Articles on Financial News

Why Inflation?

We know how inflation happens—excess growth in the money supply. But why does inflation happen?

Occupy Wall Street, the 99%, and All That

Some say that the Occupy Wall Street movement lacks a clear message. But to one writer, what they're saying is perfectly clear.

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.

Social Security Is Not a Ponzi Scheme

Once again, people are comparing Social Security to a Ponzi scheme. That's a bogus comparison. Here's why.

The Recession Glossary

Insource? Bleisure? Double-dip? The recession has generated a lot of new terms. Learn what they all mean in this recession glossary.

What if the Mortgage Interest Deduction Went Away?

What would happen if the mortgage interest deduction were eliminated?

Debt Ceiling Contingency Plans

What will the Treasury do if there's no increase in the debt ceiling, and what should you do with your investments?

The Debt Ceiling Crisis in Everyday English

Wondering what the debt ceiling is and how the current crisis could effect you? Learn what's going on and what it means for both the country and average Americans.

Uncle Sam Boosts Standard Mileage Deduction

Driving the company car just got a little more affordable.

U.S. Government Offers "Free" $50,000 to Troubled Homeowners

Are you struggling to pay for your mortgage? Uncle Sam is gearing up to pass out up to $50,000 to troubled homeowners, and it doesn't have to be repaid.

Stalemate on the Debt Ceiling?

People are speculating about the result if there's a stalemate on the debt ceiling. I know what would really happen, because I live in Illinois.

Energy Price Spikes

There are several ways to help deal with spikes in energy prices, but the main one is simple: Get used to it.

Dropping the Price of Gas to $2.50 a Gallon in a Week

Could a few well-chosen words by President Obama cause the price of oil, and therefore gasoline, drop sharply in just a few days? It's worth a thought.

Peak Debt and Income

When stimulating the economy, is it better to invest in the rich or the poor? Learn whether supply- or demand-side techniques are best.

How the Reform of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Will Affect You

On February 11, the government announced its plan to wind down mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. How will this historic reform affect you?

Save Money with a Dependent Care Tax Credit and FSA

If you pay for day care or other services, you may be able to save thousands with an FSA, the Child and Dependent Care Credit, or both.

How Will The Comcast/NBC Merger Really Affect You?

The deal has been approved, and there's a lot of speculation about what it will mean for you, the consumer. Discover the truth behind common questions.

6 Ways to Put Your 2011 Payroll Tax Break to Work

Americans will be paying 2% less on their payroll taxes in 2011. Instead of wasting that cash, use one or more of these ideas to make the most of your "bonus."

IRS Delays Start of Tax Filing for Some Taxpayers in 2011

The IRS announced that certain taxpayers will have to wait until late February 2011 to file taxes. Read on to see if you are affected by this delay.

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.