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Free credit reports
Chris Farrell Jan 23, 2012
Where can I get an annual free credit report? Thanks. Myra, Pineville, NC
Americans make progress with debt -- the hard way
Chris Farrell Jan 19, 2012
U.S. households are ahead of the other major industrial nations in shedding debts.
Some college, but no degree
Emily Hanford Jan 19, 2012
Millions of students start school but never cross the finish line. A growing number of colleges and organizations are finding ways to bring them back.
Buffett ready to match GOP tax donations
Kai Ryssdal Jan 18, 2012
The billionaire will match the contributions made by Rep. Scott Rigell to pay down the national debt. But he's still waiting for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to make a contribution.
Beyond our means
Chris Farrell Jan 18, 2012
Sad to say, the 19th and early 20th century notion of the democratization of savings became the late 20th century idea of the democratization of credit. It's time to change the focus of public policy.
Cordray's plans for the CFPB
Tess Vigeland Jan 13, 2012
Richard Cordray, chief of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, discusses what powers he'll have and how he plans to use them.
Suze debuts new show, new card
Tess Vigeland Jan 17, 2012
Financial adviser Suze Orman rolled out a new TV show and debit card this week. She discusses the controversial new card and why it could be her swan song.
Getting Personal: Underwater - should you swim away?
David Lazarus Jan 16, 2012
L.A. Times consumer columnist David Lazarus joins Tess to answer questions about debt mediation services and how to cope with the bank when your home is underwater.
JPMorgan Chase slows debt collection
Tess Vigeland Jan 16, 2012
The American Banker says that JPMorgan Chase appears to be backing off efforts to collect unpaid credit card debt from its customers. They're not forgiving the debt, but they've quietly stopped going after it.
Goodbye, bank
Chris Farrell Jan 13, 2012
My mortgage is down to $27,000, which I can pay off after topping off my cash reserve (1 year of expenses). Is there any reason not to do this? My interest rate is 4 3/8 percent. I'm getting about 1 percent in my money market account. I have no other debt, and my 401(k) and IRA are maxed out. Ken, Portland, OR
