Avidia Advice

From Stone Age to Drone Age: Debt Collection Goes High-Tech

Behind on bills? Brace yourself. Debt collectors are adopting high-tech tactics to boost payments. Watch your smartphone for avatars that coo and voicemails that arrive without a sound.

Collections agencies are evolving from the financial stone age of dunning letters and manually dialed phone calls into an era more like drone combat. New collections techniques save labor and skirt rules of engagement.

Wedding Budget Tips: Say ‘I Don’t’ to Debt

Congratulations! You’re getting married — or at least planning to soon.

As you begin to ponder all-important decisions about cake fillings and floral arrangements, not to mention the dress, it’s important to take a step back. Weddings aren’t cheap, so you need to decide how much you can afford to spend on your big day.

Here are a few ways to keep your matrimonial expenses in check.

4 Money Lies You Might Be Telling Yourself

By Kurt Smith

Learn more about Kurt at NerdWallet’s Ask an Advisor

If you’re like many people, you tell yourself little money lies without even realizing it. These lies might justify spending or a lack of savings, or help you avoid dealing with money altogether. Regardless of the reason, they disconnect you from your finances and limit you now and in the future.

10 Terms Every Homebuyer Should Know

Buying a home is a common undertaking for many Americans, but it's also one of the most complicated — not to mention costly — purchases adults will ever make. It's important to understand these 10 essential terms so you're ready to make smart decisions with your money.