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.

Last Minute Tax Deductions to Take Right Before Tax Day Find out which tax deductions are still available to tax filers who want to reduce their tax bill right before tax day. This means making contributions to tax-deferred accounts that still allow contributions between January 1st and tax day. Learn how much you can deduct and other IRS rules that apply. What to Do If You Haven’t Filed Past Tax Returns Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter What to Do If You Haven’t Filed Past Tax Returns Filing taxes can be difficult and stressful. Still, it’s something that every... What is a Flexible Spending Account and Should You Use One? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter What is a Flexible Spending Account and Should You Use One? Health insurance and healthcare are some of the most complicated and stressful... Why You Should Avoid Tax Refund Advance Loans Find out why you should avoid tax refund advance loans, which may put money in your hands faster, but there are various fees and very high interest rates. Which Credit Report Does Barclaycard Pull? Find out which U.S. credit bureau is used most often by Barclaycard when reviewing someone's application for a credit card. Learn how to get your credit reports for free (or at a discount) and take the best steps to improve your credit profile for a higher chance of being approved for a Barclaycard credit card. The Best Credit Cards for Pet Owners Compared Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter The Best Credit Cards for Pet Owners Compared With more than 60% of American households owning a pet, it is no surprise that... Should a Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Be Part of Your Retirement Savings? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Should a Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Be Part of Your Retirement Savings? When you go to work, you might be motivated to do your job by any number of... Should You Pay Off Student Loans With a HELOC? Find out whether you should use a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to help pay off your student loan debt. Learn about the benefits and disadvantages of borrowing from your home to pay down student loan balances. Compare other alternatives that won't use your house as collateral. How to Use Credit Cards to Build Your Credit and Travel the World Find out how to use credit cards to build credit and earn travel rewards for free flights and convenient benefits. How to Add a Driver to Your Car Insurance Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter How to Add a Driver to Your Car Insurance If you drive a car, you should have car insurance. Insurance protects you if you...