Author Archives: David Bakke

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About Guest Blogger David Bakke

David Bakke is a financial columnist for the MoneyCrashers.com personal finance blog. After digging himself out of $30,000 in consumer debt, David dedicated himself to better manage his money and establish solid saving and spending habits in his life.

He now shares his tips and insights on Money Crashers, an online resource with a goal to educate people in all walks of life to improve their "financial fitness." Topics covered include budgeting, smart shopping, investing, careers and education, and saving for retirement.

Pros & Cons of a 529 College Savings Plan for Your Kids

Figuring out how to pay for your child’s college education can be overwhelming. The cost for one year of school at a public university is over $17,000 and is nearly $40,000 at a private school – and that doesn’t even … Continue reading

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A 6-Step Process to Starting Your Own Small Business

The phrase “start your own business” is typically met with fear, trepidation, and intimidation. However, you’d be surprised by how easily it can be done. If you possess creativity and ambition, starting your own business is literally just a few steps away. … Continue reading

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6 Easy Ways to Lower Your Homeowner’s Insurance

I used to think the cost of homeowner’s insurance was a fixed, non-negotiable expense. I bought my homeowner’s insurance 10 years ago and rarely thought about it thereafter. Since the bills were paid out of an escrow account, I didn’t have to … Continue reading

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How I Recovered From More Than $30,000 in Credit Card Debt

When I was 18, I got my first credit card. What should have been an occasion to mark the beginning of wise financial habits instead began a three-year period of reckless spending and horrible choices. By the age of 21, … Continue reading

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How to Handle Old Debt and Debt Collection Agencies

With identity theft and fraud being such common threats, it’s important to exercise caution in every facet of your financial life. You likely know not to give out your social security number to anyone you don’t trust, nor should you … Continue reading

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