40s: Focus on debt

Re-evaluating the future -- 40s

Check your credit report
Most credit reports contain errors. Since what it says about you matters, make sure what it says is accurate. Your credit score affects lending decisions, from credit cards to auto loans to mortgages. A bad credit report costs money and convenience.

Links:
FICO -- friend or foe?, Controling your credit history, Credit reports: Get one free under the right circumstances, Getting all your credit history reported, Loan surfing hurts credit, Dealing with lousy credit, Vigilance best option to fight identity theft, ID protection tips from the real 'Catch Me If You Can' man

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Unload bad debt
There's never a good age to carry debt. Put a cap on your debt load, and work hard to get rid of any revolving balances. Learn to live within your means.

Links:
7 steps for building financial fitness, Living below your means: Control vs. competence, How to retire credit card debt, Cut credit-card fees, Drowning in credit card debt, Rejuvenate credit by re-aging your account, Should you pay off that mortgage or invest?, 5 keys to a good deal on a new car, Refinance your auto loan? Yes!

-- Posted: Jan. 20, 2003

Financial Birthdays

•	Managing cash flow
•	Focus on debt
•	Prepare to pay for college
•	Retirement strategies
•	Living the American dream
•	Caring for your parents
•	Divorce and remarriage
•	Insurance needs
•	Estate planning
•	Your taxes
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