Debt: The next big American crisis? Instead of accumulating wealth, many are falling further behind on payments. Dateline looks into a fundamental economic problem: the debt epidemic.

Chriss Snyder has $25,000 dollars in credit card debt that she’s trying to get under control. She describes a potential trap that could cost you big money. The economy is in freefall, and no one’s sure where rock bottom is. And as the mortgage crisis and mounting job losses melt away the American dream, another fundamental economic problem is being exposed: America’s debt epidemic.

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Alcoa, the world’s third-largest producer of aluminum, tops an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter’s best investment ideas.

7 top Fidelity funds for your 401k

Whether you’re near retirement or just starting your career, these funds — with suggested allocations for your age and risk tolerance — belong in your portfolio.

Profit from soaring food prices

The prices of some basics, including wheat and rice, have risen by more than a quarter and are near historic highs. As your budget tightens, these stocks benefit.

6 marriage-killing money issues

‘Til debt do you part? Find out how couples can stave off power struggles, fights over how much to help in-laws and other potential conflicts.

Last chance to grab the cheap money

Interest rates are starting to rise as the era of cheap debt comes to an end. If you can afford to borrow and put that money to good use — say, on a home or car — new debt may actually save you money.

Time to make the 401k mandatory?

The 401k was supposed to be a supplemental retirement program. But now that it’s become the main source of old-age security, the rules need rethinking

10 tools to help you save in ‘11

Go online to set goals, see (and celebrate) progress as well as find your money leaks. Bonus: Most of these financial helpers are free.

What happens if your bank fails?

You probably know that deposits are insured, but do you know what the limits are? And what happens if you owe the bank money?

2011’s best values in public colleges

Despite shrinking budgets, these schools continue to deliver a stellar education at an affordable price.

5 great companies to own now

You can try to outguess the market for great results in 2011, or you can simply buy companies you think will do great things. Here are several worth a look, including GE, AMD and 3M.

5 tips for finding lost loot

If you know where to look, you may discover forgotten assets and unclaimed property. Here’s where to look and how to claim what’s rightfully yours.

Why rayon is suddenly back in style

Clothing manufacturers are scrambling for alternatives to pricey cotton, resulting in a spike in demand for rayon’s major ingredient. Investors, it’s fashion worth following.

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Alcoa, the world’s third-largest producer of aluminum, tops an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter’s best investment ideas.

7 top Fidelity funds for your 401k

Whether you’re near retirement or just starting your career, these funds — with suggested allocations for your age and risk tolerance — belong in your portfolio.

Profit from soaring food prices

The prices of some basics, including wheat and rice, have risen by more than a quarter and are near historic highs. As your budget tightens, these stocks benefit.

6 marriage-killing money issues

‘Til debt do you part? Find out how couples can stave off power struggles, fights over how much to help in-laws and other potential conflicts.

Last chance to grab the cheap money

Interest rates are starting to rise as the era of cheap debt comes to an end. If you can afford to borrow and put that money to good use — say, on a home or car — new debt may actually save you money.

Time to make the 401k mandatory?

The 401k was supposed to be a supplemental retirement program. But now that it’s become the main source of old-age security, the rules need rethinking

10 tools to help you save in ‘11

Go online to set goals, see (and celebrate) progress as well as find your money leaks. Bonus: Most of these financial helpers are free.

What happens if your bank fails?

You probably know that deposits are insured, but do you know what the limits are? And what happens if you owe the bank money?

2011’s best values in public colleges

Despite shrinking budgets, these schools continue to deliver a stellar education at an affordable price.

5 great companies to own now

You can try to outguess the market for great results in 2011, or you can simply buy companies you think will do great things. Here are several worth a look, including GE, AMD and 3M.

5 tips for finding lost loot

If you know where to look, you may discover forgotten assets and unclaimed property. Here’s where to look and how to claim what’s rightfully yours.

Why rayon is suddenly back in style

Clothing manufacturers are scrambling for alternatives to pricey cotton, resulting in a spike in demand for rayon’s major ingredient. Investors, it’s fashion worth following.

8 keys to 2011’s mortgage market

House prices — but also interest rates — declined in 2010, and the housing market continues to struggle. A mortgage expert looks at what’s likely to happen next.

Hop on board the US auto revival

The Big 2 saw sales rise in 2010, and they expect to put more cars on the road this year. The stocks to buy to play this trend, though, are the big automakers’ suppliers.

6 ways Obama has touched your wallet

Government policies have consequences for Americans’ finances — some easier to see than others. For starters, you may see a slightly bigger paycheck.

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The investing strategy won in 2010 and could outperform again, thanks to the lure of dividend stocks. Here’s how to play in 2011.

Bulls go marching into the new year

The year opens on a strong note, with many convinced the worst is behind us. But will rising interest rates and prices cool off this optimism as 2011 rolls on?

How thieves will steal your identity

Protect yourself by knowing where you’re vulnerable and where the crooks look for the personal information they need to take over your identity.

Retiree couple medical tab: $158,000

Out-of-pocket expenses for retirees will go down, thanks to health care reform, but a 65-year-old couple will still need a big chunk of savings to ensure the bills are paid.

World’s 5 best 2011 stock markets

There’s a globe’s worth of opportunity to make money this year, and knowing where to invest is key. One of your best options is surprisingly close to home.

States shun checks, embrace plastic

The move to debit cards and direct deposit means consumers need to learn the rules to avoid unexpected fees. Here are 9 things to know if you receive payments this way.

Retiring in 10 years? Uh-oh

The stock market and economy haven’t been kind: Many people who see retirement getting closer are finding that their savings goals are still far away. Now what?

10 savings tips for 2011

Yes, it’s easier said than done, but it’s far from impossible. Here are strategies to help you get started — or to save even more without too much pain.

Twitter: Credit card problem solver

Most major banks now have customer-support accounts on the site, and they’ll respond to complaints quickly to keep social media from damaging their reputations.

The next big 401k washout

The bear market led throngs of investors to flee stocks for the relative ’safety’ of bonds. But with the economy changing, those investments now threaten our retirement savings.

10 money-making ideas for 2011

Markets showed impressive gains in 2010, and a repeat could be in store. Likely ways to make money include bets on the Dogs of the Dow and on the third year of the Obama administration.

5 reasons to love big banks again

Sure, they helped cause the problems that nearly toppled the economy and cost investors a lot of money. But banks will be one of the best places to invest in 2011.

8 quick ways to slash your bills

Got 20 minutes? Improve your fiscal (and even physical) health in 2011 using snippets of time to complete easy tasks that can pay big dividends.

Copyright © by Advice on credit repair, credit reports and debt solutions. All Rights Reserved.

Yes, it’s easier said than done, but it’s far from impossible. Here are strategies to help you get started — or to save even more without too much pain.

Twitter: Credit card problem solver

Most major banks now have customer-support accounts on the site, and they’ll respond to complaints quickly to keep social media from damaging their reputations.

The next big 401k washout

The bear market led throngs of investors to flee stocks for the relative ’safety’ of bonds. But with the economy changing, those investments now threaten our retirement savings.

10 money-making ideas for 2011

Markets showed impressive gains in 2010, and a repeat could be in store. Likely ways to make money include bets on the Dogs of the Dow and on the third year of the Obama administration.

5 reasons to love big banks again

Sure, they helped cause the problems that nearly toppled the economy and cost investors a lot of money. But banks will be one of the best places to invest in 2011.

8 quick ways to slash your bills

Got 20 minutes? Improve your fiscal (and even physical) health in 2011 using snippets of time to complete easy tasks that can pay big dividends.

50 stocks to buy in January

StockScouter, MSN Money’s stock-picking tool, can help investors find companies capable of outperforming the broader market in the weeks ahead.

Restaurant stocks that look overpriced

The food may be fabulous, but, after big moves in 2010, the stocks of many big names look expensive. Time to take these 4 hot eateries off the menu?

Fake hurricanes test homes’ strength

Tests that mimic real-world weather conditions show how reinforced construction can protect homes against damage from wind, rain, fire, hail and debris.

Will your pet bankrupt you?

Before you adopt that cute mutt or exotic fish, be sure you know what the animal’s needs are — and that you have a plan to deal with unexpected expenses.

Share your biggest tax goofs with us

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A this-year-only conversion rule may convince you that converting to a Roth IRA is a no-brainer, but here are 6 reasons to stick with a traditional IRA.

10 picks for the epic bull market

Evidence is mounting that an epic bull market has already begun. But there are still ways to position your portfolio to take advantage in 2011.

Is credit counseling right for you?

Credit counseling, debt settlement and debt consolidation are not all the same — and it’s important to know what you’re getting when you sign up.

How much insurance does Santa need?

Before he ventures out, the jolly old elf probably should make sure his cargo and reindeer are insured. Experts offer opinions about Santa’s needs and what his coverage might cost.

5 investing themes for 2011

Stimulus pumped into the US economy late in 2010 should be bullish for stocks in 2011. And asset classes that glittered this year could recede in the months ahead.

3 retirement moves to make by Dec. 31

If you don’t know what must be done with your retirement funds before 2011, you may miss opportunities — and could even face penalties.

Top pros’ top stocks for 2011

Some leading investment newsletter authors share stellar records but don’t agree on where the market is headed. Bulls and bears offer their best bets for the new year.

Committing ‘capital’ crimes? CSI ‘em

Time for some REAL forensic accounting. Take a cop’s-eye view of your spending habits and order your budget leaks to ‘freeze!’

Jim Cramer’s top 10 Dow stocks for 2011

The ‘Mad Money’ host and TheStreet founder is bullish on US blue chips, many of which he says are in great position to reward investors with little risk.

Still shopping? Don’t buy trouble

If you’re planning a few last purchases (or worse, just getting started), avoid the biggest holiday budget busters. Readers share their warnings and regrets.

Clean car title but dirty secret?

Sometimes cars that have been in floods or accidents end up back on a dealer’s lot — with the damage history erased. But there are ways to protect yourself.

How to get car tech on the cheap

You don’t have to go with factory-installed options for navigation, entertainment and safety; off-the-shelf gadgets are usually cheaper — and may offer better features.

Luxury-goods stocks are flying high

Companies that cater to rich tastes slashed costs during the recession and are now seeing their bottom lines swell as sales surge. Are the stocks bargains now?

10 stocks to watch in the week ahead

Citigroup, one of the largest global banks, appears on an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter’s best investment ideas.

Keep an eye on gold, bonds in 2011

Rising investment interest in gold reflects investor doubts, while falling interest in bonds is a reminder of how foolish the market can be.

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Overall, market performance has been about average in 2010, but it was a tale of ups and downs, shocks and uproar. You may not like it, but you’d better get used to it.

What China’s consumers can teach us

US consumers with mounds of debt and a ‘buy now’ attitude could learn a thing or two from the carefully researched, pragmatic spending habits in China.

Can you trust your mortgage lender?

The housing meltdown may have driven some of the less-qualified lenders out of business. Still, you don’t want to go to just anybody. Here’s how to pick a winner.

10 stocks to watch in the week ahead

National Oilwell Varco, the largest supplier of oilfield equipment, appears on an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter’s best investment ideas.

9 fast fixes for your credit scores

If your credit scores are below 760, you may not be getting the best rates for loans or insurance — so burnishing your scores can save you money.

5 tricks for stretching Social Security

Just because you’re eligible to collect benefits doesn’t mean you should — yet. Learn why waiting can pay off, and other ways to get more of those retirement dollars.

Running from emerging opportunities

Investors who missed out so far have been begging for a chance to get into red-hot emerging markets. That chance is here. So, what’s with the hesitation and fear?

Index funds becoming harder to beat?

Passively managed portfolios that aim to match, not beat, the performance of the broader market are being tweaked to make investing cheaper and easier.

10 cars that refuse to die

It’s hard to tell which cars are going to have the most endurance when they roll off the line, but these models have proved their mettle.

Can Europe save the euro?

New problems in Ireland and Greece have renewed worries about the Old World and its currency. Here’s a look at what’s at stake — and how investors can play the euro’s woes.

Auto dealership tricks and scams

Shopping for a new car can be a daunting proposition — but it need not be if you know what to expect (and are willing to walk away).

5 funds the bad market couldn’t touch

Many fund investors have little to show for the past decade. Over a 15-year period, however, these funds have walloped the broader market.

Is pricey pet food worth it?

Learning to read labels will help you determine whether that higher price tag means more nutrition for your cat or dog — or just more profit for the pet-food company.

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Risk is on the rise, and investors need new strategies and an activist attitude if they hope to stay in the market without getting burned. But help is available.

Is the dollar’s reign over?

The greenback is still the world’s reserve currency of choice. Much of the world is rooting for its dominance, but the Fed wants to bring it down. Here’s what’s at stake.

What’s Buffett got against gold?

The Oracle of Omaha has become wealthy investing in undervalued companies that contribute valuable goods and services. Gold just sits there.

How to become a one-income family

It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible, either. These 5 steps can help make the transition easier — whether or not the choice was yours.

How to pick a Medicare plan

The coverage that was the best deal for you last year may not be this year. And the choices are complex. Here’s how to get started on figuring out what’s best for you.

8 Black Friday tips and strategies

Those big markdowns can help you save big on holiday shopping — or tempt you to spend more than you intended. Here’s how to snag the deals and avoid the traps.

5 rules for the wild year ahead

Amid the market’s ups and downs, keep your eye on the long-term trend moving stocks upward. And should that trend break, prepare to run for cover.

Buy health care at the store?

Drugstore clinics are undeniably convenient, and universal health care could mean primary care doctors are overloaded. What can you expect from a retail-based clinic?

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Amid the market’s ups and downs, keep your eye on the long-term trend moving stocks upward. And should that trend break, prepare to run for cover.

Buy health care at the store?

Drugstore clinics are undeniably convenient, and universal health care could mean primary care doctors are overloaded. What can you expect from a retail-based clinic?

Does killing for insurance ever pay?

Not only is it a horrific crime, it’s insurance fraud. And not being convicted (or even charged) in a death does not necessarily mean a beneficiary can collect.

10 stocks to watch in the week ahead

Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, one of the world’s largest mining companies, appears on an MSN Money list of recommended stocks.

Some employers steal from 401k plans

In tough times, some business owners are facing a tough choice: Pay the bills or deposit their workers’ money into the 401k plan. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Does $250,000 mean you’re rich?

President Obama wants to let the Bush tax cuts expire for households earning $250,000 or more a year. Is that the income level where ‘rich’ really begins?

8 great Black Friday bargains

Forget those hours of waiting in the predawn cold for stores to open for after-Thanksgiving sales. This year, you can go holiday shopping right after you polish off the pumpkin pie.

Fed’s power of the press hits limit

The second round of quantitative easing has received a chilly reception. The markets seem to realize that printing money won?t solve our problems.

Get ready for a wild ride in 2011

Increasing Europe worries and China fears are leading me to rethink my strategy for next year. It’s going to be a rougher course than I’ve been expecting.

3 now-or-never mutual funds

In a significant change from the recent past, more managers are closing their funds to new money. These funds were closed in the past and could be again.

7 things savvy bank customers know

The friendly customer service representatives can help you, sure. Just be aware that ‘convenience’ or ‘protection’ is in the interest of the financial institution.

Are ETFs a market menace?

A controversial new report says that exchange-traded funds distort the stock market and are behind an escalating number of trading failures. Should investors worry?

Why food bills are heading higher

The cost of a wide range of commodities has been soaring and will likely keep rising. You can’t fight it, but with some smart investing moves, you can profit from it.

Is it safe to buy a foreclosure?

At first, bank-owned houses seemed like some of the best bargains in town, but then the robo-signing controversy made buying seem like a risky proposition.

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Apple tops an MSN Money list of recommended stocks. Here are StockScouter’s best investment ideas.

Who needs dollars when we have gold?

The Fed’s irresponsible policies have led to serious discussion of a return to a gold-based monetary system. It’s about time.

401k’s pay off only for lucky few

Millions of Americans have no access to a 401k plan, and many of those who do misjudge market risk — individual retirement plans lost $2 trillion in the recent plunge.

Lousy class action settlements

Though the outcomes often do little or nothing for the consumers involved, class action lawsuits still provide a valuable function — one that’s now under threat.

How to invest for the next bubble

With the Fed and cash-rich China both pumping cheap money into the system, another global bubble looks likely. Do you play for a sudden pop or a slow deflation?

6 investing mistakes novices make

Young adults with steady incomes should be setting some aside for retirement — but that can be a whole lot harder than it sounds. Here’s how to avoid the common missteps.

Make your money last in retirement

People are living longer and saving less, leaving many in a financial bind in their later years. Here are some ways you can stretch your retirement dollars.

6 habits that will make you broke

Even some well-intentioned practices like clipping coupons could result in your spending more. But if you know the dangers, you can find a way around them.

How to get back into the market

Investors who withdrew from stocks when the financial crisis hit may want to jump back in now that the market’s on fire. It’s better to do some planning first.

The holiday toy price war is on

The three big holiday retailers for kids’ stuff are battling it out with lower prices and bigger selections. Andmore choicescould help — no toy has emerged as this year’s ‘must-have’ gift.

2010 top toys: Cute and high-tech

Never heard of Squinkies or Zoobles? You’d better start looking for them now. They are among the hottest toys this holiday season.

Gift-shop with gift cards, and save

You can net bargains by buying unwanted gift cards at discount prices, then using them to fulfill holiday wish lists. Who needs to know you didn’t pay full fare?

Which cars get the most tickets?

One model gets more than 4 times the average number of citations; another gets less than one-fourth. And the ages and genders of the drivers might surprise you.

Oops, has the Fed done it again?

The Fed contributed mightily to 2 financial bubbles over the past decade. Now it seems bent on a course that will createone in the world’s emerging economies.

Getting ahead? You only think so

We deny it, but even college-educated Americans — at least those under 55 — can’t duplicate their parents’ prosperity. Here’s how we hide this reality from ourselves.

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