The Help Desk

My tax refund came on a debit card!

My Connecticut income tax refund came in the form of a Visa debit card issued by Chase Bank. Apparently, in order to get any or all of the money owed me, I must activate the card. This requires giving my Social Security number and other personal information. How can I get the money I am owed without opening a credit card I do not want, and which will show on MORE

What's the best way to save for college?

What is the best way to save for a child's education? Are state Guaranteed Education Tuition (GET) programs best, or is another savings vehicle better? – April B., Washington

The Guaranteed Education Tuition plan is the state of Washington's prepaid tuition plan — and in general, a 529 college savings plan is the better choice. With a prepaid tuition plan, you're basically paying for future tuition at in-state public schools at MORE

How long does bankruptcy stay on the books?

My wife has applied for credit cards, but was denied because the credit reporting services have a record of her filing bankruptcy in 2003. Does this record stay permanent, or does it become purged after a period of time? – James V.

It depends on what kind of bankruptcy your wife filed nine years ago. Generally speaking, a completed Chapter 13 bankruptcy will stay on a credit report for seven years, MORE

Will our credit cards work in Europe?

I am traveling with a group of 50 middle school students this summer. Are our American credit cards with magnetic strips widely accepted in Europe? If not, what is a good alternative — debit cards, travelers checks, or cash? — Janice R.

While most major credit cards are widely accepted overseas, you could have trouble paying with the typical American credit card with the magnetic strip, says Gerri Detweiler of Credit.com. MORE