Compare interest rates. While most auto dealerships offer their own car and truck loans to customers, they may not offer the lowest rate. Research other lenders to see what types of rates are available. If you have an account with a bank or credit union, see if they can offer you a better loan rate because you're their customer. You should also get an auto insurance quote from top companies beforehand since it'll impact your monthly vehicle cost.

Always get the final approval for the loan in writing. Many auto loan lenders, especially car dealerships, promise customers a great loan with low interest but it only applies to people with high credit scores. Before buying a car, make sure you have the auto loan approved and in writing. A pre-approved loan may still not get you the loan at the rate discussed. Need an Auto Loan? Automotive.com has a nation-wide network of auto lenders that can assist you with auto financing.

A 2008 J.D. Power and Associates survey of credit card user happiness found the following satisfaction rates among major credit card issuers. With an industry average of 724 out of a possible 1,000, American Express received 783, Discover 751, National City 721, Chase 719, U.S. Bank 716, Washington Mutual (now Chase) 712, Citi 710, Wells Fargo 709, and Bank of America 692.

Many credit card companies offer incentives, such as low introductory rates, for balance transfers (moving the balance from your current issuer). The best deal are from those that charge no balance transfer fee.

To compare rates from over 100 leading banks and financial institutions, visit the credit cards specials page at CreditCards.com. Apply for a credit card today.

Investors have a dizzying array of choices. Among investment options are U.S. and oversees stocks, real estate purchases, bonds issued by stable companies, riskier bonds that offer higher yields, forex trading, and the purchase of precious metals such as gold and titanium.

Smart investing requires research. Learn what types of investments make the most sense in the areas of expenses and financial risks involved. Are financial goals five years, ten years, or thirty years in the future? If retirement is far away, stocks have outperformed bonds as a whole over time. As an example, strong rallies by the end of 2009 recovered over 50% of 2008 stock market losses.

No personal investment strategy is complete without diversification. Put money in a combination of stable investments such as bonds and CD's, more variable types, such as mutual funds, along with some money in individual stocks. Purchase a life insurance policy for your loved ones for their future security. In addition, try to set aside a certain amount of money for a secondary retirement fund and keep some money in a personal savings account for emergencies. Fixed annuities are interest based vehicles similar to bank issued CDs, but geared specifically towards retirement savings.

Invest as much as you can spare in an IRA or 401(k), even if it's not the maximum allowed by law. You don't have to contribute $5,000 every year to start building assets tax-deferred. Even $100 a month will make a large impact over time. If your employer offers a match based on your retirement plan contributions and you are not participating, you're missing out on extra money. If you're tempted to take a cash distribution from your retirement plan, keep in mind you'll lose a substantial portion of it to taxes and penalties. Among these is a 10% early withdrawal penalty if you're under the age of 59½ and additional federal income taxes depending on your tax bracket.

It's vital for every investor to review asset allocation (the mix of stocks, bonds, and cash) in their portfolio once a year to make sure it's still appropriate for their current needs.

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