One of the first big decisions married couples make is where they will live. This conversation usually includes a number of aspects, such as renting versus buying, location and price range. My fiancé and I are getting married this October and we are starting the search for the first place we will call home after we tie the knot. Our decision is based on many of the same variables that others go through, but is unique to us and the situation we are in. How are you and your future spouse discussing this topic?
[ continue reading… ]
When looking for the best prices on the items on your shopping list, it’s often a good idea to pay attention to where you are getting your items. In a number of cases, it’s convenient to get drugstore items while at the grocery store, or pick up a couple things for dinner when you stop to pick up your prescription at the drugstore. However, those choices could cost you big time in the long run, since you might not be getting the optimal value for your money.
Shopping at the Appropriate Store
Anyone who has bought batteries at the grocery store knows that they are very expensive when purchased that way. When you purchase batteries, or cosmetics, or office supplies at the grocery store, you are going to pay a premium. The assumption is that it’s more convenient for you to grab these items at the grocery store than it is to go to another store. And you’ll pay for that convenience.
[ continue reading… ]
Year after year, many Americans are thrilled to receive a huge refund check from Uncle Sam after they’ve filed their taxes. I’m as excited as the next person to receive a wad of unexpected cash, but I also know that by getting a big refund from the IRS, I’ve basically given the government an interest-free loan of my money.
When it comes to your taxes, you should really aim for a modest refund each year, as that means you’re not having too much taken from each paycheck and you’re not scrambling to pay a bill come April. If you regularly receive a refund of $1000 or more, make this the year you do more with your money than just lend it to the IRS.
[ continue reading… ]
Recently, we’ve seen some pretty solid examples of consumers taking charge and demanding better service — and better prices — from companies. The consumer victories related to Verizon, GoDaddy, Bank of America and others underscore the point that you have the power to get want you want, or take your business elsewhere.
With bank fee hikes in the news, often following on the heels of stories about fat profits for the very same banks complaining that they need to raise revenue, many consumers are switching financial institutions in search of companies that are more in tune with their needs.
Unfortunately, changing banks can be a hassle, especially with all of the automation that goes on now. If you want to switch things up, here is how to make the change with a minimum of fuss:
[ continue reading… ]
A few years back, I tweeted about participating in a no-spend challenge. To my surprise, the owner of a coffee-shop in my area sent a tweet back berating me for encouraging others to do something that would hurt local businesses. While I firmly believe the shop owner was out of line it also illustrated how our spending (and saving) choices don’t take place in a vacuum. If you’re like me, you probably struggle on how to reconcile meeting our own personal needs and wants with how to support the local economy and our ideals.
[ continue reading… ]
