Author: Kevin Smith

About Kevin Smith

Kevin is the content manager for Personal Finance Lab and is from Chicago, Illinois. He has a Master's Degree in Economics from Concordia University in Montreal, Canada. In addition to an economics background, he has also built training manuals to prepare finance companies for licensing requirements in mortgage loan origination and insurance sales.

BOA – 4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster Non-Profit

4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster If you carry credit card balances month to month, paying off that debt fast might be easier than you think. The key is developing a good plan and sticking to it. These four strategies can help you decide which course to take to quickly pay off any credit card debt. Read this short lesson, then return … Continue reading BOA – 4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster Non-Profit »

BOA – What is a credit score and how is it calculated? Non-Profit

What is a credit score and how is it calculated? Your credit score affects many areas of your financial life, from getting approved for a credit card to the interest rate you’ll pay on your mortgage. It’s important to understand the number and how it is calculated so you can set yourself up for financial success. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer … Continue reading BOA – What is a credit score and how is it calculated? Non-Profit »

BOA – Healthy Credit Non-Profit

Building credit and keeping yours healthy Building good credit takes work, but it can be done. Find out five things you can do to build a healthy credit score while avoiding the pitfalls. Watch this video then return here for a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Tips for planning an affordable vacation Non-Profit

Tips for planning an affordable vacation A vacation offers much-needed relaxation and fun, but if you’re not careful, your travel budget can spiral out of control. Thankfully, you can find ways to save in your vacation budget by being smart about flight and hotel discounts, meal costs and more. Check out this infographic, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide Non-Profit

Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide You probably know that carrying too much debt for too long isn’t good for your finances. And you may also know that you should have money put away for emergencies and other important goals. So how do you decide what’s more important—paying down debt or building up your savings? Read this short lesson, then … Continue reading BOA – Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide Non-Profit »

BOA – 10 online and mobile security tips Non-Profit

10 online and mobile security tips We’re living our lives online—from banking to shopping to posting on social media—and proper internet security is more important than ever. While it may seem obvious, safeguarding your information can be as simple as consistently reviewing your bank accounts and reporting any suspicious activity. But there are other things you also can do to stay safer online. Read this … Continue reading BOA – 10 online and mobile security tips Non-Profit »

BOA – Emergency cash: What are your options? Non-Profit

Emergency cash: What are your options? When financial difficulties arise, you may need money fast. If you don’t have an emergency fund or other savings to tap into, you may feel as if there are no good options. By carefully weighing your choices, you can make sure you secure the best possible terms for your situation, with the least risk. Read this short lesson, then return here … Continue reading BOA – Emergency cash: What are your options? Non-Profit »

BOA – 8 simple ways to save money Non-Profit

8 simple ways to save money Sometimes the hardest thing about saving money is just getting started. This step-by-step guide can help you develop a simple and realistic strategy, so that you can save for all your short- and long-term goals. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? Non-Profit

Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? Have money to set aside and save for your short- and long-term goals? Savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) are two great options. Both help keep your money safe while giving you the chance to earn interest. Break them down to figure out what’s right for you. Check out this infographic and return here to … Continue reading BOA – Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? Non-Profit »

BOA – 7 common bank fees explained Non-Profit

7 common bank fees explained If you’ve ever felt like your bank charged you for something and you didn’t see it coming, this list is for you. Here’s a rundown of seven of the most common fees banks charge—and tips to avoid them. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Your bank account: 10 questions to ask Non-Profit

Your bank account: 10 questions to ask What looks on paper like a no-fee or low-cost account may not actually be the one that’s best suited to your needs. Here are 10 questions to ask to help figure out if your account is right for you. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue! Tip: Check the 9th point … Continue reading BOA – Your bank account: 10 questions to ask Non-Profit »

BOA – 8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account Non-Profit

8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account A checking account is probably the account you’ll use most often every day to pay bills, access cash, transfer funds and probably to deposit your paycheck. Whether you’re paying tuition at school or setting up direct deposit for your first job, knowing a few tips can help you manage your money and get the … Continue reading BOA – 8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account Non-Profit »

BOA – Options for people who don’t like to budget Non-Profit

Options for people who don’t like to budget Creating a budget may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Learn about the tools and techniques that can help simplify budgeting and help you reach your financial goals. After watching this short video about tips on making it easier to set a budget, then return here and answer a quiz question to … Continue reading BOA – Options for people who don’t like to budget Non-Profit »

BOA – Save Money Every Day Non-Profit

Saving Money Every Day Saving starts with just a few simple changes to your spending. Learn how to save money on your everyday expenses, like groceries, transportation and entertainment. After watching this short video about tips on how to save every day, return here and answer a quiz question to continue! TIP: Check around the 2-minute mark of the video!

Personal Finance Home ST

Personal Finance Learning Center Browse our collection of articles, videos, and activities relating to Personal Finance. Budgeting All About Budgeting Spending and Savings Plans Pay Yourself First Budgeting and Spending Strategies Building Wealth Planning Large Purchases View More Credit Understanding Credit Credit Cards Credit Reports Buying A Car Understanding Mortgages View More Calculators Compound Interest Calculator Investment Return Calculator Millionaire Calculator Car Loan Calculator Net … Continue reading Personal Finance Home ST »

Economics Home ST

Economics Learning Center Browse our collection of articles, videos, and activities relating to basic Economics. Economics Comparative Economic Systems What Are Incentives Understanding Interest Rates Government Impact on the Economy Comparative Advantage Understanding Scarcity What Is Economics? The Business Cycle Unemployment Inflation Major Economic Indicators Supply and Demand View More What is Inflation? Interest Rates Explained The Time Value Of Money

Business Home ST

Accounting Learning Center Browse our collection of articles, videos, and activities relating to basic Accounting. Accounting The Accounting Cycle Financial Analysis Through Key Ratios Asset Valuation Understanding Assets Accounting for Liabilities Operating Ratios Gains and Losses Basics of Equity Revenue and Expenses Payroll Best Practices Key Accounting Terms Cash Flow Analysis View More Management Planning and Vision Leading vs Directing Management Theories Explained Business Ownership … Continue reading Business Home ST »

Investing Home ST

Investing Learning Center Browse our collection of articles, videos, and activities relating to Investing. Investing 101 Chapter 1Introduction To Investing Chapter 2How and Why The Stock Market Works Chapter 3Making Your First Trade Chapter 4Building Your $100,000 Portfolio Chapter 5Now That I Own It, What Should I Do? Chapter 6Fundamental Analysis – Understanding Financial Statements Chapter 7Technical Analysis – Common Charts and Terms Chapter 8Current … Continue reading Investing Home ST »

BOA – Lessons Complete! UNI

Lessons Complete! Congratulations, you have finished all the lessons in the Financial Life Simulation! We hope you have enjoyed using the Financial Life Simulation Tool. If you any have questions about a particular bank product or service, be sure to do your research and make informed choices. Bank of America and Northeastern University are not recommending or endorsing any specific product or service to the users … Continue reading BOA – Lessons Complete! UNI »

BOA – Lessons Complete! HS

Lessons Complete! Congratulations, you have finished all the lessons in the Financial Literacy Challenge! If you are interested, you can schedule an appointment at a local Bank of America branch to open a checking account, or learn more about everyday banking.

BOA – Documents you need to do your taxes UNI

Documents you need to do your taxes Taxpayers spend 12 hours on average preparing their tax returns, according to IRS estimates. Yet, you can save time, cut back on stress and have an overall easier experience by gathering the documents you’ll need before it’s time to dive in. Check out this infographic, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Documents you need to do your taxes HS

Documents you need to do your taxes Taxpayers spend 12 hours on average preparing their tax returns, according to IRS estimates. Yet, you can save time, cut back on stress and have an overall easier experience by gathering the documents you’ll need before it’s time to dive in. Check out this infographic, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Buy vs Lease UNI

The pros and cons of buying vs. renting a home Wondering if you should rent or buy? Understanding all the costs that go into renting or buying a home will set you up to make the right decisions for you. Watch this video, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Buy vs Lease HS

The pros and cons of buying vs. renting a home Wondering if you should rent or buy? Understanding all the costs that go into renting or buying a home will set you up to make the right decisions for you. Watch this video, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – 3 car questions UNI

Shopping for a car? 3 questions that need answers When you need a new car, the decisions you make on three important issues will help determine your monthly payments and how much you pay for the car overall.  Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue! Tip: Check Question 2 for a breakdown!

BOA – 3 car questions HS

Shopping for a car? 3 questions that need answers When you need a new car, the decisions you make on three important issues will help determine your monthly payments and how much you pay for the car overall.  Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue! Tip: Check Question 2 for a breakdown!

BOA – New or Used Car UNI

Comparing the cost of new and used cars Choosing between buying a new or used car may not be as simple as it seems. Find out what matters beyond simple sticker price. Watch this video, then return here for a quiz question to continue!

BOA – New or Used Car HS

Comparing the cost of new and used cars Choosing between buying a new or used car may not be as simple as it seems. Find out what matters beyond simple sticker price. Watch this video, then return here for a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Employee Benefits UNI

New job? Make the most of your employee benefits HS New jobs bring new names, faces and responsibilities. In the rush of acclimating to the work environment, you might overlook details like direct deposit forms, insurance coverage and retirement plans. But it’s important to make the most of all your new job’s benefits—from Flexible Spending Accounts to tuition reimbursement programs to 401(k) plans. To help … Continue reading BOA – Employee Benefits UNI »

BOA – Employee Benefits

New job? Make the most of your employee benefits HS New jobs bring new names, faces and responsibilities. In the rush of acclimating to the work environment, you might overlook details like direct deposit forms, insurance coverage and retirement plans. But it’s important to make the most of all your new job’s benefits—from Flexible Spending Accounts to tuition reimbursement programs to 401(k) plans. To help … Continue reading BOA – Employee Benefits »

BOA – Balance Transfer UNI

What is a balance transfer and how does it work? A balance transfer moves a balance from a credit card or loan to another credit card. Transferring balances with a higher annual percentage rate (APR) to a card with a lower APR can save you money on the interest you’ll pay. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Balance Transfer HS

What is a balance transfer and how does it work? A balance transfer moves a balance from a credit card or loan to another credit card. Transferring balances with a higher annual percentage rate (APR) to a card with a lower APR can save you money on the interest you’ll pay. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – What is APR? UNI

What is APR? You may have seen the term APR, or annual percentage rate, used in reference to everything from mortgages and auto loans to credit cards. Understanding how banks calculate APRs and how they work can help you make more informed credit card decisions. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – What is APR? HS

What is APR? You may have seen the term APR, or annual percentage rate, used in reference to everything from mortgages and auto loans to credit cards. Understanding how banks calculate APRs and how they work can help you make more informed credit card decisions. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – 4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster UNI

4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster If you carry credit card balances month to month, paying off that debt fast might be easier than you think. The key is developing a good plan and sticking to it. These four strategies can help you decide which course to take to quickly pay off any credit card debt. Read this short lesson, then return … Continue reading BOA – 4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster UNI »

BOA – 4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster HS

4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster If you carry credit card balances month to month, paying off that debt fast might be easier than you think. The key is developing a good plan and sticking to it. These four strategies can help you decide which course to take to quickly pay off any credit card debt. Read this short lesson, then return … Continue reading BOA – 4 strategies to pay off credit card debt faster HS »

BOA – What is a credit score and how is it calculated? UNI

What is a credit score and how is it calculated? Your credit score affects many areas of your financial life, from getting approved for a credit card to the interest rate you’ll pay on your mortgage. It’s important to understand the number and how it is calculated so you can set yourself up for financial success. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer … Continue reading BOA – What is a credit score and how is it calculated? UNI »

BOA – What is a credit score and how is it calculated? HS

What is a credit score and how is it calculated? Your credit score affects many areas of your financial life, from getting approved for a credit card to the interest rate you’ll pay on your mortgage. It’s important to understand the number and how it is calculated so you can set yourself up for financial success. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer … Continue reading BOA – What is a credit score and how is it calculated? HS »

BOA – Healthy Credit UNI

Building credit and keeping yours healthy Building good credit takes work, but it can be done. Find out five things you can do to build a healthy credit score while avoiding the pitfalls. Watch this video then return here for a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Healthy Credit HS

Building credit and keeping yours healthy Building good credit takes work, but it can be done. Find out five things you can do to build a healthy credit score while avoiding the pitfalls. Watch this video then return here for a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Tips for planning an affordable vacation UNI

Tips for planning an affordable vacation A vacation offers much-needed relaxation and fun, but if you’re not careful, your travel budget can spiral out of control. Thankfully, you can find ways to save in your vacation budget by being smart about flight and hotel discounts, meal costs and more. Check out this infographic, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Tips for planning an affordable vacation HS

Tips for planning an affordable vacation A vacation offers much-needed relaxation and fun, but if you’re not careful, your travel budget can spiral out of control. Thankfully, you can find ways to save in your vacation budget by being smart about flight and hotel discounts, meal costs and more. Check out this infographic, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide UNI

Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide You probably know that carrying too much debt for too long isn’t good for your finances. And you may also know that you should have money put away for emergencies and other important goals. So how do you decide what’s more important—paying down debt or building up your savings? Read this short lesson, then … Continue reading BOA – Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide UNI »

BOA – Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide HS

Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide You probably know that carrying too much debt for too long isn’t good for your finances. And you may also know that you should have money put away for emergencies and other important goals. So how do you decide what’s more important—paying down debt or building up your savings? Read this short lesson, then … Continue reading BOA – Pay down debt or save? 5 questions to help you decide HS »

BOA – 10 online and mobile security tips UNI

10 online and mobile security tips We’re living our lives online—from banking to shopping to posting on social media—and proper internet security is more important than ever. While it may seem obvious, safeguarding your information can be as simple as consistently reviewing your bank accounts and reporting any suspicious activity. But there are other things you also can do to stay safer online. Read this … Continue reading BOA – 10 online and mobile security tips UNI »

BOA – 10 online and mobile security tips HS

10 online and mobile security tips We’re living our lives online—from banking to shopping to posting on social media—and proper internet security is more important than ever. While it may seem obvious, safeguarding your information can be as simple as consistently reviewing your bank accounts and reporting any suspicious activity. But there are other things you also can do to stay safer online. Read this … Continue reading BOA – 10 online and mobile security tips HS »

BOA – Emergency cash: What are your options? UNI

Emergency cash: What are your options? When financial difficulties arise, you may need money fast. If you don’t have an emergency fund or other savings to tap into, you may feel as if there are no good options. By carefully weighing your choices, you can make sure you secure the best possible terms for your situation, with the least risk. Read this short lesson, then return here … Continue reading BOA – Emergency cash: What are your options? UNI »

BOA – Emergency cash: What are your options? HS

Emergency cash: What are your options? When financial difficulties arise, you may need money fast. If you don’t have an emergency fund or other savings to tap into, you may feel as if there are no good options. By carefully weighing your choices, you can make sure you secure the best possible terms for your situation, with the least risk. Read this short lesson, then return here … Continue reading BOA – Emergency cash: What are your options? HS »

BOA – 8 simple ways to save money UNI

8 simple ways to save money Sometimes the hardest thing about saving money is just getting started. This step-by-step guide can help you develop a simple and realistic strategy, so that you can save for all your short- and long-term goals. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – 8 simple ways to save money HS

8 simple ways to save money Sometimes the hardest thing about saving money is just getting started. This step-by-step guide can help you develop a simple and realistic strategy, so that you can save for all your short- and long-term goals. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? UNI

Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? Have money to set aside and save for your short- and long-term goals? Savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) are two great options. Both help keep your money safe while giving you the chance to earn interest. Break them down to figure out what’s right for you. Check out this infographic and return here to … Continue reading BOA – Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? UNI »

BOA – Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? HS

Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? Have money to set aside and save for your short- and long-term goals? Savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) are two great options. Both help keep your money safe while giving you the chance to earn interest. Break them down to figure out what’s right for you. Check out this infographic and return here to … Continue reading BOA – Savings account or CD: Which is right for you? HS »

BOA – 7 common bank fees explained UNI

7 common bank fees explained If you’ve ever felt like your bank charged you for something and you didn’t see it coming, this list is for you. Here’s a rundown of seven of the most common fees banks charge—and tips to avoid them. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – 7 common bank fees explained HS

7 common bank fees explained If you’ve ever felt like your bank charged you for something and you didn’t see it coming, this list is for you. Here’s a rundown of seven of the most common fees banks charge—and tips to avoid them. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – 8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account UNI

8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account A checking account is probably the account you’ll use most often every day to pay bills, access cash, transfer funds and probably to deposit your paycheck. Whether you’re paying tuition at school or setting up direct deposit for your first job, knowing a few tips can help you manage your money and get the … Continue reading BOA – 8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account UNI »

BOA – 8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account HS

8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account A checking account is probably the account you’ll use most often every day to pay bills, access cash, transfer funds and probably to deposit your paycheck. Whether you’re paying tuition at school or setting up direct deposit for your first job, knowing a few tips can help you manage your money and get the … Continue reading BOA – 8 tips for getting the most out of your checking account HS »

BOA – Credit vs. debit: What’s the difference? UNI

Credit vs. debit: What’s the difference? Credit and debit cards may look similar, but their features and uses are very different. Knowing when and how to use each can help you build a stronger credit history and keep your debt levels down. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Credit vs. debit: What’s the difference? HS

Credit vs. debit: What’s the difference? Credit and debit cards may look similar, but their features and uses are very different. Knowing when and how to use each can help you build a stronger credit history and keep your debt levels down. Read this short lesson, then return here to answer a quiz question to continue!

BOA – Options for people who don’t like to budget UNI

Options for people who don’t like to budget Creating a budget may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Learn about the tools and techniques that can help simplify budgeting and help you reach your financial goals. After watching this short video about tips on making it easier to set a budget, then return here and answer a quiz question to … Continue reading BOA – Options for people who don’t like to budget UNI »

BOA – Options for people who don’t like to budget HS

Options for people who don’t like to budget Creating a budget may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Learn about the tools and techniques that can help simplify budgeting and help you reach your financial goals. After watching this short video about tips on making it easier to set a budget, then return here and answer a quiz question to … Continue reading BOA – Options for people who don’t like to budget HS »

BOA – Save Money Every Day UNI

Saving Money Every Day Saving starts with just a few simple changes to your spending. Learn how to save money on your everyday expenses, like groceries, transportation and entertainment. After watching this short video about tips on how to save every day, return here and answer a quiz question to continue! TIP: Check around the 2-minute mark of the video!

BOA – Save Money Every Day HS

Saving Money Every Day Saving starts with just a few simple changes to your spending. Learn how to save money on your everyday expenses, like groceries, transportation and entertainment. After watching this short video about tips on how to save every day, return here and answer a quiz question to continue! TIP: Check around the 2-minute mark of the video!

StockTrak Forex Pair Margin Requirements

StockTrak Forex Pair Margin Requirements When trading forex pairs, a portion of your cash will be restricted to cover the risk associated with that particular pair. The amount restricted is a percentage of the value of the trade.  The product of the percentage times the dollar value of the trade will then be adjusted to the currency of your account. The percentages are listed below. … Continue reading StockTrak Forex Pair Margin Requirements »