Articles by Thomas (TJ) Porter

TJ Porter has in-depth experience in reviewing financial products such as savings accounts, credit cards, and brokerages, writing how-tos, and answering financial questions. He has also contributed to publications and companies such as Investment Zen and Echo Fox. He aims to provide actionable advice that can help readers better their financial lives. Education: B.S. in Business Administration, Concentration in Information Systems from Northeastern University.

Credit Counseling vs. Debt Settlement: What is Better for You? Compare credit counseling and debt settlement services to see which option is better for helping you get out of large amounts of debt, especially high-interest credit card balances. Learn about the benefits of each option and how much it costs. Find out what other options you might have available to you. How to Boost the Interest Rate on Your CDs? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter How to Boost the Interest Rate on Your CDs? Certificates of deposit (CDs) give consumers the chance to earn a secure return on... 8 Lenders That Refinance $100k Undergraduate Students Loans Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter 8 Lenders That Refinance $100k Undergraduate Students Loans Americans have a record amount of student loan debt and the amount is only growing... How to Start Building Good Credit as An Immigrant As a U.S. immigrant, learn how you can obtain your first line of credit so that you can begin building a good credit score for key loans in the future. How to Invest in a 401k With High Fees Even when you‘re stuck with an expensive 401(k) retirement plan that has high fees, learn how you can still use it to invest for the future. Does Your Age Matter When Applying for a Mortgage? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Does Your Age Matter When Applying for a Mortgage? Mortgages are long-term commitments. Most mortgages are intended last for fifteen... Good Credit May Be Required When Applying for a Green Card Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Good Credit May Be Required When Applying for a Green Card Immigrating to the United States takes a lot of work. You need to meet a number... How to Pay Your Rent with a Credit Card Find out about the different companies that allow you to pay your rent with a credit card. But, watch out for the card processing convenience fees. What Health Insurance Options Are Available for Freelancers and the Self-Employed? Find out what health options are available to freelancers and those who are self-employed and how to pick the right plan coverage at the cheapest cost. Best 2-Year CD Rates for Mid-Term Savings Goals Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Best 2-Year CD Rates for Mid-Term Savings Goals You've got some money set aside for a specific purpose -- with an expected...