# Smart On Money > Personal finance topics including budgeting, debt reduction, investing, income creation and saving. ## Posts - [Financial Infidelity: Do You Lie Or Keep Secrets About Money?](https://smartonmoney.com/financial-infidelity-do-you-lie-or-keep-secrets-about-money/): Recent studies have shown that the number of people committing financial infidelity is rising every year. Why do people lie about money, and keep money secrets? - [Changes To The Estate Tax Rates And Exemptions For 2011-2012](https://smartonmoney.com/changes-to-the-estate-tax-rates-and-exemptions-for-2011-2012/): While the estate tax was re-instated for 2011 and 2012 after having lapsed in 2010, it comes back with a higher exemption and lower tax rate than was implemented previously. - [What Changes Will Happen To My Taxes On January 1st, 2011?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-changes-will-happen-to-my-taxes-on-january-1st-2011/): We’ve talked quite a bit on this site about the recent tax cut package that was passed, and some of the provisions that were included in the bill. One thing we haven’t done, however, is to look at all the changes that we can expect to see in 2011 for individual taxpayers. What tax changes […] - [2011 Federal Income Tax Increase For Some Despite Tax Rate Extensions](https://smartonmoney.com/2011-federal-income-tax-increase-despite-rate-extensions/): Despite the tax rates remaining essentially the same (except for some rate range increases due to inflation) some people will see a 2011 federal income tax increase due to expiring tax credits. - [30 Things Broke People Say (That Keep Them Broke)](https://smartonmoney.com/30-things-broke-people-say-that-keep-the-broke/): Sometimes the things that broke people say and believe just don't jive with reality. Here are some of the silly things broke people say. - [Where Can I Get Paper IRS Forms And Tax Publications?](https://smartonmoney.com/where-can-i-get-paper-irs-forms-and-tax-publications/): With the advent of the internet and widely available free or affordable electronic filing options, the IRS has moved away from sending out paper tax packages every year as they used to. So if you want to file the old fashioned way, where can you get paper forms? - [Tax Filing Deadline Extended To April 18th For Filing 2010 Taxes In 2011](https://smartonmoney.com/tax-filing-deadline-extended-to-april-18th-for-filing-2010-taxes-in-2011/): Earlier this week we wrote about how because Congress took so long to act on the tax bill in December (the act was passed on December 17th), the IRS had to push back the filing start date for those that itemize.  There would be a tax filing delay well into the month of February for […] - [Child Tax Credit Of $1000 Extended Temporarily For 2011-2012](https://smartonmoney.com/child-tax-credit-of-1000-extended-temporarily-for-2011-2012/): The $1000 child tax credit was extended as part of the tax bill for the 2011 and 2012 tax years. If it hadn't been renewed it would have expired and gone back to the previous $500 tax credit. More details about how to claim the credit and eligibility for the credit found here. - [If You Itemize Your Taxes You'll Have To Wait A Month Or Two To File Your Returns](https://smartonmoney.com/if-you-itemize-your-taxes-youll-have-to-wait-a-month-or-two-to-file-your-returns/): The IRS has announced that if you plan to itemize your taxes, you will need to delay filing as their systems aren't yet up to date with the current law. Find out when you'll be able to file here. - [Hope You Had A Wonderful 2010 And That You Have A Great 2011! Happy New Year!](https://smartonmoney.com/hope-you-had-a-wonderful-2010-and-that-you-have-a-great-2011/): Now the new year is coming on, and with it new challenges, but also the hope of rebirth and fresh starts. So let's all take that opportunity to make this next year the best one ever! God bless and Happy new year! - [2011 Home Improvement Tax Credits For Energy Efficient Products: Insulation, Windows, Heaters And More](https://smartonmoney.com/2011-home-improvement-tax-credits-for-energy-efficient-products-insulation-windows-heaters-and-more/): Congress has passed tax credits for energy efficient home improvements through December 31st of 2011. You can now get credits to upgrade your water heater, windows, doors, hvac system, roofs, and stoves. Click for more details. - [2011 Payroll Tax Holiday Will Mean A Cut Of 2% In Social Security And Medicare Payroll Taxes](https://smartonmoney.com/2011-payroll-tax-holiday-will-mean-a-cut-of-2-in-social-security-and-medicare-payroll-taxes/): The tax cut package just passed this past week (Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010) included a new payroll tax break for all taxpayers of 2% for 2011. The current rate is 6.2%, which means we'll see a rate of 4.2% on wages paid next year. Other tax breaks were discontinued or extended. Read on for further details. - [Merry Christmas To One And All!](https://smartonmoney.com/merry-christmas-to-one-and-all/): I just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! Thank you for reading my lowly blog this year as we’ve grown from nothing to the point where we’ve got thousands of page views every month. I couldn’t have done it without you all, and I’m so thankful for every one of you in this Christmas […] - [Starting A Side Business: Making Money From Blogging](https://smartonmoney.com/starting-a-side-business-making-money-from-blogging/): From time to time I get questions about blogging from friends and family members.   They know I’ve started a couple of blogs and made them somewhat successful, and they want to  know how they might go about setting up their own successful sites. At this point I usually start talking to them about how much […] - [2011 Marginal Tax Rates: Will We Keep The Same Rates, Or Will Taxes Go Up?](https://smartonmoney.com/2011-marginal-tax-rates-will-we-keep-the-same-rates-or-will-taxes-go-up/): The last few months we’ve had quite a bit of uncertainty when it comes to what will happen to our 2011 marginal tax rates. The Congress and President Obama have gone back and forth trying to work out a deal on extending the current tax rates. First there was no consensus on whether they would […] - [Number Of Underwater Homes Declines, But Foreclosures Are Up](https://smartonmoney.com/number-of-underwater-homes-declines-but-foreclosures-are-up/): A while back we wrote several posts about how millions of homeowners (more than 11 million of them) were finding themselves in a situation where the values of their homes had dropped, and they found themselves underwater in their homes – with negative equity. In other words, their homes were now worth less than they […] - [One Casualty Of The Recession: Charities](https://smartonmoney.com/one-casualty-of-the-recession-charities/): Tim Chen is founder and CEO of NerdWallet.com, a website that helps consumers to compare low apr credit card offers.  Tim also educates consumers about credit cards and personal finance at the Christian Science Monitor, Forbes Moneybuilder Blog, and the Huffington Post. At the same time that Americans remain as generous as they can be, public […] - [President Obama And GOP Reach Deal On Extending Bush Tax Cuts. Will Congressional Democrats Go Along?](https://smartonmoney.com/president-obama-and-gop-reach-deal-on-extending-bush-tax-cuts-will-congressional-democrats-go-along/): We’ve been talking for months now about whether or not Congress and President Obama would be renewing the Bush tax cuts of 2001 and 2003.  We’ve looked at what the 2011 tax rates would be if they weren’t extended, and talked about what some of the problems of not extending the Bush tax cuts would […] - [Will The Bush Tax Cuts Be Extended In The Lame Duck Session?](https://smartonmoney.com/will-the-bush-tax-cuts-be-extended-in-the-lame-duck-session/): The end of the year is coming quickly, and if you’re paying attention to the debate about the Bush tax cuts, you may have noticed that nothing has happened yet. There hasn’t been any action on extending the tax cuts for either the higher income earners, or everyone else.  If they aren’t extended, everyone’s taxes […] - [What Is The Real Unemployment Rate? Is It Really Only 9.8% Or Are Things Worse Than That?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-is-the-real-unemployment-rate-is-it-really-only-9-6-or-are-things-worse-than-that/): The past few years have been rough ones, and we have seen our unemployment rates go from 4-5% all the way up to 9.8% as of last month’s unemployment report. As bad as 9.8% sounds, could the situation be even worse that that? Could the actual unemployment rate be even higher? What Is The Actual […] - [Going Broke After Having Millions: How One Millionaire Family Lost It All](https://smartonmoney.com/going-broke-after-having-millions-how-one-millionaire-family-lost-it-all/): For the past few weeks I’ve been sharing the stories of some extraordinary people, folks who earned average incomes, but still found a way to retire wealthy.   I called the series, “Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary“.  I’ve found writing the series to be quite inspirational for me, and it really gives me hope to […] - [Save Money On Black Friday By Planning Ahead: Comprehensive List Of Black Friday Deals Sites ](https://smartonmoney.com/save-money-on-black-friday-by-planning-ahead-comprehensive-list-of-black-friday-deals-sites/): Black Friday.  Those two words are enough to instill pure joy into the hearts of Christmas shoppers across the United States.  It’s a day of sheer indulgence – of getting the things you want, and of getting a good deal while you’re at it. But here’s the thing. You need to plan ahead. If you […] - [Mortgage Rates Are Low, But Are The Homes Affordable? [Infographic]](https://smartonmoney.com/mortgage-rates-are-low-but-are-the-homes-affordable-infographic/): My wife and I are currently thinking about upgrading our home because the prices in our market are so much cheaper than they’ve been for years, it almost seems like it would be a bad idea not to jump in and buy the home of our dreams. After all, it’ll probably never be this affordable […] - [Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Plan Changes And Limits In 2011 And Beyond](https://smartonmoney.com/flexible-spending-account-fsa-plan-changes-and-limits-in-2011-and-beyond/): With the passage of Obama Care this year, we'll be seeing some changes to the FSA next year, and in years to come, that aren't necessarily going to make the accounts more attractive. They'll be limiting what types of things you can use the FSA to pay for, as well as how much you can contribute to the account. This may increase your tax bill. - [Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary: The Story Of The Persevering Parking Attendant](https://smartonmoney.com/retiring-wealthy-on-an-average-salary-the-story-of-the-persevering-parking-attendant/): Over the last few weeks I’ve posted several stories of average folks who were able to retire wealthy while making an average salary during their working years.   There was an engineer who never made more than $50,000, but was thrifty and saved and invested regularly.  There was the teacher who was frugal, and always saved.   […] - [President Obama Agrees To Extend Bush Tax Cuts For Everyone... For Now](https://smartonmoney.com/president-obama-agrees-to-extend-bush-tax-cuts-for-everyone-for-now/): I‘ve been writing about the Bush tax cuts on this site for quite a while, talking about whether or not they’ll be renewed.  We also looked at whether they’ll be renewed for all taxpayers, or if they’ll be allowed to expire for higher income individuals. Earlier this year it looked like they would be renewed, […] - [Ally Bank Review: High Yield Savings Accounts](https://smartonmoney.com/ally-bank-review-high-yield-savings-accounts/): As of this writing, because we’re so conservative, we’re currently sitting on close to 12 months of expenses in savings.  As you might expect, 12 months of expenses is a nice chunk of change to be earning interest off of.  We wanted to make sure we were putting our money in a place where it […] - [2011 Traditional And Roth IRA Contribution Limits And Account Phaseout Rules](https://smartonmoney.com/2011-traditional-and-roth-ira-contribution-limits-and-account-phaseout-rules/): At the end of last month the IRS put out their 2011 Traditional and Roth IRA contribution limits tables. It’s always good to plan ahead for the coming year and make sure that you’re putting enough in your Roth IRA, especially in years that the limits go up.  Keep up on your stock investing strategy! […] - [The Most Expensive Bottle Of Wine Ever Sold. Would You Drink It?](https://smartonmoney.com/the-most-expensive-bottle-of-wine-ever-sold-would-you-drink-it/): I was reading a post on the Wall Street Journal today about a recent Sotheby’s wine auction in Hong Kong. The story discussed some of the amazing prices vintage wines direct from the wine maker are getting.  To me it’s amazing that even in this economy vintage wines can command such amazing prices. What does […] - [Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary: The Story Of The Saving Secretary](https://smartonmoney.com/retiring-wealthy-on-an-average-salary-the-story-of-the-saving-secretary/): This post is another installment in our recurring series, “Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary“.   To see the other installments, please click on the link in the navigation bar above.    The idea behind the series is to highlight the stories of average folks who made good decisions in order to be able to retire wealthy […] - [Take A Personal Day To Fix Your Finances](https://smartonmoney.com/take-a-personal-day-to-fix-your-finances/): So often our lives get busy, and it can be hard to stay on top of all the detailed minutia of our financial lives.   Things tend to slide, and we end up not having the optimal setup for anything in our finances because we just don’t want to jump into the details.  Since performing certain […] - [Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary: The Story Of The Sensible Social Worker](https://smartonmoney.com/retiring-wealthy-on-an-average-salary-the-story-of-the-sensible-social-worker/): This post is part of a continuing series called “Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary” that looks at the inspiring stories of men and women who earned average salaries during their working years, but in the end retired wealthy, with plenty of money to spend and give. In fact, I’ve found that as I read […] - [Renting Vs. Buying A Home: Which Is The Best Choice?](https://smartonmoney.com/renting-vs-buying-a-home-which-is-the-best-choice/): When my wife and I bought our new home in 2006 we were moving from a neighborhood that was undergoing significant changes.  Not only was the neighborhood starting to have more crime and lack of homeowner pride, we also discovered that there was  a new 4 lane highway going in within throwing distance of where […] - [Spousal IRA Contribution Rules And Limits](https://smartonmoney.com/spousal-ira-contribution-rules-and-limits/): Marriage. It is one of the sacred and fulfilling of institutions that we have, but, it can also be a lot of work.  When you get married there is so much to be done in the financial realm including setting up joint bank accounts, bringing together disparate accounting methods, doing your taxes together.   Those things […] - [Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary: The Story Of The Altruistic Educator](https://smartonmoney.com/retiring-wealthy-on-an-average-salary-the-story-of-the-altruistic-educator/): Last week I published the first post in a series I’m calling “Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary”. The series is intended to give us a brief glimpse into the lives of some average people who made average salaries, but still managed to retire with a net worth that we would say makes them wealthy. […] - [Do The Rich Work Harder? Is The Key To Wealth Hard Work?](https://smartonmoney.com/do-the-rich-work-harder-is-the-key-to-wealth-hard-work/): It is often assumed that because the rich have amassed a fortune, that they really don’t have to work very hard, and that in general that they work less than others who are less well off.   They just have others to do the work for them.  It’s an assumption that is even held by some […] - [Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary: The Story Of The Thrifty Engineer](https://smartonmoney.com/retiring-wealthy-on-an-average-salary-the-story-of-the-thrifty-engineer/): A couple of times on this site I have profiled millionaires who became rich through hard work and determination, and  I talked about how and why they were able to rise to such success. While those stories can be inspiring, sometimes they can leave us average folk thinking that dreams of becoming balance sheet affluent […] - [SEP IRA Rules And Contribution Limits: Retirement Plans For Self Employed People](https://smartonmoney.com/sep-ira-rules-and-contribution-limits-retirement-plans-for-self-employed-people/): In the past couple of years I’ve been considering taking a chance and becoming a self employed entrepreneur, and something I’ve had to consider is how I’ll be saving for retirement.  As a self employed person, you won’t have the option of a 401k.  You do have some other options though. Among them: SEP IRA […] - [$1500 Energy Tax Credit For Energy Efficient Home Improvements Runs Out Soon](https://smartonmoney.com/1500-energy-tax-credit-for-energy-efficient-home-improvements-runs-out-soon/): As the end of the year approaches, a lot of people are scrambling to try and schedule work on their homes that they had been putting off. The reason?  Most of the tax credits for energy efficient home improvements that were passed a while back will be expiring at the end of the year on […] - [Don’t Just Blindly Put Money In Your 401k. Get Out Of The Hammock](https://smartonmoney.com/dont-just-blindly-put-money-in-your-401k-get-out-of-the-hammock/): You can’t just blindly put money in a 401(k) and assume that once you’re retired, it’ll all turn out perfectly. Do you even know what’s in your 401(k), or how to determine what is? It’s okay to admit that you don’t, we’re all friends here and no one will judge you (except possibly me, and […] - [Should Married Couples Have Joint Bank Accounts?](https://smartonmoney.com/should-married-couples-have-joint-bank-accounts/): One of the most common discussions that I hear from people considering walking down the isle, or those who have already gotten hitched, is the age old topic of whether or not couples should have joint bank accounts – and whether they should share their finances.  It can be a touchy topic to discuss because […] - [5 Reasons Why You Should Never Open A Roth IRA](https://smartonmoney.com/5-reasons-why-you-should-never-open-a-roth-ira/): Retirement planning can be a confusing and stressful thing to do,  and as such, most people just never get around to doing it.   If I ignore it, it will just go away right?  The government, after all, will take care of me until I’m old and gray! Today, I thought I’d talk about one retirement […] - [Controversial Statement Of The Day: Not Everyone Should Go To College](https://smartonmoney.com/controversial-statement-of-the-day-not-everyone-should-go-to-college/): I‘m about to make a controversial statement. Brace yourself. Here it goes: Not everyone should go to college. In this day and age it has almost become an untouchable gospel that everyone should go to college, and if you don’t, there’s no way that you can succeed in life.  Without a 4 year degree, you […] - [The Cash Envelope Spending System: A Great Way To Cut Household Spending](https://smartonmoney.com/the-cash-envelope-spending-system-a-great-way-to-cut-household-spending/): About a year and a half ago my wife and I enrolled in Dave Ramsey‘s financial basics class called “Financial Peace University“.  The class aims to help people take responsibility for their financial lives, dump all of their debt, and plan ahead for their future. The class is actually quite fun because of Ramsey’s engaging […] - [2011 Federal Income Tax Brackets: Official IRS Marginal Tax Rates](https://smartonmoney.com/2011-federal-income-tax-brackets-possible-irs-marginal-tax-rates/): After the Bush era tax rates were extended in December 2010, the 2011 tax rate tables were released. You can view them here. - [What Happens If The Bush Tax Cuts Expire On January 1st 2011?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-happens-if-the-bush-tax-cuts-expire-on-january-1st-2011/): I‘ve written about the Bush tax cuts several times on this site, mainly wondering if they’ll be renewed, and how if they’re not renewed the tax rates will go up for everyone who pays taxes (not just the wealthy). Today I thought I’d take a look at what exactly will happen on January 1st if […] - [What Separates Millionaires From The Average Joe? Discipline, Frugality and Moderation.](https://smartonmoney.com/what-separates-millionaires-from-the-average-joe-discipline-frugality-and-moderation/): When looking at what makes people successful, people often attribute wealth and success to things that really aren’t the cause.  For example, people often assume that the wealthy only got to where they are because they inherited their wealth, and because they did unethical things to cheat people out of their money.  The reality is […] - [7 Good Reasons To Budget Beyond The Bottom Line](https://smartonmoney.com/7-good-reasons-to-budget-beyond-the-bottom-line/): As a personal finance blogger I’m a big proponent of having the family do a budget because it has the effect of helping you to better regular spending, see where the money is going, and figure out places where you can cut back. It helps you to take control of your finances. One thing that […] - [Personal Finance Basics: Negative Events Will Happen To You. Plan Ahead With Insurance And An Emergency Fund](https://smartonmoney.com/personal-finance-basics-negative-events-will-happen-to-you-plan-ahead-with-insurance-and-an-emergency-fund/): When thinking about topics to write for my Personal Finance Basics series, one of the first ones that came to mind was the topic of planning ahead for emergencies.  It’s such a basic concept and one that will affect a majority of us, but unfortunately only a few of us ever plan ahead for unplanned […] - [You May Need To Pay Estimated Taxes If You Make Side Income Blogging Or Via Other Avenues.](https://smartonmoney.com/you-may-need-to-pay-estimated-taxes-if-you-make-side-income-blogging-or-via-other-avenues/): I started blogging here on this site only a few months ago, but the site is already starting to generate some income.  While that’s a wonderful thing, it also means that I need to start thinking about keeping track of my blog income and expenses for this site, in order to start paying taxes on […] - [How To Save Money When Buying A Car](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-save-money-when-buying-a-car/): We’re in the middle of a search for a bigger vehicle for our family. We recently had our first child, and my wife’s little Honda just isn’t cutting it anymore when it comes to carting around the baby and all his stuff. It’s just getting too cramped. At this point we’re looking into what type […] - [Hindenburg Omen Tripped Again. Does It Foreshadow A Market Crash? ](https://smartonmoney.com/hindenburg-omen-tripped-again-does-it-foreshadow-a-market-crash/): In the past few days we’ve had some interesting (and scary!) news, which has sent a lot of investors scrambling and heading for the hills.  The Hindenburg Omen has been tripped! The Omen, a technical indicator which uses a plethora of data to foreshadow a stock-market crash, was tripped again on Friday, marking the second […] - [Nearly Half Of Homeowners Leave The Making Home Affordable Loan Modification Program](https://smartonmoney.com/nearly-half-of-homeowners-leave-the-making-home-affordable-loan-modification-program/): I recently wrote about the Making Home Affordable Loan Modification program that the Obama administration passed.  The program was put in place to help homeowners to get some help in tough situations  where they were having a hard time making their regular mortgage payments.  If they were able to prove that they needed help and […] - [Should I Get A 401k Loan Or Do An Early Withdrawal To Help Us Through Tough Times?](https://smartonmoney.com/should-i-get-a-401k-loan-or-do-an-early-withdrawal-to-help-us-through-tough-times/): Times are tough in the U.S. and more people than ever are finding themselves in tough situations where they’ve lost a job and haven’t been able to find something new.  Unemployment is hovering around 10%, although true unemployment is probably much higher as some people have just stopped looking. As people go further without finding […] - [Tax Implications Of Strategically Defaulting On Your Underwater Mortgage](https://smartonmoney.com/tax-implications-of-strategically-defaulting-on-your-underwater-mortgage/): A while back I wrote about how millions of homeowners are finding themselves underwater in their mortgage.  In other words,  they are finding that they owe more on their home than it is currently worth.  It’s frustrating to have to pay more on your home than you could get for it if you sold, and […] - [PerkStreet Financial Free Rewards Checking - Review: A Cash Back Checking Account? That's Right!](https://smartonmoney.com/perkstreet-financial-free-rewards-checking-review-a-cash-back-checking-account-thats-right/): Over the past couple of years we’ve seen the rates on online savings accounts drop like a rock.  Most online savings accounts are currently hovering around 1-1.3% in interest earned on your money.  In other words it isn’t exactly an amazing return on your money. In addition to the online savings accounts souring,  rewards credit […] - [Stop Acting Rich: Don't Allow Displays Of Wealth To Substitute For Real Wealth](https://smartonmoney.com/stop-acting-rich-dont-allow-displays-of-wealth-to-substitute-for-real-wealth/): We all have friends that love to buy the finer things in life. They drive nice cars, live in a big house, and when they dine out they always go to the expensive places with the trendy eats.   In short, they live a high dollar lifestyle where they love to display their wealth for everyone […] - [Will The Bush Tax Cuts Be Extended? We Should Have An Answer Soon.](https://smartonmoney.com/will-the-bush-tax-cuts-be-extended-we-should-have-an-answer-soon/): A few weeks back I wrote about how the 2001  and 2003 Bush tax cuts will be expiring at the end of the year.  At the time it really seemed quite possible that the tax cuts would be allowed to expire, and we would ALL be paying higher taxes come January 1st, 2011.  Contrary to […] - [What Kind Of Insurance Do I Need To Have?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-kind-of-insurance-do-i-need-to-have/): I haven’t talked about insurance very much on this site, but I do think it is one of the more under-appreciated aspects of personal finance, and one that far too many people neglect.    Insurance is so wonderful because it takes the monetary risks associated with a catastrophic life event, and transfers the risks of […] - [Credit Card Companies Find New Ways To Take Your Money After Passage Of CARD Act Of 2009](https://smartonmoney.com/credit-card-companies-find-new-ways-to-take-your-money-after-passage-of-card-act-of-2009/): Earlier this year in February 2010, Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act (CARD) of 2009 took effect.  The law was supposed to be a a consumer friendly piece of legislation that aimed to put some limits on what the credit card companies could do in regards to charging exorbitant fees, upping interest rates with […] - [How Does A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Work?](https://smartonmoney.com/how-does-a-flexible-spending-account-work/): This year my company informed us that our company’s health care costs were starting to get out of control.  Premiums for employees and for the company’s portion of the bill were rising.  With all the uncertainty that has come with Obama’s Health Care plan and as to what will be covered in the future, this […] - [Personal Finance Basics: The Power Of Compound Interest](https://smartonmoney.com/personal-finance-basics-the-power-of-compound-interest/): We’ve all probably heard that we need to think about retirement, even from a young age. We’re told that we need to get a retirement account, and start saving – the earlier the better! Have you ever wondered why you’re better off if you start saving for your future earlier? It’s the wonders of compound […] - [When You Make Financial Mistakes, Don't Allow It To Snowball](https://smartonmoney.com/when-you-make-financial-mistakes-dont-allow-it-to-snowball/): I was thinking earlier this week about why sometimes people will find themselves in dire financial straights – situations where they can’t seem to get out, even when they seem to have the resources or the smarts to be able to.  After thinking about it, I realized that a lot of the problems we get […] - [Obama Administration Offers $1.5 Billion In Foreclosure Funding For Hardest Hit States](https://smartonmoney.com/obama-administration-offers-1-5-billion-in-foreclosure-funding-for-hardest-hit-states/): These past few years have been tough ones for homeowners, with home prices dropping, people finding that their homes are underwater, and foreclosure filings increasing all  the time.  In fact, there have been almost 2 million foreclosures so far this year! RealtyTrac®  the leading online marketplace for foreclosure properties, today released its Midyear 2010 U.S. […] - [Three Steps You Can Take To Turn Your Financial Life Around](https://smartonmoney.com/three-steps-you-can-take-to-turn-your-financial-life-around/): After we got married just over 8 years ago, my wife and I entered the marriage with more debt than we would have liked.  My wife had zero debt, and I came in with student loans, credit card debt (for our honeymoon) and a loan for my car.   We weren’t happy with having so much […] - [How To Sell Your House Fast In A Tough Real Estate Market](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-sell-your-house-fast-in-a-tough-real-estate-market/): A few years back my wife and I were selling our townhouse, and the market was at it’s height. Sellers were easily getting the asking price for their homes, and some were even getting more than one offer – sometimes above the asking price. Times were good if you were a seller, however, the problem […] - [Do I Qualify For The Making Home Affordable Home Refinance And Modification Program?](https://smartonmoney.com/do-i-qualify-for-the-making-home-affordable-home-refinance-and-modification-program/): Over the past year and a half millions of people have attempted to refinance or modify their home mortgages in order to help them stay in their home.  Others have just taken advantage of the program in order to be able to refinance their home under better terms than might otherwise have been available. Our […] - [Personal Finance Basics: Live Below Your Means](https://smartonmoney.com/personal-finance-basics-live-below-your-means/): Last week I started a series called “Personal Finance Basics“.  In the series I plan on talking about basic concepts of personal finance, going back to the simple concepts that we sometimes forget or ignore.  Last time I talked about the idea of paying yourself first in order to ensure that your savings grow – […] - [Unemployment Benefits Extended And Are Available Again For Up To 99 Weeks](https://smartonmoney.com/unemployment-benefits-extended-and-are-available-again-for-up-to-99-weeks/): In early June millions of people who were without a job ran out of jobless benefits as congress failed to push back the deadline for people to apply for unemployment.  It is estimated that over 2 million people have had their benefits lapse. Unemployment Benefits Law Passed Today President Obama signed an extension of the […] - [Personal Finance Basics: Pay Yourself First](https://smartonmoney.com/personal-finance-basics-pay-yourself-first/): Personal finance can seem like such an amazingly complex topic at times.  There are so many things to think about with financial management including budgeting, saving, investing, credit, debt, mortgages and so much more.  Each topic has sub-topics – and it feels like it could take a lifetime to figure it all out.  It can […] - [Roth IRA Withdrawal Rules](https://smartonmoney.com/roth-ira-withdrawal-rules/): The Roth IRA is an investment option that I love because of it allows your money to enjoy tax free growth and for the diversification it can bring to your tax situation at retirement.  It can be great to have some tax free investments like the Roth in addition to pre-tax investment types like a […] - [Keep It Simple Stupid: Sometimes We Make Things Too Complex](https://smartonmoney.com/keep-it-simple-stupid-sometimes-we-make-things-too-complex/): One thing I’ve realized over the past few weeks is just how complex we as human beings like to make things, even when they could be so simple. We love to take things that really are pretty basic and easy to understand, dissect them and turn them into something more complex, and harder to understand. […] - [Deadline To Close On Your Home And Receive Your Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended To September 30th](https://smartonmoney.com/deadline-to-close-on-your-home-and-receive-your-homebuyer-tax-credit-extended-to-september-30th/): Last month I wrote about how congress and the White House were considering extending the $8,000 and $6,500 homebuyer tax credits.  At the time it wasn’t a done deal that an extension would be granted because the provision was being included as a rider on a controversial jobs bill that wasn’t sure to pass both […] - [Save Money On Hefty Hospital Bills Simply By Requesting A Discount](https://smartonmoney.com/save-money-on-hefty-hospital-bills-simply-by-requesting-a-discount/): The past couple of years have been tough ones at our house, and we’ve ended up spending weeks in the hospital for a variety of surgeries, births and other medical issues. We’ve been spending a lot of money on our family’s health care costs. In fact, if we hadn’t had health insurance we probably would […] - [Do You Suffer From George Costanza Wallet? (AKA Thick Wallet Syndrome)](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-suffer-from-george-costanza-wallet-aka-thick-wallet-syndrome/): I have the times where I’m dutifully following our family’s budget, and constantly keeping track of what is coming in, and what is going out. I’m on top of things. Then there are the times when I just don’t stay on top of things as much as normal. I let things get a little bit […] - [Roth IRA Basics](https://smartonmoney.com/roth-ira-basics/): Today I want to do a quick post on the basics of the Roth IRA. I’ve done several posts on them previously, but all on a specific point about Roth IRAs, including the 2010 Roth IRA Conversion. Today I’ll bring it all together in one comprehensive Roth IRA post. What Is A Roth IRA The […] - [Watch TV For Free On Your Devices Using PlayOn Media Server](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-watch-tv-for-free-using-playon-media-server/): Watching TV, movies and other video content for free on all your devices is now easier using PlayOn Digital Media Server. here's how to use it. - [What Are The Different Ways Of Investing Your Money?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-are-different-ways-of-investing-your-money/): If you have a few extra dollars lying around in your budget after you pay all your bills and do some basic saving, you may be wondering what to do next. You may even hear your friends or colleagues talking about investing, but you might not know where to start. I’m here to help. Now […] - [Will Congress Extend The June 30th Deadline To Close On Your Home And Receive Your Homebuyer Tax Credit?](https://smartonmoney.com/will-congress-extend-the-june-30th-deadline-to-close-on-your-home-and-receive-your-homebuyer-tax-credit/): The tax credit deadline has been extended from June 30th, 2010 to September 30th, 2010. Details here. Over the first few months of this year a lot of people who might not otherwise have been looking for new homes decided to move their timetable up, and purchase the home of their dreams because of the […] - [Rags To Riches Millionaire Success Story: Jimmy Dean](https://smartonmoney.com/rags-to-riches-millionaire-success-story-jimmy-dean/): From time to time I think it’s an interesting exercise to look at the stories of people who have risen to fame and fortune, and figure out how they did it. Was it luck? Hard work? A burning desire to succeed? Today i wanted to look at one such story of rags to riches. This […] - [How To Open A Roth IRA And Where To Open An Account](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-open-a-roth-ira-and-where-to-open-an-account/): You’ve finally been convinced that opening a Roth IRA is a good idea, and you’ve decided to take the plunge.  Great!  But what’s next?  How do you open an account, and where are some good places to hold your Roth IRA? Today I’d like to cover the basics of opening a Roth IRA and look […] - [Bush Tax Cuts Set To Expire In 2011. Will You Be Paying More?](https://smartonmoney.com/bush-tax-cuts-set-to-expire-in-2011-will-you-be-paying-more/): One thing that hasn’t received very much notice lately I think is the fact that at the end of 2010, the 2001 Bush tax cuts will be expiring for all taxpayers. If you remember, the tax cuts were across the board for all taxpayers, meaning if they aren’t renewed, all of us who pay taxes […] - [Your Credit Report May Be Re-Checked Just Before Your Closing (And It Could Cost You Money)](https://smartonmoney.com/your-credit-report-may-be-re-checked-just-before-your-closing-and-it-could-cost-you-money/): The closing date on the new home that you put a purchase agreement on is coming up and you’ve been approved for a loan. You were given a decent rate, and you think you’re all set to go. After you were approved for the loan, your credit took a hit because you financed a new […] - [10 Things That Broke People Do (That Keep Them Broke)](https://smartonmoney.com/10-things-that-broke-people-do-that-keep-them-broke/): We’ve all got friends in our lives that are nice people, but they always seem to be broke. They don’t have a dime to their name, and if you ask them why, they don’t have a clue. It never seems that they can figure out why they’re short on cash. Today I want to look […] - [Roth IRA Eligibility Guidelines](https://smartonmoney.com/roth-ira-eligibility-guidelines/): I‘ve been talking quite a bit since I launched this site about Roth IRAs, and why they’re such a great idea. After all, who doesn’t like tax free money at retirement? (Can you tell that I like them?) One thing I haven’t examined very closely, however, is the fact that Roth IRAs are not available […] - [How Do You Get Away From The "We Deserve It" Attitude?](https://smartonmoney.com/how-do-you-get-away-from-the-we-deserve-it-attitude/): Over the weekend my wife and I took a quickie vacation for the memorial day holiday. It was just meant as a quick getaway in lieu of our normal full summer vacation that we’re not taking this year. Even if we’re not able to get away for a full vacation, it’s still nice to be […] - [Things To Know About Roth IRA Rules For 2010](https://smartonmoney.com/things-to-know-about-roth-ira-rules-for-2010/): The Roth IRA account was created in 1997 by the passage of the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 who’s chief sponsor was the late Senator William Roth of Delaware. (Thus the name of retirement account). A Roth IRA (Individual Retirement Arrangement) can invest in securities, usually common stocks or mutual funds (although other investments, including […] - [Why Does The Investment Industry Like Mutual Funds So Much?](https://smartonmoney.com/why-does-the-investment-industry-like-mutual-funds-so-much/): Did you know that there are more mutual funds than there are stocks? Have you ever wondered why mutual funds are such popular investment vehicles? Conventional wisdom will tell you that mutual funds are popular because they are less expensive than stocks because they do not carry hefty commissions, they allow the little guy to […] - [Traditional And Roth IRA Contribution Limits And Phase Outs](https://smartonmoney.com/traditional-and-roth-ira-contribution-limits-and-phase-outs/): A while back the IRS released their 2010 Traditional and Roth IRA contribution limits.  It’s a good idea to make sure and watch those limits from year to year to make sure you’re investing the full amount possible. As was expected in most circles the 2010 Traditional and Roth IRA contribution limits will stay the […] - [Things You Should Know About The 2010 Roth IRA Conversion Rules](https://smartonmoney.com/things-you-should-know-about-the-2010-roth-ira-conversion-rules/): Yesterday I wrote about retirement accounts, and talked about which ones are better for different situations.   Today I want to talk about another issue that’s been getting a lot of press lately, the 2010 Roth IRA conversion. In the event you’ve been living under a rock and haven’t heard about the  Roth IRA conversion event […] - [What Type Of Retirement Account Should I Choose? Traditional IRA, Roth IRA And 401k](https://smartonmoney.com/what-type-of-retirement-account-should-i-choose-traditional-ira-roth-ira-and-401k/): So you’re finally out of debt, saved up an emergency fund, and are ready to start saving for retirement. The question that you have now is, what type of retirement account should you choose? An IRA, a Roth IRA or a 401(k)? If you’re not familiar with these basic retirement account types, you may want […] - [If Your House Is Worth Less Than You Owe, Is It OK To Just Stop Paying Your Mortgage And Walk Away?](https://smartonmoney.com/if-your-house-is-worth-less-than-you-owe-is-it-ok-to-just-stop-paying-your-mortgage-and-walk-away/): Since the market collapsed back in 2008 we’ve seen the real estate market take a nosedive.  People who bought at the height of the market (assuming that real estate would always appreciate) found themselves in a situation where their homes had dropped significantly in value.    My wife and I are a part of the group […] - [Lending Club Review And Account Opening Process](https://smartonmoney.com/lending-club-review-and-account-opening-process/): A while back after reading about peer-to-peer lending (or social lending) via a variety of personal finance blogs I decided to look into it a bit more.  The idea sounds intriguing.  Instead of dealing with big banks who could care less about providing good rates, good customer service or giving you a personal touch, you […] - [Cash For Caulkers Home Improvement Rebate: Money To Retrofit Your Home For Energy Efficiency ](https://smartonmoney.com/cash-for-caulkers-home-improvement-rebate-money-to-retrofit-your-home-for-energy-efficiency/): Yesterday I talked about the energy efficiency tax credits for home improvements that homeowners can take advantage of through the end of 2010. They can use the tax credits upgrade their windows, heaters, insulation and other energy efficient products. The Obama administration is now trying to get another program passed to give rebates to homeowners […] - [Home Improvement Tax Credits For Energy Efficient Products: Insulation, Windows, Heaters And More](https://smartonmoney.com/home-improvement-tax-credits-for-energy-efficient-products-insulation-windows-heaters-and-more/): Congress took action a few months back and extended energy efficiency tax credits for most homeowners through the end of 2010. If you’ve been looking to upgrade your water heater or windows and doors, you can probably get a tax credit in 2010.  Some of the less common of the tax credits for home improvements […] - [I'm Joining The Financial Samurai’s Alexa Ranking Challenge](https://smartonmoney.com/im-joining-the-financial-samurais-alexa-ranking-challenge/): I just launched this blog earlier this week with the goal of keeping myself accountable, sharing useful information as it pertains to personal finance, and of course helping others who are having a hard time with their money. One of the goals I have for the blog in the first few months is that I […] - [Welcome To Smart On Money! ](https://smartonmoney.com/welcome-to-smart-on-money/): A while back I started blogging online so that I could share my thoughts on politics, money, religion and a variety of other topics. I found that I wasn’t really passionate about all the topics, and as such I wasn’t really able to keep enough interest in the topics to continue blogging more than a […] - [Appreciate What You Have, And Enjoy It!](https://smartonmoney.com/appreciate-what-you-have-and-enjoy-it/): Sometimes in the hustle and bustle of the season, we forgot to just appreciate the things we already have, and just enjoy! - [Retirement: Know Your Housing Options](https://smartonmoney.com/retirement-know-your-housing-options/): As you prepare for retirement, one of your challenges is going to be figuring out where to live. The process of aging means that you might need special care as you get older. Where you live can affect the sort of care you get, as well as your ability to access services that you need […] - [Navigating Black Friday With Your Android Smartphone](https://smartonmoney.com/navigating-black-friday-with-your-android-smartphone/): Black Friday and all the deals to be had are nearly upon us. Here's how to get the most out of the day with your Android smartphone. - [3 Tips For Giving Gift Cards This Holiday Season](https://smartonmoney.com/3-tips-for-giving-gift-cards-this-holiday-season/): Are you getting ready to provide gifts this holiday season? If you’re anything like me, you’ve started your Christmas shopping already. I actually give gift cards a lot during the holidays. For my little nieces and nephew, I do a little more and buy actual toys.  But for the adults — my siblings (and their […] - [Ally Bank Now Offers Easy E-Check Deposit: Scan And Deposit Your Checks At Home](https://smartonmoney.com/ally-bank-now-offers-easy-e-check-deposit-scan-and-deposit-your-checks-at-home/): A while back I wrote a review of Ally Bank and talked about how we had just opened an account with them as a place to keep our large emergency fund.  While we were getting out of debt we had only saved a $2000 emergency fund to cover small contingencies, but once we got out […] - [Reduce Your Debt And Save For Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/reduce-your-debt-and-save-for-retirement/): As an investor, two of the biggest and most daunting goals you may face are paying off your debt and saving for retirement. - [Consumers May Have Won This Round, But The Bank Fee War Is Far From Over](https://smartonmoney.com/consumers-may-have-won-this-round-but-the-bank-fee-war-is-far-from-over/): It’s true that consumers appear to have won a battle against bank fees. Bank of America announced that it will not go through with its intention to charge a monthly fee of $5 for debit card usage. Thanks to  great deal of outcry, and people actually moving their money, Bank of America is back-pedaling on […] - [Bank Of America Drops Plans For New $5 Debit Usage Fee After Other Banks Do The Same](https://smartonmoney.com/bank-of-america-drops-plans-for-new-5-debit-usage-fee-after-other-banks-do-the-same/): Many banks recently announced that they were going to start charging new fees for debit account usage. Many of them have now reversed that decision. - [Is It Time to Reconsider the ARM?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-it-time-to-reconsider-the-arm/): Right after the mortgage meltdown, adjustable rate mortgages were vilified far and wide. You couldn’t find anyone, anywhere, recommending an ARM. Now, though, some are saying that ARMs have had a bad rap. After all, the ARMs that were especially devastating were those with extra low teaser rates, or interest-only ARMs that featured large balloon […] - [4 Crucial Tips To Help You Save For Your Next Car Purchase](https://smartonmoney.com/4-crucial-tips-to-help-you-save-for-your-next-car-purchase/): Instead of financing a new car purchase, you can save your money, and buy a car with cash. Here are four important tips to help. - [What's Next For Employer-Sponsored, Tax-Advantaged Retirement Accounts?](https://smartonmoney.com/whats-next-for-employer-sponsored-tax-advantaged-retirement-accounts/): Everyone seems rather focused on the deficit right now. This isn’t surprising, considering the fact that we have a serious budget crisis brewing in the U.S. However, a lot of the plans to “fix” the problem involve getting rid of tax incentives for the people who need them most. One of the issues on the […] - [2012 401k Contribution Limits And Rules](https://smartonmoney.com/2012-401k-contribution-limits-and-rules/): In the past we’ve talked about which retirement accounts are best for different situations, and we looked at reasons why you might want to invest in a Roth IRA, 401k, Roth 401k or A Traditional IRA.  Depending on your age, your income, your current and future tax situations and a variety of other factors, you […] - [How To Avoid Debit Card Fees](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-avoid-debit-card-fees/): Last year congress passed a bill that empowered the Fed to cap the fees large banks charge retailers for debit card transactions.  As a result, big banks have lost a significant source of revenue and have responded by increasing the fees they charge their customers. By now you have probably heard all the commotion caused […] - [When To Take Social Security: A Question Of Cash Flow](https://smartonmoney.com/when-to-take-social-security-a-question-of-cash-flow/): One of the biggest decisions you have to make as you approach retirement is when you want to begin taking your Social Security benefits. Indeed, this is an important consideration. For the most part, it depends a great deal on what you think your cash flow needs will be as you age. Do You Need […] - [2012 Federal Income Tax Brackets: Official IRS Marginal Tax Rates](https://smartonmoney.com/2012-federal-income-tax-brackets-official-irs-marginal-tax-rates/): The tax rates for 2012 are going to be higher due to inflation, while some 1 year cuts will be expiring. Some may see a tax increase. - [Here Come the Holidays: Could Layaway Save Your Christmas Budget?](https://smartonmoney.com/here-come-the-holidays-could-layaway-save-your-christmas-budget/): The financial crisis, and the recession, prompted the return of of layaway. For years, many stores stopped offering the layaway option; it was pointless, since so many of them had co-branded credit cards and were more than willing to encourage people to use those to make purchases. (Not to mention the storage space multiple items […] - [Why I'm Not A Big Penny Pincher](https://smartonmoney.com/why-im-not-a-big-penny-pincher/): Anyone who really knows me, is well aware that I’m a spender. Penny pinching isn’t my thing. That isn’t to say that I’m flinging money about like water. What it does mean, though, is that I don’t go out of my way to save a few cents — or even to save a few dollars. […] - [Are Your Emotions Getting In The Way Of Your Financial Success?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-your-emotions-getting-in-the-way-of-your-financial-success/): It’s impossible to completely keep emotions out of finances. After all, money is related to a number of emotions, especially fear and excitement. While it might not be advisable to completely eschew all emotions, you do need to acknowledge how they affect you — and watch out for indications that your emotions could be getting […] - [Grandparent Scam Strikes Again](https://smartonmoney.com/grandparent-scam-strikes-again/): Put yourself in the shoes of a caring Grandmother. Let’s say one day you receive a call from your grandson telling you they’ve been in an accident and are being held in jail in the Dominican Republic. They want you to keep their little debacle a secret but they need you to wire money to […] - [How To Deal With Regular Bills When You Have An Irregular Income](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-deal-with-regular-bills-when-you-have-an-irregular-income/): When your income doesn’t come in 24 equal payments spaced evenly throughout the year it can be hard to make a budget. Unfortunately, this is a fact that a lot of people deal with in their life. There are a lot of industries where the pay is great in the summer time and then tapers […] - [Are You Seriously Committed To Saving, Or Still Committed To The Short-Term?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-seriously-committed-to-saving-or-still-committed-to-the-short-term/): People can’t stop talking about the possibilities of a second recession, which may very well be redefined as the continuation of what becomes the broader-defined Great Recession of the decade. Between talks of European economic crisis and American debt doom, the average man and woman who have to deal with these realities are talking about […] - [Hedging Market Risks To Your Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/hedging-market-risks-to-your-retirement/): The current stock market volatility has many wondering how market risks could affect their retirement prospects. Many almost-retirees found, to their dismay, that the market crashed, wiping out retirement portfolio values, just before they needed that money. While the market has been recovering since 2008, the fear of what happens “next time” has many wondering […] - [The Great Depression Ahead And What You Can Do To Survive](https://smartonmoney.com/the-great-depression-ahead-and-what-you-can-do-to-survive/): You may have never heard of economist and wealth manager Harry Dent but many students of the economy have. Harry Dent wrote, The Great Boom Ahead, which predicted the financial bull market of the 1990’s. He also predicted that the 2000s would see the Dow Jones Industrial Average soar to 40,000 but later revised that […] - [Fixed Mortgage Rates Fall To Six Decade Low, But Few Can Take Advantage](https://smartonmoney.com/fixed-mortgage-rates-fall-to-six-decade-low-but-few-can-take-advantage/): If you’re looking to buy a home or refinance anytime in the near future you may have been happy to hear the news this past week that mortgage rates are now at the lowest levels in years. It is good news for those looking to buy, but there is a big caveat. Not everyone will […] - [Roth IRA: Emergency Fund?](https://smartonmoney.com/roth-ira-emergency-fund/): I recently found out that one of my associates uses her Roth IRA as an emergency fund. Rather than put money into a low yield savings account, or some other cash account, she uses her retirement account as an emergency fund. Technically, the basics of a Roth IRA are conducive to this arrangement. However, you […] - [How We Paid Cash For Our New Car](https://smartonmoney.com/how-we-paid-cash-for-our-new-car/): Over the past 3 weeks my wife and I have been searching for a new car. We hadn’t originally been in a hurry to buy a new car, but an opportunity presented itself where we could sell our current car, a 9 year old Honda Civic, at a decent price to a family member. The […] - [Lower Your 2011 Tax Bill by Going Green With Home Energy Tax Credits](https://smartonmoney.com/lower-your-2011-tax-bill-by-going-green-with-home-energy-tax-credits/): Although the U.S. government’s ability to function is heavily dependent upon tax revenue, taxpayers are not completely forgotten about. In fact, the government offers taxpayers breaks for taking certain actions or making certain purchases that are good for themselves, the economy or the environment. One such break is a tax credit available to homeowners who […] - [Buying A Used Car? Watch Out For Flood Damage](https://smartonmoney.com/buying-a-used-car-watch-out-for-flood-damage/): One of the ways you can save money when you purchase a car is to buy it used. Used cars can provide you with a great way to get from here to there — without breaking the bank. Plus, you avoid the instant depreciation that comes the moment you drive a new car off the […] - [How To Invest Money For Your Kids](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-invest-money-for-your-kids/): According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the average cost of raising a child rose to over $222,000 in 2009. (1) The 2010 annual Expenditures on Children by Families report revealed that the cost of raising a child rose by less than 1 percent from 2008. A big portion of this expense goes […] - [Is Your Home Really Going To Be A Retirement Asset?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-your-home-really-going-to-be-a-retirement-asset/): Many of us were raised to believe that buying a home is the key to a stable financial future. It is true that your home is likely to be your biggest purchase, but it may not do to rely too heavily on your home’s equity for retirement. The theory is nice: You buy a house, […] - [Long Term Care Insurance Decision – Should You? Which One?](https://smartonmoney.com/long-term-care-insurance-decision-should-you-which-one/): In the vast world of all kinds of insurance products, include finger insurance for a pianist, long term care insurance often takes the back burner because it is typically not considered until later in life and thus “skips the mind” per se. I was recently involved in the process of researching, screening and executing a […] - [How To Avoid Rising Healthcare Costs](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-avoid-rising-healthcare-costs/): With the downgrade of the U.S.'s credit rating from AAA to AA food and healthcare costs are expected to increase, so be prepared. - [Are You Prepared For A Stock Market Drop?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-prepared-for-a-stock-market-drop/): The last few days have been quit volatile on the stock market. Big drops, big gains, bigger drops, more rallies, and more slides. With all this volatility, some people are in a panic, ready to sell. However, panic selling rarely does you any good when it comes to a long-term investing strategy. Being prepared for […] - [Retirement Savings By Age: Are People Saving Enough For Retirement?](https://smartonmoney.com/retirement-savings-by-age-are-people-saving-enough-for-retirement/): Are people saving enough in order to live comfortably in retirement? Do people have an accurate picture of how much they'll need to save? - [Are You Maxing Out Your Tax-Advantaged Accounts?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-maxing-out-your-tax-advantaged-accounts/): Are you maxing out your tax-advantaged accounts before investing in other accounts? Or are you paying taxes that you don't need to? - [Is Money A Means To An End? Or An End Itself?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-money-a-means-to-an-end-or-an-end-itself/): One of the questions you have to ask yourself when you begin probing your relationship to money is this: Why do I want more money? - [What Are Some Reasons That You Overspend? Addressing The Root Causes Of Our Debt](https://smartonmoney.com/what-are-some-reasons-that-you-overspend-addressing-the-root-causes-of-our-debt/): We live in a consumer culture where we’re constantly bombarded with advertising and marketing messages that have been carefully crafted to get us to spend money.  Those sending out the marketing don’t care if you have the money or not.  They just want you to buy, even if it means going on a payment plan. […] - [Is College Worth The Cost Of Student Loans?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-college-worth-the-cost-of-student-loans/): One of the debates going on right now, thanks to the recession and the rising cost of college, is whether or not your degree is worth the money. Earlier this year, outstanding student loan debt surpassed credit card debt. Rising levels of college debt, combined with a tough job market, have many questioning the cost […] - [3 Economic Concepts Everyone Should Know](https://smartonmoney.com/3-economic-concepts-everyone-should-know/): The most important financial asset that exists isn't gold, cash, or even stocks -- it's knowledge. Here are three principles of economics that everyone should understand - [Loan Application Rejected? Get a Free Copy of Your Credit Score](https://smartonmoney.com/loan-application-rejected-get-a-free-copy-of-your-credit-score/): For years, you have been able to access your credit report for free after being turned down for credit. Indeed, if you are turned down for a loan, the lender is required to let you know which credit reporting agency was used in making the decision to decline your application. Then, you have the right […] - [Are Your Priorities Truly Priorities If You Don't Put Them Into Action?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-your-priorities-truly-priorities-if-you-dont-put-them-into-action/): Our lives get so busy, and we end up having a jumbled sets of priorities and goals. How do you truly know what your true priorities are? - [Will The U.S. Default On Its Debt?](https://smartonmoney.com/will-the-u-s-default-on-its-debt/): President Obama and lawmakers are in discussions, trying to come to an agreement about what to do about the debt ceiling.Will the United States begin defaulting on its debt? - [From Billionaire To Broke: One Wealthy Heiress And Her Slide Into Bankruptcy](https://smartonmoney.com/from-billionaire-to-broke-one-wealthy-heiress-and-her-slide-into-bankruptcy/): Patricia Kluge was once married to one of the wealthiest men in America. Now she's facing foreclosure and bankruptcy. Here's why. - [Happy 4th Of July! Old Glory Flag Facts](https://smartonmoney.com/happy-4th-of-july-old-glory-flag-facts/): Today is the 4th of July, the day that we set aside to celebrate the freedom and independence we enjoy as Americans. In honor of the 4th, here are some flag facts. - [Improve Your Retirement Savings As A Couple: Spousal IRA](https://smartonmoney.com/improve-your-retirement-savings-as-a-couple-spousal-ira/): One of the things I love about contributing to my Roth IRA is that my earnings will grow tax-free, since contributions are made with after-tax income. One thing I dislike about my Roth IRA is that I am limited in the amount I can contribute. (There are the same contribution limits on a Traditional IRA.) […] - [Saving Money On Health Care: Health Savings Accounts (HSA)](https://smartonmoney.com/saving-money-on-health-care-health-savings-accounts-hsa/): It’s health plan renewal time for me. Every year, we go through this. In the last six years, my family’s monthly insurance premium has nearly tripled — and our benefits have decreased. Have we had major health challenges? Nope. Each individual in my three-person family has only one or two doctor visits a year. We […] - [Do You Have Savings In Case Of An Emergency? 1 In 4 Americans Have Zero Emergency Savings](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-have-savings-in-case-of-an-emergency-1-in-4-americans-have-zero-emergency-savings/): As the economy continues to be stagnant and the unemployment rate continues to be high, a recent poll by BankRate.com found that still far too few people are preparing for the possibility of a job loss or a long term financial emergency. - [Look For Ways To Earn More Money](https://smartonmoney.com/look-for-ways-to-earn-more-money/): While frugality and cutting back can be important, finding ways to create new income can be even more important. - [Is It Bad To Be A Spender?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-it-bad-to-be-a-spender/): It can be tempting to lump spenders into the “bad” category. When we talk about money personalities, the spender always comes up. Those who like to spend can be vilified in some circles. Even if it is unintentional, the focus that is so often placed on saving money, cutting spending, and being frugal can really […] - [10 Regular Expenses That You Should Re-Examine To Find A Better Deal](https://smartonmoney.com/10-regular-expenses-that-you-should-re-examine-to-find-a-better-deal/): There are a lot of regular expenses that we just pay every month without even thinking about it that we should be re-examining on a regular basis. - [Finding And Buying Affordable Term Life Insurance Should Be A Priority](https://smartonmoney.com/finding-and-buying-affordable-term-life-insurance-should-be-a-priority/): When I was following Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps a year or two back (I suppose we still are), I was convinced that I needed to buy a term life insurance policy.  They give some very vivid stories in their Financial Peace University class from some folks who were in Dave’s class who bought life […] - [How We Blew Our Baby Budget, And How You Can Avoid Our Mistakes](https://smartonmoney.com/how-we-blew-our-baby-budget-and-how-you-can-avoid-our-mistakes/): Last June 30th our son Carter was born. He weighed in at 8 pounds even and was 21 inches in length. Since then he has grown rapidly, to the point where is now somewhere around 20 lbs, and his height is in the 95th percentile. He’s got two parents who are either near or over […] - [What Are Required Minimum Distributions?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-are-required-minimum-distributions/): One of the realities of tax-deferred retirement accounts is the required minimum distribution (RMD). The RMD is the amount that you have to withdraw from your tax-deferred traditional IRA, 401k or other account each year. Your RMD is figured based on the balance in your IRA at the end of the previous year. If you […] - [Thank You To Those Who Have Given Their Lives On This Memorial Day](https://smartonmoney.com/thank-you-to-those-who-have-given-their-lives-on-this-memorial-day/): Memorial day has always been one of those strange days for me. One where I’m filled with gratitude for the sacrifice that our fighting men and women have made, but at the same time the day is tinged with sadness. It’s sad that they had to give their lives, or make such sacrifices – and […] - [Vanguard Becomes More Attractive To Newer Investors As They Cut Fund Minimums To $1000 For Many Popular Funds](https://smartonmoney.com/vanguard-becomes-more-attractive-to-newer-investors-as-they-cut-fund-minimums-to-1000-for-many-popular-funds/): Vanguard became more attractive to newer investors as they announced cuts to their fund minimums for a wide range of their more popular funds. - [3 Things You Need To Do Before You Retire](https://smartonmoney.com/3-things-you-need-to-do-before-you-retire/): Many of us look forward to retirement, excited to live the life we have imagined, and ready to put down some of the burdens of work. (For some, a working retirement is actually preferred.) However, before you retire, it’s important to plan ahead to make sure that you are ready when the time comes. Before […] - [How To Stay On Top Of Your Credit Situation By Getting Free Credit Scores And Reports](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-stay-on-top-of-your-credit-situation-by-getting-free-credit-scores-and-reports/): Staying on top of your credit situation is more important than ever. Here are a variety of ways to get your credit scores and reports free of charge. - [TIPS: Inflation Protection For Your Portfolio](https://smartonmoney.com/tips-inflation-protection-for-your-portfolio/): If you want to add a little more stability to your portfolio while keeping pace with inflation, Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS) might be a workable solution. - [Ally Bank Investigates Possibility Of Buying ING Direct from ING Group](https://smartonmoney.com/ally-bank-investigates-possibility-of-buying-ing-direct-from-ing-group/): Ally Bank is currently in talks with ING Group about the possibility of buying it's US online banking group, ING Direct for somewhere near $10 billion - [Financial Perks Contractors Can't Take for Granted](https://smartonmoney.com/financial-perks-contractors-cant-take-for-granted/): In the world of employees with stable jobs and benefits, there is a lot that can be taken for granted. The self-employed, home business owners, contractors and freelances, though, can’t take many of these benefits for granted. Indeed, before leaving their jobs, they often neglect to think about the value of the benefits they receive […] - [Now That Bin Laden Is Dead, Will Anyone Get The $27 Million Dollars In Reward Money?](https://smartonmoney.com/now-that-bin-laden-is-dead-will-anyone-get-the-27-million-dollars-in-reward-money/): A couple of days ago we all heard the news that Osama Bin Laden had been found living in a mansion in a village called Abbottabad, merely 30-40 miles from the capital city of Islamabad, Pakistan.  Our military, once it had been confirmed that Bin Laden was there, swooped in and killed Bin Laden after […] - [The Importance Of Having Health Insurance As A Contractor Or Freelancer](https://smartonmoney.com/the-importance-of-having-health-insurance-as-a-contractor-or-freelancer/): For many self-employed contractors working in the wake of the housing bubble, the idea of having medical insurance for themselves is seen as a splurge and an unaffordable luxury. This is especially true if a spouse is insured through work and the children are covered; most contractors see no problem roughing it out through sickness […] - [Withdrawing From Your Retirement Account: Loans And Hardship](https://smartonmoney.com/withdrawing-from-your-retirement-account-loans-and-hardship/): At some point, you might end up in a situation where you feel like you need to withdraw money from your retirement account. You might have come up against some unexpected hardship, and need the money, or you might want the money for an education, or to help with the down payment on a home. […] - [Choosing A Targeted Retirement Fund](https://smartonmoney.com/choosing-a-targeted-retirement-fund/): Targeted retirement funds can take a lot of the worry out of retirement planning, but before you take the plunge it helps to carefully consider your options. - [CapWest Mortgage: Discounts For Costco Customers, Good Rates For Good Credit](https://smartonmoney.com/capwest-mortgage-discounts-for-costco-customers-good-rates-for-good-credit/): If you're currently looking for a mortgage or to refinance an existing one, CapWest Mortgage is definitely worth adding to your list. - [What Constitutes A Worthwhile Expenditure? ](https://smartonmoney.com/what-constitutes-a-worthwhile-expenditure/): My husband is finishing up his Ph.D. this month. His defense is scheduled, and everything should be wrapped up by the beginning of May. This means, of course, that he will be looking for a job. He has already applied for a few jobs, and has been looking for openings, but many potential employers (mostly […] - [How To Avoid The Capital Gains Tax](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-avoid-the-capital-gains-tax/): Investments are difficult enough without losing huge portions of your investments to taxes. Here's how to legally avoid taxes on your capital gains. - [President Obama Signs Repeal Of 1099 Tax Reporting Provision Of Health Care Plan](https://smartonmoney.com/president-obama-signs-repeal-of-1099-tax-reporting-provision-of-health-care-plan/): The stringent new 1099 tax reporting requirements put in place by the Health Care Reform law last year have now been repealed. Here are the details. - [30 Tax Organization Tips For Faster Filing](https://smartonmoney.com/30-tax-organization-tips-for-faster-filing/): Getting organized for tax time shouldn’t be something you cram into the evenings leading up to the tax filing deadline. Instead, it should be a yearlong process. - [No Need To Rush. Get An Extension On Filing Your Taxes!](https://smartonmoney.com/no-need-to-rush-get-an-extension-on-filing-your-taxes/): This year, millions of Americans will sweat over doing their taxes before the deadline. What many don't realize is that an extension is relatively easy to get. - ["Working" Retirement: Make Money Doing What You Love](https://smartonmoney.com/working-retirement-make-money-doing-what-you-love/): Retirement doesn't have to mean sitting on your front porch, waiting for the grandkids to show up. You can still do something you love, and possibly make money at it. - [Can Identifying With Your Future Self Get You To Save More For Retirement?](https://smartonmoney.com/can-identifying-with-your-future-self-get-you-to-save-more-for-retirement/): Research has shown that when people are more able to visualize their future selves, they're more likely to save and invest for the future. - [Betterment.com Review: Making Investing As Easy As 1-2-3](https://smartonmoney.com/betterment-review/): There's been quite a bit of buzz lately about a new investing and brokerage account through a website called Betterment.com. Here is my review. - [Why Your Credit History Matters](https://smartonmoney.com/why-your-credit-history-matters/): Even if you don't use credit cards, already have a house, and buy used cars with cash, knowing your credit history is still important. Here's why - [When Is The IRA Contribution And Recharacterization Deadline?](https://smartonmoney.com/when-is-the-ira-contribution-and-recharacterization-deadline/): For a lot of folks contributing to an IRA or recharacterizing their contributions is something they continually put off. Once the new year comes they think it's too late to contribute, but it's not. - [Government Considers New Rebates For Electric Vehicles: Cash For Clunkers Part Two?](https://smartonmoney.com/government-considers-new-rebates-for-electric-vehicles-cash-for-clunkers-part-two/): Ready for another cash for clunkers program? The Obama administration and their friends on Capitol Hill are floating around a proposal to change the $7500 tax credit for green vehicles. - [Are You Sacrificing Your Retirement?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-sacrificing-your-retirement/): Many of us don't realize that we're sacrificing retirement. Indeed, we are often unaware that some of the choices we make now can have far-reaching consequences that can put retirement at risk. - [Vote For Me In The Free Money Finance March Madness Elite Eight](https://smartonmoney.com/vote-for-me-in-the-free-money-finance-march-madness-elite-eight/): For a few weeks now I’ve been asking folks to vote for me in the Free Money Finance March Madness competition. Basically it’s a March Madness tournament for personal finance writers. I’ve mainly been asking for votes through Twitter and Facebook, but today things change cause I need your help. Thanks to your votes I’ve […] - [How To Financially Prepare For A Disaster](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-financially-prepare-for-a-disaster/): There is no way to be completely prepared for a disaster. However, you can do your best to prepare yourself financially for an emergency that could cause you problems. - [Congress Considering Scrapping Mortgage Aid Programs Due To Ineffectiveness](https://smartonmoney.com/congress-considering-scrapping-mortgage-aid-programs-due-to-ineffectiveness/): The Obama administration's home modification and refinance programs have come under fire due to the fact that they've been largely ineffective, helping few. - [Five Myths Regarding Renter’s Insurance](https://smartonmoney.com/five-myths-regarding-renters-insurance/): When it comes to renter’s insurance we often balk at buying it because we are unaware of the risks, and buy into myths surrounding it. - [How To Find The Cheapest Gas In Your Area](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-find-the-cheapest-gas-in-your-area/): Gas prices are on the rise, so it pays to know how to find the cheapest gas in your area, and how to conserve your gas once you've purchased. - [Zions Bank Review: High Yield Savings, Checking, Money Market Accounts](https://smartonmoney.com/zions-bank-review/): Zions Bank has been open since 1873. They are currently offering one of the best interest rates around, along with having good mobile banking options. - [Do You Know What's Important? Spending And Priorities](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-know-whats-important-spending-and-priorities/): One of the most challenging aspects of personal finance is identifying what is important — and then keeping your spending in line with what you value. Because personal finances are, well, personal, each person has their own ideas of what is most important. They key is to decide what is important to you and then […] - [2011 Free Tax Filing Options Available For Some](https://smartonmoney.com/2011-free-tax-filing-options-available-for-some/): If you meet certain restrictions, there are a wide variety of options to file your taxes for free in 2011. Here are some of the best. - [Discover Bank Review: High Yield Savings Account](https://smartonmoney.com/discover-bank-review/): Discover Bank has some of the highest interest rates in the country and all of their accounts are FDIC insured. Here's more about Discover Bank and why you might want to consider opening an account. - [Education Tax Credits Can Help Pay For College Costs](https://smartonmoney.com/education-tax-credits-can-help-pay-for-college-costs/): A lot of people aren’t aware that there are education tax credits available to help you offset the costs of paying for a college education for you or your dependents.   So if you’re paying college costs, please keep reading as we’ll be talking about the American Opportunity Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit, and […] - [7 Creative Ways To Save Money On Your Vacation](https://smartonmoney.com/7-creative-ways-to-save-money-on-your-vacation/): Times are tough, and going on vacation is expensive. Here are 7 ways to save money on vacations – some common while others you might not have thought of! - [When A Roth IRA Will Cost You](https://smartonmoney.com/when-a-roth-ira-will-cost-you/): One of the big reasons (aside from the tax advantages) that so many personal finance writers like the Roth IRA is due to the fact it is possible to withdraw money early from the account without penalty. It is true that you have to meet certain conditions in order to make a penalty-free withdrawal, but […] - [Stricter Auto Lending Standards Means Deals For Some, Not For Others](https://smartonmoney.com/stricter-auto-lending-standards-means-deals-for-some-not-for-others/): In 2008, when the government announced plans to bail out the auto industry, many Americans were surprised to learn that the industry has reached such a low point. At the time the big American auto companies were all ailing from economic woes,  and faced all out bankruptcy.  The reasons?  Non-unionized competition from overseas, huge pension […] - [Early Savers Eyeing The Roth IRA](https://smartonmoney.com/early-savers-eyeing-the-roth-ira/): The benefits of the Roth IRA for the younger savers are numerous, and as such many young professionals are choosing them as their retirement vehicle of choice. - [If You Itemize On Your Taxes You Can File And Have Returns Accepted As Of February 14th, 2011](https://smartonmoney.com/if-you-itemize-on-your-taxes-you-can-file-and-have-returns-accepted-as-of-february-14th-2011/): In December of 2010 the Congress and the Obama administration put in place a  tax cut package that would allow the current tax rates to continue for 2 more years, in addition to passing a 2011 payroll tax holiday, extending $1000 child tax credit and the estate tax. While I was happy for an extension […] - [Scottrade Review: Discount Online Stock Brokerages](https://smartonmoney.com/scottrade-review/): I’m finding that there are a lot of good companies out there, so making a decision on which one to use may be a bit difficult. When it comes time to choose the right brokerage for me, I’ll be considering quite a few things. Among them, the costs associated with having an account, how much […] - [What Are My Options If I Can't Pay My Taxes? What Should I Do?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-are-my-options-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes-what-should-i-do/): What options do you have if you come up short and owe the IRS a bunch of money at tax time? What if you can't pay your taxes? - [How Much Of My Annual Pay Should I Be Saving For Retirement?](https://smartonmoney.com/how-much-of-my-annual-pay-should-i-be-saving-for-retirement/): There are several different viewpoints when it comes to how much annual pay you should be saving for retirement. This post examines those viewpoints, and talks about how people can prepare themselves. - [Breaking News: Personal Finance Blogger Makes Silly Financial Mistake](https://smartonmoney.com/breaking-news-personal-finance-blogger-makes-silly-financial-mistake/): This past week I made a mistake, and it was a costly one. I’ve been writing personal finance blogs for 3 years now, and in that time I feel like I’ve learned quite a bit about personal finance. I’ve learned about the importance of investing early and often, about the power of compound interest, and […] - [Prepaid Debit Cards Often Cost More Than Checking accounts](https://smartonmoney.com/prepaid-debit-cards-often-cost-more-than-checking-accounts/): Checking accounts and debit cards have something in common: hidden fees that are meant to catch you off guard. If you are trying to figure out the option that has fewer fees, you will probably find that a checking account is cheaper. There are several reasons why. The Overdraft Factor Generally speaking, a normal user […] - [Social Security Changes For 2011](https://smartonmoney.com/social-security-changes-for-2011/): Social Security has several important changes in 2011 that workers, new retirees and those who are already receiving benefits should know about. - [How You Can Pay Less For Insurance](https://smartonmoney.com/how-you-can-pay-less-for-insurance/): Too many people cancel their insurance when times are tough because they feel like they can't afford it. Instead, they should consider the following tips for reducing their premiums - instead of canceling altogether. - [15 Simple Tips For Cheaper Car Insurance Rates](https://smartonmoney.com/15-simple-tips-for-cheaper-car-insurance-rates/): Saving money on car insurance is easier than you think... with a little bit of self education. Here are 15 simple things you can do that will save you money, while better protecting your car and its occupants. - [Road Trip! 3 Ways to Save Money and Have Fun](https://smartonmoney.com/road-trip-3-ways-to-save-money-and-have-fun/): Depending on your situation, a road trip can be cheaper than flying. If you really plan it right, you can have fun and save money in the bargain. - [Live Like No One Else](https://smartonmoney.com/live-like-no-one-else/): There is a saying Dave Ramsey likes to use: “Live like no one else, so later you can live like no one else.” The general idea behind this statement is tips on how to live correctly right now so that you can have the most fun later on life. While there are people who prefer […] - [Tax Issues to Consider During Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/tax-issues-to-consider-during-retirement/): When most of us plan for retirement, we think ahead to how we will generate the income needed to sustain our desired lifestyle. We add up costs, and try to determine if we are saving enough each month for a nest egg that meets our needs. However, many of us forget that it’s important to […] - [What Do You Think About Telecommuting?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-do-you-think-about-telecommuting/): In recent years, technology has given rise to more flexibility in the workplace. Some companies are now reining that back in. Will more companies do the same? - [Young, Professional, And Single: Do You Need A Partner for Your Money?](https://smartonmoney.com/young-professional-and-single-do-you-need-a-partner-for-your-money/): Many Millennials are delaying marriage, even into their late twenties. Why is this trend happening? - [Are You Taking Responsibility for Your Finances?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-taking-responsibility-for-your-finances/): It's tempting to blame our financial problems on something, or someone, else. But there comes a time to take responsibility for your finances and start making some serious changes. - [Do You Have a Legal-Isse Emergency Plan?](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-have-a-legal-isse-emergency-plan/): You’ve seen the insurance commercials featuring the “Mayhem” character. The main theme of those commercials is that you never know when disaster is going to strike and that’s why you need insurance. The same thing is true in the legal world as well. Many of those same situations in the commercials will also require you […] - [Are You Getting Reeled In By Deceptive Refinance Marketing?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-getting-reeled-in-by-deceptive-refinance-marketing/): It's important to be on guard when you read refinance ads, since they often promise something that is too good to be true - [Would Seeing Your Future Self Encourage You to Save More?](https://smartonmoney.com/would-seeing-your-future-self-encourage-you-to-save-more/): One of the tools I played around with recently was the Face Retirement tool from Merrill Edge. The application lets you take a picture of yourself, and then it ages you. You see your potential look at age 47, and every decade after that until you are 107. The idea is that seeing the face […] - [Selling Old Bonds, Stocks, And Investments](https://smartonmoney.com/selling-old-bonds-stocks-and-investments/): Investments are a great way to build your personal capital. Usually you find something like property, stocks, art, or other things that will grow in value over time and you put money into it and then wait. But eventually it comes time to sell your investment, or get your money out. In some cases you […] - [Do You Have To Quit Your Job To Be Financially Successful?](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-have-to-quit-your-job-to-be-financially-successful/): While many of us like the idea of working from home (often in our pajamas), a home business isn't for everyone. Indeed, there are plenty of people who are just fine working for "the man" -- and that's ok. - [On vs. Off Campus Living: The Pros And Cons](https://smartonmoney.com/on-vs-off-campus-living-the-pros-and-cons/): The first year of college is a milestone for many things, including individual freedoms, self-reliance, and personal development. It’s also a period of increase in frequent decision-making; suddenly, life comes with an abundance of choices – many of which don’t have black-or-white answers. Your course of study, your classes, your social circles, how you’re going […] - [Long-Term Investing: Don't Forget The Basics](https://smartonmoney.com/long-term-investing-dont-forget-the-basics/): When it comes to long-term investing, it's important not to forget the basics -- no matter what someone "in the know" tells you about the next hot thing. - [The Real Cost Of Identity Theft](https://smartonmoney.com/the-real-cost-of-identity-theft/): Approximately 15 million people a year are victims of identity scams. The financial toll from these victimizations is near $50 billion. Identity theft is a growing epidemic around the world, and people need to learn how to protect themselves before they become victims without even knowing it. CBS published an article about a retired Connecticut […] - [What's Your Relationship With Money?](https://smartonmoney.com/whats-your-relationship-with-money/): One of the things to consider with a new year is your relationship with money. We all have a relationship with money, and it’s a good idea to pinpoint how you feel about money, and how you interact with money. Understanding your relationship with money can be a big help as you work to figure […] - [Top Mobile Banking Apps For Young Professionals](https://smartonmoney.com/top-mobile-banking-apps-for-young-professionals-in-2013/): As the use of mobile technology continues to grow, people are starting to trust mobile technologies and manage their finances online. Here are some of the top apps that they use. - [Looking for a Boost to Help You Pay Down Debt? Join the Debt Movement!](https://smartonmoney.com/looking-for-a-boost-to-help-you-pay-down-debt-join-the-debt-movement/): One of the hardest things about getting out of debt is the fact that sometimes you feel as though you are all alone. After awhile, you begin to feel discouraged, and you suffer from the lack of support. If you want to succeed with your debt pay down goals, you need support and help. And […] - [What To Know About the Taxes Of The Self-Employed](https://smartonmoney.com/what-to-know-about-the-taxes-of-the-self-employed/): Being self-employed gives you the opportunity to work for yourself and control your income. But if you’ve always worked as an employee, becoming an independent contractor or business owner changes the way you complete your taxes. Before, your employer deducted taxes from your paycheck and paid a portion of your Social Security tax. Those days […] - [What Can You Put In Your IRA?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-can-you-put-in-your-ira/): One of the great things about an IRA is that you can hold a number of different investments in the account. While you can hold bonds, stocks, and cash in your IRA, it’s also possible to add even more asset classes to your IRA. When you open a self-directed IRA, you have more options (since […] - [Boost Your Job Prospects For The New Year](https://smartonmoney.com/boost-your-job-prospects-for-the-new-year/): According Money magazine, 2013 will offer the best chance for you to get a new job -- or a raise -- since 2007. Here's how to take advantage. - [How To Avoid Paying 3 Common Fees](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-avoid-paying-3-common-fees/): If you want to avoid some of the more common fees, it is possible, with a little planning. - [5 Tips for a Successful Homemade Christmas](https://smartonmoney.com/5-tips-for-a-successful-homemade-christmas/): This time of year is often rather expensive. It’s hard to stay on budget, even with the help of tools like layaway, and careful used credit cards. One way to reduce your costs during the holiday season is to go for a homemade Christmas. Not only can you save money, but you can also produce […] - [Should You Use Your Cell Phone As A Credit Card?](https://smartonmoney.com/should-you-use-your-cell-phone-as-a-credit-card/): Technology has been rapidly developing to the point that it’s possible to do almost anything with the help of a smart phone. You can get directions, pay your bills, and save coupons with the help of your smart phone. And, increasingly, your mobile device is getting to the point where it can be used as […] - [Student Loans: Federal Vs. Private](https://smartonmoney.com/student-loans-federal-vs-private/): One of the realities of attending college right now is that it costs quite a bit. Most students need to borrow money in order to pay for the rising tuition costs. It’s not just tuition, either. There are costs associated with housing, food, student fees, and books. With the cost of college rising, student loans […] - [3 Tips For Choosing A Financial Adviser](https://smartonmoney.com/3-tips-for-choosing-a-financial-adviser/): When it comes to managing your money, sometimes it makes sense to get a little help. The right financial adviser can help you create the right financial plan for you, and provide you with solid budget suggestions. - [Keeping Sight Of Your Retirement Goals](https://smartonmoney.com/keeping-sight-of-your-retirement-goals/): Sometimes, it can be hard to look beyond what is happening right now and see the big picture of the future, including our retirement goals. - [3 Helpful Tips For Choosing A 529 College Savings Plan](https://smartonmoney.com/3-helpful-tips-for-choosing-a-529-college-savings-plan/): If you are looking for a way to increase your chances of helping your child pay for college, you can use a 529 college savings plan to set money aside. - [4 Savvy Tips For Better Organizing Your Financial Life](https://smartonmoney.com/4-savvy-tips-for-better-organizing-your-financial-life/): Things seem to run smoother when you are better organized. This is true whether you are planning a birthday party for a friend, a wedding, or your finances. When your financial life is organized, you are more likely to stay on track — and less likely to be wasting money. If you are ready to […] - [Make Saving Easier With Targeted Goals](https://smartonmoney.com/make-saving-easier-with-targeted-goals/): One of the ways that you can make saving easier for yourself is to set goals. When you have a target, it can be easier to stay motivated. Besides, it’s almost always easier to see how far you’ve come if you actually know where you are going. Plus, knowing what you are working for can […] - [Best Ways For Young Workers To Save For Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/best-ways-for-young-workers-to-save-for-retirement/): As a young adult, there will be many financial decisions that you will make over a lifetime. These decisions will determine your financial picture that will carry you through life. One of the wisest decisions you can make is to start investing while you are young. There are several ways to do this. By making […] - [Passive Ways To Make Money: Credit Card Rewards And Swagbucks](https://smartonmoney.com/passive-ways-to-make-money-credit-card-rewards-and-swagbucks/): There are ways to make money doing what you already do, and Swagbucks is one of those ways that I take advantage of. Here is a review. - [How To Check Your Credit Report For Errors -- And Get Mistakes Fixed](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-check-your-credit-report-for-errors-and-get-mistakes-fixed/): Regularly check your credit report for errors, and fix mistakes that you find. That way, you stand a better chance of having an accurate score that lenders are impressed with. - [What Sort Of Liability Coverage Do You Have On Your Rental Car?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-sort-of-liability-coverage-do-you-have-on-your-rental-car/): When renting a car, what type of insurance coverage do you have? Are you covered in case of an accident? - [Watch Out For These Gaps In Your Home Insurance Policy](https://smartonmoney.com/watch-out-for-these-gaps-in-your-home-insurance-policy/): When you have a home insurance policy, you often assume that you are covered for damage to your home. Be careful, however, you might not be covered! - [Why You Should Have Life Insurance Even If You Are Young And Healthy With No Dependents](https://smartonmoney.com/why-you-should-have-life-insurance-even-if-you-are-young-and-healthy-with-no-dependents/): Do you really need to have life insurance if you're young, unmarried and have no dependents? The answer to that question is a resounding.. maybe. - [Why Online Banking Is Better](https://smartonmoney.com/why-online-banking-is-better/): There are many things that can be done on the internet these days. You can buy car insurance online without having to fill out mountains of paperwork, or order an infinite amount of merchandise from shops like Amazon without a long wait. Banking is another sector that has fully embraced the internet. Online Banking Is […] - [Can You Contest That Will?](https://smartonmoney.com/can-you-contest-that-will/): If you decide that contesting a will is worth it, you need to examine the situation, and figure out if you actually have grounds. - [Using the Power of Cash to Your Advantage](https://smartonmoney.com/using-the-power-of-cash-to-your-advantage/): As our society moves more and more away from cash and toward other methods of payment, many people forget just how powerful cash can be. If you’ll use cash to purchase big ticket items, it can save you quite a bit of money. Here are a few things to consider about using cash more to […] - [Tired Of Credit Card Offers? Take Your Name Off the Marketing Lists](https://smartonmoney.com/tired-of-credit-card-offers-take-your-name-off-the-marketing-lists/): Want to stop the flow of junk mail? The good news is that it's possible to do fairly easily. - [Rebuilding And Starting From Scratch](https://smartonmoney.com/rebuilding-and-starting-from-scratch/): One of the most frightening prospects in the world is starting from nothing and having to rebuild. Even when the situation is not as bad as you think, life can  feel like it’s crumbling around you. If you’ve been laid off from your job, watched your stocks drop or retirement plan tank, or gone deeply […] - [What Things Motivate Your Spending?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-things-motivate-your-spending/): Introspection is not something many of us apply when spending money. Unfortunately, too many of us just buy mindlessly, without really think about why we buy the things that we do. A little self-knowledge, though, can go a long way. If you are unhappy with your financial situation, maybe it’s time to look at your […] - [3 Things To Consider When Investing During Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/3-things-to-consider-when-investing-during-retirement/): Too often, we plan our investments to get us to retirement; we forget that it's a good idea to plan to continue investing through retirement. Here are some things to remember - [Can You Get A Mortgage If You're Self-Employed?](https://smartonmoney.com/can-you-get-a-mortgage-if-youre-self-employed/): Can you get a mortgage if you are self-employed? When you don't have a W-2 and pay stubs how can you show your lender you're a worthy credit risk? - [Are You Raising Your Kids To Be Financially Independent?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-raising-your-kids-to-be-financially-independent/): Are you teaching your kids to be dependent on you, or to be financially independent? - [Avoiding Debt? You Still Need Good Credit](https://smartonmoney.com/avoiding-debt-you-still-need-good-credit/): Your financial habits are of immense interest to a number of people that you may not have realized including banks, insurers, landlords, your cable company and more. - [Supreme Court Upholds The Affordable Care Act Health Care Law. What Does It Mean For You?](https://smartonmoney.com/supreme-court-upholds-the-affordable-care-act-health-care-law-what-does-it-mean-for-you/): The Supreme Court upheld the Affordable Care Act, also known as ObamaCare, earlier today by a 5-4 decision. What does the decision mean for you? - [How To Enjoy A Cheaper Road Trip](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-enjoy-a-cheaper-road-trip/): One of the fun things about the summer, in my opinion, is the road trip. Here are some ways to save when you hit the highway. - [Saving Money On Your Pet's Food Bill With Dog Food Coupons And More](https://smartonmoney.com/saving-money-on-your-pets-food-bill-with-dog-food-coupons-and-more/): We all want to feed our pets the best food possible to keep them happy and healthy. Feeding your dog the highest quality dog food, however, can come with a high price tag. To keep from going over your dog food budget, here are some money saving tips: Find Coupons Does your dog already have […] - [Boost Your Deductible And Save On Insurance](https://smartonmoney.com/boost-your-deductible-and-save-on-insurance/): One of the most common recurring costs in your life is likely to be insurance. One way that you can save on your insurance is to increase your deductible. - [A Tale Of Personal Banking Gone Bad](https://smartonmoney.com/a-tale-of-personal-banking-gone-bad/): One of the biggest misconceptions in personal banking that many people seem to fall prey to these days is that all banks offer basically the same account options.  How false this idea actually is I can certainly tell you, and that’s exactly what I intend to do here. As a young man, I had the good fortune of being […] - [Before You Retire: Are You Building Your Assets?](https://smartonmoney.com/before-you-retire-are-you-building-your-assets/): One of the life’s great milestones is retirement. Many of us are saving up for retirement, doing our best to build up a nest egg that can get us through retirement, and provide the lifestyle we want. If you want to be truly ready for retirement, one of the best things you can do is […] - [Traveling This Summer? Don't Forget Your Credit Card!](https://smartonmoney.com/traveling-this-summer-dont-forget-your-credit-card/): For maximum security when you travel, it's often a good idea to bring your credit card along. It can help you in cases of theft, help you to rack up reward points and more. - [How Scammers Use Personal Information To Fool You](https://smartonmoney.com/how-scammers-use-personal-information-to-fool-you/): Thanks to the Internet, and social media profiles, and the fact that an announcement in your local newspaper has probably been digitized and is searchable, chances are that there is a wealth of personal information about you available to scammers. My son has an Internet footprint (thanks to an obituary naming him as a survivor […] - [TD Ameritrade Review: Highly Rated Discount Brokerage](https://smartonmoney.com/td-ameritrade-review-highly-rated-discount-brokerage/): One discount brokerage that stands out among the pack, even with all the other great brokerages out there, is TD Ameritrade . They have great tools, are highly awarded and have customer service second to none. - [Is Your Portfolio Balanced?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-your-portfolio-balanced/): If you plan on living a comfortable lifestyle during your retirement years, figuring out a way to save for retirement is essential. Many Americans struggle to find a way to save money for retirement and many of those have trouble making sure that their portfolio is balanced. Without some balance in your portfolio, there’s a […] - [How DRIPs Can Help Boost Your Retirement Portfolio](https://smartonmoney.com/how-drips-can-help-boost-your-retirement-portfolio/): One of the ways you can boost your efforts to build up your nest egg is to use dividend reinvestment plans. - [Are You Making Money Decisions While Impaired?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-making-money-decisions-while-impaired/): When you make a decision, it’s important to think clearly. This is especially true when it comes to making money decisions. However, there are a number of ways in which your ability to make sound decisions can be impaired. Whether you are investing, or trying to decide whether or not you want to buy something, […] - [Finding Alternative Methods Of Getting What You Need](https://smartonmoney.com/finding-alternative-methods-of-getting-what-you-need/): You don't have to buy new all the time in order to get a good value. Here are some alternative ways to get what you need: - [3 Roth IRA Rules Benefitting Military Personnel](https://smartonmoney.com/3-roth-ira-rules-benefitting-military-personnel/): For members of the military, a number of options exist for socking away extra cash for retirement, and one of your best options is your Roth IRA. - [Capital One 360 Remote Deposits Now Available: Does Your Bank Offer A Remote Deposit App?](https://smartonmoney.com/capital-one-360-remote-deposits-now-available-does-your-bank-offer-a-remote-deposit-app/): ING Direct has released a new remote deposit app for Iphone and Android devices, as well as remote deposits through their site. Will you use it, and what other banks have it available? - [Banks Will Pay You To Avoid A Drawn Out Foreclosure Process: Short Sale Incentives](https://smartonmoney.com/banks-will-pay-you-to-avoid-a-drawn-out-foreclosure-process-short-sale-incentives/): Many banks are now offering large cash incentives, debt forgiveness and streamlined processes for homeowners to go through a short sale instead of a foreclosure. - [What Are You Doing To Make Your Money Dreams A Reality?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-are-you-doing-to-make-your-money-dreams-a-reality/): Many of us have money dreams. Often, these dreams focus on some point in the future, when you have more money. To achieve your money dreams, it’s important to create a plan. - [Are You Letting Your Kids Ruin Your Retirement?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-letting-your-kids-ruin-your-retirement/): All parents want to help their children out when they're in trouble, but when do you draw the line between helping and enabling? Are you putting your own financial future at risk? - [Can You Open More Than One Roth IRA?](https://smartonmoney.com/can-you-open-more-than-one-roth-ira/): One question a lot of people aren't quite sure of when it comes to retirement investing is whether you're able to have more than one Roth IRA. So what are the rules, and are you able to have more than one? - [Is It Hard To Get By On A Six Figure Income?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-it-hard-to-get-by-on-a-six-figure-income/): I've been reading stories lately about how people are having a hard time getting by on a six figure income. Are they truly having issues, or are they just living above their income? - [Would You Rather Live A Little More Now? Or Have A Pile Of Cash Later?](https://smartonmoney.com/would-you-rather-live-a-little-more-now-or-have-a-pile-of-cash-later/): Would you rather live it up now with some of your income and earnings, or work on saving more now to enjoy having more money later in retirement? - [Are Your Finances Over-Leveraged?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-your-finances-over-leveraged/): One of the realities of the financial world is that it’s possible to use leverage to get more than what you would normally be able to afford. In simple terms, leverage is using debt to buy what you want. You leverage the capital you have right now as a down payment to allow you to […] - [How To Do A 401k To IRA Rollover](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-do-a-401k-to-ira-rollover/): When you leave a job for whatever reason it can be a tough time in your life, a time of transition and a lot of change. All of the new things going on around you can be distracting, and if you’re not careful it can lead to you not doing some things that need to […] - [Home Business And Taxes: Doubling Up On Tax Day](https://smartonmoney.com/home-business-and-taxes-doubling-up-on-tax-day/): If you have a home business, you need to be extra careful come tax day as far as what you owe. Don't forget that you may actually have two tax payments to make. - [Learn The Basics Of The Roth IRA](https://smartonmoney.com/learn-the-basics-of-the-roth-ira/): Jeff Rose over at GoodFinancialCents.com recently had an epiphany when talking to a college class about investing and retirement.  He realized that today’s generations really aren’t thinking about retirement, and a lot of them don’t even know what a Roth IRA is, what a 401k is and just how to get started investing.  He wanted […] - [How Would You Handle A Financial Setback?](https://smartonmoney.com/how-would-you-handle-a-financial-setback/): Chances are that at some point in your life you will experience some type of financial setback. Indeed, emergencies are part of life. Businesses fail. Medical bills need to be paid. The house floods. When you experience a financial setback, it can be difficult to get back into the swing of things. However, it’s important […] - [A Traditional IRA Or A Roth IRA: Which Is Best?](https://smartonmoney.com/a-traditional-ira-or-a-roth-ira-which-is-best/): Which is best - a Traditional IRA or a Roth IRA? Each person's financial situation is different, and different needs call for different solutions. - [Why The Savvy Shoppers Are All Online](https://smartonmoney.com/why-the-savvy-shoppers-are-all-online/): It’s virtually impossible to avoid shopping. We all need to buy things, but there are ways to make each purchase more frugal and efficient. Purchasing things online can save you time and money.  It offers convenience and helps you to avoid all the unnecessary extras that seem to end up in your shopping cart. Like […] - [Do You Really Need Coupons To Be Frugal?](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-really-need-coupons-to-be-frugal/): One of the popular ways that many frugal people save money is with the use of coupons. But do you need to use coupons to be frugal? - [Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary: The Story Of The Charitable Cook And Contractor](https://smartonmoney.com/retiring-wealthy-on-an-average-salary-the-story-of-the-charitable-cook-and-contractor/): Elinor Sauerwein never seemed like she was wealthy or well off. But after a lifetime of frugality and saving she was able to leave behind a fortune of almost 2 million dollars to her local Salvation Army. - [Money Matters: Avoid Being Cheated](https://smartonmoney.com/money-matters-avoid-being-cheated/): We all get scammed at one time or another, sometimes we just don’t know it. Life has become so hectic, that we don’t always have time to think things through before we buy. We can do our weekly food shop, only to realise later on that we’ve paid more than usual. We can go to […] - [Watch Out For Overdraft Fees. They Can Cost You Big](https://smartonmoney.com/watch-out-for-overdraft-fees-they-can-cost-you-big/): One of the ways that you might be leaking money is through overdraft fees. Bank fees have been the subject of much debate recently. Lately, Richard Cordray, the head of the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, has been taking aim at overdraft fees, looking at ways to better educate consumers on the costs of overdraft fees, […] - [Ready To Refinance? Here's What You'll Need](https://smartonmoney.com/ready-to-refinance-heres-what-youll-need/): Are you considering refinancing because the rates are so low? There are some things you'll need to consider before you do.Here's a quick refinance checklist. - [Betterment Reviews User Feedback And Lowers Fees, Adds International Funds And IRAs](https://smartonmoney.com/betterment-reviews-user-feedback-and-lowers-fees-adds-international-funds-and-iras/): Betterment.com has announced new lower fees that will save current users money and make it even more attractive to newer users. They're also opening IRA accounts. - [How To Apply For Home Insurance](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-apply-for-home-insurance/): Not only is a home one of the biggest investments an individual will make in their entire life, it can also prove extremely expensive to maintain. Repair work, breakages and damage will all cost money, money that could be spent on other, even more important things. Homeowner’s insurance, a policy that is taken out to […] - [Could An Annuity Be The Ticket To Reliable Retirement Income?](https://smartonmoney.com/could-an-annuity-be-the-ticket-to-reliable-retirement-income/): With the 2008 financial crisis still fresh in some minds, one of the questions many are asking is this: Is there a way for me to protect my nest egg from market drops during retirement? - [Where Do You Get Better Returns For Short Term Savings? A Bank CD Or A Lending Club Account?](https://smartonmoney.com/where-do-you-get-better-returns-for-short-term-savings-a-bank-cd-or-a-lending-club-account/): Have you ever thought about moving short term savings to Lending Club versus a savings account or CD? Looking at average returns may have you considering it. - [Are You Falling Victim To Price Anchoring?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-falling-victim-to-price-anchoring/): One of the ways that you might be wasting your money could be due to the effects of anchoring. Anchoring is one way that retailers and others try to get you to spend more than you might normally spend. The effect of anchoring can also be seen in your other financial decisions, including investing decisions. […] - [Here’s Why You Should Shred Those Credit Card Convenience Checks](https://smartonmoney.com/heres-why-you-should-shred-those-credit-card-convenience-checks/): Convenience checks from your credit card company can certainly be convenient, but there are a ton of reasons why you should avoid using them. Here are a few. - [Obama Offers Up New Mortgage Relief And Refinance Plan](https://smartonmoney.com/obama-offers-up-new-mortgage-relief-and-refinance-plan/): President Obama announced this week that he would be seeking passage of a new updated mortgage relief plan aimed at helping underwater homeowners to refinance their properties and take advantage of historically low rates. The bill has an uphill climb, however, as Republican legislators have announced their opposition to the plan as another waste of […] - [Would You Use A Local Currency Instead Of A Federal Reserve Note?](https://smartonmoney.com/would-you-use-a-local-currency-instead-of-a-federal-reserve-note/): As the economy continues to limp along, an increasing number of people are skeptical of the currency. But what alternative is there? - [Do You Save Your Pocket Change? For One Indiana Man It Adds Up To A New Car Every 10-15 Years.](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-save-your-pocket-change/): Do you save enough of your pocket change to be able to buy a car? One Indiana man did, twice! What if he had invested the money as well? - [Should You Itemize Your Tax Deductions?](https://smartonmoney.com/should-you-itemize-your-tax-deductions/): It may seem like a pain to add up all of your deductions, but it can pay off in the end. Here's what to consider - [Should You Move For A Better Paying Job?](https://smartonmoney.com/should-you-move-for-a-better-paying-job/): You may be able to find a job in another city that has a higher salary, but should you move for a better paying job? - [American Express Bank Personal Savings Review: High Yield Savings Accounts](https://smartonmoney.com/american-express-bank-personal-savings-review-high-yield-savings-accounts/): American Express has a 160+ year track record, and is known for their premium credit cards.They also have a savings account. Here's a review. - [The Cost Of Resolutions](https://smartonmoney.com/the-cost-of-resolutions/): The New Year is here and we are all striving to get ourselves off on the right foot by committing to the right resolutions. However, not all resolutions are created equal. While most will improve your health or your mental well-being, there are a few in particular that will save you thousands of dollars over […] - [Double Check Your Employer's Retirement Plan](https://smartonmoney.com/double-check-your-employers-retirement-plan/): You may want to double check to make sure that your employer's retirement plan is what you want to be devoting your resources to. - [Tax Preparation Checklist: All The Things You’ll Need At Tax Time](https://smartonmoney.com/tax-preparation-checklist/): When you're filing your taxes there is a ton of information that you'll need to have at the tip of your fingers when filing. Here's a tax preparation checklist to have handy when filing. - [Dress For Success: Find Business Attire For Less](https://smartonmoney.com/dress-for-success-find-business-attire-for-less/): As you build a professional wardrobe, here are some things I kept in mind. - [New Year's Resolution: Giving More](https://smartonmoney.com/new-years-resolution-giving-more/): This time of year, we think a lot about New Year’s resolutions, and what we can do to improve ourselves — and our lives. While these resolutions can be helpful in improving your financial situation and your lifestyle, you might be surprised at what you can accomplish in your own life if your resolutions focus […] - [Why NOW Is The Best Time To Start Saving For Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/why-now-is-the-best-time-to-start-saving-for-retirement/): As soon as you started earning income was the best time to save for retirement. But now is the 2nd best time to start saving for retirement. - [How To Choose Good Tenants For Your Rental Property](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-choose-good-tenants-for-your-rental-property/): Owning a rental property can be quite profitable, as long as you have the right tenants. Here are some tips. - [Saving Money On Video Games For A More Frugal Gaming Experience](https://smartonmoney.com/saving-money-on-video-games-for-a-more-frugal-gaming-experience/): Here are some ways you can get the most entertainment out of your video game budget without breaking the bank. - [Paying For Your Child’s College Tuition ](https://smartonmoney.com/paying-for-your-childs-college-tuition/): It should come as little surprise that college tuition costs are incredibly high and that, over the past couple decades, they have risen far faster than the rate of inflation. For the average family – and even for the more economically-secure one – paying for college is a tremendous and considerable investment, one that cannot […] - [Gift Cards: Watch Out For Scams](https://smartonmoney.com/gift-cards-watch-out-for-scams/): One of the best gifts you can give to others is the gift card. I’m a big fan of gift cards. Unfortunately, no matter what you are buying, or where you are buying it, it always seems as though there’s some scammer out there trying to take advantage — and the same is true when […] - [The New Trump IRA Initiative: How the April 30, 2026 Executive Order Could Help Millions Save for Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/the-new-trump-ira-account-initiative/): The New Trump IRA accounts: how the April 30, 2026 Executive Order Could Help Millions Save for Retirement - [How To Avoid Cyber Attacks: Keeping Your Financial Information Secure Online](https://smartonmoney.com/avoid-cyber-attacks-secure-financial-information-online/): With the rise of online banking, it’s important to ensure the security of your financial accounts. Here's how to avoid cyber attacks. - [How We’re Handling A Sudden Loss Of Income](https://smartonmoney.com/handling-a-sudden-loss-of-income/): Many people are out of work because the government considers their job non-essential. Here's how we're dealing with a sudden loss of income. - [Why Most Money Challenges Don’t Work And What Does](https://smartonmoney.com/why-most-money-challenges-dont-work-and-what-does/): One of the major New Year’s resolutions that many people make, behind losing weight and quitting smoking, is saving more money. - [What To Do With Leftover FSA Money In 2020](https://smartonmoney.com/what-to-do-with-leftover-fsa-money/): In 2020 and 2021, the U.S. government and many employers are allowing unprecedented flexibility in the use of your FSA funds. - [Important Lessons To Learn From The Coronavirus Pandemic](https://smartonmoney.com/important-lessons-to-learn-from-the-coronavirus-pandemic/): Our generation has never experienced an event as life-changing as the coronavirus. As a result, there are important lessons people may learn - [Do I Have To Spend The Money On The Stimulus Debit Card?](https://smartonmoney.com/economic-impact-payment-debit-card/): Millions of Americans are set to receive a debit card with their Economic Impact Payment on it. Do they have to spend the stimulus payment right away? - [The CARES Act Retirement Account Withdrawal Rules: Should You Take Money Out?](https://smartonmoney.com/cares-act-retirement-account-withdrawal-rules/): The United States government recently passed the CARES Act, which offers Americans the chance to take money out of retirement accounts with fewer penalties than normal. - [Will There Be A Second Stimulus Check?](https://smartonmoney.com/will-there-be-a-second-stimulus-check/): If you’re eligible for a stimulus check, you might be wondering whether or not a second stimulus check is coming. Here are plans currently being offered. - [How To Decorate Your Home Frugally](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-decorate-your-home-frugally/): Most of us have watched a new home buyer show or two and seen how a family buys a house and then spends tens of thousands of dollars renovating it so the house is just their style.  While that’s fun to watch, for many of us living on a tight budget, buying the house is enough of a financial strain. There is little money leftover for changing the house’s décor or even buying new furnishings.  If you’d like to make some changes to your new home, there are strategies to decorate your home frugally. First, Be Cautious And Grateful First, before […] - [How To Handle Your Finances When You Lack Shared Goals](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-handle-your-finances-when-you-lack-shared-goals/): Compromising on goals and money in marriage can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be, especially if you have open lines of communication. - [How Should You Use Your 2020 Stimulus Check?](https://smartonmoney.com/2020-stimulus-check/): According to the U.S. government, a majority of Americans will soon be getting a stimulus check, or "economic impact payment". How should you use it? - [What To Do When You Get Laid Off, Fired Or Furloughed](https://smartonmoney.com/what-to-do-when-you-get-laid-off-fired-or-furloughed/): If you’ve been recently been laid off, you know you’re not alone.  Millions of Americans are in the same situation with the recent pandemic.  It has been unprecedented. While this is a scary time, because so many people are going through the same situation, concessions have been made, making it a little bit easier to figure out how to financially handle a layoff. If you’re recently laid off, consider taking these steps. How To Handle A Layoff Secure Insurance In general, when you’re laid off, you lose health insurance.  Considering the current pandemic, now is not the time to be […] - [Kid Going To College? Why You Should Wait To Re-Enter The Workforce](https://smartonmoney.com/kid-going-to-college-why-you-should-wait-to-re-enter-the-workforce/): If you feel the pressure to return to work to pay for your child’s college education, run the numbers first and learn how much you’ll actually take home. - [The Best Options For Hiring A Tax Accountant](https://smartonmoney.com/options-for-hiring-a-tax-accountant/): If you have a complicated tax situation or you feel that you’re leaving money on the table when you do your taxes yourself, consider the best options for hiring a tax accountant. - [5 Drawbacks Of Dual Enrollment Classes](https://smartonmoney.com/drawbacks-of-dual-enrollment-classes/): Dual enrollment is an excellent way to get some college credits out of the way during high school and cut college expenses. What are the downsides? - [Ways To Get College Application Fees Waived](https://smartonmoney.com/get-college-application-fees-waived/): When you apply for college, don’t assume that you’ll have to fork out hundreds of dollars in college application fees. Here's how to avoid those pesky fees. - [Should You Close Your Credit Card Once You Pay It Off?](https://smartonmoney.com/should-you-close-your-credit-card-once-you-pay-it-off/): Should you close your credit card once it’s paid off? What are the pros and cons to closing it and leaving it open? - [The 5 Best Ways To Invest At 18](https://smartonmoney.com/best-ways-to-invest-at-18/): Kudos to any young adult who wants to invest at 18. That is a good goal, but make sure that other financial obligations are first taken care of. - [10 Fast Food Jobs That Pay For College Tuition](https://smartonmoney.com/fast-food-jobs-that-pay-for-college/): Some fast food jobs have better benefits than others. Here are 10 fast food jobs that offer tuition reimbursement programs that will help pay for college. - [5 Ways To Save On Gifts For Tweens And Teens](https://smartonmoney.com/save-on-gifts-tweens-teens/): As kids get older, they get fussier, and their wish lists becomes more expensive. Here's how to save on gifts for teens and tweens. - [10 Ways To Save Money When You're On A Tight Budget](https://smartonmoney.com/10-ways-to-save-money-when-youre-on-a-tight-budget/): The economy has been in a tailspin, and folks are looking to cut back. Here are some ways to save money until you get back on your feet. - [Saving For Retirement: Planning Your Monthly Income](https://smartonmoney.com/saving-for-retirement-planning-your-monthly-income/): Saving for retirement is extremely important. Here are some things to do when planning your monthly income. - [What If I Die? Steps To Help Your Spouse Take Over The Budget](https://smartonmoney.com/what-if-i-die/): What would your spouse do if you became incapacitated or passed away? Here are steps to take so they can be set financially in the "what if i die" scenario. - [Achieve FI As A Couple: Be On The Same Page And Accelerate Your Path To Financial Independence](https://smartonmoney.com/achieve-fi-as-a-couple/): Talking about money and financial independence with your significant other is something that should help you achieve FI as a couple. Here's how. - [7 Easy Ways To Reduce Monthly Bills And Expenses](https://smartonmoney.com/easy-ways-reduce-monthly-bills/): Some people will dismiss finding small savings here and there. But those savings add up. Here are seven easy ways to save money on your monthly bills. - [Blogging Bigwigs Enforce Idea That Financial Stability Comes From Living Below Your Means](https://smartonmoney.com/blogging-bigwigs-enforce-idea-that-financial-stability-comes-from-living-below-your-means/): Too many people believe that showing displays of wealth help lead to success, but in fact it's those who live below their means that truly succeed. - [How Much Money Are You Saving In Your Emergency Fund? Have You Ever Had To Use It?](https://smartonmoney.com/how-much-money-should-be-saved-for-emergencies/): Earlier this week there was a discussion at getrichslowly.org about a poll they had done about emergency funds.  One of the findings was that the amount people were saving in their emergency funds seems to be dwindling over the past 5-6 months. After reading that post I started looking for other polls to find out how many people are actually saving up an emergency fund in the first place,  and to see what they believe is a good place to get their emergency money. Poll About Emergency Funds The numbers seem to vary a bit depending upon the source, however, […] - [Are You Saving So Much Money That You're Nearly Bankrupt?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-saving-so-much-money-that-youre-nearly-bankrupt/): Are you buying things because of the messages they send - instead of buying things that you actually need? The affluent don't and buy things that they need. - [Generating Additional Income with Tax Advantages](https://smartonmoney.com/generating-additional-income-with-tax-advantages%ef%bb%bf/): Long-term investments usually offer higher profits compared to quick sale options with tax advantages. Not all products are tax exempt and some of them have strict requirements and limitations on the amount invested. Before individuals consider investing in any investment option, they must educate themselves and rely on the expertise of a reputable financial planner or investment adviser. It will most likely ensure they’re building a diverse portfolio to minimize risks and receive the highest return as possible. The main goal of investing is to earn money for future retirement, college education, to purchase a home, and/or to supplement monthly […] - [Don't Fall Prey To A Victim Mentality. Be Responsible For Your Actions And Live Free](https://smartonmoney.com/dont-fall-prey-to-a-victim-mentality-be-responsible-for-your-actions-and-live-free/): One thing that I've noticed over the past few years is that it seems like there is an increase in the amount of people who refuse to take responsibility for their actions.   Instead they blame others when things don't go the way they had hoped, and they subscribe to a “victim mentality”, a psychology that says there are outside forces beyond your control that are causing you to fail, and there's nothing you can do about it. Victim Mentality: a tendency to blame external or uncontrollable factors, instead of focusing on internal or controllable factors for things that go wrong […] - [Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps: Step 7 – Build Wealth And Give!](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-step-7-build-wealth-and-give/): In baby step 7 Dave Ramsey talks about the idea that generous people tend to be more prosperous. In this step he talks about how to build wealth and give. - [Why Now Is The Time To Start Preparing Your Taxes](https://smartonmoney.com/why-now-is-the-time-to-start-preparing-your-taxes/): To avoid filing your taxes late, you should always begin organizing your tax information as soon as possible. Here are some things to remember as you do. - [Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps: Step 6 – Pay Off The Home Early](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-step-6-pay-off-the-home-early/): In Baby Step 6 Dave Ramsey suggests that you pay extra on your mortgage and pay off your mortgage early if you can. Here's why. - [Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps: Baby Step 5 – College Funding For Children](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-baby-step-5-college-funding-for-children/): In baby steps 1-4 we worked towards paying off debt, building up an emergency fund and investing 15-20% of our income.  In baby step 5 we look at saving for your children's education. Baby Step 5:  College Funding For Children Baby step 5 talks about how if you've taken care of your other priorities first (like saving for your own retirement), you can save up and help pay for your child's education. One thing that Dave Ramsey stresses, however is that you don’t have to go into debt for your child to go to college.    Once you've taken care of […] - [Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps: Step 4 – Invest 15% (Or More!) Of Your Income](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-step-4-invest-15-percent-of-your-income/): Last time in the baby steps series we looked at baby step 3, saving up 3-6 months of expenses.   You never know when you're going to have an unplanned expense like a major medical event or a job loss. It's best to plan ahead and be ready when those things happen, because, they will happen! Today in baby step 4 we want to look at the things you should do once your debt is gone and you've saved up a 3-6 month emergency fund (or more like we have).  It's time to invest! Baby Step 4: Invest 15% Of Gross […] - [M1 Finance Review: The Fee Free Self-Directed Brokerage](https://smartonmoney.com/m1-finance-review/): M1 Finance is one of the more innovative, low cost investing companies available for regular investors. Here's why you should give them a try. - [Switching Banks Can Pay Off](https://smartonmoney.com/switching-banks-can-pay-off/): Having a bank account is absolutely necessary these days. People rely on banks for many services. They use them to make sure all of their bills are paid, as well as having easy access to any money they've worked hard to earn. Many people develop a relationship with their bank. They rely on the bank not only as a place to store funds, but also as a place where they can seek out financial advice. A bank can help with other aspects of their lives, including financing a home and planning for retirement. A good bank can help them make […] - [Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps: Step 3 – 3 To 6 Months Of Expenses In Savings](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-step-3-3-to-6-months-of-expenses-in-savings/): Last time we looked at Baby Step 2, paying off all your debt using the debt snowball.  You take your bills, put  them in order from smallest  amount to largest amount, and proceed to pay them off one by one, snowballing the amounts until the debts are gone! Baby Step 3 – 3 To 6 Months Of Expenses In Savings In baby step 1 we built up a $1000 emergency fund in order to protect us from life's little emergencies.  In baby step 3 we are going to take our emergency fund to the  next level, and continue building it […] - [Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps: Step 2 – Pay Off All Debt Using The Debt Snowball](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-step-2-pay-off-all-debt-using-the-debt-snowball/): In my last post in the 7 Baby Steps series, we looked at Baby Step 1, saving up an emergency fund of $1000. You save up that baby emergency fund in order to insure yourself against the risk of life's little emergencies that have a way of popping up at the least opportune time.   If you don't save up that money as an insurance policy, you can be assured that your plan to get out of debt will be set back many times over by many little “emergencies”. If you have an emergency fund saved, no new debt is created, […] - [Buying A Home: When Is The Right Time?](https://smartonmoney.com/buying-a-home-when-is-the-right-time/): There are many important items to think about before purchasing a home. Here's what it takes to purchase a new home, from start to finish. - [Financial Planning Is Planning For A Happy Future](https://smartonmoney.com/financial-planning-is-planning-for-a-happy-future/): These are the areas of life where preparation is necessary. And of these, anything related to your finances should rise to the top of the list. That said, it's often difficult to know what to expect on visiting a financial services professional. The entire concept often feels rather intimidating. In large part, this has to do with the seriousness and importance of financial topics. The professionals involved often take it just as seriously as one would hope, and this tends to lend a certain gravitas to the environment. That can make it feel a little intimidating at first. However, one […] - [Using Free Resources To Keep Tabs On Your Credit Score](https://smartonmoney.com/using-free-resources-to-keep-tabs-on-your-credit-score/): To stay on top of your finances, it's important to track your credit score. Here are several ways you can get your credit score for free. - [Dave Ramsey's 7 Baby Steps: Step 1 - $1000 To Start A Baby Emergency Fund](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-step-1-1000-to-start-a-baby-emergency-fund/): Dave Ramsey's 7 Baby Steps is a great plan for getting out of debt. Today I want to talk about Baby Step 1, saving up $1000 for a baby emergency fund. - [Dave Ramsey's 7 Baby Steps To Getting Out Of Debt](https://smartonmoney.com/dave-ramseys-7-baby-steps-to-getting-out-of-debt/): Dave Ramsey's 7 Baby Steps is a great plan for getting out of debt. Today we'll briefly run down all 7 baby steps. - [Personal Finance Basics: Pay Cash For Everything You Buy](https://smartonmoney.com/personal-finance-basics-pay-cash-for-everything-you-buy/): I still remember sending in that last student loan payment, just having a feeling of a weight lifting off of my shoulders, and not having to worry about that obligation any longer.  There was a new found sense of freedom we found by paying off our last debt.  We would now be more free to save, invest and give! In our 3 years of debt freedom we've started to get back to the personal finance basics, doing things like living below our means, paying ourselves first, and planning for unplanned emergencies.    We've started keeping a family budget, and making sure […] - [3 Guidelines For Trading In Blockchain](https://smartonmoney.com/guidelines-for-trading-in-blockchain/): If you are thinking of trading in the blockchain or any cryptocurrency, you should proceed with caution. Start with these three guidelines. - [Things You Should Know Before Trading in the Stock Market](https://smartonmoney.com/things-you-should-know-before-trading-in-the-stock-market/): Many individuals want to get better with their finances and use the New Year as a starting point for setting goals and accomplishing those dreams. Before you go through that door and begin investing, there are some basics you’ll want to know as a newbie. - [Credit Sesame Will Give You A Free Credit Score (And Help You Find Better Loan Options)](https://smartonmoney.com/credit-sesame-will-give-you-a-free-credit-score/): Credit Sesame is a great free site that offers a free credit score, credit monitoring, fraud alerts and more. Here's what you can expect with Credit Sesame. - [4 Side Hustles You Can Start If You Have A Pick-Up Truck](https://smartonmoney.com/4-side-hustles-you-can-start-if-you-have-a-pick-up-truck/): There are a number of ways you can start a side hustle to get a little extra cash if you have a pickup truck. Here are 4 ways to make extra money. - [9 Common Ways You Could Be Wasting Your Money](https://smartonmoney.com/9-common-ways-you-could-be-wasting-your-money/): There are a number of practices, seemingly commonplace, that result in wasted money each month. Here are a few ways you could be wasting money. - [Pros And Cons Of Getting A Big Tax Refund](https://smartonmoney.com/pros-and-cons-of-getting-a-big-tax-refund/): In 2016, the average tax return was $2,860. Most people would never consider a large tax return to be a con. But there can be drawbacks for some people. - [5 Reasons to Refinance Your Mortgage Now](https://smartonmoney.com/5-reasons-to-refinance-your-mortgage-now/): The perfect combination of rising home values and low interest rates is here. Conditions are ripe for refinancing a mortgage. - [Co-Signing For A Loan: Never A Good Idea Unless You Like Paying For Other People's Stuff](https://smartonmoney.com/co-signing-for-a-loan-never-a-good-idea/): The problem with co-signed loans is that far too often people don't know what they're signing up for. Here's why co-signing is a bad idea. - [Where Can I Check My State Income Tax Return Refund Status?](https://smartonmoney.com/where-can-i-check-my-state-income-tax-return-refund-status/): Filers are waiting expectantly to see when they can expect to receive their tax refund. Here's where you can view your state income tax return status. - [How To Protect Your Identity While Traveling](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-protect-your-identity-while-traveling/): With a little planning, it's possible to reduce the chances of having your identity stolen while you travel. Here are some tips to help you protect yourself. - [Do You Know What REALLY Affects Your Credit Score?](https://smartonmoney.com/do-you-know-what-really-affects-your-credit-score/): Many consumers are aware that a credit score is an important part of their finances. But do you really know what affects your credit score? - [How To Watch TV For Free Or Cheap Without Paying For Cable](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-watch-tv-for-free-or-cheap-without-paying-for-cable/): If you're anything like me you probably like keeping your expenses to the minimum – while at the same time not sacrificing so much that you're living an austere existence. You don't mind giving up eating out, as long as you're eating well at home.  You don't mind having a pre-paid cell phone, as long as you still have a wireless plan and decent phone.  You don't mind reading books online for free, as long as you have some good entertainment. Finally, you don't mind not paying for cable tv, as long as you can still watch the shows that […] - [Looking For A Job? Don't Forget The Tax Deductions!](https://smartonmoney.com/looking-for-a-job-dont-forget-the-tax-deductions/): In this tough economy, a lot of people are looking for jobs, or for one reason or another have just quit their job. If you've spent some time and effort — and money — on your job search this year, you might be eligible for a few tax breaks. Indeed, many of the expenses that you are likely to incur during a job search are tax-deductible. Can You Deduct That Job Search Expense? Before you get excited, though, you need to be aware of the caveats. First of all, you can't deduct job search expenses if you have had a […] - [Are You Ready Financially And Emotionally To Buy A Home?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-you-ready-financially-and-emotionally-to-buy-a-home/): One of the big financial and life milestones that our society still values is the purchase of a home. We assume that a home is going to be a solid investment, even if it's more of an emotional investment than a financial investment. But are you really ready to buy a home? Casey Fleming is the founder of LoanGuide.com, and he has decades of experience in the mortgage industry. He sees plenty of people buy homes when they aren't ready for the financial and emotional commitments that come with home ownership. Financial Preparation to Buy a Home Before you buy a […] - [Is It Time to Dip Into Your Emergency Fund?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-it-time-to-dip-into-your-emergency-fund/): One of the most important things you can do for your finances is to build an emergency fund, but what is your approach to using the money in the account? - [Is A Zero Based Budget Right For You?](https://smartonmoney.com/is-a-zero-based-budget-right-for-you/): One of the budgeting techniques that has gained some popularity in recent years is the zero based budget. The question is, will the zero based budget work for everyone? - [How To Recover After Bankruptcy](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-recover-after-bankruptcy/): With the right approach, you can rebuild your credit after bankruptcy, and even improve your finances. Here's how. - [Ways To Pay For College Without Breaking The Bank](https://smartonmoney.com/ways-to-pay-for-college-without-breaking-the-bank/): Going to college can be stressful in so many ways. If you are just getting out of high school, you are being pushed into the real world on your own. Your responsibilities just increased ten-fold. You now have to get yourself to class everyday, do your homework, study for tests, and maybe even work. As if that is not enough, you also have to worry about how you are going to pay for college. If you don't have money saved up to pay for tuition, you are basically on your own trying to find out how to pay for it. […] - [How To Avoid Falling Into A Bad Credit Score](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-avoid-falling-into-a-bad-credit-score/): Building good credit is a years-long process, while destroying credit only takes a few bad decisions. With this in mind, it’s important for new credit users to avoid the many mistakes which lead to bad credit scores. Too often it seems inexperienced credit cardholders underestimate the ease through which bad credit can be acquired. For these folks – the young ones especially – we thought it necessary to highlight the five best ways to avoid a bad credit score: Maintain A Healthy Debt-To-Income Ratio Credit score criteria includes something called the debt-to-income ratio. Basically it’s all your monthly debt payments […] - [Who Do You Trust For Money Advice?](https://smartonmoney.com/who-do-you-trust-for-money-advice/): For many of us, it's difficult to know what to do when it comes to our finances. So who can you trust - and turn to - for money advice? - [3 Signs You Need Help with Your Debt](https://smartonmoney.com/3-signs-you-need-help-with-your-debt/): It's tempting to try to beat debt on your own, however, for many of us, a little support and help is needed. Here are some signs you might need help. - [What Do You Do With Your Savings?](https://smartonmoney.com/what-do-you-do-with-your-savings/): One of the basic pieces of advice that we are often given about money is to save more. But where do you put that money? - [Why I'd Rather Pay $10,000 to Unload My House Than Become a Landlord](https://smartonmoney.com/why-id-rather-pay-10000-to-unload-my-house-than-become-a-landlord/): There are people out there who are made to be landlords, but not me. Here's why I'd rather pay to unload my house than become a landlord. - [Watch Out for Interest-Only Home Loans](https://smartonmoney.com/watch-out-for-interest-only-home-loans/): Now that the economy has picked up some, lenders are re-introducing a few "creative" financing methods. Here's one to watch out for, the interest-only loan. - [How To Stop Feeling Pessimistic About Retirement](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-stop-feeling-pessimistic-about-retirement/): When many Americans think about retirement, they are pessimistic — and for good reason. According to a recent COUNTRY Financial Security Index survey, 25 percent of Americans say that they are not saving for retirement at all. If you aren't saving toward your retirement, it's hard to be optimistic about it. Additionally, there is a great deal of pessimism among people in my own age group (age 30 to 39) about the ability to have a comfortable retirement. In fact, 47 percent of adults in my age group think that it's impossible for a middle-income family to save for a […] - [3 Tips for Keeping Your Summer Budget Under Control](https://smartonmoney.com/3-tips-for-keeping-your-summer-budget-under-control/): It's hard to keep the summer budget under control, but your finances will thank you for following these three tips. - [5 Tips for Reducing Financial Stress](https://smartonmoney.com/5-tips-for-reducing-financial-stress/): If you are experiencing financial stress, here are 5 tips that can help you reduce the stress of the situation, and possibly even come out ahead. - [Paying for Education: How to Understand Financial Aid Letters](https://smartonmoney.com/paying-for-education-how-to-understand-financial-aid-letters/): When it comes to reading financial aid letters these days, often it's hard to separate the scholarships and grants from the loans. Here's how you can. - [How To Handle A Canceled Flight](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-handle-a-canceled-flight/): I‘m getting ready for a few months that include quite a bit of travel. While I don't usually run into problems when I fly, my husband has had a couple of experiences with canceled flights. Twice he's experienced flight cancellations in the midwest due to tornadoes. And, of course, if you travel during the winter you might run afoul of extreme weather. If your flight is canceled, how you handle it matters. While it's never pleasant to be stranded, the reality is that you can make the situation better or worse, based on your actions. Here are some things to […] - [Your Grocery Bill Could Rise with Dairy Prices](https://smartonmoney.com/your-grocery-bill-could-rise-with-dairy-prices/): Rising dairy prices mean that you pay extra for more than just milk. A good portion of your grocery bill could be going up. - [Can You Trust Your Tax Preparer?](https://smartonmoney.com/can-trust-tax-preparer/): My tax preparer is a life saver. Ever since I formed my LLC and began investing, my taxes have been a bit on the complex side. As a result, an accountant prepares my tax returns each year (one for the business, and one for my husband and me, plus our state tax return). This makes my life easier, since I don't spend hours filling out the forms and tracking down the latest information on tax law changes. I'm fortunate because I trust my tax preparer. My accountant will represent me to the IRS free of charge if I'm audited, and […] - [4 Financial Things to Talk About Before Marriage](https://smartonmoney.com/4-financial-things-talk-marriage/): Before you tie the knot, it makes sense to get to know your potential marriage partner. One of the things it helps to know is how your potential partner will deal with finances. - [Why Now is the Time to Kick Up the Debt Reduction](https://smartonmoney.com/why-now-is-the-time-to-kick-up-the-debt-reduction/): If you still have high-interest consumer debt, now is probably a good time to tackle that. With a changing environment, rates may be about to rise. - [New Year Money Goal: Pick One Big Thing To Accomplish](https://smartonmoney.com/new-year-money-goal-pick-one-big-thing-to-accomplish/): Instead of making a list of several money goals, try picking one big thing to accomplish during the year. The great thing about this approach is that you have one over-arching goal that can be broken down into manageable steps. - [3 Spending Traps To Avoid This Holiday Season](https://smartonmoney.com/3-spending-traps-to-avoid-this-holiday-season/): This time of year, it's all about the shopping. Shopping for food, for gifts, and for decorations. However, it's easy to fall into spending traps when you're already predisposed toward spending money. Before you head out, be aware of the following spending traps, and do your best to avoid them. 1. Buying Something Because It's a “Good Deal” When you're already on the hunt for bargains, it's easy to add just one more thing to your cart because it's a “good deal.” But do you really need it — or even want it? If it's not on your list, you […] - [Giving A Gift Card? Make It Personal!](https://smartonmoney.com/giving-a-gift-card-make-it-personal/): One of the easiest ways to give a gift, particularly during the holiday season, is with the help of a gift card. But how can you make it feel more personal? - [What To Do If You're Underemployed](https://smartonmoney.com/what-to-do-if-youre-underemployed/): It's not fun to be underemployed, but if you want to chance the circumstances, you need to keep working hard, and looking for networking opportunities that can lead to a new job. - [How To Identify A Solid Business Partner](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-identify-a-solid-business-partner/): Finding a business partner you can trust can be a chancy venture, but the rewards, when you pick correctly, can be great. - [Budget Out Of Control? How to Take Charge](https://smartonmoney.com/budget-out-of-control-how-to-take-charge/): There are times when it seems as though your money is in charge of you. At times, whether it's because you are anxious and stressed, or just because you're busy and feel you don't have time to manage your money, it's possible for your budget to get away from you. You find yourself pulling out the credit card more and more — with no real plan for paying of the balance at the end of the month. It's hard to stay on top of your budget at times like these, and it can be tempting to not even try. After […] - [How To Choose A Financial Coach](https://smartonmoney.com/how-to-choose-a-financial-coach/): Many of us recognize that we need help sometimes. What would you look for in a financial coach? - [3 Common Types Of IRAs To Consider](https://smartonmoney.com/3-common-types-of-iras-to-consider/): Retirement is something that most people know they need to focus on at some point in their lives, yet many get so overwhelmed by it that they don't take the time to do so. Learning the ins and outs of retirement can be a long, frustrating experience, but just knowing that you're saving towards the future can bring peace of mind. One of the most convoluted aspects of retirement is sorting out the differences between IRAs. IRA stands for “Individual Retirement Account,” and can basically be viewed as a savings and investment account that comes along with a variety of […] - [5 Things To Look For In A Long Term Investment](https://smartonmoney.com/5-things-to-look-for-in-a-long-term-investment/): As you consider which investments to include in your long term portfolio, here are 5 things to look for. - [ShareBuilder By Capital One Review: Discount Online Stock Brokerages](https://smartonmoney.com/sharebuilder-by-capital-one-review/): ShareBuilder has a great reputation as a low cost brokerage with few fees, and is thought by many to be a great option for automatic investors. - [Keep Your Sanity, Even During Tough Financial Situations](https://smartonmoney.com/keep-your-sanity-even-during-tough-financial-situations/): Market analyst and mathematician Lambros Klouvidakis gives 5 tips to maintain your sanity even in times of financial difficulty. - [More Consumers Feel They Are Reaching Their Financial Goals](https://smartonmoney.com/more-consumers-feel-they-are-reaching-their-financial-goals/): According to a survey, more consumers feel positive about the economy -- and their own improving financial situations. What do you think about these findings? - [Retirement Finances: Will Your Expenses Drop? Or Just Change?](https://smartonmoney.com/retirement-finances-will-your-expenses-drop-or-just-change/): One of the rules of thumb that has been in existence for a long time is the idea that you should plan to need around 75% of your current income in retirement. But will our expenses really go down? - [Slower Rise For Health Care Costs For 2014?](https://smartonmoney.com/slower-rise-for-health-care-costs-for-2014/): I was interested to see whether or not my premium would increase more than in years past, due to the fact that most of the rest of the provisions under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) kick in during 2014. - [The Best Retirement Might Be...Not Retiring](https://smartonmoney.com/the-best-retirement-might-be-not-retiring/): According to a recent study, it turns out that you are likely to live longer, and even have a better quality of life, if you keep working in retirement. - [How Do You Figure Your Tips?](https://smartonmoney.com/how-do-you-figure-your-tips/): In our society, it's expected that you tip when you receive service from different providers. While it can be difficult sometimes to figure out when to tip (the carpet layers? what about the guy driving the airport shuttle?), it's pretty well accepted that you tip when you visit the salon, and when you eat out. But how do you figure your tips? According to CouponCabin.com, the way that people figure their tips is changing. Original Price vs. Discounted Price Many of us are much savvier shoppers than we were prior to the financial crisis and recession. We use daily deal sites […] - [Life Insurance Ownership Is At 50 Year Lows. Don't Get Caught Without It!](https://smartonmoney.com/life-insurance-ownership-is-at-50-year-lows-dont-get-caught-without-it/): According to a study by Limra.org, life insurance ownership is at 50 year lows with only 44% of U.S. households having any life insurance coverage. Don't be one of the statistics! - [Are Credit Report Errors Costing You?](https://smartonmoney.com/are-credit-report-errors-costing-you/): About 5% of consumers who check their credit reports have found major errors, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Are those errors costing you? - [Has Your Home Offered You A Solid Return So Far?](https://smartonmoney.com/has-your-home-offered-you-a-solid-return-so-far/): Has your home been a good investment and have you seen solid returns on your money? - [Would You Rather Talk About Your Wallet Or Your Weight?](https://smartonmoney.com/would-you-rather-talk-about-your-wallet-or-your-weight/): There are certain topics that make us uncomfortable. Weight and money are two of those subjects. - [5 Ways to Combat Rising Health Care Costs](https://smartonmoney.com/5-ways-to-combat-rising-health-care-costs/): Whether it's the fault of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), or a combination of other factors, health care costs are going to keep rising. Here are 5 ways to combat those rising health care costs: ## Pages - [Thank You](https://smartonmoney.com/thank-you/): Thank you for your purchase. - [Motorcycle Insurance Quotes](https://smartonmoney.com/insurance/motorcycle-insurance-compare/): Here are some of the best companies to work with in your state. Get more details by clicking on the links. - [Homeowner's Insurance Quotes](https://smartonmoney.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance-compare/): Here are some of the best companies to work with in your state. Get more details by clicking on the links. - [Life Insurance Quotes](https://smartonmoney.com/insurance/life-insurance-compare/): Here are some of the best companies to work with in your state. Get more details by clicking on the links. - [Insurance](https://smartonmoney.com/insurance/): Insurance is an important topic that is far too often avoided in households across America.  The reason? I think it involves a lot of topics that aren't fun to talk about, and as such most people would rather avoid it. It deals with dying (life insurance), accidents (auto insurance),  loss of a home (homeowner's insurance) or dealing with health issues (health insurance). All of those things can be life altering events, and events that no one wants to think about. Avoiding those topics, and avoiding getting insurance in any of those areas can be a big mistake, however.  At our […] - [Health Insurance Quotes](https://smartonmoney.com/insurance/health-insurance-compare/): Here are some of the best companies to work with in your state. Get more details by clicking on the links. - [Compare Auto Insurance](https://smartonmoney.com/auto-insurance/compare/): Here are some of the best companies to work with in your state. Get more details by clicking on the links. - [Auto Insurance](https://smartonmoney.com/auto-insurance/): Has it been a while since you shopped around for auto insurance? If it has been you may want to consider giving it another shot. Insurance rates and fees change all the time, and if it's been a year or more since you've shopped, you may be paying more than you should. The last time I compared auto insurance rates it had been about 5-6 years since I had gotten quotes. When I got rates from a variety of companies I quickly realized that not checking my rates had cost me thousands of dollars. By switching my insurance I ended […] - [Mortgage Rates](https://smartonmoney.com/mortgage-rates/): When looking for a home mortgage it's important to do your research and figure out what option will be the best for you when it comes to the interest rate, loan term, and total amount of interest paid. In general I believe getting a fixed rate mortgage is usually going to be the best choice for most folks, although in some rare instances I might consider getting an ARM if I knew I would be moving within a few years. Below we have a listing of some of the best current mortgage rates and terms available. Just select the state, […] - [Credit Scores](https://smartonmoney.com/credit-scores/): How To Get Free FICO Score And Other Credit Scores The Fair Credit Reporting Act was legislation that put in place consumer-friendly credit practices, including allowing consumers to obtain one free copy of their credit report from each of the three major reporting agencies each year. The three agencies include TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. While you get your credit report for free, getting your actual credit score used by companies in determining your creditworthiness could cost you a little bit more. For example, when you order your free credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com, you can also get your credit scores for […] - [CD Rates](https://smartonmoney.com/cd-rates/): Looking for the best CD rates? Search the automatically updated rates table below. - [High Yield Saving Accounts](https://smartonmoney.com/bank-rates/): Search the automatically updated rates table below. Just select the type of account you’re looking for, the amount of the deposit you’ll be making and hit “update result”. Below are the the rates on some of the best high yield savings accounts currently available. If we've done a review of a particular bank, it will appear in the last column on the right. Good luck finding the right bank for you - [Discount Brokerages And Mutual Fund Companies](https://smartonmoney.com/discount-brokerages/): Looking for a place to open an investment account for your Traditional IRA or Roth IRA? Here's a listing of some of the best discount brokerages and mutual fund companies we've found to open your account – along with their fees and commissions. - [Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary](https://smartonmoney.com/retiring-wealthy-on-an-average-salary/): We have a continuing series on this site looking at the profiles of average Joes (and Josephinas!) who have been able to become wealthy while only earning an average salary during their lifetime. I think their stories can help to enforce the idea that you don't have to be a doctor or professional athlete in order to save and invest wisely, and become wealthy in retirement. Stories Of Retiring Wealthy On An Average Salary The Story Of The Charitable Cook And Contractor The Story Of The Thrifty Engineer The Story Of The Altruistic Educator The Story Of The Sensible Social Worker […] - [Personal Finance Basics](https://smartonmoney.com/personal-finance-basics/): The articles are written with the idea of getting back to the basics, and helping people to become more self-sufficient with their finances.   I think that sometimes things aren't really all that complicated, people just choose to make them that way. Personal Finance Basics Personal Finance Basics: Live Below Your Means Personal Finance Basics: Pay Yourself First Personal Finance Basics: The Power Of Compound Interest Personal Finance Basics: Negative Events Will Happen To You. Plan Ahead With Insurance And An Emergency Fund Personal Finance Basics: Pay Cash For Everything You Buy Stay tuned, I'll be updating this page as I […] - [Credit Cards](https://smartonmoney.com/credit-cards/): Here are some of the best current credit card deals available. Click on the one you're interested in to view more details. - [About](https://smartonmoney.com/about/): Smart On Money was launched in May of 2010 as a place for me to talk about a topic that I love learning and sharing about, personal finance. While I'm not a financial professional I've written regularly on major media sites about personal finance, investing, taxes and a variety of other topics.  I decided it was time to start my own blog and write more regularly – and for myself! Hopefully this site will also be a place where we can all share our thoughts on money and relationships, and learn from each other's experiences.  So please join in the […] - [Privacy Policy](https://smartonmoney.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy, Disclaimer And Disclosure For SmartOnMoney.com Privacy Policy The privacy of our visitors to SmartOnMoney.com is important to us. At SmartOnMoney.com, we recognize that privacy of your personal information is important. Here is information on what types of personal information we receive and collect when you use visit SmartOnMoney.com, and how we safeguard your information. We never sell your personal information to third parties. Log Files As with most other websites, we collect and use the data contained in log files. The information in the log files include your IP (internet protocol) address, your ISP (internet service provider, such […] - [Contribute](https://smartonmoney.com/contact/contribute/): Write For Smart On Money I'm always looking for well written guest posts to mix things up on SmartOnMoney.com If you are interested in submitting your article(s) for consideration, please read the rest of this page. Guest Post Submission Guidelines Articles should be 800-1000 words minimum. We prefer articles in the 1500-2000 word range. Topic should be related to personal finance. Email me first to approve the topic. It must be your original content, not published anywhere before. Feel free to add up to 2 links back to your own web site within the content. No affiliate links. I reserve […] - [Contact](https://smartonmoney.com/contact/): Please feel free to get in touch with me with questions, comments or concerns at admin @ smartonmoney.com. Looking to contribute a guest post? Please check out this page - [Advertise](https://smartonmoney.com/advertise/): Sidebar 125×125 Graphic Ad Cost: $40 1-Month, $220 for 6-months What you get: Graphic 125×125 banner on the sidebar below the fold. Benefits: Your ad is displayed on every page of this site. Sidebar 250×250 Graphic Ad Cost: $45 1-Month, $250 for 6-months What you get: Graphic 250×250 banner on the sidebar below the fold. Benefits: Your ad is displayed on every page of this site. Sidebar 160×600 Graphic Ad Cost: $45 1-Month, $250 for 6-months What you get: Graphic 160×600 banner on the sidebar. Benefits: Your ad is displayed on every page of this site. Rotating Sidebar 160×600 Graphic […] - [Archives](https://smartonmoney.com/archives/): Contributors Posts by Mr. Money Posts by Miranda Marquit Posts by Smart On Money Readers Posts By Month ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/smartonmoney.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)