Think outside of the gift box

I have received requests for a ‘top ten list of ways to save’ this holiday season, so here goes: 1. Make a list and cross yourself off the list.... Read more »

Holiday spending: How can we help?

If you're like most people, you are planning to scale back this holiday season. The National Retail Federation’s (NRF) 2008 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey predicts the lowest increase in planned... Read more »

Scary loan mistakes to avoid

The Conference Board’s Consumer Index fell to an all-time low in October.* Cautious consumers know that the ghost, ghouls and goblins of Halloween aren’t nearly as scary as the financial damage a... Read more »

Managing Higher Heating Costs

Heating costs are projected to increase this winter, according to forecasts by the Energy Information Administration (EIA). In fact, the EIA predicts the average household expenditures for all space-heating fuels will be... Read more »

Protect Your Identity Week: Resources

Preventing identity theft is so important because recovering from it can be so very hard. In fact, 10 percent of all victims spent at least 55 hours resolving their problems. The top... Read more »

Protect Your Identity Week: When you know the thief

One common tip for preventing identity theft is to always keep track of purse or wallet while shopping. Unfortunately, this advice should also be followed at home. In 16 percent of all... Read more »

Protect Your Identity Week: Advice comes in threes

I was fortunate enough to be a visitor to a class of small children at one of our local schools. They were reciting the alphabet and... Read more »

Credit card stats

Seems like the question of the hour is whether or not credit cards are the next financial domino to fall. I was emailed some stats today from that might help you come... Read more »

The worst they can say is “no”

Yesterday, I was in a craft supply store where I swear that I was the only person who didn't have a coupon. Instead of brooding about it, I asked the cashier if... Read more »

Blog Action Day: The dark tunnel of poverty

Financial challenges negatively impact every aspect of a person’s life. Financial stress stifles careers, ruins relationships, and erodes emotional and physical health. Unfortunately, our counselors have become used to hearing words such... Read more »