Author: By Aimee Picchi, Special to USA TODAY

Fewer than four in 10 Americans could handle a surprise $1,000 bill. That comes after the government pumped trillions in stimulus into the economy.

Americans head in droves to Christmas tree lots and cut-your-own farms as COVID forces many to cancel their usual holiday plans. Tree prices are up.

Another round?

Some people may regret taking Social Security early if they resume working as the economy improves. Luckily, they may be eligible for a do-over.

Outstanding credit-card and other types of revolving debt have jumped almost 20% from a decade ago, reaching about $1.1 trillion, a study shows.