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The article discusses the dominance of AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in the U.S. wireless market and the high prices associated with their postpaid plans. It suggests that library patrons looking for more affordable options can consider mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that offer similar coverage and data speeds at lower prices. The article highlights several MVNOs, such as Mint Mobile, Consumer Cellular, Cricket Wireless, Google Fi, and others, that provide cost-effective plans with various features. It also mentions the trade-offs of choosing MVNOs, such as potential deprioritization during peak usage hours and limited phone options. The article advises readers to consider their specific needs and preferences before switching carriers. [Extracted from the article]

Buy now, pay later (BNPL) plans have become popular for purchasing a variety of items, and some lenders are starting to report these loans to credit reporting companies. While this could help consumers build a credit history, it could also negatively impact their credit scores. BNPL services allow consumers to make payments over a few weeks or months without interest, but late payment fees can be high, and there are concerns that these loans encourage overspending. Most BNPL providers do not currently report payments to credit reporting companies, and credit scoring models have not adapted to incorporate BNPL payments. Therefore, it is not advisable to rely on BNPL services to develop a positive credit history. The most effective way to build credit is to apply for a credit card, pay bills on time, and keep the balance low. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses different options for parents to help their children manage and save money. One option is to open a bank account, either a savings account or a checking account, which can teach children about financial responsibility and provide a safe place for their money. The article suggests looking for accounts with low minimum balance requirements and no monthly fees. Another option is to use a prepaid debit card, which can provide a hard limit on spending and offer interactive features for families. However, prepaid cards often come with fees. Lastly, the article mentions the possibility of opening a custodial Roth IRA for children who have earned income, which can introduce them to investing for retirement. Contributions to a Roth IRA are made with post-tax income, but the investments grow tax-free and withdrawals during retirement are also tax-free. [Extracted from the article]

AHEAD RETIREMENT may represent a fresh episode of your life, but a surprising twist might be a drop in your credit score. Alternatively, you can use a service such as CreditKarma.com, which offers VantageScore credit scores from your Equifax and TransUnion reports, or Experian's FreeCreditScore.com, which provides a FICO score based on Experian report data. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Kiplinger Personal Finance discusses retirement savings options for self-employed individuals. It highlights two main plans: the solo 401(k) and the Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA. The solo 401(k) allows for both employee and employer contributions, with a maximum combined total of $76,500 in 2024. It also offers a Roth option for after-tax contributions. On the other hand, the SEP IRA allows business owners to set up retirement accounts for themselves and their employees, with a maximum contribution of 20% of net income or $69,000 in 2024. The SEP IRA is simpler to set up and maintain, but does not offer the option for elective deferrals or catch-up contributions. The article suggests that individuals consult with a certified financial planner to determine the best plan for their specific needs and goals. [Extracted from the article]