Articles by Simon Zhen

Simon Zhen is the chief research analyst for MyBankTracker and an expert on consumer banking products, bank innovations, and financial technology. Simon has contributed and/or been quoted in major publications and outlets including Consumer Reports, American Banker, Yahoo Finance, U.S. News - World Report, The Huffington Post, Business Insider, Lifehacker, and AOL.com. Education: Education: B.S. in Health Sciences from Stony Brook University.

How to Save & Invest for Retirement Learn about what retirement plans advantages that help you save more money than with a regular savings account or brokerage account. How to Check Your Federal and State Tax Refund Status Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen How to Check Your Federal and State Tax Refund Status So, you’ve been a good taxpayer and filed your tax returns by April 15, now comes... 4 Ways to Avoid Fees When Paying Taxes With Credit Cards Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen 4 Ways to Avoid Fees When Paying Taxes With Credit Cards Paying taxes with a credit card can be very expensive, which is why it's... Which Credit Report Does U.S. Bank Pull? Find out which credit report is used more commonly by U.S. Bank when it reviews a prospective borrower's credit card application. Prepaid Vs. Secured Credit Cards: Which Works Best for You? When your credit is down, you might have to consider getting either prepaid or secured cards. Picking one just requires knowing the details of both. How to Opt Out of Pre-Approved Credit Card Offers Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen How to Opt Out of Pre-Approved Credit Card Offers The incessant pileup of pre-screened credit card offers in your mailbox is more... Mortgage Refinance Basics: How it Works Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Mortgage Refinance Basics: How it Works 1. What is a Refinance? A mortgage refinance is when you replace your old... HELOC Borrowing Basics: What to Expect Learn how HELOC gives you the flexibility of a credit card with a much lower interest rate. Learn the basics of the HELOC application process and terms. Worried About a Recession? How to Prepare and Protect Your Finances Learn how you can prepare your finances - especially your savings and investments - for a recession, when your job and income may be in danger. Best 5-Year CD Rates for Long Term Savings Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Best 5-Year CD Rates for Long Term Savings One of the safest ways to grow your savings with a strong return is a long-term...