Gina Pogol

The amount of federal income tax you pay depends on your tax bracket and your income. Here is how income tax brackets work, how to lower your tax bracket and how tax planning can help you pay less in taxes.

If you're having extreme difficulty repaying your government-backed student loans, you're not alone. About 10% of student loan borrowers default on their loans and experience dire consequences. But you don't have to slide into default - you may be able to discharge student loans in bankruptcy.

How do you compare personal loan offers from competing financial institutions? By looking at more than interest rates. You'll also consider the loan costs and terms to find the right product for you at the lowest cost.

The best robo-advisors offer extensive account services including portfolio management, planning, and investor education. Clients should expect tight account security, low fees and responsive customer service departments. This 2021 review details the pros, cons, costs and services of Blooom.

If you're considering buying a boat, you have to account for it in your budget. How much can you afford to spend for a boat? This boat affordability calculator demonstrates how your desired monthly payment and the interest rate available to you translate into a boat loan amount.

The best online brokerages offer extensive account services including portfolio management, planning, and investor education. Clients should expect tight account security, low fees, and responsive customer service departments. This 2021 review details the pros, cons, costs, and services of Charles Schwab.

When mortgage rates fall, it's possible as a first-time home buyer to qualify for a bigger mortgage and more expensive house. But what if you have poor credit? Can you buy a house with bad credit today? Or should you work to improve your credit first?

Personal finance experts say that we are all vulnerable to identity theft. But there are easy ways to defend yourself.

If you're serious about protecting yourself from identity theft, here's what you need to know when choosing between Credit Karma and Credit Sesame for free credit-monitoring services.

There are several reasons to look into dental loans before you need one. For one thing, it makes sense to see what financing options are best for you now, before you need a dental loan. And getting prequalified or preapproved can be especially helpful when you aren't rushed or in pain.

An emergency fund is money that you set aside for unexpected difficulties. Every financial plan should include emergency savings. It's smart to cover emergency savings before directing money into investments or unnecessary spending.