Virginia is a former credit cards writer for NerdWallet. She is a journalist who has covered personal finance, business, real estate, architecture and design. Her work has appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer, The New York Times, The Awl and Mental Floss.
Not having a Social Security number is a serious stumbling block when you want to apply for a credit card, since most financial institutions specifically ask for one on your application. However, there are…
Want to save some money each time you use the ATM? Think about changing your bank. If you use out-of-network ATMs even a couple times a month, you could find…
Here’s a catch-22: A credit card is the quickest way to build good credit, but you often can’t get a credit card without good credit. Secured credit cards can help…
A basic checking account can be an essential part of your financial life. But if you have the assets to qualify for the Cadillac version of checking, it might make sense…
Placing an alert or a freeze on your record with credit bureaus can help prevent fraudulent activity from damaging your credit score. A freeze cuts off access to your credit…
Though commonly thought of as more secure than electronic payments or personal checks, cashier’s checks — checks created by and payable by a bank — are not immune to fraud. Security features…
Of all the things that need your attention after a separation or divorce, credit cards are probably low on your list. But making the right moves early on can set you…
There are plenty of horror stories about sizable inheritances squandered on fast cars and glittering parties. But careful planning and good advice can help people use their good fortune in…
We’re long past the days when the only ways to apply for a credit card were going to a bank branch or mailing in a paper application form. Now it’s standard to apply…
From now on, opening a Wells Fargo credit card or bank account will trigger a very simple security check — an email to the account holders confirming that they authorized their new accounts.…
