The illusion (why “free points” aren’t free) Rewards feel like free money. In reality, red tape, devaluations, and “earn-more-to-save-more” nudges push you to overspend for perks...
The give-and-take (how premium cards actually work) Premium cards are a trade: issuers “give” perks (lounges, credits, partners), and you “give back” via the annual fee...
The short answer Premium perks got expensive (lounges, partner reimbursements, richer credits), the “perk arms race” escalated, inflation raised every input cost, and enough cardholders happily...
I. The $900 Question Let’s be honest: most middle-class Americans can’t wrap their heads around paying $795 to $895 a year just to own a credit...
The simple framework Middle-class households win by maximizing certainty—low fees, clear cash-back, and guardrails that protect your budget. You don’t need status perks you’ll barely use....
Why Life Insurance Matters (Now More Than Ever) Most people think life insurance is for “older folks” or those with major health issues. But truthfully? It’s...
I. The Locked Door of the American Dream If house-hunting feels harder than it was for your parents, that’s because it is. Home prices have climbed...
Introduction: Why the Same Names Keep Coming Up When headlines break about banks mistreating customers, the names are often familiar: Wells Fargo. Bank of America. Citibank....
The $500 that vanished in seconds You sell a couch. The buyer says they’ll Zelle you $500. A notification pops up—money received! You help load the...
Introduction: The Bank’s $35 Coffee You buy a $3 coffee on your debit card, but your account is a little short. Instead of declining the transaction,...