High-Risk Loans: Tax Refund Anticipation
(Posted on 1/22/2008)
For many years consumer educators have been warning about tax refund loans – the “quick refunds” that put money in consumers’ hands the day after they file their tax return, but with high risk and excessive fees attached. These refunds are not guaranteed, however, and can have significant consequences.

A Place of Your Own
(Posted on 7/10/2007)
For $45, Iowans can learn valuable information on selecting and financing a home through a new interactive online course. Successful participants also receive a certificate that may qualify them for lower interest rates.

Proper Ventilation for Year-Round Energy Savings
(Posted on 5/3/2007)
Proper ventilation is key to year-round energy savings. It protects your home from winter moisture damage and reduces summer heat buildup.

Energy-Saving Can Save Big Dividends
(Posted on 10/4/2006)
The Iowa Energy Center has published three free resources. Filled with everyday energy-saving tips, the Home Series collection suggests practical ways to ease the demands of heating and electric bills.

Finding Funds for Emergencies
(Posted on 3/13/2006)
Does it surprise you when your car needs new tires? Are you shocked when your refrigerator, furnace, or stove quit working? Do you worry about your children needing larger shoes or clothes? These are all good reasons to have an emergency fund!

Plan Now, Spend Later
(Posted on 3/13/2006)
Would you like to take a vacation this summer? Do you want to give gifts to special friends and family this year? Would you like new furniture, car, or home remodeling project? These are all examples of family goals for which you can plan.

Money for Life: Investing for College Begins at Birth!
(Posted on 11/16/2005)
With today’s annual cost of an Iowa public university at $15,000 per year and a private college around $30,000, families need to plan ahead to have money available for children’s college.

Money for Life: Is College in Your Child’s Future?
(Posted on 10/24/2005)
Now is the time to talk to your high school student about financing a college education. If a student lives like a professional in college, she will live like a student as a professional! What does your child’s future look like?