Financial News Features

If you’re applying for a personal loan, securing a low interest rate is critical — especially if you’re borrowing a large amount of money. While shopping around for lenders can certainly help (rates vary greatly from one to the next), there are other things you can do to improve your chances of getting a low interest rate personal loan, too.

The first fraud charges have been filed in Rhode Island against two men attempting to defraud the coronavirus stimulus program. The application for the Paycheck Protection Program stated they were seeking $500,000 for employees' wages when they have no employees working at any of their businesses. Unfortunately, this may not be the last instance of fraudsters seeking the program's funds.

The question of whether the government intended to reduce the worth of the Paycheck Protection Program loan or if it was red tape oversight doesn't really matter since the result remains the same. The IRS has issued guidance for business owners that prevents a tax deduction claim for a forgiven PPP loan, ensuring no one receives a double tax benefit. However, these high-quality low-interest-rate loans are a clear advantage for businesses fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Medical bills are the leading cause of bankruptcy according to the American Journal of Public Health. Personal loans may work to your advantage if you're facing potential collections attempts. Aside from consulting with your medical provider directly, there are other options to consider if an agreement can't be made.

Concerns about risks to consumer data are realities for mobile banking and wallet applications. Cybersecurity is a two-way street that requires precautions from both the financial institutions and the consumers themselves. Forbes Finance Council offers the advice of 13 finance experts to provide tips on how to help protect your digital financial information.

Funding for Social Security was on shaky ground even before the coronavirus pandemic began, but now concerns have been raised over the strength of the fund, with projections pointing to only a portion of benefits to be received. However, the major damage concern is the continued unemployment which reduces payroll tax revenues that fund the social security program. Find out more about potential impacts on the program's future.