Articles by Isabelle Coetzee
What are the dangers of taking out a “Christmas loan”?
As you worked out the budget for the gifts you plan to buy your loved ones this Christmas, you may have realised that what you want to give them is outside your means. To make your budget work, you may have considered a payday loan, or a “...
4 Examples of good debt to help build your credit score
Taking out credit can cost you monthly instalments for many years, along with large interest payments and credit life cover, the latter in case you default. But as demotivating as debt may seem, there are actually good reasons to consider pursuing credit.
Should you run your personal expenses through your business?
When you're the owner of a small business, your own finances are so strongly tied to your venture that the line between personal and business expenses may become blurred. However, this can land you in some trouble when it comes to taxes.
Could retirement savings be used as collateral for loans?
If you’re saving for retirement, your monthly contributions will slowly grow into a noteworthy asset. But did you know that you can use this as collateral when you take out a home loan? This has been possible for some time. However, it ma...
7 Ways to repair your credit score if you are subject to reckless lending
If your creditor does not follow the proper protocols when offering you credit, they may be guilty of reckless lending. As a result, your credit record may suffer a blow. If this happens to you, how can you address it?
Benefits of getting your first credit card
We outline some of the benefits of having your own credit card, and what to consider when choosing a card.
This is why you should ask your medical scheme for an annual claims statement
Even with a strict budget, a lot can happen in a year and you may lose track of your medical expenses, especially the costs that you cover out-of-pocket. It’s important to regularly assess your medical aid or hospital plan contribution.
These factors will fluctuate your car insurance excess
When you take out car insurance, your monthly premium is a given. However, you may also need to pay an excess amount if you claim from your policy. But which factors may increase your excess, and how can you bring it down?
Is income protection available to everyone?
If you’re involved in an accident and you’re unable to continue working, how will you ensure that your bills are paid? One way to prepare for this is to take out income protection cover. However, can you do this if you’re a ...
How will your personal information be protected by your insurers?
POPI forces industries to reconsider how they handle client’s personal details. This is particularly good news for sensitive products, such as insurance. We find out what POPI is all about, and we see how your information will be protected.
How long does it take to change your credit life cover provider?
You have the right to choose your own credit life cover provider. But how long will it take to do this, and is it worth the effort?
Is it risky to pick out your own stocks, or could you stand to gain more?
Investing in the stock market can seem like an intimidating idea. It may seem safer to allow a specialist to manage your investment portfolio than to gamble with your own limited knowledge.