Personal Finance

Get your finances into shape and avoid future problems with Nolo's information on budgeting, saving, and avoiding consumer scams. Learn how to make smart decisions when using the Internet, buying cars, and purchasing life insurance. And know your rights when traveling, negotiating the health care system, and more.    

Below you'll find detailed yet easy-to-understand Personal Finance articles from our legal pros. These articles are organized by category to help you find what you're looking for.

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If you just bought a timeshare, can you cancel? Maybe, but you'll have to act quickly.

Federal and state laws allow you to cancel certain types of contracts within three days.

Data privacy is one of the biggest concerns with emerging artificial intelligence technology. The most prominent AI models—large language learning models (LLMs) like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Bard, and Meta’s LLaMa—are trained on vast quantities of data. The more data these AI models consume,

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Get key information about leasing a car before you sign on the dotted line.

If your car turns out to be a "lemon," you might be able to get a refund or a replacement vehicle. Here's how lemon laws for vehicles work.

An automobile service contract is similar to a warranty -- they both promise to perform or pay for certain repairs or services to your car. However, unlike a warranty, a service contract always costs extra.

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A company can’t send you a credit card you didn’t request. Here’s what to do if you get a random, unsolicited credit card in the mail.

Most consumer advocates recommend against getting overdraft protection for ATM and debit card transactions.

Learn how to limit your liability for unauthorized charges to your credit, debit, or prepaid card.

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Learn about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative when traveling to Canada, Mexico, and elsewhere.

Federal rules limit tarmac delay times and spell out airlines' obligations to passengers.

Advice for travelers on renting via Airbnb or Vrbo versus booking an hotel.

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Get tips on how to keep your finances under control.

A realistic budget is your best weapon against overspending.

Take control of your finances by learning the basics of money management.

Investment diversification protects your portfolio from adverse stock market conditions. But how should I diversify my portfolio?

Tax-advantaged accounts, such as FSAs, HRAs, HSAs, and MSAs, can help you save and pay for medical expenses.

What's protected and what's at risk if your bank, credit union, or brokerage firm fails.

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Your first step in recovering from identity theft is recognizing the warning signs.

Find out how to protect yourself from identity thieves.

If you’re the victim of identity theft, you have the right to create an FTC Identity Theft Report.

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Life insurance might be a good source of income for your kids if you die.

If you buy life insurance for your family, or are offered a free or low-cost policy at work, you’ll be asked to name a beneficiary—someone who will receive any policy proceeds that are paid out a

If you own your life insurance policy, it could be subject to estate and gift taxes. Learn when these taxes apply and how to avoid them.

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Get answers to frequently asked questions about Obamacare and the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Medicare and Medicaid coverage explained.

Legally, you have a right to a copy of your medical records. But it is also true that you will have to go back to the original doctor that you saw for many types of medical records.

Empower Yourself: DIY Products by Nolo

Sidestep the lawyers with do-it-yourself books, documents, and software.

Struggling with debt? Find solutions here.
Clean up your credit, create a budget, and avoid overspending with this bestseller.
Use this simple limited power of attorney form to give someone you trust authority to act on your behalf.
This easy-to-use form lets you change the terms of your promissory note (IOU form).

Nolo offers hundreds of consumer-friendly, do-it-yourself legal products for all types of legal situations. Browse our full product list.

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