Paul Michael's blog

The Gift Card Scam of 2011: Don’t Be a Victim

There's a chance that the gift card you just bought or received could be worthless. Learn about the new gift card scam, and how to protect yourself.

The Psychology of Free, and Its Power Over You

From Craigslist to grocery samples, free stuff is everywhere. Understand how marketers use "free," the psychology behind it, and how it affects your habits.

13 Cheap Beers to Keep Your Holiday Season Hoppin’

Well, 'tis the season to be merry and enjoy some beers. Here are 13 that are well worth your time, during the winter and beyond.

The 25 Best Things to Buy on Craigslist

We all know that Craigslist is a real money-saver. But it's especially great for these 25 items, which are readily available on the site at rock-bottom prices.

25 Ways to Make Money Today

Need some cash now? Want to make a few extra bucks to buy something that isn't in your budget this month? Here are 25 ideas to get you started.

Is Bank of America’s $5 Monthly Debit Card Fee Just the Beginning?

Outraged, annoyed, or otherwise frustrated by Bank of America's new debit card fee? Learn why the bank is instituting the fee and what else might happen.

Stupid Reasons Why People Make More Money

Wonder why THAT person got promoted? From beauty to vapid conversational skills and more, learn the idiotic reasons why people make more money.

I Pay for Things You Get for Free

Yup, I pay for things you get for free...and I save a lot of money in the process. Here's how you can do it too.

What NOT to Buy at a Farmers Market

When it comes to fruit and vegetables, farmers markets are tough to beat. But some farmers’ market regulars we talked to advised us of a few things to buy elsewhere.

How a 5-Minute Email Saved Me $140

When you have a major problem with a purchase (and an exchange, and returning that exchange...), a well-worded complaint might be all you need.

How to Get a Refund When Something Is Non-Refundable

The terms "non-refundable" and "non-returnable" make too many people avoid customer service. But with these tips, you can get results.

25 Things to Throw Out Today

Do you have any of these items lurking in your home that should be thrown (or given) away? Here's a list of 25 things to get rid of right now.

Actually, the Rich Don’t Create Jobs. Demand Does

There's been a lot of talk in the last few months about taxes on the rich. But do the rich really create jobs, or is it a smoke screen?

The Ads That Are Part of Your Life

From the do-everything guys of Dos Equis and Old Spice to Snickers' hunger alter-egos, do you find yourself reciting these popular ad campaigns?

Repair the Car or Spend the Cash?

Your car has cosmetic damage after a crash. Do you get it repaired or use the insurance money for something else? There could be serious ramifications.

How Much?! A Breakdown of Concert Ticket Prices

Where does the money go when you buy a concert ticket? And what's with all the service charges? Learn exactly what your ticket purchase is paying for.

25 Great Movies About Money

Get ready to update your Netflix queue. From documentaries to comedies and more, here is the ultimate list of movies about money.

The Store Sales Cycle: Your Monthly Guide to Clearance Prices

From groceries to light bulbs, sales are not random. Every year stores put certain products on sale around the same time. Discover what's cheap when.

What Can You Buy for $1 These Days?

They say $1 ain't what it used to be, and they're right. But the humble $1 bill can still get you plenty. Here are 21 possibilities.

Extreme Couponing? 5 Reasons Why I’ll Pass.

40 hours per week clipping coupons? Stockpiling products you may never use? Extreme couponing may be all the rage, but it's more like madness to me.