HOUSTON (FOX 26)
On Houston’s Morning Show, Melissa Wilson talked to smart shopping expert Trae Bodge about some digital tools that can help you build a strong financial future.
4 Essential Tools for a Strong Financial Future
The country’s economy may be on the upswing, but that doesn’t mean that our personal economy is! Early in the year is a perfect time to take a fresh look at how we’re managing the important areas in our lives, from finances to final wishes. Trae Bodge, Smart Shopping Expert for TrueTrae.com, shares her favorite digital tools to help get on track for a fabulous and financially fit year.
Fix That Credit Score – Once and For All
If you’re planning a big purchase, like a car or a home, the first step is to check your credit score. If it’s less-than-stellar, it could prevent you from getting a good rate – or getting approved at all. Self Lender is a really unique service that allows you to build and improve your credit with a small, 12-month installment loan secured by a CD that is funded by the loan itself. Your on-time monthly payments toward the loan is reported to the credit bureaus so that it can positively impact your credit history. When you’ve finished all your payments at the end of the year, the CD unlocks and that money goes back to you.
Trade Flash for Cash
Another good thing to do if money is tight is to sell some of your old stuff. There are plenty of platforms for selling outdated phones and outgrown clothing, but what about something more precious – and lucrative – like diamonds? Many of us are sitting on wedding rings from former marriages or pieces that have been bequeathed to us that we’ll never wear. Chances are, these pieces have great value. Worthy is an online platform that helps you sell these precious items, guiding you every step of the way to ensure that you get the very best value.
Go Paperless and Avoid Those Late Fees
Did you know that most households pay 12 bills a month on average? With that many bills to pay, we’re bound to miss one every now and again and those late fees can really add up (and damage our credit). Using a tool like Doxo, you can pay all your bills online or through the app on your phone, including utilities, credit cards and loans. You can set up auto-billing using any payment method your prefer, from bank account to credit cards and never miss a payment again.
Plan for Down the Road
Making a will is one of those things that I’ve been avoiding for years. It seemed so intimidating and time-consuming! Fabric is a platform that allows you to make your will digitally. I tested the free service and was able to write my and my husband’s wills in about 20 minutes. Now we just need to print it and have it notarized so it’s legally binding. Fabric can also help guide you when it comes to purchasing the right life insurance policy!
