Germany, Berlin, Frau im Office

Amy Wright

Amy Wright has more than twenty years of experience writing copy for major corporations such as Verizon Wireless, UPS, BBVA and a host of other financial institutions. She is also a graduate of the University of the South at Sewanee in Sewanee, Tennessee.

87 Articles Written

6 Categories Included

Recent Articles

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How the CARES Act could impact your retirement savings

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the CARES Act makes it easier to access and manage your retirement account funds. This includes borrowing more, withdrawing funds penalty-free and suspending RMDs. Learn more about the changes and how they affect you.

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Line of credit vs personal loans

Expect the unexpected - or at least know your options when the unexpected happens. Learn the difference between a personal loan and a line of credit here!

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Online banking pros and cons

Online banking allows you to manage your money and banking services from any computer with secure internet access. This is particularly useful now as many bank branches are temporarily closed to walk-in customers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Revisiting your finances in the wake of COVID-19

The coronavirus hit America swiftly and severely. In a matter of days, millions found themselves confined to their homes, working remotely, or out of a job completely. Not only were people concerned about getting sick, they were also worried about how they could financially survive the pandemic.

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Taking advantage of online banking and mobile banking services during quarantine

BBVA's online banking and mobile banking make it easy, secure, and safe to manage your money from home during the coronavirus crisis. Manage your accounts, pay bills, send money to family and friends, make transfers, apply for loans and much more.

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7 strategies to reduce financial anxiety during uncertain times

We are living in stressful times. And while staying healthy is a top concern for most, many people are also deeply worried about the economy, their jobs and their own personal finances.

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Downsizing: The pros and cons of a 55+ community

Making the move to a 55+ community is a big step. Before you downsize to an active adult community, consider these pros and cons which will hopefully help you determine if age-restricted lifestyle is right for you.

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What is AD&D insurance, and do I need it?

Most people buy insurance for financial protection from unexpected events, such as storm damage to their home, a sudden illness or a car crash. Similarly, accidental death and dismemberment insurance (AD&D), can provide financial protection in the event of a serious or fatal accident.

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Financial Fundamentals: Understanding retirement planning

Most financial experts agree that retirement planning is the most important financial planning you can do. Even so, there are still many Americans who have no retirement savings and many others who don't have enough.

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Wedding vs. elope: Weighing the costs

Getting married and trying to decide if you should have a wedding or elope? There are pros and cons to each option.

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Pantry cooking means easy nutritious meals using what you have on hand

Need to make a quick, easy meal? Chances are you already have nutritious options in your pantry.

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How to avoid bankruptcy

Are you deep in debt? Bankruptcy should be a last resort. Check out our advice for how to manage and overcome your debt without declaring bankruptcy.

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Selling your first home: Is it ready to sell?

Whether you've outgrown your first home or have fallen in love with a new one, you're probably a bit anxious about selling. It's a big step, one you've never taken, so of course you want to get it right.

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How to handle your first credit card

Got your first credit card? Get valuable tips for using your card wisely, building your credit score, and avoiding credit card fraud.

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Why financial wellness matters

Money is huge source of stress for many Americans. But it doesn't have to be. Find out what financial wellness is, why it matters and what can be done to help improve people's financial health and well-being.

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Financial fundamentals for beginners

Just getting started managing your own money? Here are some tips and information to help you build good money habits from the get-go. Learn about checking accounts, budgeting, credit cards, saving, managing money in college and more.

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Money Market Account FAQs

There are many savings account options, and it's important to find the one that meets your savings needs. Get answers to frequently asked questions about Money Market savings accounts and see if one is right for you.

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How to fund a digital account

Applying for an online bank account sounds easy, but how do you get money into it? Here are step-by-step details and tips for selecting, opening, and funding a digital bank account.

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What's the difference between rate and APY?

Ever wonder why some money market accounts advertise two different rates? Learn about the difference between interest rate and APY and how understanding these two numbers can help you earn more on your savings.

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The Benefits of a Clicks-and-Bricks Bank

Clicks-and-Bricks banks provide banking customers with maximum convenience, ease, and flexibility. But not all click-and-bricks banks are created equal. Find out how you can select the best bank for your personal money management style.

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Make the most of your year-end bonus

Expecting a bonus soon? Here are some tips for making smart choices with your bonus that could improve your finances while also having a little fun, too.

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Generation Z: Finding Innovative Ways to Save Early

Generation Z — those ages 14 to 21 — is shaping up to be a generation of money-savvy savers. Find out more about these frugal youngsters' attitudes about money.

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How to make the most of your tax refund

Using your income tax return to build a savings account, start saving for retirement or pay down debt can improve your personal finances. Here are some tips for how to make the most of your tax refund.

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5 Financial Resolutions You Can Keep

Make positive financial changes in 2018 with these simple goals.

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Talking about money with friends

Most people avoid talking about money but sometimes that's impossible. Find out how to navigate seven common situations when money comes up.

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How do joint bank accounts work?

Joint bank accounts allow multiple people to use one bank account at the same time. When properly set up and managed, they can make daily money management convenient and offer many other benefits for couples, families, business partners, roommates and even friends.

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Strategies for managing medical bills

Millions of Americans are struggling to pay medical bills, copays and insurance premiums. Here are strategies for controlling your healthcare costs and managing overdue medical bills

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How much does it cost to have a pet?

How much does it cost to have a pet? More than you probably think. Learn how Fido can affect your finances and be prepared.

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How the sharing economy can save you money

The sharing economy is more than a buzz-word or a trend. Find out how it can help you save time, save money, make money, and increase sustainability.

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Opening your child's first banking account

Want to help your children learn about money? A savings account is a smart start. Here is a guide to what banking tools make sense for kids and when.

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Bank tech tips and tools for baby boomers

Baby Boomers aren't afraid of digital banking, but they are still cautious when it comes to mobile banking. Here's a few online tools that might change their minds.

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Giving kids spending money for travel

What's the best way to give kids spending money when they travel? Learn about affordable, safe ways to make sure your children have the funds they need.

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Teaching kids to save with allowances

Time to start giving your kids an allowance? Get tips for how much to give, when to start, and how to structure an allowance program for your family.

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Financial planning for special needs children

6 tips to help plan for your child's long-term needs.

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Savings plans and trusts for physically and developmentally disabled children

Planning for long-term care of a special needs child can be overwhelming. Learn about savings options such as special needs trusts and ABLE accounts.

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Young drivers and car ownership economics

Tips for teaching new drivers about the costs of car ownership.

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Building a solid financial foundation: How online tools can help

Developing good money habits early on can help you create a financial foundation you can build on for the rest of your life. For example, paying your bills on time can protect your credit score, which will matter a lot when you want to buy a home.

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Get financially ready for a baby

Everything changes when you have a baby, especially your finances. But you can take some simple steps to prepare financially when you're expecting.

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Tips for parents of a child with special needs

Families with special needs children face many challenges. But there are benefits and resources that can help.

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Helping elderly family members manage their finances

Do you have an elderly family member and help manage his or her finances? Here are tips on how to help them keep their independence and stay safe.

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Why you need car insurance

If you're wondering why you need car insurance, there's a very simple answer: your state probably requires it.

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What are my car insurance options?

Confused about car insurance? Learn more about your coverage options and how to build the policy you need while keeping premium costs down.

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How to raise money-wise children

Give your kids the tools to budget, save, decipher wants from needs, and make smart money decisions.

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Financial fundamentals: Understanding insurance

Having the right insurance coverage is key to your financial well being. In fact, smart insurance planning can help protect your wealth, your family and your business.

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Financial fundamentals: Understanding personal investing terms

While some people might find the idea of personal investing intimidating, actively working to grow your assets can go a long way toward helping you achieve your financial goals. And once you become familiar with your options, you'll realize there are ways you can invest your money without too much risk.

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What is a CDFI?

Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) are private institutions dedicated to facilitating economic growth, job creation and opportunity in low-income communities through credit, investment and affordable financial services.

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How do CDFIs benefit communities?

Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) provide funding and support for low-income communities in the U.S. Find out more about how they work.

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Prepare for changes on your 2018 tax returns

There were big changes to the tax code in 2018 and some of them might impact you. Tax season is upon us, so here's an overview of the changes and information about where you can get free assistance filling out your tax returns this year.

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Strategies to combat rising consumer prices

Prices are going up on everything from toothpaste to car insurance. But there are smart, real-life strategies for combating rising prices, trimming monthly expenses and keeping your monthly budget balanced.

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Are extended warranties worth the extra cost?

Extended warranties are everywhere these days, but are they a good deal for consumers? In most cases, they're not. Find out why you should skip the extended warranty and how to maximize other purchase protections without shelling out any extra cash.

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Budgets for any income

Good budgeting skills can make navigating your financial life a lot easier. Here are some tips for getting started.

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How does a car loan work?

Find out how interest rates, credit scores, down payments, terms and more affect auto loans and how much buying a car will cost you. Get the information you need to make an informed decision about your first or next vehicle loan.

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89 ways to save money

Who doesn't love saving money? From food to fashion, here are 89 ways to do just that.

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Should I save for college or for retirement?

Should you save for retirement or your children's college education? Find out why retirement should be your top priority, smart ways to save for retirement, and how you can eventually save for both.

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Downsizing: Is a tiny house right for you?

Downsizing is one thing. Downsizing to 400 square feet is another. Ready to get rid of most of your stuff? Think you can share a tiny space with your spouse or partner? Find out more about tiny house living and whether it's a smart move for empty nesters.

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Your mortgage questions answered: Mortgage FAQs

Buying a home can be a confusing process. BBVA has the answers to your important mortgage questions, so don't apply for a home loan without reading our mortgage FAQs.

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Should you refinance your Adjustable Rate Mortgage?

With interest rates going up, should you refinance your adjustable rate mortgage? Explore refinancing options, learn more about rates and closing costs, and get a better idea about which solution could be right for you.

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Rent or buy? 3 tips to make the best choice

Ready to buy a home now? Or is renting a better option ? From timing to finances to lifestyle, get insight and advice as to which housing option makes the most sense.

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A how-to for summer project lists

Want to know how to tackle your honey-do list and pay for major home improvements? These tips and ideas can help you prioritize, plan, afford, and accomplish your spring and summer home projects.

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What is a home equity loan?

A home equity loan can be a smart, affordable way to borrow. Learn about the benefits, requirements, options, risks, and how much you can borrow.

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Understanding joint accounts

Joint bank accounts can make money management easier for families, partners, and small businesses. Here are some tips on when and why you may need one.

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A step by step guide to switching banks

Thinking about switching banks but don't want the headache? Here are some tips for making it easier to switch banks and get the right account for you.

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Deposit accounts for college students

Find out about accounts, tools, and technology to help college students handle money and make smart financial decisions.

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Insurance and marriage

Newlyweds should update their insurance coverage. It's good financial planning, and could save money, too.

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How much should you spend on the holidays?

Stressed about how to pay for the holidays? Here are some tips for cutting back, spending less and avoiding debt while still having a bright, joyous holiday season.

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You can avoid paying credit card interest

If you're smart with your credit cards, you can enjoy all the perks — convenience, buyer protections and rewards — and avoid paying interest.

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Ideas to build (or improve) your credit

Your credit score can affect your ability to borrow money, rent an apartment or even get a job. Here are tips to establish, build, protect and even improve your all-important FICO and credit score.

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More home equity questions answered: FAQs

There are many benefits to using the equity in your home to access cash, but it's important to understand how home equity loans and HELOCs work before you decide if it's the best option for you.

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When to consider adding or replacing a credit card

Should you switch or add credit cards for a better rate or a sweet rewards program? What about switching cards to avoid paying fees? Find out when switching or adding a credit card makes sense for you and your credit score.

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Secured loans vs. unsecured loans

What's the difference between a secured loan and an unsecured loan? Get important information, insights, and suggestions before you borrow money.

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A brief history of credit cards

From their humble beginnings in the 1800s, credit cards have become a vital part of our lives and our economy. Learn how credit cards got their start and evolved into the powerful purchasing tools millions of Americans rely on today.

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Should you pay tuition with a credit card?

Using a credit card to pay college tuition can be a rewarding idea if done strategically and thoughtfully. Get the details about paying for college with plastic.

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When to consider a personal loan

Using a personal loan to pay medical bills, consolidate debt, make purchases, or improve your home can be a good financial choice. Learn more.

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The future of high-tech personal money management

Banking by bot. High-tech, coffee-shop like branches. Personalized user experiences. Learn about how technology will continue to change how you bank and manage your money — and why you're going to love it.

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Comparing cash-back and travel rewards cards

Want airline miles or a cash back? Credit card rewards programs can be valuable if you choose a card that matches your spending habits and interests. Here are some tips to find the best one for you.

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What is a debt consolidation loan and do I need one?

You may be able to pay off debt faster by using a personal loan to combine outstanding debts into one debt with a potentially lower interest rate.

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Protect yourself from identity theft

Don't make it easy for thieves to steal your identity or personal information. Take these precautions to help protect yourself from identity theft.

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Do's and don'ts of spending money on vacation

BBVA offers tips and tricks for getting the best return on your vacation dollars while making life-long memories at the same time.

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How do I learn to invest?

Just getting started investing? Take the time to check out some recommended online investment tutorials, highly regarded books for beginners, and other valuable financial education resources.

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Don't let a financial fiasco ruin your summer

Get tips and suggestions for preventing a financial fiasco while protecting your accounts and financial information during summer vacations or activities away from home.

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Different types of bank accounts

Do you need a checking or savings account? What's an IRA? Get the basics about different types of bank accounts to make smart money-management decisions.

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Cut costs with the electric car vs. gas cars

Go green with an all-electric car (in more ways than one). Find out how an electric is not only good for the environment but good for your wallet as well!

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How to save for big purchases and large expenses

Learn to save for big purchases, large expenses, and avoid taking on monthly payments you can't afford.

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Tips for spring cleaning your finances

Smart, simple tips for improving organization, reducing clutter, saving a little money, and getting a fresh financial start.

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Spring Break on a dime: Tips for saving on family vacations

Find out how you can save on food, air travel, hotels, amusement parks, and more with money-saving tips and ideas for spring break and summer family travel.

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Winterizing your home

From caulking windows to upgrading the HVAC system, winterizing your home can save you money on utilities and even increase your home's value. Learn about money-saving, home-improving projects for budgets of all sizes.

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Guide to Investing for Gen Z and Millennials

Gen Y and Z are saving money, which is great news. But they could be saving smarter and earning more. Here are some valuable tips for going from saving to investing and building an even bigger nest egg.

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Details you need to make a smart decision

The content provided is for informational purposes only. Neither BBVA USA, nor any of its affiliates, is providing legal, tax, or investment advice. You should consult your legal, tax, or financial consultant about your personal situation. Opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the opinions of BBVA USA or any of its affiliates.

Links to third party sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. BBVA USA does not provide, is not responsible for, and does not guarantee the products, services or overall content available at third party sites. These sites may not have the same privacy, security or accessibility standards.