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119 articles written by Kate Cowling

Credit Cards

Don't fall victim to identity theft

Unless you're an iconic, worldly figure, having someone pretend to be you, other than in a movie, can be extremely frightening. Staying aware of the warning signs and trends is vital to keeping these identity fraudsters out of work.

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

08 Oct, 2010 -

2 min read

Credit Cards

Be a smart credit card spender

Playing Monopoly is fun because you are spending up big with fake money. Credit card spending can offer you the same thrill because you are not immediately faced with cash loss but it's important to spend within your means.

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

07 Oct, 2010 -

3 min read

Home Loans

Be prepared for interest rate rises

Sometimes the dream of owning a new home can override our basic common sense when applying for a home loan. Taking out a home loan with repayments that are just within your budget doesn’t allow you much room for interest rate rises and this is where Aussie borrowers get in trouble.

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

15 Sep, 2010 -

3 min read

Car Insurance

Claims Service

The level of claims service offered by your car insurance company is basically the level at which they deny or approve claims.

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

25 Aug, 2010 -

2 min read

Savings Accounts

Claim lost super

Superannuation which is lost or unclaimed is referred to as lost super. This can become a problem when you continue paying fees for every super account you've lost, instead of just the one you are currently using

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Kate Cowling -

08 Jul, 2010 -

1 min read

Home Loans

Take advantage of falling Australian bank fees

There is no way of avoiding bank fees but you can certainly keep them at a minimum if you spend, save and pay smart.

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Kate Cowling -

02 Jul, 2010 -

2 min read

Home Loans

Save money by accelerating your home loan repayments

Has that pay rise got you stumped? For homeowners, there is a huge incentive to accelerate your repayments on your home loan because it could save you thousands in interest but there are a few things to consider before doing so, namely do you have any other outstanding debts?

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

30 Jun, 2010 -

2 min read

Credit Cards

Dual credit cards Are they worth the risk?

Having a dual credit card for your spouse or partner can provide savings, but it could also spell double trouble if the relationship sours. Most credit card providers allow cardholders to apply for a second or even third card at no additional expense.

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

31 Mar, 2010 -

3 min read

Credit Cards

Curbing your credit card spending debt

It's amazing how much joy a little plastic card can bring into your life. Whether you are doing a spot of online shopping, booking a holiday or ordering tickets to a show, it's always satisfying making purchases but afterwards, when the debt rolls in, the joy can quickly dissipate.

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

15 Mar, 2010 -

3 min read

Home Loans

Financial claims scheme: Australian deposit guarantee

During the global financial crisis the Federal Government followed many developed nations by introducing a home loan guarantee. The financial claims scheme applies to a range of deposits.

kate-cowling

Kate Cowling -

19 Feb, 2010 -

2 min read