How-to Guides for Money Questions
Find step-by-step guides for every part of your financial journey. From building credit and managing debt to saving, budgeting, and planning for the future—get practical advice and answers you can trust.
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“The Money Fit How-to Guides helped me pay off my credit cards, make a real budget, and finally build some savings. The step-by-step format made it easy to take action.” — Sophia M., Denver, Colorado
What You'll Learn
From everyday essentials to advanced money moves, our guides walk you through every key financial skill—so you can build confidence and take control.
Budget & Spend Smarter
Make a budget, cut costs, and use your money where it matters most.
Master Credit & Debt
Build your credit, fix mistakes, and pay down debt with proven strategies.
Plan for Big Goals
Get step-by-step help for saving, major purchases, moving, or planning for retirement.
Protect & Grow
Spot scams, protect your identity, and start investing for the future—even if you’re just getting started.
Credit Card How-to Guides
Everything you need to understand, use, and manage credit cards wisely—from applying to paying off debt and building strong credit.
How to Apply for a Credit Card
Learn when, why, and how to apply for your first credit card—and what to look for in the fine print.
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How to Choose the Right Credit Card
Compare types, rates, and features to select the best card for your needs—whether it’s rewards, low interest, or building credit.
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How to Deal with Credit Card Debt
Explore proven ways to pay off debt, lower your interest, and regain control of your finances—step by step.
Read GuideCredit Reports & Scores How-to Guides
Get clear, step-by-step instructions on understanding, accessing, and improving your credit report and score—no jargon, just actionable advice.
How to Get Your Free Credit Report
Learn how to request your free credit report from all three bureaus, what you’ll need, and how often you can check it.
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How to Read and Understand a Credit Report
Break down the sections of your credit report so you can understand your accounts, spot errors, and know what lenders see.
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How to Improve Your Credit Score
Actionable steps to raise your credit score, fix mistakes, and make your profile more attractive to lenders—fast.
Read GuideDebt & Repayment How-to Guides
Find step-by-step solutions for paying off credit cards, loans, and more. Get strategies for debt relief, repayment, and regaining your financial peace of mind.
How to Create a Debt Repayment Plan
Map out your path to debt freedom with a clear, step-by-step plan tailored to your unique financial situation.
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How to Negotiate with Creditors or Collectors
Learn practical steps and scripts to lower payments, settle debts, or work out manageable agreements with creditors or collectors.
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How to Consolidate Debt
Weigh the pros and cons of debt consolidation loans, DMPs, and balance transfers—with clear, unbiased advice.
Read GuideBudgeting & Spending How-to Guides
Build a budget, track your spending, and create money habits that last. These guides walk you through setting goals, controlling expenses, and making your money work for you.
How to Budget
Learn how to build a personal or household budget in five clear steps—so you can feel confident, stay on track, and reach your goals.
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How to Track Your Spending
Simple systems and free tools to stay on top of every dollar—so you always know where your money goes.
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How to Stick to Your Budget
Proven tips to actually follow your plan, avoid overspending, and make budgeting feel doable.
Read GuideSaving Money How-to Guides
Start saving with confidence. These guides show you how to build emergency funds, save for goals, and make your money last when you need it most.
How to Build an Emergency Fund
Step-by-step strategies to save for life’s unexpected events—no matter your income or starting point.
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How to Save on a Tight Budget
Practical tips and simple hacks to grow your savings—even if you’re living paycheck to paycheck.
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How to Set Savings Goals
Turn wishes into action—learn to set realistic savings goals and stick with them over time.
Read GuideBanking & Accounts How-to Guides
Get step-by-step help with bank accounts, checking, and everyday banking—so you can manage your money confidently and avoid common mistakes.
How to Open a Bank Account
Everything you need to open a checking or savings account, choose the right bank, and avoid unnecessary fees.
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How to Use Online & Mobile Banking
Set up digital banking, keep your accounts secure, and manage transfers, payments, and alerts with confidence.
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How to Avoid Bank Fees
Smart tips for keeping more of your money—avoid overdraft, ATM, and monthly account charges.
Read GuideLoans & Borrowing How-to Guides
Understand your options, avoid high-cost traps, and borrow smarter—whether it’s for a personal need, car, or unexpected expense. Start here for clear, practical guides on all types of loans.
How to Compare Loan Offers
What to look for in rates, fees, and repayment terms—plus how to spot red flags and get the best deal for your situation.
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How to Understand Loan Terms & APR
Break down interest rates, fees, and annual percentage rates (APR) so you know the true cost before you sign.
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How to Avoid Payday & High-Interest Loans
Spot payday and high-cost loans, find safer alternatives, and break the cycle of expensive debt for good.
Read GuideHousing & Renting How-to Guides
Navigate every stage of your housing journey, from saving for a down payment to reading a lease or dealing with landlord issues. Clear, practical guidance for renters and buyers alike.
How to Save for a Down Payment
Easy strategies to build your savings for a home or apartment—no matter your starting point or timeline.
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How to Read a Lease
Learn to understand rental agreements, spot red flags, and protect your rights before you sign any lease.
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How to Deal with Landlords and Roommates
Tips for resolving conflicts, setting boundaries, and keeping your rental experience positive and stress-free.
Read GuideInsurance How-to Guides
Insurance doesn’t have to be confusing. Learn how to compare plans, understand coverage, and protect yourself with clear, step-by-step guides for every stage of life.
How to Choose Health Insurance
Learn how to compare health plans, understand premiums and deductibles, and find coverage that fits your needs and budget.
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How to Shop for Auto Insurance
Step-by-step help to compare quotes, understand coverage types, and save money on auto insurance without sacrificing protection.
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How to Understand Insurance Terms
Break down confusing insurance jargon—get clear explanations for the words and phrases you’ll see in every policy.
Read GuideFraud & Identity Protection How-to Guides
Stop fraud before it starts and protect yourself from scams, identity theft, and financial abuse. Learn practical steps and recovery tips—no scare tactics, just real prevention and action.
How to Spot Common Scams
Learn the warning signs of popular scams—from phishing and phone fraud to online tricks—so you can avoid falling victim.
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How to Protect Your Identity
Simple steps to keep your personal information safe, prevent ID theft, and protect your accounts from hackers and thieves.
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How to Respond to ID Theft
Step-by-step instructions for what to do if your identity is stolen—so you can take back control and limit the damage.
Read GuideInvesting & Retirement How-to Guides
Learn how to grow your money, plan for retirement, and avoid costly mistakes with plain-English guides—perfect for beginners and beyond.
How to Start Investing (Even Small Amounts)
Get started with investing—learn the basics, set up your first account, and put your money to work, even if you’re starting small.
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How to Open an IRA/401(k)
Step-by-step help for opening an IRA or 401(k), plus how to contribute, manage your account, and make the most of retirement savings.
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How to Understand Investment Basics
Break down stocks, bonds, and mutual funds—learn the lingo, the risks, and how each fits into your bigger financial plan.
Read GuideTaxes How-to Guides
Take the stress out of tax season. These guides walk you through filing, understanding your paycheck, and avoiding mistakes—so you can keep more of your hard-earned money.
How to File Your Taxes
Step-by-step instructions for filing your taxes accurately, avoiding delays, and choosing the best filing method for you.
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How to Read a Paycheck & Understand Withholding
Break down your pay stub, understand deductions, and learn how withholding affects your take-home pay and taxes owed.
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How to Avoid Common Tax Mistakes
Simple tips to help you catch errors, avoid penalties, and file with confidence—so tax time doesn’t bring extra stress.
Read GuideLife Events How-to Guides
Major life changes can impact your finances. These guides help you prepare for job loss, parenthood, relationships, and big goals—so you can face what’s next with less stress and more confidence.
How to Prepare for a Job Loss
Steps you can take now to protect your finances and bounce back faster if you face a sudden change in employment.
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How to Financially Prepare for a Baby
Plan ahead for the costs of welcoming a new family member—from diapers to daycare and everything in between.
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How to Manage Money in a Relationship
Learn how to talk about money, set shared goals, and avoid conflict—whether you’re married, engaged, or just moving in together.
Read GuideMoney Mindset & Behavior How-to Guides
Build stronger habits and a healthier relationship with money. These guides help you change spending patterns, set (and keep) goals, and have honest conversations with family.
How to Change Spending Habits
Identify triggers, break old patterns, and build healthier spending habits with easy-to-follow, practical tips.
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How to Set and Keep Financial Goals
Step-by-step help to choose your goals, stay motivated, and make real progress—no matter where you’re starting from.
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How to Talk Money with Family
Tips for open, respectful money conversations—learn how to share, listen, and set financial goals together as a family.
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