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.

How Immigrants Can Open a Bank Account Without a Social Security Number Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter How Immigrants Can Open a Bank Account Without a Social Security Number If you’ve recently moved to the United States, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed... 4 Savings Strategies for People with Low Income If you don't have high income, learn about the different ways that you can still build up your savings to reach your financial goals. How to Set Up a Wedding Savings Account Learn how you can create a the right savings account that will help you establish a wedding fund, including what account to pick and how to stay on track. What's the Difference Between a Checking Account and a Money Market Account? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter What's the Difference Between a Checking Account and a Money Market Account? Checking accounts and money market accounts are two distinct types of bank... How Much to Save Up Before Moving Out On Your Own Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter How Much to Save Up Before Moving Out On Your Own Moving out of your parents’ house is a major step in any young adult’s life. It... Should You Always Switch Banks in the Best Savings Rates? Find out whether it is smart to always to moving your money between banks just so that you could earn the best of the best savings rates at this very moment. The Best Ways to Gift Money Instead of Presents During the Holiday Season Learn about different ways to give the gift of cash during the holiday season instead of giving typical presents. Overcontributed to a 401(k) or IRA? Here’s How to Fix It Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter Overcontributed to a 401(k) or IRA? Here’s How to Fix It Pushing the limits on your retirement savings isn't a bad problem to... What is a Minimum Balance Requirement for Checking & Savings? Photo of Thomas (TJ) Porter Thomas (TJ) Porter What is a Minimum Balance Requirement for Checking & Savings? When you open a new bank account, there’s a lot of paperwork, requirements, and... The Best Ways to Use Your Year-End Bonus Check Learn about the best ways to use the big year-end bonus check so that you can use it to improve your finances - by increasing your savings or cutting down debt.