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.

Turning a CD into a Secured Loan: Pros and Cons to Consider Find out how CD secured loans work and compare the pros and cons of this collateralized borrowing option. The Best 4-Year CD Rates for Long-Term Savings Growth: 2024 Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter The Best 4-Year CD Rates for Long-Term Savings Growth: 2024 You have some extra cash that you want to set aside for a specific reason, but you... Best 6-Month CD Rates for Short-Term Savings Goals Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Best 6-Month CD Rates for Short-Term Savings Goals You’ve managed to save the money you need before the deadline, and you have about... 10 Best Ways to Use Your Tax Refund in 2024 Find out the best ways to use your tax refund money, such as savings, investing, and spending wisely. When Do Credit Scores Get Updated? Learn about how your credit lines are reported to credit bureaus on a regular basis and find out when your credit scores are refreshed and updated. Should You Pay Off Student Loans Early to Save on Interest Charges? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Should You Pay Off Student Loans Early to Save on Interest Charges? If you have student loans, it can be very tempting to do your best to pay the... Should You Pay Off Student Loans or Invest in Stocks? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Should You Pay Off Student Loans or Invest in Stocks? If you’re fresh out of college and working a full-time job, you might be... Should You Pay Off Your Student Loan in Lump Sum? Learn about the benefits and drawbacks of making a lump sum payment toward your student loan debt and how it can affect the rest of your finances. Should Your Pay Off Student Loans or Buy a Car? Find out whether you should use extra funds to buy a new car or to pay of existing student loan debt. Credit Card Closed? 6 Things You Need to Do Now Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Credit Card Closed? 6 Things You Need to Do Now Sometimes, you’ll have one of your credit card accounts closed. Whether you...