You need life insurance if your death would hurt anyone financially. For many people, one policy is enough.But for some, two or more make sense. Your needs should drive the number and type of policies you buy.How many can you buy?You can own multiple policies from different companies. But when you apply, insurers will ask about current coverage to make […]

“Ask Brianna” is a column from NerdWallet for 20-somethings or anyone else starting out. I’m here to help you manage your money, find a job and pay off student loans — all the real-world stuff no one taught us how to do in college. Send your questions about postgrad life to askbrianna@nerdwallet.com.Earlier this year, total outstanding student loan debt surpassed […]

You’ve heard of calling, emailing and even live chatting customer support. But what about text messaging a store’s customer service department?For some retailers, you can.Here’s how the feature works and how you can get the most out of it.What it isInstead of calling, being transferred and potentially getting placed on hold, you can text your questions to a representative who […]

Credit cards that are affiliated with brands — such as American Airlines, Uber, L.L. Bean and Ikea — are suddenly amping up rewards for everyday purchases at restaurants, gas stations and grocery stores.These rewards cards, co-branded by the issuer and a retail brand, were formerly one-trick ponies that were best for purchases at a single merchant only. But with better […]