We’re used to hearing stories of triumphant Olympians overcoming all odds to achieve their dreams. But for many, staying afloat financially is a lesser-known hurdle as they ski, skate, jump, flip and twirl their way to gold. NerdWallet talked to athletes competing in the 2018 Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea — and one former Olympian — about all things money: how they make ends meet; the financial products they use; and their money stressors, challenges and sacrifices. Stacey Cook, alpine…

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Roses are red. Violets are blue. Flowers are overdone. So what’s a gift giver to do? If you’re out of ideas or on a tight budget, try these tips to help you select a Valentine’s Day gift for Feb. 14. Give a surprise getaway The best Valentine’s Day gift is a surprise getaway or experience, says Pepper Schwartz, a University of Washington professor and author of “Frommer’s/AARP Places for Passion: The 75 Most Romantic Destinations in the World — and Why Every Couple…

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We asked NerdWallet’s money experts what books they recommend for achieving common financial goals. Peruse their responses below to find your first read. 1. To save more, read: “Your Money or Your Life” by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez with Monique Tilford “Everyone should read ‘Your Money or Your Life,’ a book that encompasses savings, paying off debt and how ordinary people can achieve financial independence. It’s especially helpful for people who want to retire early or simplify their lives, but its…

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The season of dieting and renewed gym memberships is upon us, but your New Year’s resolutions don’t have to benefit only you. Here are three low-effort ways you and your wallet can help spread social good in 2018. » Want to see more? Here’s a list of our stories about how you can have a social impact with your money 1. Join a socially responsible bank If you’ve ever wondered how banks make money, here’s part of the answer: They use your deposits…

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Another new year, another chance for well-intentioned resolutions to start with a bang and fizzle out. But unlike failing to drop those last five pounds, falling short on financial goals you’re banking on in 2018 could cost you for years to come. Generally, attainable goals follow the SMART approach: They’re specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-based. But that doesn’t mean attainable goals are all easy. A recent study indicates certain money goals that fit these criteria can remain challenging for some who are striving…

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In 2018, you may resolve to save more, spend less or budget better. Whatever your money goal, the one common key to your success is shopping smart. That means knowing the best time to buy just about anything. To help you out, we’ve created a purchase calendar so you can plan your shopping for the year. January With a fresh page on the calendar comes a fresh start for sales. These products are discounted in January: Bedding and linens: Department stores hold bedding and linen “white…

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Paying off debt in the new year is a common resolution. But resolving to do something and actually doing it are two different things. Taking a smart approach to building good habits, however, can help you master your debt in the coming year. Jon Bailey, professor emeritus in the psychology department at Florida State University, suggests applying some principles of behavioral psychology to help you create sustainable habits. “Our general approach is really from the angle of self-management,” Bailey says….

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The holiday season is supposed to be about joy, giving and spending time with our favorite people. But just as you might pack on a few extra pounds over the holidays, you might pack on some extra debt, too. On average, Americans who plan to buy for friends and loved ones this holiday season aim to spend $660, according to a recent NerdWallet survey conducted by Harris Poll. But budgets are tight. Do you have that much to spend without running up…

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A high credit score can be like a healthy weight. You know you want it, but are you doing the right things to achieve it? Some information you thought might influence your credit score simply doesn’t. Let’s look at five things you don’t need to worry will hurt your score — and five things that do make a difference. These factors don’t affect your credit score Your job and how much money you make: Your credit score comes from the information in…

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To the Black Friday victors go the spoils. Use these hacks to guarantee yourself the deals you want, whether you decide to shop from your couch or at the store. Online shopping Think outside the box. Some stores are synonymous with Black Friday: Target, Walmart and Best Buy, to name a few. But don’t limit yourself, especially if inventory is selling out quickly at these mass merchants. “Almost everybody offers something,” says Sucharita Mulpuru, a retail analyst at Forrester Research, a business advisory…

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