There is almost nothing standard about today’s credit cards. There is so much competition and versatility with credit cards now that choosing them can seem like an incredibly overwhelming task. So much so, that many people make the mistake of applying for the first one that comes in their mailbox without doing the proper research and making an educated decision.

There are at least 7 key factors that should influence your decision to choose a credit card that will work for you and your personal financial situation. Here they are:

Here's how to stretch your dollars -- and pinch your pennies 'til they scream -- while you feel little or no pain.

Want to save a buck? How about a few hundred or a couple thousand?

We took a look at eight spending categories in your budget and identified dozens of ways you can keep more money. Whether you need to plug leaks in your spending, learn where to find the best deals or even trick yourself into shaving expenses, we've got something for everyone.

And here's a bonus tip: Before you even start looking elsewhere in your budget to cut costs, start at the source with your paycheck. If you get a tax refund, that means you're overpaying Uncle Sam from the beginning. Boost your take-home pay today by adjusting your tax withholding with your employer.

Up to your ankles, knees or neck in debt? Try these two dozen tips to help get your finances back on track.

At some point in our lives, most of us have borrowed too much. If you're in over your head, don't despair. But make no mistake: You must learn to live on what you earn.

First, stop making excuses about why you're in debt. Don't blame the credit card companies or your parents. Put that energy into reducing your debt.

Are you a single mother who worries about your family's financial future? The Everything Guide to Personal Finance for Single Mothers has the savvy financial advice you really need. Packed with helpful tips and sound financial practices, this practical yet inspirational guide leads you on a step-by-step journey to financial independence and security.

This guide features tools to help you:

• Assess current financial health

• Set goals near and far

• Narrow the wage gap

• Conquer debt

From how to get out of debt, establish good credit, and qualify for a mortgage to opening a college fund, planning for retirement, and even starting your own business, The Everything Guide to Personal Finance for Single Mothers is the financial advisor you need to secure your future--and that of your children.

About the Authors:

Susan Reynolds is a journalist, author, businesswoman, and single mother who handles her own financial affairs, including managing her retirement fund. She most recently wrote Change Your Shoes, Change Your Life: Strut Your Way to a Fabulous New You! She lives in Pembroke, MA.

Robert A. Bexton, CFA, has been an investment analyst since 1999. Currently, he manages $70 million of clients' assets for Moirai Capital Management. He holds the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst designation and earned a B.A. in Economics from UC Berkeley. Mr. Bexton lives in San Francisco, CA.

A comprehensive guide to buying on the Internet, Online Shopper’s Survival Kit will teach you how to effectively and safely shop online for just about anything. With input from expert buyers and sellers, it discusses strategies for getting a great deal on online merchandise, including the top categories, like cars, real estate, and travel services. It reveals how to recognize and avoid scams and frauds and discusses consumer protection issues. Shopping online is the easiest way to find the lowest price for whatever it is you want. But there are plenty of ways to save money besides just getting a good buy.

Going through a divorce by all means is not easy. Even coming to the realization that you want a divorce or your partner wants to separate, can all be overwhelming. That’s just the beginning; divorces can get ugly when it comes to dividing all joint obligations.

However it needs to be done, so here are some pointers to help solve any problems that may arise.

The fall season is fast approaching and soon that will mean holiday shopping. Imagine standing in the line that seems never ending in a department store and hear the cashier say to the person in front of you, “Thanks for shopping with us Mrs. Smith.” It catches your attention because it’s your last name as well, but then you shrug it off because there are millions of people with the same name. But then when you go to hand your credit card to the cashier, and it’s rejected because it’s now maxed out, your heart stops. The first thoughts running through your head are, “How could this be?” Shortly after you find out that your identity has been stolen, but the theft who stole your identity is already long gone leaving little traces or where and whom she is going to target next. Unfortunately people’s identities get stolen all the time even when people think their personal information is safe and secure.