Author: MoneyMaven

  • Federal vs. Private Student Loans: Which Is Better?

    Federal vs. Private Student Loans: Which Is Better?

    If you’re looking for additional funds to pay for college, you may be looking at Federal vs. private student loans. After you’re admitted to college, you’ll receive a financial aid package that breaks down your cost of attendance minus any grants, scholarships, or other sources of financial aid you’re eligible for. This financial aid package…

  • Your Pet Deserve It: 8 Reasons Pet Insurance Is Essential

    Your Pet Deserve It: 8 Reasons Pet Insurance Is Essential

    Korneeva Kristina / Shutterstock.com Your furry friends are more than just pets—they’re family. Like any family member, their health and well-being are a priority. Pet insurance isn’t just a luxury; it’s a smart investment in their care. From unexpected accidents to costly medical conditions, having the right coverage ensures you can provide the best care…

  • Why Residential Commercial Real Estate Looks Attractive in 2025

    Why Residential Commercial Real Estate Looks Attractive in 2025

    In this Financial Samurai podcast episode, I speak to Ben Miller, co-founder and CEO of Fundrise about his outlook for residential commercial real estate in 2025. Despite high mortgage rates, he’s taken a positive view and he shares the main reasons why.  Listen to my conversation with Ben by click the play button below or go to…

  • Costco Gas 5% Cash Back, + EV Charging

    Costco Gas 5% Cash Back, + EV Charging

    The Costco Visa Card (aka the ‘Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi‘) just launched 2 fairly significant changes to its cash back rewards program. First, gasoline purchased from Costco gas stations now earns 5% (up from 4%). Other gas stations still earn 4%. Second, EV charging – a new addition – now earns 4% cash…

  • 7 Least Reliable SUVs on the Market, According to Consumer Reports

    7 Least Reliable SUVs on the Market, According to Consumer Reports

    Cars Image Source: 123rf.com Every year, a new report comes out about some of the most (and least) reliable vehicles on the road. SUVs have risen in popularity recently. However, not every SUV that hits the market is a “win.” Some are downright awful. You’ll find that consumer reports frequently report things like mechanical issues,…

  • Should You Pay Taxes With a Credit Card?

    Should You Pay Taxes With a Credit Card?

    When it comes time to pay your tax bill, we’ve all been tempted with the idea of paying with a credit card. With a large bill, there’s the potential to earn rewards, right? This is the tradeoff: You can earn rewards paying with a credit card, but, You will pay a percentage fee when paying…

  • The New Currency is Attention

    The New Currency is Attention

    Last Friday night around 9:45 PM ET President Trump launched a new memecoin ($TRUMP) on the Solana blockchain. Initially, many thought it was fake and that his account had been hacked. But, they were wrong. It was legit. You can guess what happened next. Within 4 hours $TRUMP was up 4,000%, reaching $8 a coin…

  • 4 Tips to Jump-Start Your Mornings

    4 Tips to Jump-Start Your Mornings

    Unless you’re a morning person who gets enough rest, it isn’t natural to jump out of bed firing on all cylinders. Yet research shows that, in the morning hours, our minds are most primed for productivity — whether at home, at the office, or at the home office. With my schedule changing soon, I find…

  • Sweeping tariffs could be 3% hit to Canadian economy

    Sweeping tariffs could be 3% hit to Canadian economy

    An analysis published Tuesday examined four potential scenarios in which U.S. President Donald Trump slaps new taxes on goods imported from Canada, ranging from 10% to 20% and with possible carve-outs for key industries. Speaking with reporters on Monday evening, Trump said he’s thinking about hitting Canada and Mexico with 25% tariffs on Feb. 1.…

  • 6 Tips You Should Know to Keep Your Credit Balance From Impacting Your Credit Score

    6 Tips You Should Know to Keep Your Credit Balance From Impacting Your Credit Score

    If you’re not in a position to have zero balances on your credit cards, how can you keep a credit balance from impacting your credit score? Managing your credit balance and credit score is a delicate balancing act that takes knowledge and strategy. Here are the tips you need to know to improve your credit…