Articles on Personal Finance

It’s Not Too Late: Last Minute End of Year Tax Planning

In case you’ve missed the multitude of articles concerning end-of-year tax-planning, here are the two most important moves you should consider over the next few days.

Cleaning Out for a Cause: Make a Noncash Tax-Deductible Donation

Donating your used goods can help those in need, reduce clutter, and give you a nice tax deduction. Here's what you need to know to donate goods before the end of the year.

Things Don't Cost What They Used To: 10 Major Price Shifts in 2010

From corn to gold, these 10 common goods and commodities had major price changes in 2010 — and may continue to shift in 2011.

5 Ways to Save More Taxes in 2011

From hiring your children to changing your accounting methods, make these changes in 2011 to ensure you pay fewer taxes in 2012.

Best Money Tips: Financial Mistakes to Avoid in 2011

Today, we share the financial mistakes to watch out for, how to make your own glitter flats, and simple ways to spend less on produce.

8 Tips for Improving or Starting a Budget

Whether your current budget could use some tweaking or you're trying to get your finances sorted out for the first time, these suggestions can help you build a better budget.

Safety Tips for Holiday Driving

As holiday stress levels rise, drivers can get careless. Add in bad weather, and things can get downright dangerous. Follow these suggestions to arrive at your destination safely.

How Will the Obama Tax-Cut Deal Affect You?

On December 17th, 2010, President Obama signed a $858-billion tax-cut package into law. Here's how it could affect you.

What QE2 Could Mean for Ordinary Americans

A second round of quantitative easing, or QE2, could have a real and significant impact on households nationwide. Learn why some Americans might soon have to do more with less.

Could Your Business Fail If Your Bank Fails?

The short answer: Yes. The longer answer: It's very unlikely. Here's why.

Best Money Tips: Can You Afford That House?

Today, we share handy advice to help you figure out you can afford your dream house, fun ideas for gifts in a jar, and ways to keep your poinsettias beautiful through the season.

Book Review: Off the Grid

I've always used the term "off the grid" in a literal sense — not being connected to power or other systems. Nick Rosen means more than that.

Claiming the Home Office Deduction Without Getting into Trouble

Deducting your home office isn't as scary as rumors suggest. Here's how to claim your space, audit-free.

Giving to Charity is Great. But How Do You Pick One?

The holiday season is crucial for charities nationwide. Find out how to pick the right charity for you and ensure your donation goes to those who really need it.

5 Year-End Actions to Improve Your Business

These tax deductions won't just save you money; they'll help your business grow.

Maximizing Rewards Programs with Points.com

I don't fly or travel frequently enough to make the most of rewards points, but I still like earning them with the notion that someday I might be able to take advantage of them. [more]

5 Reasons to Ignore the January Effect

Discover why some analysts think you should buy stocks now...and why you should ignore them.

Best Money Tips: Surprises in Your Health Savings Account

Today, we share the things to watch out for in your HSA, tried-and-true tips for shaving off a chunk of Apple computer prices, an easy recipe for homemade paint, and more!

Balance Transfer Dating Guide

An old credit card is a lot like an ex-lover. Follow these tips to get yourself out of debt and back on the dating scene.

Back the Truck Up: How to Avoid Car Repair Rip-Offs

When your car is broken, don't get taken for a ride. Instead, learn how to make sure you're getting quality car repairs for as little money as possible.