I rarely talk about money or my personal finances with others. But occasionally, a conversation will come up in which I’ll reveal routine financial matters. Over the years, I’ve casually mentioned the fact that my husband and I have separate bank accounts. He pays his portion of the bills from his account, and I do the same. We’ve had this system in place since Day One, and it’s never failed. In fact, in seven years of marriage, I can’t recall ever having a fight over money.

Joint Accounts: Not For Us

I understand that many couples choose to have joint accounts. Some deposit all their money into one account, whereas others have a joint account for household bills while maintaining a personal account. This is fine–whatever works for those households is great. Yet the few times I’ve mentioned our little arrangement to others, I often received dropped mouths and confused looks. “What do you mean by ’separate accounts’?” people ask. Maybe I’m naïve, but I didn’t think keeping money separate was a foreign concept. If anything, I thought it would alleviate unnecessary headaches.

No Secrets

Although we choose to keep our money separate, my husband and I are open about finances. We can definitely assess each other’s money. However, we don’t have a habit of dipping into the other person’s account. I know how much money is in his account and vice versa. There are no secrets, and we don’t hide anything from each other. If I sit next to him while he’s checking his bank account online, he doesn’t immediately shut down the computer or shoo me away.

Looking for an easier way to manage your finances or eliminate debt? Or perhaps a faster way to eliminate debt? Debt consolidation has helped millions of people. You can combine all your outstanding balances into one loan, enjoy easy account management, reduce your interest rates and monthly payments, and ultimately get out of debt quicker.

Everyone wants to get out of debt. But if you don’t have much cash leftover once all your bills are paid, it’ll take forever to get your finances back on track. Paying double or triple the minimum payment helps, especially since minimum payments barely reduce the interest due. But if you owe several thousands of dollars on a credit card, doubling your payments may not be enough. To knock down the debt, you’ll need a lump sum of cash or a low interest rate. There’s no easy way to get rid of debt, but a debt consolidation can help.

Zero Interest Credit Card/Balance Transfer

Some people use credit cards everyday of their lives, yet, they never know their interest rates – big mistake. The first step to getting out of debt and knocking down those credit card balances is acquiring a lower rate. There are different ways to achieve this. Contact your existing credit card company and ask for a reduced rate, or apply for a low rate credit card. You never know, they might offer you zero percent interest for six months. Next, ask about a balance transfer, in which you can transfer the balances from your high interest cards to the low interest card. Imagine paying zero percent interest for six months or one year.

I cannot get enough of CNN and talk about the economy. I’ve always been interested in ways to improve my finances. Like most people, I’ve made some serious money and credit mistakes. I acquired three credit cards after graduating from high school; and in less than a year, they were maxed out. I spent that first year of adulthood spending money I didn’t have and living way beyond my means. But unlike most people, it didn’t take five or 10 years to recognize my mistakes. I paid my bills on time every month, so the issue wasn’t bad credit. Still, my future plans included buying a new car and eventually a home. And for a lender to take my application seriously, I needed to make some changes.

But there are good ways and bad ways to get out of debt. I didn’t study personal finance or Credit 101 in school, and some of the decisions I made on my path to debt-free living caused more harm than good. Interestingly, the mistakes I made (and the ones I almost made), are shared by many debtors. There isn’t a single right way to eliminate debt and improve your finances. But some strategies that seem logical in hindsight can actually knock a few points off your credit score. Here’s my list of the top five debt-reduction steps to avoid.

1: Closing Credit Card Accounts

At one point, I had about eight credit cards. They weren’t all maxed out, but each card had a balance. Finally, I had enough and I paid off three of the balances. Rather than cut the cards in half or lock them in a drawer, I immediately contacted each creditor and closed the accounts. It felt so liberating…until I checked my credit report a few months later and received a nice surprise. Closing the accounts reduced my credit score by 30 points! Why? Many factors influence credit scoring such as credit length and available credit. Reduce both, and your score takes a nosedive.

First dates can be stressful and annoying. If you just met your date, you might as well be eating with a stranger.

Some people have the gift of gab, and they can talk to anybody about any subject. My husband has that amazing gift, and to this day, I don’t understand how he can walk into a store and have a conversation with whoever happens to be behind the counter. But if you’re like me, striking up a conversation with a stranger doesn’t come naturally, so you may experience first-date jitters.

Everyone wants to avoid the “awkward silence” on a first date–where you and your date sit staring at each other from across the table with nothing but dead silence between the two of you. You need to keep the conversation going, but that doesn’t imply “word vomiting,” in which you talk about anything and everything just to break the silence. There are definitely topics to avoid on a first date, and if you want there to be a second date, you’d better stay in the safe zone.

Democrat vs. Republican

Talking about politics on a first date is iffy. According to some, it makes great conversation, but from my observations, casual talk about politics can quickly turn into a huge debate. No one’s saying you have to marry a person who shares your political thoughts, but arguing about abortion, same-sex marriages, or any other hot topic is not the way to start a date.

Reserve Talk About the Future for the Future

How many kids do you want? Do you plan to get married? These are casual questions that most people don’t mind answering. But if you’re on a date with someone who’s practically a stranger, pull in the reins a bit. Talking about the future can create uneasiness. It’s natural to be curious, and if you really like the person, it’s nice to know where their head is. But if they’re not thinking in that direction yet, you can easily scare them off.

How Much Money Do You Make?

Want to kill a first date fast? Venture into “none of your business” territory, and watch your date head for the hills. Asking about a person’s income, credit score, or debt is inappropriate, and it’ll raise flags. Are you looking for love and companionship or just security? Nobody wants a gold digger.

Me, Myself, and I

I always say, “If you want to break the ice and get a conversation started, get people to talk about themselves.” People love talking about their accomplishments, fear, hopes, and dreams. There’s no shame in getting involved with that yourself, but don’t monopolize the entire conversation. Pay attention to the number of time you say “me” or “I.” Feeling a little narcissistic? Don’t worry. Flip the script and ask about your date’s job, family, and interests.

I’m always amazed at how credit-card companies successfully entice consumers to use credit for whimsical high-end purchases. I know you’ve seen those American Express commercials where someone is in a retail store about to make a purchase only to have the sales clerk whisper that the card has been declined because it’s over the limit. Rather than sending a healthy message to consumers and stressing the importance of credit management and using cash, the credit-card company simply recommends a “no-limit” credit card and encourages excessive spending.

Now, I know credit-card companies are in the business to make money. And for them to make money, we have to stay in debt.

There are definitely do’s and don’ts to using credit cards, though. And if you plan to finance a home or get the best deal on an auto loan, you need to learn how to use them like a pro.

Getting Starting? Shop Around

There are credit cards available for every person and every lifestyle. If you’re just starting out, a secured credit card is your best option. Anyone can get approved–even people with no credit history or bad credit. But there’s a catch. You’ll have to pay a deposit, and these cards feature a small spending limit. Then again, the idea is to build credit―not get into crazy debt, so a small spending limit shouldn’t be a big deal.

In my opinion, the Internet is the best invention ever. Aside from the fact that I can research any topic, buy any item, and do practically everything online, I love the convenience that comes with paying my bills through the computer. And up until two weeks ago, I thought that everyone else took advantage of this provision, too. But after talking with a friend–a relatively young friend–I realized that not everyone is hip to the idea of managing their bank account and paying their bills online.

What’s a Check?

The whole conversation started when my friend ran out of checks and couldn’t pay a bill. I don’t get into other people’s business, so I didn’t ask any questions. But she told me that the check was necessary to pay a utility bill. That’s when I suggested she pay the bill online. Who wants to worry about stamps, envelopes, and writing a check? To be perfectly honest, I can’t remember the last time I wrote a check. In fact, it’s been such a long time that my checks still have my old address printed on them–and I’ve been in my new place for more than two years!

To make a long story short, my friend had never signed up for account management. She didn’t even manage her bank account online, which completely blew my mind. I realize that some older individuals don’t trust the Internet and would never enter their personal information into a server. But I figured younger adults would be more open-minded.

I don’t consider myself a party animal, and I haven’t stepped inside a night club in about seven years. Still, I love going out–but I’m not talking about the “partying until I can barely walk” type of going out. It doesn’t matter whether I’m going to the movies, eating out, or walking down the aisles at Target–sometimes I just feel this compelling need to get out of the house. And even when I plan to spend a weekend at home lounging on the couch, it never happens. I start to get cabin fever somewhere between 5 and 7 p.m., and I crave fresh air and a change of scenery.

Now, I know it’s possible to spend time outside the home without spending a dime. But that rarely happens in my case. I’ll get hungry, which means I have to eat. I’ll drive pass Starbucks, which means I’ll want a latte. I’ll window shop, and I’ll likely see an item that will look great on the fireplace. Don’t get me wrong–I’m not a compulsive shopper. But I realized a long time ago that the more time I spend outside the home, the more likely I am to spend money. And right now, everything is expensive. I’d rather spend time at home without breaking the bank–but how?

Watch a Movie in Your Own Living Room

I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of movie-ticket prices increasing every year. We pay $10 per ticket, and don’t get me started on the overpriced popcorn and candy that my husband can’t resist. Save yourself some money and grab a movie from Blockbuster or rent season episodes from popular television series. I recently discovered the show “24,” and my husband and I spent last summer and fall catching up on past seasons. It was a cheap and fun way to spend time indoors.

So, you think you’re ready to meet your girlfriend or boyfriend’s parents–or your significant other does, anyway. This can be a time of mixed emotions. On one hand, you may be thrilled to meet the parents if it indicates that your significant other is ready to take the relationship to the next level. On the other hand, the thought of walking into their home and sitting at their dinner table can create a wave of panic.

I don’t have much experience with meeting the parents. I married my first real boyfriend, and I met his mother before we were ever in a relationship. Still, the first time I went to the house as “his girlfriend” was awkward, and all I could think about on the drive there was “don’t say or do anything stupid.” Fortunately, I survived, and so can you by following these easy tips.

If you shop at department stores or mall clothing stores, you likely know how the transaction will go. The salesperson will offer a greeting, ask if you were able to find everything okay – and before ringing up your purchase, they’ll ask whether you want to open an account with the store and save 10 percent off your purchase.

I have to admit, it’s tempting, especially if you’re spending a lot of money. And I’ve fallen for this tactic many times. About ten years ago I held four store charge accounts – in addition to three major credit cards. But I was young and dumb, and I didn’t understand credit. Since then I’ve smartened up. And while I still have three store accounts (I heard it’s never a good idea to close credit accounts), they’re paid in full and I rarely use the cards. And when a salesperson tempts me with a credit card offer by waving that in-store discount in my face, I say “no.” Here’s why.

Higher Interest Rates

Savvy consumers aren’t only interested in finding the best prices on merchandise. If you have credit cards, you’re likely interested in getting the lowest rate possible. Lower rates typically equal lower minimum payments. And since a larger percentage of your payments are applied to the principle, it’s easier to pay off the balance. People with good credit can generally obtain a reasonable rate on a major credit card by simply asking. Store charge accounts work a little differently. These carry rates as high as 30 percent, and these merchants aren’t always as eager to negotiate a lower rate.

The average newlywed doesn’t have a lot of money, but this doesn’t stop them from renting or buying expensive homes or using credit to furnish this beautiful space. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve run into new couples who spend money and use credit cards like it’s their last day on earth. I don’t meddle in other people’s affairs, however, I would love the opportunity to sit these people down (the same way someone sat me down) and offer a little friendly money advice.

If it wasn’t for the advice someone gave me long ago…who knows what my situation would be. Don’t get me wrong. When I first got married I wanted it all – the new house, new car, nice furniture, etc. I had recently paid off my credit cards and my credit score was looking good. I could have easily gone out and purchased anything I wanted….but I didn’t. I had already been down the “too much debt” road. And after successfully digging myself out of a hole, I vowed never to go backwards.

But unfortunately, some young and newly married couples don’t have parents or friends to offer good advice on money or credit. They have to learn the ropes through trial and error, which can lead to mistakes that take years to fix.

Keeping Secrets

I’m amazed by the percentage of couples who don’t discuss their finances or credit before walking down the aisle. I once knew someone who disclosed their $20,000 credit card debt to their new spouse during their honeymoon – talk about bad timing. I’m not saying couples should put off marriage until their credit or finances are perfect, but they should discuss the problem before making a commitment – brainstorm ways to fix the situation, and decide whether this is something they’re ready to deal with. Once you say “I do,” your spouse’s debt becomes your debt.

I can’t understand how someone could have the audacity to swipe an innocent child’s personal information and open fraudulent credit accounts in their name, but then again, I shouldn’t be surprised. I know of many situations where parents have opened accounts in their children’s name; they didn’t pay the bill, and their child spends the first few years of their adult life undoing their parent’s mistake.

Children and Teens are Easy Targets

Identity theft among children is more common than most people realize. In the past year I’ve stumbled upon many cases. There was the infant who owed a $600,000 mortgage loan; and a 14-year-old with more than $10,000 in credit card debt. Children are easy targets for brazen thieves. According to the Federal Trade Commission, approximately 400,000 children under the age of 18 have their identities stolen each year. Unlike adults, children have a clean slate; it’s much easier for thieves to open accounts, and in some cases, thieves don’t have to work hard to acquire a child’s personal information. Some children and teens willingly offer this information. Therefore, it’s important for parents to closely monitor their children’s activity and take steps to protect their identity.

Keeping Personal Information Secret

Thieves don’t need a lot of information to open a fraudulent account. In most cases, the only information they need is a birth date, full name, and Social Security number. Children should understand the importance of keeping this information private. It shouldn’t be revealed to anyone, including friends, relatives, teacher or other trusted adults.

My parents have a timeshare and I’d been looking forward to spending time in sunny Orlando during the last week of December. However, after going online to secure airline tickets, my excitement turned to disappointment…it looks like I’m going to be spending my vacation at home.

We normally drive to Florida and avoid the car rental fee, but earlier this year my husband suffered a back injury and couldn’t handle the drive. Our only option was to fly, but with ticket prices nearly doubled around the Holiday, I refused to pay $700 for two round-trip airline tickets – especially since tickets are half this price two weeks before and after the holidays. It’s such as rip off. Unfortunately, there’s nothing I can do about it, so I won’t get mad.

Traveling around the holidays is always expensive, but there are ways to save. Here are few tips to help you get the best deals out there.

Buy Your Airline Ticket Online

I once read that airline carriers reduce online ticket prices by 10 percent. This may not sound like much, but if you’re booking tickets for your entire family, it can mean significant savings. Plus, booking airline tickets online makes comparison shopping easy and convenient. Start your search with Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz!

I couldn’t believe my eyes this weekend. I was watching CNN (no surprise), and as I was listening to the live coverage of O.J Simpson’s trial, I happened to glance down at the news crawl and read that “One in ten mortgages are either delinquent or in foreclosure.”

Now, I know that the economy is shot. We can’t open a newspaper or listen to a report without hearing about rising foreclosures, layoffs, bailout plans. I also realize that a large percentage of homeowners are distressed and they’re feeling the pinch of adjustable rate and interest only mortgage loans. But what I didn’t realize is the severity of the problem. In my mind, I thought the mortgage delinquency number was more in the ballpark of “one in 50.” Add this to the number of people who’ve already lost their homes to foreclosure, and we’ve got an ongoing crisis on our hand.

I feel bad for everyone in this position. But at the same time, I can’t help but wonder – didn’t they foresee this?

My Personal Mortgage Story

My husband and I bought our first place in 2006. This was during the time when interest-only mortgages were all the rage, and the majority of homeowners chose this mortgage option over a fixed rate. Who could blame them? Home prices had skyrocketed beyond reach, and it was practically impossible to afford a simple starter home. Interest only payments and adjustable rate home loans offered low initial payments. But like all good things, low payments eventually end, and mortgage payments increase.

I spend a lot of time watching and listening to financial news reports; and since we’re officially in a recession, I’m doing everything I can to make sure my finances stay on track and my credit stays intact. I think that most financially responsible people are taking similar measures, which includes keeping debts low and paying bills on time. However, it appears that credit card companies have found a way to mess with their reliable, responsible clients.

Credit card companies can pretty much bet on the fact that people with bad credit and those in a bad place financially will default on their bills or submit late payments. Hence, they can charge additional fees and increase a customer’s interest rate, which increases their bottom line. But it seems as if it isn’t enough for credit card companies to acquire additional funds from their unreliable clients. Now, they’ve decided to target their faithful customers. These are the people with a long credit history. The people who never miss a payment, and the people who always payoff their balances.

Here’s How Credit Card Companies Hit Responsible Customers

The average credit card user has discovered online account management. If you have a computer and Internet access, you can do anything online – including pay your credit card statements. Simply sign up for an online account, choose an account password, enter your information, and you’re able to check your balance, pay your bills, etc. It’s fast, convenient, and you’ll definitely save money on postage. But there’s a catch.

You got the promotion, new office, and the perfect assistant. Your plans and dreams are coming to together – and with it – comes a nice salary increase. You haven’t even received your first paycheck, and you’ve already spent the money. We’re talking new house, wardrobe, cars, home improvements, vacations, and the list goes on. You can finally have everything you’ve ever wanted. But if you’re not careful, you can easily burn through the extra money and find yourself broke. With most people thinking of how to hold onto their job, if you’re lucky enough to get a pay increase, you may want to think long and hard about what to do with it.

Our Need To Spend

I don’t know what it is about the human psyche. Even when we have everything we can possibly need – we always want more. And having additional cash in our pockets gives us an excuse to spend money. I’m guilty of this. But, unlike some people, I recognize the problem and I do everything in my power to keep life simple. With that said, I fight the urge to buy a new car every day, and I think twice before making mundane purchases. But as I look around and observe others, I realize that many people aren’t as content or interested in keeping their life simple. They spend money just because they can; and when the money well runs dry, they sit back and whine

How much do you deposit into a savings account each month?

$100? $200? Nothing? Talk to anyone and they’ll attest to the importance of having a personal savings or emergency fund. But it’s easier said than done – especially since most people barely earn enough to cover their basic living expenses. But does this mean we should stop trying to save? Absolutely not.

Learning to Pay Yourself First

I didn’t recognize the value of saving or paying myself first until about three years ago. Like everyone else, I would get my money and immediately pay bills. Afterwards, I would take my disposable income and have a good time ― buying clothes I didn’t need, eating out, planning vacations, etc. I had a saving account. But depositing money into the account wasn’t a top priority. I had better things to do with my money ― or so I thought.

Saving For The Future

I’ve always heard financial experts say, “pay yourself first,” and to be completely honest, I thought I was doing that. I didn’t work just to pay bills, and I made sure I spent my money on fun things. Hence, the shopping trips and vacation. But I quickly realized my mistake. “Paying yourself first” doesn’t justify whimsical spending. This idea supports creating a nest egg or financial cushion, which is something we all need.

My husband’s favorite complaint is, “all you ever want to do is eat.” As much as this annoys me, he’s absolutely right. Eating out is what I look forward to on the weekends – it’s my main form of recreation. And yes, it can get expensive and it’s probably cheaper to cook at home. But I’m a sensible person, and I know how to find deals and eat on the cheap. Following are just some of the ways you can eat out two or three times a week, and stay within your recreation budget.

Buy an entertainment book

I purchased my first Entertainment Book in 2005, and I have to say, it was a good investment. Whether I’m in the mood for fine dining, casual dining, or fast food, there’s more than a hundred two-for-one deals. My husband and I can each order our own entrée and save 50 per cent.

Share an entrée

Another couple introduced us to the whole concept of sharing an entrée. I don’t know why we never considered this before, but it makes sense – especially since we rarely finish our individual dishes, anyway. We order a dish, tell the waiter we’re going to share, and they split the entrée onto two separate plates. Maybe it’s in my head, but I’m convinced restaurants increase the portions when patrons share.