household bills

How This Family Beat the Recession -- and You Can Too

The recession was brutal to the typical American family: On average, household net worth fell by 39% between 2007 and 2010. But reporter Chuck Saletta's family bucked that trend with these four simple strategies.

4 'Must Do' Money Moves to Achieve Fiscal Fitness

There are many roads to financial security, but whatever path you follow, there are some mandatory steps everyone ought to take along the way. Alexa von Tobel, founder of LearnVest.com, cuts through the thicket of advice to give us her essential keys to sound money management.

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.

Where Do You Go for Cash in a Pinch?

Most Americans rely on other sources besides their savings accounts when hit with an unexpected expense, according to a poll by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. The moral of the story? Americans need to save up more for emergencies.

It's Time for a Mid-Year Financial Checkup

On New Year's Day, you had plans -- promises to get your finances in order in 2011. Today, check your financial pulse: Where do all those good intentions stand? Ask yourself tough questions then take action. The experts tell you where to begin.

How to Put Your Electric Bill on Ice

The refrigerator is the second-biggest electricity hog in most homes, so if you want to trim your power bill, it's a great place to start. The best solution is to ditch your old one for a new, energy-efficient model, but if that isn't in your budget, here are a few options.

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.

Surviving an Accidental Retirement

Lots of folks have reached retirement by surprise, thanks to the Great Recession. So, if you're scrambling to come up with a Plan B and plug the financial gap created by an unexpectedly early end to your career, here are some good ideas.

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.