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- Well you've finally done it. Financial independence brings with it a whole new set of freedoms and possibilities. But it also brings responsibilities. Sure, you can make money. But can you look after it, save it, and make it grow? The first step is to create a realistic budget. Then, live by it. No fun, right? Wrong. With sound budgeting and smart use of financial tools like credit and debit cards, you can still have a blast while meeting your financial responsibilities. The best part is that you'll be building a strong credit and financial history that will help the fun continue to grow for years to come.
- Try this one on for size: One of the great benefits of having a MasterCard is all of the special offers and discounts that cardholders are eligible for. In fact, you can plan and purchase for an entire getaway simply using MasterCard special offers and discounts. You could buy new luggage. Book train fare and a rental car. Get a sleek new travel alarm clock. Sport some funky new shoes and accessories. You can even pick up a pair of cool new shades for lounging at the beach. And, of course, there's even more ways to save. Be our guest and start poking around.
- It feels good when you get credit card offers; it means you're viewed as a good risk. Credit can definitely be a useful tool that enhances your lifestyle. But before visions of high-def TVs, care-free dinner tabs, and a new wardrobe start dancing through your head, remember that you DO have to pay for this stuff eventually. And the longer you take to pay, the more it costs you. First, remember not to overspend. Second, stick to a sane budget (see All About The Money for more). Then, avoid minimum payments like the plague. They'll cost you a bundle in the long run and, believe us, with minimum payments it'll be a very long run.
- There are a lot of things you need to know about when you're just starting out on your own. How do you find ATMs? What's the difference between a credit card, a debit card, and a student card? Where do you find your credit score? Don't stress, we know a little bit about this stuff. We can tell you just what APR stands for and what it means to you. We can give you effective ways to deal with debt. We can even tell you how to start a career with MasterCard. What we can't tell you is why your neighbor yodels late into the night. You're on your own there.
- Multifunction mobile gear is almost required equipment these days. Really, wouldn't you feel almost naked without these amazing devices? Well, get this: One of the most high-tech things you own might be hiding in your comfortably broken-in (okay, maybe beaten-up and nearly disintegrating) wallet. It's your MasterCard. Or rather, the next-generation features that come with it. Today there's PayPass® contactless payment that lets you tap and go for purchases in a flash. We're even testing PayPass in the NYC Subway System. And soon, you'll be able to have your MasterCard and PayPass inside your mobile phone. You can keep the ratty wallet if it makes you feel better.
