When most people think of the Federal Reserve – if they consider it at all – it’s when the Fed raises or lowers interest rates. But monetary policy is only one of the tasks the Fed engages in. It also conducts in-depth research in an effort to uncover trends and insights that can benefit consumers,… Continue reading Insights Aplenty in Federal Reserve Payments Study
Month: August 2014
Senate Scrutinizes Campus Cards
Christina Lindstrom, an official with the advocacy group US PIRG, testified that campus card arrangements are costly and unnecessary. “Right now students are being hit with high fees that are hard to avoid as they try to access their federal financial aid refunds through campus sponsored bank accounts and prepaid debit cards,” she said. Lindstrom went on to say that students at some schools were being charged “steep and unusual” fees to get their federal financial aid, including PIN transaction charges and overdraft fees of $37 and higher. “On the whole these accounts are not necessarily a better deal for students than what they might find through a bank not affiliated with the campus,” she testified.
FICO Score 9: Latest Credit Score Version Could Save You Thousands
The new FICO Score 9 is coming out this fall, and it looks very positive for many U.S. consumers. Once implemented and used by lenders, it should help many with poor credit or limited credit histories. Ultimately, this could mean better rates for consumers on loans and credit products such as credit cards. Score Highlights… Continue reading FICO Score 9: Latest Credit Score Version Could Save You Thousands
One-third of Americans in Debt and Facing Collection
Have a few blemishes on your credit report? You’re not alone. According to a new study from the Urban Institute, over one-third of Americans had debt in collections in 2013. The debts averaged $5,178 and include debt like medical bills, credit card balances, student loans, parking tickets and utility bills. In a very real sense,… Continue reading One-third of Americans in Debt and Facing Collection