The Dollar Stretcher Featured Content

Cleaning Mildewed Stuffed Animals, Mildew Smell, Stuffed Toys

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Cleaning mildewed stuffed animals is possible. Don't throw the beloved toy away. Follow these tips on removing the mildew smell from stuffed toys.

Spending Plan, Budget, Budgets, Budgeting, Household Budget, Household Expenses

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Do you have a spending plan? We all have to deal with having just so much money to cover expenses. Without a spending plan, trouble's brewing.

New Credit Card, Credit Card Applications, New Credit Card Applications

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Shopping and applying for cards is not as easy as it used to be, so don't miss these 7 tips on finding your best deal on a new credit card.

Coupons, Coupon, Coupon Clipping, Using Coupons, Clipping Coupons

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Using coupons had been declining for 16 straight years. However, clipping coupons is making a comeback and is saving some $1000 a year on food.

Setting Goals, Goal Setting, Achieving Goals

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Are you one for setting goals or do you just let life happen? See how setting goals has made a major difference in this family's financial life.

Readers' Tips

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Frugal Living Tips.

Tracking Expenses, Trouble Tracking Expenses, Bill Trouble, Budgeting

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Do you control your money or does it control you? Are you having trouble tracking expenses? If so, let us help you with some financial insight.

Financial Predictions, 2010 Financial Predictions, 2010 Financial Forecast

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Surfacing are all kinds of financial predictions for 2010. In the interest of being different, we'll forecast things that will NOT happen in 2010.

Discount Stores, Dollar Stores, Grocery Budget, Household Budget

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

By using discount stores and dollar stores, you can stretch your grocery budget and household budget without sacrificing quality.

Auto Maintenance, Automobile Maintenance, Car Maintenance, Cash for Clunkers

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Did you know that over a 4-year period keeping your old car running with preventative auto maintenance could save you $10,000? Follow these steps.

Cloth Diapers, Cloth Diapering, Using Cloth Diapers

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The debate between cloth diapers and disposable diapers has been ongoing. Here's one mother's feedback on the use of cloth diapers.

Job Search, Internet Job Search, Resume

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Facing a job search can be bad, but having a plan takes the edge off. Here are a few suggestions to get your job search started.

Holiday Bills: Readers' Poll

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The Dollar Stretcher polls readers about their paying off their holiday bills.

Readers' Tips

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Frugal Living Tips.

Working Mom, Single Mom, Single Parent, Saving Tips, Cutting Expenses

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

It is possible to save money with limited time. Don't miss these ways to save money that even a hopelessly busy working mom, single mom can do.

Credit Holds, Holds on Debit Cards, Debit Cards, Credit Cards, Debit Card Holds

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Could credit holds be causing your money to disappear? Here's some insight to various aspects of using debit and credit transactions.

Freezer Meals, Once a Month Cooking, Dinner Assembly Franchises, Downloadable Menu

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Say good-bye to soggy freezer meals forever. There's a better way. Find meals that can be assembled in their raw state, defrosted, and then cooked.

Dollar Store, Dollar Store Finds, Dollar Stores

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Many of us like going to a dollar store. Try these outside-the-box uses for the typical items found at a dollar store. Be creative and having fun!

Early Retirement Scams, Early Retirement, Retirement Savings, Retiring Early

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Don't let the promise of easy money lure you into early retirement scams. Keep from falling for a pitch that could wipe out your retirement savings.

Readers' Tips

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Frugal Living Tips.

Homemade Shampoo, Affordable Homemade Shampoo, Natural Shampoo, Beautiful Hair, Hair Care

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Check out these recipes for affordable natural homemade shampoo. Does it make any sense to pay more for the hype?

Valentine's Day, Valentines Day, Valentine's Day on a Shoestring, Frugal Valentine's Day

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

With Valentine's Day around the corner, don't miss this list of inexpensive ideas for spending some quality romantic time with your Valentine.

Bag Sale, Bag Sales, Bargains, Thrift Store Bargains

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Did you know that some thrift stores hold a bag sale occasionally? This is a great opportunity to snag a bargain bonanza.

Picky Eater, Raising Financially Responsible Kids, Kids and Money

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Is it possible that a child that is a picky eater is a sign of financial problems to come if not taught a better way to relate to the world around him?

Reducing Dental Bills, Dental Bills, Dental Hygiene

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

For some, dental bills are a big worry. Don't miss these tips from a Registered Dental Hygienist on keeping teeth healthy while reducing dental bills.

Work History, Resume, Work History Resume, Resume Format

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

When writing a resume, your work history is of utmost importance. How can you make it more meaningful to a hiring manager? Take a look.

Readers' Tips

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Frugal Living Tips.

Frugal Fatigue, Frugal Living, Saving Money, Living on a Budget

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

When living the frugal life, there comes a time when we all experience frugal fatigue and we just can't clip another coupon or stretch another dollar. What can we do?

Maximizing Space, Small Spaces, Extra Space, Getting Extra Space

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Is your family growing but the budget's shrinking? Start maximizing space. No need to buy a new home or build an expensive addition onto your house.

Collectibles, Collectible

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

What exactly defines a

Reducing Food Costs, Buying in Bulk, Preserving Foods, Cooking from Scratch

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

From buying healthy foods in bulk to buying close to the supply source to preserving garden bounty, there are so many ways of reducing food costs.

Debt Collectors, Debt Collection, Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

If you're behind in paying your bills, you can expect to hear from debt collectors. However, you do have the right to be treated fairly.

Readers' Tips

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Frugal Living Tips.

8 tax-filing moves you can make now

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Procrastinate on your taxes and you could pay the price. Here's how to get a head start.

Taxes: Choosing a tax professional

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Don't want to do your taxes yourself? Here's how to find a qualified professional.

Secrets of a new-car price sticker

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Knowing the secrets behind a new car's price sticker can help you make your best deal.

10 best credit card moves in 2010

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Follow these tips to get the most out of a new credit card law that will benefit consumers in 2010.

Low CD rates leave 'laddering' shaky

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

With CD rates at 25-year lows, the popular strategy of "laddering" has been left on shaky ground.

9 steps to a car loan on damaged credit

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Weak credit doesn't mean you can't get a car loan or have to lock yourself into sky-high interest rates.

3 tips for when collectors come calling

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Following these steps will smooth the way when multiple collectors are demanding payment.

Make sure credit union CD insured

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

There is no good reason to keep shares in a credit union CD if they are not NCUSIF-insured.

Loan payoff feels like rip-off

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The terms of a loan payoff have left one borrower angry and seeking retribution.

Figuring depreciation on a rental

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The rules for depreciating a home that was converted to a rental can get tricky.

Home improvement: 10 cheap upgrades

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Make a splash without spending much cash with these 10 quick and easy home projects.

5 options for a car loan in bankruptcy

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

You can surrender your auto but there are other ways to deal with your car loan in bankruptcy.

7 ways to save on moving costs

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Whether heading across country or down the street, movers can save by following these seven tips.

Invisible threat to home values

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Tips for spotting the hidden debt that sinks home values: Is it lurking in your neighborhood?

4 tips for the homebuyer tax credit

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Want to take advantage of the extended and expanded homebuyer tax credit? Follow these tips.

10 smart money-saving tips for 2010

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Check your spending at the door and use these money-saving tips for everyday life and retirement.

Cash-strapped states turn to tax amnesties

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Revenue problems in some states could be a blessing for taxpayers, in the form of tax amnesties.

Video: First-time homebuyer tax credit

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Get the details on the homebuyer tax credit.

Which type of mortgage is best?

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Shopping for a mortgage? Ask these questions about type of loan to fees and interest.

Properly defined dependents can pay off

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Kids depend on you for a lot, but at tax time they could pay off when you claim them as dependents.

Filing status makes a difference in tax bill

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

It seems easy enough to choose your filing status, but your choice could mean the difference in your tax bill.

6 steps to a lower prepayment penalty

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

It's not easy to waive these hefty loan fees, but this strategy could help reduce the costly sting.

10 astute tax moves in 2010

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Start saving today on next year's taxes with these simple strategies for lowering your IRS bill.

3 tips for repairing your credit score

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Follow these points to boost your credit score while beginning to use credit again prudently.

Naming successor of grandparent's 529 plans

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Grandparents can make parents or grandchildren owners of 529 plans, and each has pros and cons.

3 tips to snag the appliance rebate

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The federal energy-efficient appliance rebate varies by state, but these three hints will help you get one.

New form helps to estimate closing costs

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The new good faith estimate forces lenders to provide an accurate estimate of closing costs.

2009-2010 estate and gift tax amounts

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Know that your generosity is not the generosity of the IRS; you may have to pay taxes on it.

Tax valuation guide for donated goods

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Remember, only items in good or better condition are accepted.

Home equity loan or line of credit?

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Knowing how you'll be using the money will help you decide which type of home equity debt is best.

Should you buy a Pontiac or Saturn?

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Buyers worry that parts won't be available for a Saturn or Pontiac, but the discounts are deep.

Credit do's & don'ts before a refinance

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Before you refinance, take certain actions -- and avoid others -- to boost your credit score.

Gifts to charity pay off on your taxes

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Your gifts to charity can do more than make you feel good. They might lower your tax bill.

Standard or itemized tax deduction?

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Tax deductions reduce your taxable income, so choose the one that gives you the smallest tax bill.

Clean diesel cars qualify for tax break

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The tax credit for alternative fuel vehicles is just one more incentive to buy a clean diesel car.

2009 exemption amounts

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Know who is an exemption deduction and how much each is worth.

Video: College savings plans for kids

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

College Money Guru Joe Hurley explains the benefits of 529 plans to save for college.

Never too old for credit counseling

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

For people in debt for decades, credit counseling could show them how to climb out.

Free job-loss mortgage insurance?

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Insurance -- often for free -- can pay your mortgage in the event you lose your job.

10 key tax terms to know

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Even with all the forms and instructions, tax language can seem like Latin. Here are the key terms.

Mortgage default is poor choice

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A man who is ,000 under water on his loan wonders if he should trigger a mortgage default.

Check caps, floors before refinance

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

When weighing a refinance, look first at the interest rate caps and floors on the existing mortgage.

Buy variable annuity carefully

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Investors should not choose a variable annuity before doing a little homework.

Mortgage refinance is personal choice

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A mortgage refinance requires the borrower to crunch numbers and make personal choices.

Are loan costs tied to CD rates?

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Do current CD rates limit the rate banks can charge on a loan? The answer is complicated.

Are blood donations taxable income?

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Depending on the situation, your blood donations could be taxed as earned income.

IRS gets a cut of cruise ship winnings

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

You can't get away from giving Uncle Sam a taste when you're lucky at gambling.

Tax help in caring for an aging parent

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Millions of adult children find themselves looking after aging parents. If you qualify, tax laws offer some help.

10 ways to pay college tuition in 2010

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

There are several ways to save for college tuition, but starting early is the ticket to success.

Paying off Chapter 13 plan early

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

It seems smart to pay off your Chapter 13 bankruptcy early, but there's a good reason to wait.

Should you bank online?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Customers who bank online gain many perks, but dangers may also lurk in cyberspace.

5 credit card mistakes to avoid making

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

You can fall into a deep financial hole by deluding yourself with these rationalizations.

Good credit score of past not so good now

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

In the new lending environment, a good credit score is not good enough for today's homebuyers.

10 ways to dodge bankruptcy in 2010

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Try one or more of these strategies to lower your debt, live frugally and skirt bankruptcy.

Don't raid IRA to pay off credit card debt

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Continue to pay down debt while contributing to an IRA that you'll need down the road.

10 best (and real) work-at-home jobs

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Telecommuting has expanded rapidly, making a wide range of jobs just a mouse click away.

5 ways to give big on a shoestring budget

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Nonprofit and philanthropic experts list 5 ways you can help charities even on a tight budget.

Ways to electronically file your tax return

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Most taxpayers will file their returns electronically this year. Here are the ways you can be one of them.

Online tax payment options

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The IRS offers several ways to pay your tax tab electronically.

Car lineups to expand with VW-Suzuki deal

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

VW should benefit from Suzuki's expertise in compact cars; Suzuki, from VW's clean diesel advances.

Comparing home loans now easier

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The first-ever industry-standardized good faith estimate was unveiled Jan. 1.

5 reasons to review auto insurance & save

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Experts urge you to consider shopping for a new auto insurance policy in these five situations.

Secrets of the homebuyer tax credit

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The homebuyer tax credit has little-known rules that can help or hurt your chances for a refund.

Will lender extend car loan period?

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The finance company might rework your car loan, but don't wait till you're behind in payments to ask.

Tax refund loan alternatives

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Be patient when waiting for your tax refund, because refund anticipation loans can come back to bite you.

Getting the most from tax software

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Don't want to spend hours on your return? Tax-preparation software may be the answer.

3 ways to shed credit card debt in old age

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

There are few options for lowering credit card debt on a fixed income but these might help.

College savings options for grandparents

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Grandparents have several options for building college savings for their grandchildren.

How to deal with the coming economic crisis

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Think we've experienced a crisis? Expect things to get worse, says author Stephen Leeb, Ph.D.

Getting full tax credit for your kids

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Come tax time, look to your children as a tax credit.

Remodeling your home without home equity

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

No equity in your home? These five ideas can help you find cash to remodel anyway.

10 tips to buy or sell real estate in 2010

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

If you're trying to move in or out of a house in the coming year, these real estate tips will help.

Facing foreclosure? You have options

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

If the dreaded "f-word" -- foreclosure -- has disrupted your life, here are four choices you should explore.

How to get a free credit score

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Here are five ways to get a free credit score estimate for the major credit bureaus.

Americans not confident about getting rich

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Most people say it's harder to get rich than it used to be, according to Bankrate's new poll.

Credit card may beat home equity loan

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Credit card debt may trump a home equity loan for a couple planning a home improvement project.

Know rate before cashing savings bond

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Before cashing in a savings bond, it's important to the current and expected future interest rate.

IRA transfer solves tax worry

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A trustee-to-trustee transfer can help an IRA beneficiary avoid a short-term tax hit.

U.S. Treasury securities remain safe

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The full faith and taxing power of the U.S. government keeps Treasury securities safe.

Sales tax deduction for a new roof?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

When it comes to home renovations like a new roof, the sales tax deduction can get confusing.

Can sales tax on a new car be deducted?

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Tax law changes last year still allow you to deduct sales tax on a new car, with some limits.

Tax costs for poorly timed stock transactions

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Did you sell a loser stock? Before you buy it back, make sure you don't violate the wash sale rules.

Being a landlord

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Being a landlord takes work and responsibility.

Dr. Don's 10 savvy money tips for 2010

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

From rebalancing to retiring, spending to saving, IRAs to CDs, Dr. Don offers these great money tips.

Great time to invest in rental property

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Low rates, low prices make this a great time to invest in rental property.

3 ways to keep your debt from harming kids

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

They're not liable for your debt, but these steps will spare them the hassle of a collection agency.

Index CD may boost returns but add risk

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Low rates have consumers looking at index CDs linked to currencies, stocks or gold.

Boosting a business with a microloan

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A microloan can be a big boost to a new entrepreneur. Here's what to know before you lend.

10 car buying hints for 2010

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Research the car, incentives and additional discounts before actually visiting the dealer's lot.

Inheritance: Save or pay off card debt?

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Using inheritance to pay down a credit card is a sound strategy, but so is saving for the future.

Top 10 states for foreclosure

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Inflated prices, toxic mortgages and unemployment combined to cause a foreclosure tsunami.

Domestic violence complicates tax problems

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

In considering innocent spouse relief, the IRS takes spousal abuse into account.

Household-help tax deadline Feb. 1

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Did you hire someone to help around the house? Then you could have some tax housekeeping to do by Feb. 1.

Invest or pay off credit card?

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Many people face this dilemma. Here's how to decide what to do.

3 ways to make a 529 plan withdrawal

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

How you withdraw money from a 529 plan depends on the beneficiary. Here's what to consider.

Is a charge card same as a credit card?

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A charge card usually must be paid in full each month and require an excellent credit score.

FHA loan costs to increase

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

FHA loans have low down payments, but will new premium increases make them less attractive?

Low-mileage used cars bring best prices

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

There's no new car smell, but you can find the best prices on used cars with 5,000 to 6,000 miles.

Best time to shop -- winter bargains

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Instead of trawling stores all the time, shop at the right time to get the best deals.

Detroit Auto Show unveils new car styling

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

New car models, concepts and styling marked the Detroit Auto Show. Next stop: a showroom near you.

How long will your house last?

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Find out which items in your house could last a century, and which will need to be replaced.

Do energy-efficient appliances add up?

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Efficient appliances can mean big monthly energy savings, but do they make financial sense?

7 things to know about an FHA loan

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

An FHA loan may be the ticket for you. These tips will help you take advantage of one.

Claiming the Making Work Pay credit

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Claiming the Making Work Pay credit requires more tax paperwork. Say hello to the new Schedule M.

What is a mortgage calculator?

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

An online mortgage calculator can quickly predict your mortgage payment and amortization schedule.

5 borrowers who need a mortgage calculator

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Five types of consumers can benefit from using a mortgage calculator to chart their next loan move.

3 ways to use a mortgage calculator

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A mortgage calculator can be used for purposes other than estimating a new mortgage payment.

Getting more from a mortgage calculator

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Use these tips and tricks to get the most from Bankrate's online mortgage calculator.

Video: Going green in the kitchen

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The way you cook and clean up in the kitchen can cost you money and the environment.

Use retirement savings to pay for home?

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

It's risky to use retirement savings to create a "house rich, cash poor" status.

Loan co-signer must have good credit

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Lenders typically expect a loan co-signer to have a good credit score and a solid income.

Which mortgage payment plan is best?

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

An apples-to-apples comparison reveals the best mortgage payment plan option for one homeowner.

Refinance an uphill fight after job loss

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A couple is unlikely to qualify for a refinance, which may not be a good option for them anyway.

Nondeductible IRA rule changes in 2010

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Nondeductible IRA contributions are undergoing an important rule change in 2010.

Reporting disability benefits for a minor

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Grandfather wants to know whose return reports the disability benefits being paid to his grandson.

Writing off a tax loss on a franchise

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Before determining the amount of tax loss on a franchise, make sure to amortize.

Bankruptcy better than waiting out debt

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

You can try to outlast the statute of limitations on debt, but bankruptcy might be less of a burden.

Video: Credit cards after new law

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

The effects of the new credit card law.

5 tips for the new credit card era

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

The Credit CARD Act takes effect Feb. 22. Learn how to benefit from it.

Debt settlement: real help or waste?

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Paying a debt settlement company can leave your debt unpaid and you facing collectors alone.

New home loan modification rules coming

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Need a home loan modification? In June, homeowners must provide financial documents upfront.

Homebuyers going cheaper, smaller, greener

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

The McMansion is yielding to an old-school spending ethic and a downsized homebuyer demographic.

'First Look' gives buyers foreclosure edge

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Fannie Mae's "First Look" program helps owner-occupants looking for a deal on a foreclosure.

Go 'basic' when buying major appliances

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Why pay for extra bells and whistles that you don't want or really even need?

How to deal with a car loan you can't pay

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A two-car family dilemma: One car is paid off and you still can't afford your remaining car loan.

Detroit developing better fuel economy

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The government dished out million to automakers to improve fuel economy and they're responding.

Buy food in bulk and save

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

You can save on food costs by buying in bulk, but be sure you can use what you buy.

Skip debt settlement; it can backfire

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

They call it "debt relief," but it's really debt settlement and it can cost you more if it fails.

High-yield CD rates still your best bet

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

High-yield CD rates remain the highest yields available that come with a government guarantee.

Fight fair about money with your honey

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Tired of fighting about finances with your spouse? Here are solutions to three sticky situations.

5 innovative job search strategies

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Posting resumes isn't enough. These job search methods could take your hunt to a new level.

Auto insurance rates collide with credit

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Humor columnist Jay MacDonald wonders why auto insurance companies want to know our credit scores.

Should you own these municipal bonds?

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The Build America Bond program is a hit with states. But are these municipal bonds a good deal?

Finding money to save

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

With a little planning, you can find money to put into savings.

7 steps to a 2010 Roth IRA conversion

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Uncle Sam is offering IRA-conversion perks this year. Here's how you can capitalize on them.

401(k) may not offer hardship withdrawal

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

A 401(k) plan is not required to offer a hardship withdrawal option to participants.

Can't refinance without mortgage

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

You can't fund renovations with a refinance if there's no outstanding mortgage on the house.

Higher interest rate may require risk

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

An investor has to decide whether a higher interest rate is worth taking on greater risk.

401(k) loan from old job unlikely

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

A company is unlikely to allow an ex-employee to take out a 401(k) loan, but it can't hurt to ask.

CD rates now higher than Treasuries

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Right now, CD rates are higher than the yields on Treasury securities for comparable maturities.

Who pays tax on disability benefits?

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Social Security disability benefits are taxable, depending on your level of income.

5 old tax laws, with new amounts

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Some old tax laws stay the same. Just the amounts change to reflect inflation.

7 new tax laws to know

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Several new tax laws made it into the IRS Code. See which ones might help cut your tax bill

Make your hobby pay for itself

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Does your hobby make money? Turning it into a business could provide tax advantages.

Tax steps household employers need to take

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Don't forget taxes when hiring household help. That nanny, gardener or home nurse will cost you more than salaries.

Avoid the nanny tax pitfalls

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Don't be tripped up by the nanny tax. Be sure to follow the rules when it comes to household help.

How to adjust your withholding

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Did you just discover you're getting a big tax refund? Then you need to adjust your withholding.

4 questions on ,500 home tax credit

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST

Existing homeowners now have a shot at the new home tax credit. Is it the right move for you?

What to do if you don't get your W-2

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

If your wage statement gets waylaid, here's a substitute the IRS will accept.

You can file your return without 1099 forms

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Still waiting on 1099 forms so you can file your return? Here's how to do your taxes without them.

Tax credit claims could limit Free File

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

The IRS's Free File option is back. But this year, credit claims could leave some filers out.

Your tax documents are in the mail

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:00:00 EST

Before you can file you need your tax documents. Here are the statements you should expect.