Money news article index

Own a Small Business? Get Creative About Financing

Owning a small business is always a challenge, but especially when the economy is in a downturn. The effect on small businesses across the country leaves many unsure where to turn for financing to expand, renovate or manage seasonal fluctuations. Where can small business owners go when the bank isn't an option?

Published: 2008-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Career Tips for Generation Y College Grads

With employers facing a looming shortage of skilled professionals, your recent college degree can lead to more opportunities than you might imagine. How do you - a soon-to-be or recent college graduate - set your career on a course towards lifelong fulfillment and financial reward? Here is what the research says you might be looking for in a career, and tips to help you find a career that is a good match for you.

Published: 2008-05-14 00:00:00 read more...

How to Get a Mortgage in Today's Market

Here are some tips for putting yourself in a healthy financial position to help you get a mortgage in today's market.

Published: 2008-05-08 00:00:00 read more...

Tips for Insuring Your Home in a Buyer's Market

Slow home sales mean more vacant houses are sitting on the market - a situation that can lead to increased insurance risks. If you move to a new home before yours sells, the property is at greater risk of damage and you may not have adequate insurance coverage. Here is some expert advice to help ensure that owners of vacant properties are protected.

Published: 2008-05-07 00:00:00 read more...

Where Home Sellers Can Find Security and Save Money

With the real estate market in its current state, many sellers are finding it's too expensive to hire an agent to sell their homes. They're doing it themselves instead.

Published: 2008-05-06 00:00:00 read more...

Now is the Perfect Time for Real Estate Investing

We all understand the income potential of investing in real estate. Some people decide to buy apartments or commercial buildings to rent and manage themselves. This can be rewarding, but can also be a lot of work. What if you could have the benefits of a commercial investment, but without the many subsequent responsibilities?

Published: 2008-05-06 00:00:00 read more...

Unwise Spending Can Sandbag Retirement Security

When it comes to financial health in retirement, how much you set aside for your senior years is only half the story. Equally important is how you invest and spend what you've saved, and a recent survey indicates more than 50 percent of retirees aren't spending wisely.

Published: 2008-05-05 00:00:00 read more...

How Small Business Owners Can Make Every Dollar Count

Now more than ever before, it's important for small business owners to get the most return on every dollar they spend. From cashing in on rewards programs to learning smarter management practices, here are some tips for small business owners looking to stretch their dollars.

Published: 2008-05-02 00:00:00 read more...

Not All Homeowners Insurance Is Created Equal

If a fire destroyed your four-bedroom home would your insurance carrier expect you to live in a one-bedroom apartment throughout the yearlong process of planning and building your new home? If so, then you'd know that all homeowner policies are not created equal.

Published: 2008-04-21 00:00:00 read more...

Budgeting 101

Does it seem like it's getting harder to stretch your paycheck to cover all your bills? With gas prices approaching $4 a gallon and food costs increasing every day, now more than ever it is important to make sure you have control of your finances. Easier said than done. With all the financial advice out there, it is easy to become overwhelmed with where to begin. Step one to getting on the right track is simple: Develop a personal budget.

Published: 2008-04-15 00:00:00 read more...

Teaching Teens that Money Matters

Teens want the keys to the world of adult finance, but as the financial choices they must make in their lifetime become increasingly complex, they are going to need driving lessons. To help teens learn about money management, parents can take advantage of these four tips.

Published: 2008-04-15 00:00:00 read more...

Pay Yourself Forward

Ready or not, many retiring baby boomers are faced with the task of converting their savings into a retirement paycheck while still growing their nest egg. Here are tips for those hoping to create a paycheck for life.

Published: 2008-04-15 00:00:00 read more...

Custom Builders Woo Buyers with Free Mortgage Payments, Other Incentives

Custom-home builders -- who build on demand for a specific buyer rather than construct a home and then seek a buyer -- are facing the same challenges as other home developers: a market with excess inventory and a dearth of qualified buyers. In response, custom and other home builders are offering buyer incentives.

Published: 2008-04-08 00:00:00 read more...

Top Ten Tips for Financing a Home

Warmer weather and the conclusion of another school year are two signs that summer is almost here. While many Americans get ready for summer travel, barbeques, and other rites of the season, thousands will be taking advantage of a buyer's market by looking for a new place to call home. Here are some tips to help make the home financing process easier.

Published: 2008-04-04 00:00:00 read more...

Last Minute Taxpayer Tips

As the tax deadline draws near, it's common to suffer from deadline anxiety. If you are one of the millions of taxpayers who have put doing your taxes on the backburner, the first rule is not to panic. Here are some last minute tax tips to consider.

Published: 2008-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

Finance Tips for Newlyweds

Money can be a complicated aspect of marriage, especially when it comes to merging finances. Finding a system that works for both individuals can help couples achieve financial harmony.

Published: 2008-04-02 00:00:00 read more...

How to Practice Good Credit Card Management

Virtually every household in the United States has a credit card that enables them to maintain a certain lifestyle and build credit history. And while most consumers groan when their credit card statement arrives, they don't often realize that their credit card company offers a host of different tools and information to help them better manage their finances.

Published: 2008-04-01 00:00:00 read more...

Looking for a Smart Business Opportunity in a Recession?

For people worried about money because of the current economic conditions, now is a good time to take control of their financial future by starting a low risk online business.

Published: 2008-03-31 00:00:00 read more...

How to Make a Low Down Payment Loan Work for You

As spring home buying season begins, financing options remain available for borrowers who do not have the traditional 20 percent down payment.

Published: 2008-03-26 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Money Matters Mar Your Wedding Plans

You've seen it on TV, read it in the news and maybe even heard it from your mother: money is one of the top things married couples fight about. Finances can be a source of strife for engaged couples as well, especially as wedding day bills loom and they face the prospect of merging their money after marriage. Consider these tips to ensure money woes don't cast a shadow over the biggest day of your life.

Published: 2008-03-26 00:00:00 read more...

Facing Foreclosure? You May be Eligible for Tax Relief

When your home is losing value and your family is facing the financial stress of foreclosure, the last thing you need is to be hit with an enormous tax bill. Here's how to avoid one.

Published: 2008-03-25 00:00:00 read more...

Shop Online without Breaking the Bank

It's no wonder that online shopping has become so popular when you can shop from home, work, and now - thanks to Blackberries and cell phones - even on the go. Here are some smart tips for saving money online that will leave cash in your wallet and a smile on your face.

Published: 2008-03-19 00:00:00 read more...

The Secret to Success in a Slow Economy

Want to have a recession-proof business? Here's why you should consider one in the health and fitness area.

Published: 2008-03-12 00:00:00 read more...

Refinancing Online Provides Opportunities for Homeowners

As you consider refinancing your home, be sure to check out the convenient and competitive options that may be available to you from online mortgage lenders. Your next mortgage may be only a click away.

Published: 2008-03-11 00:00:00 read more...

When Investing in a Vacation Property, Be Sure to Compare Options

Investing in a vacation property is an investment in memories. It promotes relaxation and spending quality time with friends and family. But with all the options available, there are a lot of things that should be considered before making a final decision. Here's an easy to compare list of postives and negatives for each option.

Published: 2008-03-10 00:00:00 read more...

A Savings Revolution to Provide Hope for Young Americans

You're busy establishing yourself in your career and your life. You want to buy a home, get married and have children. There's only one problem: you can't even think about these things because all your money is going toward paying off student loans and credit card debt. And, oh yes -- you have your eye on that plasma big-screen TV.

Published: 2008-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Seven Tips for First-time Homebuyers

The home buying process may seem daunting to someone who has never purchased a home before. But by obtaining a better understanding of your financing options, everything will come into focus.

Published: 2008-02-25 00:00:00 read more...

E-file Taxes -- It's Private and Secure

According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the number of electronically filed tax returns surpassed a record in 2007 when nearly 80 million tax returns were e-filed. But just how secure is the IRS' e-file system?

Published: 2008-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

Taxes - Your Link to Free Online Federal E-filing

If you don't want to prepare your taxes by hand and are looking for an affordable online solution, good news. There's a Web-based software option available that will enable you to prepare, print and e-file your 2007 federal tax return, and it won't cost you a penny.

Published: 2008-02-08 00:00:00 read more...

Wrestling with Payroll Management? How to Find Online Solutions

It's no cliché: Small businesses really are the backbone of the American economy. Employing all those workers means tax season lasts all year long for small businesses who must regularly deal with payroll taxes. Here are some tips for finding the online payroll solution that' s right for your business.

Published: 2008-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

How to Sell Your Home in a Tight Market

The real estate market is tight right now. Here's how you can sell for less, but still come out ahead.

Published: 2008-01-14 00:00:00 read more...

Prepare to Go the Distance

If you've spent any amount of time on financial planning, you have undoubtedly faced the need to fund retirement savings, pay college expenses or insurance premiums, while also maintaining a lifestyle you and your family can enjoy. As you look down the road to retirement, one issue you may not have considered is the need for Long Term Care Insurance (LTCi).

Published: 2008-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

AMT "Patch" Passes Congress - IRS Processing of Some Tax Returns Delayed

Of the 22 million taxpayers who used tax software to prepare and electronically file their tax return last year, some may wonder, "Considering the number of last minute legislation changes, will tax software be current and reliable to use this tax season?"

Published: 2008-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Mission 2008: Find a Better Job

With every new year, changing jobs often tops the list of personal resolutions. But with so many career paths to choose from, which offer the greatest opportunities?

Published: 2007-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Make "Financial Fitness" Your Goal for 2008

When the New Year's parties are over and the rich foods and gooey desserts have been put away, most of us start thinking about getting our bodies back in shape. But how "fit" are the other parts of your life -- such as your finances -- for the year ahead?

Published: 2007-12-21 00:00:00 read more...

Are You Dumb Enough to Be Rich?

The cost of living is higher than ever, there's weakness in the job market, stocks are in a free-fall and the housing market is in a slump. Sounds like a bad time to be a real estate investor, or is it?

Published: 2007-12-20 00:00:00 read more...

Feel-Good Retirement Strategies

How you feel about your investments can greatly influence their ultimate outcome. So says a report released by Prudential Financial, Inc

Published: 2007-12-20 00:00:00 read more...

ATM and Online Banking Fees Don't have to Be a Fact of Life

Millions of Americans now do their banking online or through ATMs, rather than in person, because it gives them convenient 24-hour access to their funds. But this convenience comes with a cost - sometimes a very high cost. Here are some tips for reducing technology-related bank surcharges.

Published: 2007-12-18 00:00:00 read more...

Banks Have Become More Convenient, but at What Cost?

Millions of Americans now do their banking online or through ATMs, rather than in person, because it gives them convenient 24-hour access to their funds. But this convenience comes with a cost - sometimes a very high cost. Here are some tips for reducing technology-related bank surcharges.

Published: 2007-12-18 00:00:00 read more...

Tax Season Stress? How to Prepare for Potential Bills

As the April 15 tax deadline creeps closer many people may still be wondering: will I owe? It may be time to take proactive steps to set aside money that can be used to cover the extra expense you may soon face.

Published: 2007-12-04 00:00:00 read more...

Extra Precautions Help Prevent Identity Theft During Tax Season

For most Americans, tax season means frustrating hours spent with piles of paper, but for identity thieves, this time of year provides an open-door opportunity to steal your personal information. Identity theft is a crime that has gained momentum in recent years, claiming more than 23,000 victims each day. While it's important to protect confidential information year-round, people are especially vulnerable to the crime during tax season. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.

Published: 2007-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

FHA: Old Mortgage Program Finding New Life

The news is filled with reports of declining home values, resetting adjustable-rate mortgages and people feeling the pinch of tightened credit. However, despite the doom and gloom, there is a proverbial silver linings in the storm clouds.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

Travel Fraud: Are You the Culprit?

Whether it's a winter road trip or a multi-week international excursion, traveling can be stressful - especially when it comes to money. Stories of fraud and identity theft have become seemingly commonplace. The reality is, each year fewer people are victims of money-related crime while traveling.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

Traveling? Your Money is Safer than Ever

Whether it's a winter road trip or a multi-week international excursion, traveling can be stressful - especially when it comes to money. Stories of fraud and identity theft have become seemingly commonplace. The reality is, each year fewer people are victims of money-related crime while traveling.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

Start-Up Advice for Women Business Owners

Since the early 1980s, women have made solid strides in becoming prosperous entrepreneurs. Now it is not uncommon to find female entrepreneurs owning businesses ranging from nail salons to auto body shops. What unique challenges do women face?

Published: 2007-11-27 00:00:00 read more...

Falling Dollar Could Bring Good News for Private American Companies

There's no disputing that the dollar's devaluation abroad will have far-reaching impact here at home. But will all the news be bad? Not necessarily. The dollar's dropping value could actually bode well for private American companies.

Published: 2007-11-26 00:00:00 read more...

Secrets of Successful Savers

If you're unsure what you can do to successfully grow your savings account, you're not alone. Just like committing to a regular workout routine and eating healthier, getting out of the starting blocks is half the battle. Beginning a savings program is no different and according to a recent national survey, the majority of Americans are not following the three simple steps that are key to a successful savings plan.

Published: 2007-11-13 00:00:00 read more...

Refinancing Your Adjustable-Rate Mortgage into a Fixed Rate Mortgage

Every homeowner has a different scenario for determining if refinancing is a good option. What's the right answer for you? Here are your options.

Published: 2007-11-05 00:00:00 read more...

Best Mortgage Moves in a Slowing Housing Market

Given the recent changes in the mortgage and housing markets, many current and potential homeowners are asking themselves the question of what to do next in regards to their home financing situation. Whether you are looking to purchase your first home or are already a homeowner and want to maximize your investment, there are a number of home financing options to consider.

Published: 2007-11-05 00:00:00 read more...

Owning a Piece of the American Dream

For many, the American Dream begins with owning a home. Having a place of your own to call home can be your most prized possession and the cornerstone of your wealth. With the inventory of available homes increasing, and in many areas, prices stabilizing, now might be the time to consider buying a home.

Published: 2007-11-02 00:00:00 read more...

How to Build a Business: Expert Guidance for Entrepreneurs

Starting your own business takes passion, patience, perseverance and access to resources. Knowing how to achieve and exceed your goals requires the right advice and support. Here are some tips for entrepreneurs who are running or planning to start a business.

Published: 2007-11-02 00:00:00 read more...

Renting Vs. Owning: Building Equity in Your Future

For many Americans, owning a home is the cornerstone of their financial wealth. However, millions of renters continue to have misconceptions about the home-buying process, but buying a home is not as complicated as it may seem.

Published: 2007-11-02 00:00:00 read more...

Buying Your First Home? How to Select the Best Mortgage

Home ownership has always been an important component of the American Dream, but many consumers are worried about their ability to buy a home at a tumultuous time in the real estate market. It's important to know that there are still financing options available for borrowers seeking a responsible, safe and affordable way to buy a home.

Published: 2007-10-25 00:00:00 read more...

FHA Loans Open the Door to Homeowners Having Difficulty Refinancing or Buying a Home

Millions of homeowners are, or soon will be, facing significantly higher mortgage payments as their adjustable mortgages reset, and current lending restrictions and declining home values have made refinancing difficult. Enter one stalwart that is making a welcome comeback: The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan.

Published: 2007-10-19 00:00:00 read more...

Your Credit Isn't the Only Thing ID Thieves Can Steal

Two of the three major credit bureaus are now allowing consumers in all 50 states to "freeze" their credit histories. The companies say the move gives consumers another option to safeguard their credit against identity thieves. But is it enough?

Published: 2007-10-17 00:00:00 read more...

Making Valentine's Day Shopping a Sweet Experience

Having trouble finding time to shop for that Valentine's Day gift? There's a new service you may want to check out that will make life easier for you.

Published: 2007-10-17 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Thieves Steal Your Identity

According to the United States Federal Trade Commission, identity theft is the fastest growing crime in the country. It cost businesses and consumers more than $56 billion in 2005 and most people do not discover their information has been stolen until 12 months after a thief first uses it. Worse, fewer than one in 700 identity theft crimes lead to a conviction.

Published: 2007-10-17 00:00:00 read more...

Do Your Homework before Refinancing Your ARM

What should consumers do if their adustable rate mortgage (ARM) is about to reset? There is no "one size fits all" answer, so it's imperative that homeowners educate themselves and take action before their ARM resets.

Published: 2007-10-10 00:00:00 read more...

Realtor Commissions - Are You Getting The Value You Deserve?

Despite all the technology available to home sellers today, real estate is still a personal business.Here are the benefits you get from having a listing agent handle the sale of your home rather than trying to sell it yourself.

Published: 2007-10-01 00:00:00 read more...

Raiding the Piggy Bank? Start the New Year with Your Finances Under Control

Most Americans dream of owning their homes free and clear someday, part of their retirement nest egg. Yet, for many, this dream gets farther and farther from reality as they break into their home equity piggy banks.

Published: 2007-09-27 00:00:00 read more...

It's Your Home, Stop Raiding the Piggy Bank

Most Americans dream of owning their homes free and clear someday, part of their retirement nest egg. Yet, for many, this dream gets farther and farther from reality as they break into their home equity piggy banks.

Published: 2007-09-27 00:00:00 read more...

Financial Planning: Your Greatest Asset is Your Ability to Earn an Income

The first week of this month is Financial Planning Week, and, with the number of American workers who suffer income-limiting disabilities on the rise, "disability" financial planning and preparation have never been more important for America's workforce.

Published: 2007-09-18 00:00:00 read more...

Feeling Underappreciated at Work? Demand Some Recognition!

People have a basic human need to feel appreciated, and employee recognition programs help meet that need. Recognition should not only come from managers to employees, but also be distributed among peers so that everyone within the company feels that they are contributing to the greater whole.

Published: 2007-09-14 00:00:00 read more...

Financial Advising Careers Offer Women Flexibility, Fulfillment and Opportunity

When you think of women in the workplace, some typical career areas come to mind - health care, education and information technology. Missing from that list is a career many women haven't considered but one that is well-suited to them: financial advising.

Published: 2007-09-10 00:00:00 read more...

Money Saving Moving Tips

For many, moving can be a daunting task. Whether your new home is across town or across the country, advanced planning is important. In addition to devoting time to organize and pack your belongings, make sure to put aside time to prepare financially as well. Here are some tips to get you started.

Published: 2007-09-04 00:00:00 read more...

Earn Extra Money Making Your Friends Beautiful This Holiday Season

The holidays are a wonderful time of year that brings much anticipation. But with all the fun also comes a pinched family budget. What if there was a way to learn about holiday beauty trends while earning extra holiday money? Here are the hottest trends for the season and how you can take advantage.

Published: 2007-09-04 00:00:00 read more...

Concentrate on Grocery Store Savings

Take a look at your supermarket bill. Chances are it is higher than it used to be. Prices are on the rise and that's forcing budget-conscious consumers to look for affordable ways to enjoy their favorite foods and beverages.

Published: 2007-09-04 00:00:00 read more...

Life of Success to a Life of Significance

Jim Wyner is having the time of his life. He lives in La Jolla, Calif., and although he retired six years ago, he's ecstatic about his new career after retirement. And Jim is not alone. The nation is experiencing large numbers of executives retiring, and this generation of retirees is not sitting at home playing bingo. These Baby Boomers are looking to give back to their professional community and aiming to positively affect the lives of other executives.

Published: 2007-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Main Street Vies with Wall Street for Investor Affection

Despite the dire dips and drama of Wall Street in recent months, news from the private sector is surprisingly good. Smart investors are finding plenty of opportunity and profit in the nearly 24 million private companies that impact the everyday lives of most Americans through employment and products.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Helpful Tips for a Confident New You in the New Year

Being confident undoubtedly affects every aspect of our lives. While women have made strides in nearly every profession, sport and industry, even the most accomplished woman can lack self-confidence in certain areas.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Cable Choices Have Millions of Phone Customers' Ears Ringing

Consumers looking for choice in telephone service are increasingly turning to their cable companies. In fact, recent industry figures show that more than 11 million Americans have dropped their phone companies and switched to next-generation digital phone service from cable. It works just like traditional phone service, it's easy to install, has all the expected calling features and is competitively priced.

Published: 2007-08-20 00:00:00 read more...

Professionals Prepared to Give Up Leisure Time and Social Activities to Increase Workplace Productivity

The trend towards longer hours and diminished personal time is not new, but reinforces the need for professionals to be mindful of tools and techniques that can enable them to be effective at work and still enjoy balance. Here are some tips on getting organized.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

A Savings Revolution to Instill Hope in Young Americans

You're busy establishing yourself in your career and your life. You want to buy a home, get married and have children. There's only one problem: you can't even think about these things because all your money is going toward paying off student loans and credit card debt. And, oh yes -- you have your eye on that plasma big-screen TV.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Need a Raise? Tips for Asking the Boss

Think you deserve a raise at work? Here are some tips on how to approach your boss on the subject.

Published: 2007-08-07 00:00:00 read more...

Finance Education Pays Off

The proportion of American families carrying an average credit card balance of $5,100 rose to 46.2 percent, according to the 2004 Survey of Consumer Finances conducted by the Federal Reserve Board. Many people may not realize how debilitating this type of credit card debt can be.

Published: 2007-08-03 00:00:00 read more...

Get More from Your Credit Card

As we move closer to what will be a virtually cashless society, the number of ways we will be able to use credit will continue to increase. This trend underscores the importance of selecting the right kind of credit card that offers the features, tools, services and rewards that are designed around the specific ways you choose to use credit.

Published: 2007-08-02 00:00:00 read more...

Debt Doesn't Have to be a Four Letter Word

For the average American, debt is a fact of life. But not all debt should be considered detrimental. Buying a house or a car, or funding your education can be positive, wealth-building steps even though they often require incurring some debt.

Published: 2007-08-02 00:00:00 read more...

A Luxury Travel Option that Makes Financial Sense

Whether vacationing domestically or internationally, traveling produces priceless moments. But as much as we cherish the unforgettable memories, in reality, these vacations can cost thousands of dollars for you and your family. Many luxury travelers are left wanting more than a room at a lavish hotel or the hassles of second-home ownership. More people are finding the vacations they desire through destination clubs, an option that makes financial sense.

Published: 2007-07-31 00:00:00 read more...

Personal Finance: Selling Your Home in a Buyer's Market

Selling a home can be a daunting task for any homeowner, and in a "buyer's market" the process can feel overwhelming. While many sellers think that homebuyers have the upper hand, with a little patience and a few helpful tips from GMAC Real Estate, you can successfully sell your home.

Published: 2007-07-19 00:00:00 read more...

Personal Finance: Do's and Don'ts to Finding the Right Real Estate Agent

Buying or selling a home is likely one of the biggest financial transactions you will ever have, and it can often be a complicated and time-consuming endeavor. By enlisting the help of a real estate professional, the process can be made considerably less stressful and much more enjoyable.

Published: 2007-07-19 00:00:00 read more...

New Phone Service Connects Smaller Businesses with Greater Savings and Control Over Calling

Small-to-medium sized businesses face budget and operating challenges not encountered by their large corporate competitors. Here's an area where they can experience significant cost savings.

Published: 2007-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Travelers Get Vacation From High Cell Phone Bills

For many Americans, their cell phone is their only phone. An increasing number of people now use these devices exclusively or as their primary phones. However, those who dial internationally or use cell phones for out-of-network long-distance calls often face high surcharges. A new class of service has emerged that may help keep cell costs down -- it's prepaid calling that can be bought and managed online.

Published: 2007-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Simple, Flexible Options Appeal to Consumers Who Want "More" From a Mortgage

Simplicity is the hot new trend among today's consumers. From the clean design of consumer technology products like the Apple iPod to the convenience of healthy, ready-to-eat four course meals right from the grocer. Even home mortgages are being designed with flexible features that allow homeowners to adjust the terms of their loan without refinancing or tap into their home's equity without applying for a separate line of credit.

Published: 2007-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Follow These Steps for a Successful Business Start-Up

The secret to a successful business is out: there is no secret. Starting your own business takes hard work and a steadfast commitment. Keep in mind these few essential first steps, and you may well be on a path to prosperity.

Published: 2007-06-21 00:00:00 read more...

Good Credit Management Skills Are More Important Than Ever

Consumers have many options when it comes to selecting a credit card that best fits their needs. For instance, some people may use credit cards strictly for big-ticket items, while others may use them for all their everyday purchases; some may carry a balance while others pay it off every month. Even though people use credit in different ways, one fact remains the same: good credit card management is important to everyone.

Published: 2007-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Easing the Burden for Loved Ones

No one likes to think about the time when they'll no longer be here. But truth be told, everyone will need a funeral some day. Without planning ahead, they can be stressful, expensive and filled with disagreements. Or you can create an occasion where loved ones come together to reflect on a life well lived, without the pressure of quick decisions and worries about expense.

Published: 2007-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Renting Versus Buying: A Guide to Help You Decide

Buying a home is one of the most important decisions a person can make. After years of living with parents, with college classmates in dorms, or alone in an apartment, the time may come that buying a house or condominium will improve one's financial stability and sense of personal security.

Published: 2007-05-17 00:00:00 read more...

Need Help with a Mortgage Loan? Try the Bank of Mom and Dad

News headlines continue to detail the struggles homeowners face keeping up with escalating adjustable rate mortgage payments, the collapse of subprime lenders and mounting home foreclosures nationwide.

Published: 2007-05-09 00:00:00 read more...

Private Event Insurance: Protecting Investments on Your Special Occasion

Every year in the United States over two million couples walk down the aisle to exchange vows on the most important day of their lives. Planning for such a momentous celebration involves months of countless decisions, budget analysis and check writing.

Published: 2007-05-07 00:00:00 read more...

The Sky is the Limit when it Comes to Miles Cards

Whether you're loading up your cart with groceries or paying for your spring wardrobe at the counter, you can -- in the process -- rack up miles toward that well-deserved trip.

Published: 2007-04-23 00:00:00 read more...

What if Your Diamond Falls Down the Drain?

If you're getting married in the near future, details surrounding the wedding aren't all you should be thinking about. You also need to take stock of your stuff. Make sure you and your significant other have enough insurance coverage to replace your home and its contents, should disaster strike.

Published: 2007-04-10 00:00:00 read more...

Countdown to Tax Day - Last Minute Tips

This year, you have a few more days to file your tax return. Because April 15 falls on a Sunday and April 16 is a legal holiday in Washington, D.C., you have until April 17 to file your return (without requesting an extension). Despite the filing deadline being extended two extra days, millions of taxpayers are beginning to feel the pressure to finish their taxes.

Published: 2007-03-28 00:00:00 read more...

Tax Time Blues? Software Simplifies Tax Preparation

Stressed out about your tax return? For some taxpayers, the motivation to file early is the promise of receiving a big tax refund from Uncle Sam. For others, tax time and procrastination go hand-in-hand. This tax season, however, procrastination may have been fueled by necessity as this Tax Year 2006 (TY06) has plagued taxpayers with extraordinary challenges -- one after another.

Published: 2007-03-27 00:00:00 read more...

For Financial Success in Retirement, Know Your Retirement IQ

As children, many baby boomers went through a familiar right of passage -- the IQ test their parents forced on them to learn just how intelligent they were. Today, many of those baby boomers are increasingly concerned about their "retirement IQ," or where the stand on the path to a successful retirement.

Published: 2007-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Get Taken By an Online Scam

If someone were to call you up on the phone claiming to be a bank teller who needed your social security or account number to complete a transaction, all kinds of red flags would go up. So why are so many people being taken in by phishing scams over the Internet?

Published: 2007-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

Online Scams are No Laughing Matter

April Fool's Day has come and gone, and the pranks you played on friends and family have already been forgiven, but every year millions of people learn the hard way that not all hoaxes are in good fun. Every day is April Fools' Day to online scammers and phishing is their favorite joke to play.

Published: 2007-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

With April Fools' Day Approaching, Online Scams are No Laughing Matter

On April 1st, pranksters will be playing practical jokes on friends and family members, and although amusing and sometimes annoying, such pranks are usually harmless. However, every year millions of people learn the hard way that not all hoaxes are in good fun. Every day is April Fools' Day to online scammers and phishing is their favorite joke to play.

Published: 2007-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

Top Five Reasons to Refinance Your Home

Although no one knows for sure if interest rates are going to go up, down or stay the same, if you need to lower your monthly expenses or find some extra cash, now might be the right time to refinance your home.

Published: 2007-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

First National Listing Service for Real Estate a Boon for Buyers, Sellers and Agents

If you've bought or sold a home recently, you know that being on either end of the transaction can be stressful. Buyers may be under pressure to find a home quickly, for example, if they are transferring to a new job from a different location. Sellers want to get the best price in the shortest amount of time.

Published: 2007-01-31 00:00:00 read more...

Retirement Savings: What You Should Know

The thought of retirement conjures up images of exciting travels, more attention paid to neglected or new hobbies, and spending more time with family and friends. But before a person reaches this time in life, it is important to build a solid, fruitful retirement savings plan before he or she says goodbye to work life.

Published: 2007-01-25 00:00:00 read more...

Real Solutions for Credit Card Debt

The average American carries $9,000 in credit card debt, and millions are in debt for far more than the average. So what can you do? First you should recognize that credit cards are often the problem, not the solution.

Published: 2006-12-29 00:00:00 read more...

It's the Worst Part of the Post-Holiday Season

No, not the New Year's Day hangover or the day after college football's bowl season ends. It's the day in January when the credit card bill containing all your holiday shopping expenses arrives in the mail.

Published: 2006-12-29 00:00:00 read more...

What Students Need to Do to Qualify for Federal Financial Aid

The FAFSA (The Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is one of the most critical financial aid forms a student will have to complete. Much like filling out a bank loan application, the FAFSA qualifies how much federal aid a student is eligible to receive (in the form of grants or loans) based on U.S. Department of Education guidelines -- including information such as your family's assets and previous year's income.

Published: 2006-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Keep Your Personal Information Safe at Tax Time and All the Time

Ahh, tax time. The smell of freshly sharpened pencils, the clicking of the calculator keys, the satisfaction of figuring out the tax forms. What? That doesn't sound familiar? Perhaps this is more your experience: the smell of sweat as you realize you can't find key receipts, the silent scream you utter when the numbers don't balance for the tenth time, the agony of trying to figure out which forms you need.

Published: 2006-12-12 00:00:00 read more...

Tax Season Leads to Increased Risk for Identity Theft

Each year consumers spend many hours preparing taxes hoping they don't owe the government money. But what many fail to realize is that the government isn't the only one who may collect their hard earned cash -- so may identity thieves.

Published: 2006-12-05 00:00:00 read more...

Financial Tips Help Holiday Shoppers

The holidays are a time of wonder, surprises and good things to eat. But when the New Year rolls in, we often receive an unwelcome surprise in our credit card bill and we wonder how we spent so much money. This season, get to know your financial situation before you start shopping and give yourself the gift of good financial management.

Published: 2006-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

Make Sure Filing Your Taxes Electronically Really is Free

Leaders of the Senate Finance Committee continue to scrutinize an agreement forged between the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and a consortium of private-sector electronic tax preparation companies (collectively known as the Free File Alliance, or Alliance).

Published: 2006-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

A New Year and New Tax Incentives… Save Energy and Write-off Energy-saving Window and Door Improvements

It's true. The U.S. federal government is so in favor of reducing energy consumption, they've created incentives to encourage Americans to replace leaky old windows and doors with more energy-efficient options.

Published: 2006-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

What Newlyweds Need to Know About Homeowners Insurance

It was the wedding of your dreams and the honeymoon of a lifetime. Now you're settling down to enjoy married life. You'll probably do a lot of things to nurture your marital bliss - from slipping little love notes into each other's brief cases or lunch bags, to learning the "right" way to argue. But don't forget the more mundane things you need to do to protect your life together - including updating your homeowners insurance.

Published: 2006-11-27 00:00:00 read more...

Shape-up Your Office with a Sweat-Free Plan

Here's a statistic that will startle you into action. According to a recent Office Depot survey, the average business professional loses 60 hours a year -- or more than one full workweek -- due to disorganization.