Household

How to Dig Yourself Out of Credit Card Debt

U.S. credit card debt shrank 5% in the second quarter from a year ago, approaching 10-year lows. It's not just due to banks, which have written off uncollectible debts. Learn how consumers are taking control of their finances and how you can too.

Financial Lessons for Parents from 'Downsized'

In the season premiere of reality-television show "Downsized," which airs Tuesday, things are looking up for the Bruce-Rumsey family of nine. In an interview with The Price of Fame, family members tell us they've made mistakes. Here's what you can learn from their story.

Financial Tradeoffs Parents are Making for Their Families

Every parent knows that having a child isn't cheap. The average cost of raising a family has grown higher than ever, and parents are making some sacrifices to pay it. Here are some of the common tradeoffs new mothers and fathers are making.

Gas Prices Drain U.S. Consumers' Tax-Cut Savings

Americans are earning and spending more, but a lot of the extra money is going down their gas tanks. Gas prices have drained more than half the extra cash Americans are getting this year from a cut in Social Security taxes.

How to Avoid Making Dumb Money Mistakes

Even the smartest people can do dumb things when it comes to money. Do you find yourself accumulating credit-card debt for goodies you don't really need -- and failing to plan for retirement? Here's one financial adviser's five-step plan to break bad habits.

Mancession Offers Insight Into Male Shopping Trends

Men, who have endured slightly higher unemployment rates than women, have been taking on more of the household shopping, according to a recent report. The trend hasn't boded well for stores: On average, men spend less than women on each trip.

As Food Costs Rise, Store Brands Take Off

In this economy, cash-strapped consumers have become more budget conscious and less concerned about appearing cheap. As a result, better-known brands have steadily been losing ground to store-branded food products.

Small Changes That Could Save You Big Bucks

It's hard to make huge changes in your spending habits all at once. To reach your new year's resolution to manage your finances better, try small steps instead. Financial experts offer 10 easy suggestions that could help you spend less and save more in 2011.

U.S. Households Grow 2.2% Wealthier

U.S. household wealth increased 2.2% in the third quarter as stock prices rose and consumers cut debt, according to a Federal Reserve report released Thursday. Companies' cash balances also grew in the third quarter.

Savings Experiment: Tidy Up the Savings

A few homemade cleaning products prove beneficial for both the bank account and the environment. ShelterPop blogger Laura Fenton reveals which cleaners are worth the effort, and which fall short.