Planning for healthy aging
In just two short years, the first wave of baby boomers will turn 65. For some, this milestone birthday may signal retirement; for others it may not. For all boomers, it should mean an increased focus on health care. Baby boomers can take steps now to help ensure many more healthy years.

Life insurance: security you can bank on
The current high rate of unemployment is causing consumers to re-evaluate the importance of individual life insurance coverage, with many viewing it as an essential component of long-term financial security for their families and loved ones.

Five basic steps to financial security in any economy
Virtually everyone today is feeling the affect of the current economy; none of us is untouched by it. Here's the good news. If you can anticipate financial changes and develop a sound financial plan, you can protect yourself and your family today, and for many years to come.

Protect your children's holiday clothing gifts
When searching for holiday gifts for your children, don't forget to include clothing on the gift list. Because your kids grow so quickly, and the fashionable styles change even faster than they grow, new clothing is constantly needed. But when it comes to clothing, moms fear that their hard-earned money will be wasted on items that can get ruined by "kid stains" before their children have outgrown the outfit.

Achieve your New Year's resolution and get out of debt
Year in and year out, getting out of debt consistently ranks among New Year's top 10 resolutions. If your household is like many American households struggling with the recession, or worse, unemployment, getting out of debt will be close to the top of your list again for 2010. Get your new year off to a great start by reducing and eliminating your debt.

Time- and money-saving tips for your 2009 tax return
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act makes early tax planning increasingly important. The number and complexity of the changes has prompted the IRS to release educational e-mails, videos, podcasts and other tools on a regular basis since the ARRA became law in February 2009. The ARRA's key provisions will benefit millions of wage earners, homeowners, college students and vehicle owners through new and expanded credits and deductions.

Gift cards make the perfect present this holiday season
Tired of spending way too much on holiday gifts that end up shoved in the back of the recipient's closet? Still blushing after buying a size 14 for your size 8 cousin last year? Dread the idea of your thoughtful present ending up regifted? This year try giving everyone on your list - from the do-it-yourselfer to the one who has everything - just what they want while saving time and sticking to your budget.

Business travelers can save big with the right strategies
Corporate America is cutting costs like never before. The complimentary lunches and corporate bonuses are long gone as companies look to find savings wherever possible. But for many frequent business travelers, the savings associated with, say, a conference call instead of an in-person meeting are outweighed by the lack of face time between the two parties.

Your health care: Know your rights to receive best care
Not knowing what your health care rights are, whether you're insured or not, could be a matter of life or death. It's essential to understand what your rights are in order to obtain the best health care possible, especially in an emergency situation.

Accessorize to get the most out of your truck
In a budget-conscious economy, more pickup truck owners are holding onto their truck longer than originally planned. If you're one of these truck owners, there are a few affordable accessories that can help you get the most of your truck and extend the life of your truck.

Get your winter shopping done while it's still nice out
The calendar pages are flipping quickly and in just a short time, Old Man Winter will be here. Is your household prepared for colder weather?

Tips for safe online holiday shopping
The amount of online shopping has risen dramatically over the past decade. Online shopping this holiday season will continue the year-to-year growth that it has seen over recent years, growing from 37.6 percent of Americans shopping online in 2006 to 47.2 percent this year, according to research by pricegrabber.com. The American Bar Association offers some tips for staying safe while shopping online.

Are you making the right decision getting a payday loan?
A payday loan can help someone through a one-time rough patch. But the amount that must be paid back can multiple fast, with interest rates so high it is impossible to keep up. With the current economy, more and more people are considering using these types of loans, but is it the right choice?

Preparing your car for the big chill
A few minutes in the garage before the bitter cold hits could help prevent a more time-consuming and unpleasant experience during the winter. Cold weather will only make existing problems worse, according to the experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It's a good idea to read the owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. Here are some additional tips.

Your credit matters: understanding your APR
You might find the acronym confusing, but the APR (annual percentage rate) on your credit card is a number you should be familiar with. It's important because it describes the cost of your credit balance on a yearly basis. A healthy understanding of what determines this rate can help improve your financial decisions.

New ways to save on college essentials
From tuition to dorm room essentials, college can be a costly venture, and with current economic conditions, families are looking for any breaks they can get. Here are some new ways to save on the things you need.

Back to school buying? Here's how to save money
For students across the country, September marks the start of a new school year. And as every parent knows, that means shopping for back-to-school supplies. Here's how you can avoid unnecessary expenses and save money on important back-to-school gear.

Get paid for your holiday purchases
Online coupon and deal sites offer great savings opportunities . . . or the potential to waste your time and money if you patronize one that falls short of its promises. When you're winnowing winning Web sites from the herd of hollow-promise-pledging competitors, keep this advice in mind.

Americans overlooking health benefits at open enrollment
Americans have been hearing more about health care and health insurance these days than ever. But, when it comes to understanding their own health benefits, many may be missing opportunities to take advantage of their options and even save money throughout the year. This is especially true at open enrollment - typically the only chance for millions of Americans who receive benefits through an employer to make changes to their health benefits plans for the coming year.

Can't sell? Wary of being a landlord? Try corporate housing instead
The housing market is making it hard for many homeowners to sell. Yet the alternative - becoming a landlord and renting out your house - isn't always appealing. A growing number of savvy homeowners are pursuing a third option, renting out their homes as corporate housing.

Save money while holiday shopping
Americans will spend $682.74 on holiday shopping this year, according to the National Retail Federation. That is down about $20 from last year's average spending. And two-thirds of Americans also report that the economy is causing them to spend less this holiday season. But the good news is that people will be shopping sales and discounts this year, according to the NRF, and one way to find great deals is using online coupons.

Don't pay full price for anything on your shopping list
There's no reason to spend full price on any of the items on your shopping list, when you can save both time and money by shopping online with discounts and other services provided at various store's sites.

Homework essential to successfully buying your first home
Are you considering taking the plunge and buying your first home? If so, you're not alone. Across the country, owning a home still represents the American dream for many and the opportunity to buy your first home couldn't be better.

You can find money to pay for college
In a competitive job market, earning a degree can be the biggest single step one can take to enhance career value and earning potential. As many bask in the glow of making plans to increase their career potential, the prospect of paying for college is a sobering reality.

Get the most value out of your holiday shopping
What is the hottest holiday gift-giving trend this season? It's all about getting the most bang for your buck.

5 ways to save money this holiday season
Purchasing holiday gifts and hosting seasonal family gatherings around the dinner table can add up quickly. Saving money is a top priority for many families this year, and there are more ways than ever to save money during the holiday season.

Wood is looking good this winter
With winter rapidly on its way, the government is asking you to think about cost-effective and environmentally responsible ways to heat your home. In fact, it is encouraging eco- and cost-conscious families to consider efficient wood stoves or inserts by offering a 30 percent tax credit, up to $1,500, for the purchase of a 75 percentefficient biomass-burning stove in 2009 and 2010.

In hard times, consumers find ways to save money online
In the midst of a recession, times are hard for many people. Money is tight, and many consumers are in need of ways to save money on their everyday expenses. Brands and manufacturers are increasing online coupon and free sample offers to gain the attention of consumers in need of savings.

Save on spending, not on cheer: ways to stretch your holiday dollars
Americans will spend more than 3 percent less this year on holiday shopping, according to research by the National Retail Federation (NRF). Shoppers will also be looking for more sales and bargains, the NRF's survey suggests. If you're one of this season's more frugal shoppers, here are some tips for getting the out of your family's holiday shopping dollars.

Ignoring insurance for mom is risky business
In these tough economic times, families may be putting themselves at risk by placing more value on the man of the house. Women are less likely than men to have life insurance, and if they die their families could be thrown into financial chaos.

Need business cards? Hot trends you should know about before buying
You might survive without your smart phone. You could possibly even sacrifice your laptop if you had to. But the one business tool you can't do without is decidedly low tech, and has been around since the 17th century. You just can't do business without your business cards.

Direct deposit of Social Security is safer, easier for winter travelers
As cold weather sets in, thousands of retirees are making plans for a winter getaway. If you're one of them, switch to direct deposit for your Social Security payments before you leave - it's the safest, easiest way to receive your money.

Seven tips to ensure a worry-free wedding day
Many newlyweds overlook the fact that a marriage is a legal contract. While many couples often focus on the big day and all of the events surrounding the ceremony and reception, there are a number of legal steps that newlyweds must consider as part of the process.

Can a new face advance your career?
With unemployment at an all-time high, it is becoming a necessity for Americans to put their best face forward. More of us are turning to less costly, non-invasive cosmetic "touch ups" to look competent and feel confident, whether in the workplace, or pounding the pavement.

Children with special needs face uncertain financial future
Many parents may be putting their children with disabilities at risk without even knowing it. Because families are so overwhelmed with the daily demands of childcare, they fail to plan for the financial future of their children. But many companies have developed programs and expertise to address this issue.

Finding a gift that fits
When shopping for gifts this holiday season, remember the phrases "less is more," and "quality over quantity." With clothing and apparel the most popular holiday gifts from year to year, it's important in this economy to be a smart shopper.

A holiday home away from home
The holiday season is practically synonymous with family vacations. Visiting relatives you haven't seen in a year, gluttonous eating and cramming the whole crew into a hotel room with tight sleeping quarters and one bathroom. It's all par for the course, right? Well, it doesn't have to be if you rent a vacation home instead.

Start your federal tax return earlier to cash in on 2009 changes
If you will owe federal taxes for 2009, you may still qualify for other tax breaks. Several ARRA provisions, like the Making Work Pay and First-time Homebuyers Credits, have received a lot of press, but taxpayers don't necessarily realize how much more is included in the stimulus package. Even if you don't normally file a return, there are refundable credits, like the earned income and additional child tax credits, which could make filing worthwhile this year.

The new normal of shopping: deals, deals and more deals
If you haven't already changed your shopping habits and proudly added "deal finder" to your resume, you may be paying too much for the products you and your family need. Shopping isn't what it used to be. The new normal of shopping involves comparing prices, taking advantage of deals and knowing the tools and tricks of the trade that can help you save money.

The ABC's of baby boomer retirement planning
If you are one of America's 78.2 million baby boomers, you are likely considering what ideal retirement will look like, and the steps required to achieve it. With the current economic downturn, many boomers are finding it necessary to revisit their initial retirement goals.

Repairing a hybrid doesn't have to cost a lot
The government backed "Cash for Clunkers" rebate program helped dealers sell off 2009 models, and a wave of new vehicles is coming in anticipation of the federal mandate that cars average 35.5 mpg by 2016. If you haven't updated your vehicle in years, it will be more important than ever to analyze your needs and wants before you buy.

Save money easily on your holiday shopping
Who doesn't want to save money these days? With the holiday season around the corner, saving money is a top priority in the minds of many parents.

Need an easy getaway for the family? Plan a budget-friendly trip to a national park
American families have spoken: the vacation is a top priority. To keep the vacation affordable and easy, think about introducing your family to the splendor of the national park system - where activities are abundant and costs are minimal.

Your credit matters: tips for staying on top of your credit
Your credit matters when it comes to applying for a job or a loan, purchasing insurance or seeking an apartment to live in. If you don't know your credit score, or haven't maintained a good credit rating, you might be in for a few surprises.

Top 10 tips for purchasing life insurance
We all know getting life insurance is an important step in building a financial plan, and that it's easy to put off getting a policy because of uncertainty about life insurance and how it works. With these 10 expert tips, you'll be prepared to make the purchase that will protect you for life.

A peanut butter sandwich could help a creative kid chef pay for college
With back-to-school season right around the corner, there's no better way to spend time with your kids and encourage them to use their imagination than to create something with them in the kitchen.

Make your family's education as debt-free as possible
Whether you intend to send your child off to college or plan to pursue an academic or vocational path for yourself, reducing student debt load makes good financial sense, especially since the sticker shock of almost all kinds of post-secondary education can be daunting.

Americans agree: family vacations still worth the money
Families that play together stay together - at least that's the common wisdom. Even in tough economic times, family vacations are worth the money, Americans agree. Here are some ways to plan a great vacation even if you have a small budget.

Savvy shoppers turn to creative handmade gifts
The holiday season is fast approaching - a time when thoughts turn to families, friends, holiday get-togethers and gift-giving. For many consumers, remembering the special people in their lives is an important part of the holiday season, but they face the same dilemma every year when searching for "the perfect gift" - finding something that's meaningful and original, yet low in cost.

Buying a computer? Coupons aren't just for groceries, you know
You've been contemplating a new computer for awhile. Laptop or desktop -- it doesn't matter; you need to replace your machine because it is slower than it takes your teenage children to complete an assigned household chore. And in the case of your computer, carefully constructed reminders don't help it work any faster.

When going 'green' don't forget the fourth 'R'
Are you doing your part in helping to "green" America? We all know the three "R's" that we should be practicing each and every day - reduce, reuse and recycle - but did you know about the fourth "R", which helps you accomplish the other three? This "R" will not only cut down on your individual carbon footprint but will also save you money on your green home improvement projects.

Medicare open enrollment: time to make sure you're in the right plan
Of the more than 45 million people relying on Medicare for health care coverage, many may be paying for a plan that doesn't meet their needs or is too expensive. However, Medicare annual enrollment, which starts Nov. 15 and ends Dec. 31, offers anyone with Medicare the opportunity to switch plans so that they're getting the most from their coverage.

Holiday shopping strategies help ring in the new year
The holidays are a time to celebrate. But sometimes it's challenging to spend and celebrate on a budget, especially when it's the season of giving. Now is a good time to switch your holiday shopping strategies and resolve to improve your money management skills through the new year.

Pet trusts offer animal lovers peace of mind
Many pet owners assume that they will outlive their beloved pets, but that isn't always the case. A pet trust ensures pets will continue to receive care and housing even after the death of the pet's human companion.

Ways to give without dipping into your wallet
More and more people are resolving to be more giving, and to share what they have with the less fortunate. The current economic climate, however, presents something of a challenge to people who want to give, but lack the budget to do so. Here are some creative ways to give that won't cost you cash.

How to cash in on recession-driven travel deals
Travelers are finding the silver lining of the current economic climate is the availability of some incredible travel values. Hotel, airfare and vacation package prices are all down significantly from last year, helping to make travel more affordable than it has been in years.

Three reasons you need a last will
No matter how young, healthy, wealthy or prepared for retirement you are, you can't predict what will happen in the future. But you can make your wishes for the future known, especially those that involve your family after your death.

Design a dream kitchen without breaking your budget
Looking to build your ideal kitchen, but not sure if you can afford it? It may seem like a difficult task, but it is possible to design a space that will fulfill your needs, while leaving room (and funds) for your dreams. Here's how you can combine sacrificing and spending to find the perfect new product mix.

Beware of online coupon scams
The recession has been a period of ups and downs for many Americans. Unemployment is up, the stock market's down. Retail sales are down, but use of coupons - especially online coupons or coupon codes - is way up.

Financial tips for job seekers
Losing your job is tough. But in the midst of a recession, rebounding and finding new employment is even harder. Building a resume and making connections to find a new job are a priority, but the first issue most people should address is money.

How to avoid fake check scams
You open your mail and to your surprise there is a check for $4,000 claiming you won a sweepstakes. Boy that money sure will come in handy right now. But wait, there's a catch. Here's what you need to know about fake check scams.

Don't get scammed through social networking sites
Scam artists are always changing their schemes in an effort to trick consumers into handing over money or personal information. One of the latest scams involves hacking into social networking sites and then targeting specific friends in the victim's account.

Are you getting paid to shop?
Ordering office supplies, classroom materials and doing some everyday shopping online gives you good deals with coupons and discounts. But you can go one step further and get cash back on your purchases as well.

Get your holiday shopping done quickly and easily
Holiday shopping takes a lot of time. When you work all day, shuttle your children around from school to activities and have to squeeze in regular chores and errands at home, who knows when you'll find a few hours for a trip to the stores.

Car care advice for consumers facing tough economic times
With new car sales down, consumers across the country are looking to get the most out of their existing cars and to save money whenever possible. However, spending a little more today on the right maintenance routine with quality products and trusted service technicians can help save money over the long run.

Fewer delinquent credit payments being made by Americans
Recent headlines indicate that Americans are doing a better job in covering credit card payments as 2009 winds down.

Keep your holiday bright - and safe - with ID theft prevention tips
Not everyone will be thinking of gift shopping, decorating and spreading good cheer this holiday season. Identity thieves will spend their time concocting new ways to steal and use your personal information.

An affordable source of financial stability and peace of mind in challenging times
The prospect of shrinking retirement savings and rising unemployment rates has made financial peace of mind hard to come by these days. Americans are looking for ways to cut back on expenses and shore up their savings, and many are considering life insurance as a way to bridge the gap created by other financial losses.

Families can protect themselves from rising medical costs
All the attention on health care reform and soaring costs leaves many wondering how they will face health challenges in the future. While the debate rages on in Washington, there are steps individuals and families can take right now to help protect themselves against spending a fortune on medical costs. With seven of 2008's top 10 most expensive conditions (the majority of which are chronic) known to occur because of obesity, it's no secret that being at an unhealthy weight increases the costs of health care.

Make your smaller home more livable with a new bath
Smaller homes are making a comeback. As the owner of a smaller home, you should know that adding even a small bathroom is among the best investments you can make, Macerating technology can save you thousands on an additional bathroom in your small home.

The high cost of saving money by delaying health treatment
If you delay medical treatment for a health problem that you feel isn't bad enough to justify the cost and time lost from work right now, you could be doing more to sink yourself financially than anything the economy may throw at you.

Green cleaning tips that save you money
Ready to pack away your beach chair for a cozy nook next to the fireplace? Use autumn's brisk and breezy days to conquer deep-cleaning chores for a clean and comfortable winter home.

Fun ways to escape with your family
A smaller budget and busy work and school schedules don't mean your family has to stay home all the time. There are lots of alternatives to an expensive family trip.

Tips to manage credit card debt
Loan consolidation has its ups and downs, but, if handled properly, can help a family afford to get out from under debt.

Make your gift personal this holiday
Instead of digging through racks of sale items or fighting the crowd at a midnight store opening this year, why not turn your holiday gifts into donations for organizations and charities in honor of the person you're gifting?

Four ways to put the 'jingle' back in your holiday budget
Presents, decorations, wrapping paper, greeting cards, meals, travel ... the typical holiday shopping list could go on and on - and so can the holiday debt. But there are simple ways to reign in holiday spending without sacrificing holiday cheer.

Eco-friendly and money-saving cleaning tips
Six states have passed legislation banning the use of phosphates in cleaning products and others are soon to follow. The good news is you don't need harmful or expensive chemical products to keep your home clean. A few eco-friendly and economical items are all you need to make your living spaces sparkle.

Prep the holiday meal quickly and save money
If the holiday meal is at your house this year, you could completely stress out over the menu and ingredients, spending hours and plenty of money in an attempt to feed everyone the perfect holiday meal. Or, you could plan ahead, save a few dollars here and there, and enjoy the holiday.

Keep the pressure off holiday shopping
The holiday shopping season can be hectic, and this year, finding good deals on gifts is important. Here are some tips to make your shopping season a little easier, and cheaper.

Asphalt shingles add value, beauty and durability to roofs
Repairing or replacing the roof is one of the most noticeable improvement projects homeowners can take on. And although the effect of a new roof is stunning, the price tag doesn't have to be. Here is what you need to know.

How to save with college costs on the rise
With the cost of food, fashion and living steeply on the rise in the U.S., it is no surprise that college tuition costs are also greatly increasing from year to year.

Ideas to make dollars do double duty
Just as many of us have taken on extra work to make ends meet in this economy, everything we buy now must serve a dual purpose as well. It makes sense to spend your hard-earned dollars on items that not only do the job intended for them, but that also save you money in a variety of ways.

A new you for the new year
With the New Year just around the corner, could it be time for a new you? Have you been wearing the same outfits, in the same order? Has your hair and make-up regimen remained unchanged for the last decade? Reinventing your style can give you a new attitude and outlook. And with a few simple updates, you shouldn't have to worry about breaking your budget.

Homeowners warm up to tax credit for wood- and pellet-fueled heat
For warmth and beauty in the home, it's hard to beat the ambience of a real wood-burning stove or fireplace. Homeowners now have another reason to warm up to one - they may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $1,500.

Houston offers big fun and big savings
As the fifth-largest city in the United States, Houston is a bustling place and a major destination for business travelers. But if you want to take your family for a visit, Houston has a lot to offer. Families and travelers on a budget will find that a number of the city's most interesting attractions offer a lot of interest for a little fee - or no fee at all.

This holiday season calls for gifts that 'pay it forward'
No matter which holiday celebrated, the spirit of giving is an essential and time-honored tradition for many. Given the current state of the economy, experts predict this holiday season to be a challenging one, leaving many to wonder how to keep the spirit of the holidays alive without breaking the bank.

Before applying for auto or mortgage loans, do your research
While the number of auto and mortgage loans issued are down, and the effort it takes to get a good loan these days might seem daunting, there are signs that consumer lending is improving with positive economic reports. And even though dollars aren't handed out as quickly or easily as they were just a few years ago, it is possible for a person to obtain a mortgage or auto loan.

You're not alone - finding financial guidance during a life crisis
Job loss, divorce, death of a spouse, serious illness or disability -- it's hard to imagine experiencing a major life crisis. Unfortunately most of us will at some point in our lives.

Make your big day special without the huge expense
It's no secret, weddings are notoriously expensive and brides are infamously frivolous. Most women dream of their perfect wedding for years. Though pockets may be tight as couples look for ways to make smart, long-term financial decisions, it doesn't mean the happy bride and groom-to-be have to sacrifice on their big day. It's easier than ever to have a budget-friendly dream wedding.

For veterans, new GI Bill offers new opportunities
Today, unprecedented numbers of retired and active duty military personnel are wondering what the next step in their lives might be. Thanks to the newly implemented Post 9-11 GI Bill, obtaining a high quality education without a financial investment just got easier.

Affordable beauty secrets revealed
In the sea of beauty lotions and potions, how do you know what really works and is worth your hard-earned dollar? It's best to trust the experts who test them all so you know what is fabulous, and what will flounder.

Back to school on a budget
Back-to-school shopping can be an exhausting and expensive experience and many parents start off on the wrong foot before they even get to the store. But there are simple ways to make this annual shopping trip efficient and affordable.

Tips to help frugal motorists get the most from their vehicles
The recession has made many people question their spending habits. Whether from necessity or choice, more Americans are making do with things they already own, instead of buying new. And when they do purchase, they look for value over flash.

Simplify your life with a little technology
If you are like most people, every year the list of to-dos, appointments and demands grows bigger. Children's schedules, office appointments, scheduling conflicts can all be a little overwhelming at times. A little technology can go a long way in getting your life in order while saving time and minimizing stress.

Moms: save energy this holiday season
As a mom, you understand how busy this time of year leading up to the holidays can be. Running around with school activities, working, planning parties, keeping the house and family organized and under control, squeezing in time to run the weekly errands and holiday shopping - it's not always easy.

Active lifestyle requires active approach to eye health
You stretch before your workout, stay hydrated throughout and follow safe cool-down steps afterward. But while you're enjoying your active lifestyle, are you doing enough to take care of two of your most valuable physical assets - your eyes?

As Hispanic population grows business opportunities multiply
The estimated Hispanic population of the United States is nearly 105 million people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Latinos account for half the U.S. population growth since 2000 and that number is expected to continue to increase, making it one of the fastest growing market segments. Hispanics need assistance with tax preparation services and a specialized service business is now open to franchisees nationwide.