How Often Can You Refinance Your Home?

Mortgage

Illustration by Clint Branch/Bankrate Key takeaways There’s generally no limit to the number of times you can refinance your mortgage, although some lenders require a waiting period between refinances. If you qualify for a lower…

How To Protect Your Paycheck From Federal Student Loan Garnishment

Mortgage

Key takeaways The federal government has strong collection powers for defaulted federal student loans, such as Administrative Wage Garnishment. Borrowers have rights to appeal wage garnishment and protection against employer retaliation. Borrowers should update their contact information and explore options for getting out of default by contacting the Default Resolution…

How to Apply For an Employer Identification Number

Small Business

sturti/ Getty Images; Illustration by Austin Courregé/Bankrate Key takeaways You can apply for an EIN online or by mail An EIN helps you separate personal and business finances If you pay employees and file payroll taxes, you must have an EIN for your company Keeping your personal and business expenses…

Can You Use A 529 Plan To Study Abroad?

Mortgage

Key takeaways You can use a 529 plan for study abroad, but only at schools eligible for Title IV federal student aid. Qualified expenses include tuition, fees, book and room and board — but not travel, health insurance or daily living costs. Misusing funds can trigger income taxes and a…

CSS Profile vs. FAFSA: What’s The Difference?

Mortgage

Photography by Getty Images; Illustration by Bankrate Key takeaways While the Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA determines eligibility for federal financial aid, the CSS Profile is used by certain colleges to award non-federal, institutional aid. Submitting the CSS isn’t free like the FAFSA, but certain students may qualify…