, but it also may be associated with other loans, such as credit cards. LIBOR Defined LIBOR is an acronym for the London Interbank Offered Rate and sometimes is written as Libor. LIBOR is a commonly referenced indicator of international economic conditions. Simply put, it's the average interest...

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Student Credit Guide

Acquiring your first credit card as a student can help you establish a good credit history. Young adults typically get credit in order to qualify for other types of financing in the future such as auto loans or mortgage. Unfortunately, some students make serious credit mistakes, and instead of building a good history, they acquire a low credit score. If considering getting your first credit card, consider tips for managing your credit. Start...

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How Can I Consolidate My Loans?

When you have multiple loans, you can simplify your finances by consolidating them into just one loan. After you get a consolidation loan, you only have to make one payment each month. In addition, you might get a lower interest rate, a lower monthly payment than you had before and tax benefits, depending on the method you use to consolidate. Home Equity Loan If you own a home, one of the least expensive ways to consolidate debt is to take out a home equity loan. Because the home equity loan is secured by your property, you get a lower...

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How to Find an Annual Interest Rate

An annual interest rate, also commonly referred to as the "annual percentage rate," is the percentage of a principal loan amount that a borrower is charged on an annual basis. If you are unsure of the annual interest rate that you are being charged on a credit card, car loan, mortgage or other personal loan, you can find the annual interest rate by performing a few simple math equations. Instructions 1 Determine the amount of interest that...

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Importance of Financial Responsibility

Financial responsibility is important because it impacts your future. Making the right decisions early in life concerning your money, can help you become financially independent and live a comfortable life during retirement. Time Frame When you are starting out in life, it's a good idea to understand how money works. The earlier you start to save, the more compound interest works in your favor. You earn interest on top of interest. Effects Make sure you pay yourself first out of every paycheck. Strive to save 10 percent of your savings....

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How do I Quick-Sale a Mortgage?

A quick sale of your mortgage means you're trying to sell the home quickly -- and get rid of the mortgage in the process. A quick sale is not to be confused with a short sale. A short sale allows you to avoid foreclosure by selling the house for less than what is owed to the lender. A quick sale is a home that sells very fast, perhaps within 30 days of being placed on the market. Ideally you will have enough equity in the home to sell it at a significant discount and still realize a profit. Some people eager for a quick sale are willing to take...

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How to Eliminate Credit Card Problems

Credit cards are quite useful to many people, but they can be disastrous if used irresponsibly. Credit card problems can put people into massive amounts of debt and completely ruin their credit scores. Many people struggle with putting credit card problems to rest, and they find themselves in financial turmoil. Knowing how to eliminate credit card problems helps keep those problems from multiplying. Instructions 1 Stop constantly using credit...

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How to Structure Payday Loans As Low Interest Loans

Payday loans are extraordinarily high-interest, short term loans that are issued by non-bank lenders. If you have no means to repay the loans in cash, restructuring them with a lower interest loan can be a wise decision that may save you a great deal of money and reduce your stress. Credit cards, unsecured personal loans and secured personal loans are all excellent methods for restructuring high-interest payday debt. Instructions 1 Repay as much of the payday loans as possible using a credit card, even if it may mean that you'll be one to...

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Is a Home Sale Reportable Income to the Unemployment Office?

It is not necessary to report the sale of a home to the unemployment office -- or the state agency responsible for determining continued eligibility for unemployment benefits. Workers earn unemployment benefits and after applying receive receive them if they meet certain criteria. Income from assets such as the sale of a house do not affect a person's status for receiving the benefits. Other Income Income from a job can affect benefits. All states require unemployment benefits recipients to look for a job each week and to report any earnings...

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How to Pay a Past Due Speeding Ticket

Every city and county government has its own procedures for paying speeding tickets but your ticket normally becomes past due if you fail to pay it within a month of the issuance date. In many municipalities, you cannot pay a past due ticket online. Instead, you have to make an in-person visit to the courthouse or make a payment to a collections firm. A court can assess penalty fees and even suspend your license if you pay your speeding ticket late, all of which adds to the cost of settling the debt. Instructions 1 Locate your speeding ticket...

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About Consumer Debt Counseling

If you're drowning in debt, receiving calls from creditors or debt collectors, or just concerned that your debt is getting out of control, consumer credit counseling can help you take control of your finances and understand how you got into debt in the first place -- and how to get out of it. However, debt and credit counseling can land you in more debt trouble than you're already in if you do not choose the right counselor. Credit Counseling The goal of credit counseling is to help you understand how to use credit wisely. Sessions...

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Effects on a Spouse's Credit Score of a Credit Card Default Because of a Wife's Death

A wife's death is certainly a traumatic event. In addition to emotional grief, funeral expenses and related issues may cause financial problems, including default on a credit card owned by the spouse. Although the situation is terrible, the spouse is fully responsible for the defaulted credit card and must accept damage to the credit score. Contacting Creditors Creditors should be notified about the wife's death if she had credit obligations entirely in her name. Arrangements must be made to resolve the debts through her estate. Debt settlement...

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Fast Debt Recovery

Debt is a major hassle, and accumulating thousands of dollars of credit card debt can lower your FICO credit score, and reduce your buying power when purchasing a home or car. Fortunately, tips and tools are available to help you reduce your debt burden. A solid plan to tackle your debt can help you recover faster and put more cash in your pocket. Preparing a Monthly Budget Debt recovery requires a budget, or a way to track how much you spend...

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How to Cancel a Credit Card by Mail With a Letter

You can cancel a credit card with a letter sent to the credit card company. You have the right to cancel your card for any reason, and you're not required to list the reason in your letter. You may be canceling because of a new card with a lower interest rate, or as part of a strategy to reduce your amount of available credit. Instructions 1 Get the address for your credit card company. Check your billing card statement for the address or...

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How to Make a Payment for a Stafford Educational Loan

The federal government offers Stafford educational loans to many students who are pursuing higher education. When you borrow the money, you usually don't receive much information about how to make payments. However, you can make payments on your loan at any time. About six months after you drop below half-time enrollment in school, you will have to start making regular monthly payments in addition to any voluntary payments you have been sending. The process for making payments is fairly easy once you know where to send them. Instructions 1...

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How to Stop Shopping for Credit-Card Debt

Chronic overspending for one in 20 American adults is a serious mental health condition, according to a Stanford University School of Medicine report. Many of us are prone to occasional shopping splurges, but chronic overspenders shop for more than bargains; compulsive spenders seek emotional and psychological satisfaction. If you suffer addictive spending, take action with the following therapeutic strategies. Instructions 1 Cancel unnecessary...

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How Long Is an Account Closed to Further Purchases With a Balance on a Credit Report?

A credit account, such as a credit card or home equity line of credit, is only available for purchases as long as the account remains open. You have the option to close a line of credit at any time. Doing so, however, does not absolve you of your responsibility to pay off the remaining balance you owe. Credit providers also sometimes close consumer accounts, but, typically, only do so when the debtor misses payments or otherwise disregards his original...

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