The Power of Gratitude
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” – 1 Timothy 6:6-8 Every day of our lives, we are the unwitting recipients of countless messages designed to foster […]
How to Spot a Lemon
This sure seems like a good time to buy a car with all the incentives being offered by ailing carmakers. However, a deal isn’t a deal unless you were in the market for the item anyway. And I’m a strong believer in keeping vehicles as long as possible. But if you really _are_ in the […]
Free Filing For All
If you’re anticipating an income tax refund this year, the fastest way to get that money is to file your tax return electronically and have the refund automatically deposited. The process takes as few as 10 days. This year, the IRS has expanded its e-file program, making it possible for nearly everyone to file electronically […]
Online Budget Tools Put to the Test
Last month I mentioned that I was planning to switch from a traditional version of Quicken to one of the newer free online “financial aggregators.” The traditional software version ties you to one computer, whereas the online tools provide access via any computer. While I’m not done with my evaluation, here are a few things […]
Dialing for Dollars
Times are tough, which means service providers are especially intent on keeping their customers, and that’s making it easier to negotiate better rates. ABC News profiled one man who systematically called everyone from his cable provider to his health club and said, “I need to save some money. I know you get it. Can you […]
Under the Financial Microscope
By now you’re aware of the importance of keeping your credit score strong by paying your credit card bills, mortgage, and other loans on time and keeping your credit utilization (how much of your available credit you use) low (10 percent or less is best). But did you know that paying your phone bill late […]
What’s In Your Light Socket?
Okay, so you’ve joined the green movement by switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs. But did you know that all CFLs are not created equal? While they all last longer than traditional light bulbs and use less energy, it turns out that there’s quite a range in how long they last and in how much […]
Does This Recession Make Me Look Fat?
As people look for ways to save money in this tough economy, there’s concern that attempts to shed expenses may lead people to put on weight. According to a Reuters story, healthy foods tend to be more expensive. Commenting on today’s economy, one nutrition sciences professor said, “People … are going to economize and as […]
Calculate Your Financial Comeback
If you’re like most people, your investment accounts took a beating in 2008. Wondering when you might recover from those losses? The New York Times has a free online calculator that’ll help you estimate an answer to that question. Of course, no one knows what future market returns will be. And a wise person once […]
What’s On Your “To-Be” List?
“My son, keep my words and store up my commands within you. Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.” – Proverbs 7:1-3 The start of a new year always gets me thinking of […]