90210 (& other) expensive zip codes

Ever wonder how your income taxes (and incomes) compare to that ritzy looking area down the road? This Web site allows visitors to search incomes and income taxes by zip code (granted... Read more »

Does your DOB impact your 1040?

"What's your sign?" is not a question you typically expect to hear from your accountant. Yet according to a 2007 survey by Money Management International (MMI), tax time can be very different... Read more »

This Valentine’s Day, express your love without breaking the bank

Just when you thought the holidays were over, Valentine’s Day makes its appearance. And even though the old saying “money can’t buy love” may hold true, money does seem to help people... Read more »

See on TV, but buy at the store

Have you seen Billy Mays or Ron Popeil lately? Chances are good that you have. According to DM News, about one out every four TV ads is a direct response television commercial.... Read more »

Going broke on groceries

Until recently, I had no idea that my organization offered free menu planners and grocery lists. I really, really need these tools because (while I am frugal in other areas) I am... Read more »

Wants and needs-based budgeting

"Needs-based” is a description a lot of companies use to explain their efforts to give people what they need. It is not uncommon to see “need-based” in front of words like training,... Read more »

“Nigerian Doctor”: Leave grandma alone!

My 85-year-old grandmother makes and sells quilts. Apparently, there is someone in this world sick enough to see this as an opportunity to bilk her out of some money. Following are "Dr.... Read more »

Commitment to financial change

On this historic day, I am compelled to jump on the bandwagon and talk about change—lasting financial change. Contrary to popular belief, the first step to improving your financial situation is not... Read more »

Economy makes shopping uncomfortable

The increase in gloom and decrease in money have sabotaged my efforts to enjoy shopping. But things got really bad yesterday when I purposely avoided shopping at a smaller store opting instead... Read more »

Old-school, low-budget ways to market your small business

The majority of small business owners think the current economic downturn is threatening their ability to survive or is at least "significantly" affecting their business. Since... Read more »