When times get tough, people seek more entertainment. We need to get away from the news of dwindling retirement funds and collapsing banks. However, most of us are trying to pinch our pennies these days. Here are 9 frugal fall entertainment options to keep your mind off the troubles without squeezing your wallet. See a …
This year I’ll be doing nearly half of my Christmas shopping online. Last year that number was probably closer to 75%, but this year I found some of the gifts I needed at Costco. So far I’ve only needed to visit two online stores to get many of my gifts: Amazon and Red Envelope. Red Envelope specializes …
Yesterday, the CEO of Bank of America argued that the bank has a “right to make a profit.” They do, in fact, have that right. But that doesn’t mean you have a responsibility to help them with that. If you regularly use your debit card and don’t want to pay the new $5 fee each …
This morning, several news organizations announced that the White House and Congress have come to a tentative agreement on the economic stimulus plan. The main part of the plan is tax rebates for singles earning under $75,000 and couples earning under $150,000. Each person will receive at least $300, plus an additional $300 per child. There will probably …
Recently I’ve been buying a lot of baby stuff online, which means I’ve been added to several email mailing lists. Some of them I asked to be added to. The rest added me without asking me when I bought something. Online Buyers Aren’t Always Your Target Market It drives me nuts. Ask me when I …
That Makes Me Stabby: Unrequested Email Mailing Lists Read More »
A recent story about the spate for credit card fraud involving small charges reminded me of something that happened to me recently. My Potential Credit Card Fraud Scam I don’t actually know that this was fraud, but I know that American Express settled the dispute within four days and neither my husband nor I made the charge. …
Watch Your Credit Card Bill for Small Fraudulent Charges Read More »
Hey, that one actually makes sense! I have to admit, I don’t understand waiting at the post office to file your taxes on paper at the last minute. Why not just use a computer and push the “send” button. If you owe taxes, you can use the automatic withdrawal method to avoid the line, or …
Last Minute Tax Filing Is an Accomplishment – at the Carnivals Read More »
Last weekend, summer arrived early in Los Angeles. It’s gone again, but the brief appearance caused thousands of air conditioners to be fired up for a few days. Even if summer hasn’t arrived where you are yet, now is a good time to check your system or develop a plan for energy efficient air conditioner …
Save Money with Energy Efficient Air Conditioner Use Read More »
According to news reports, 29% consumers plan to cut their holiday spending this year. It seems like every year, shoppers insist they won’t overspend this Christmas. They promise that they’re slashing their budgets. They promise they know how to control Christmas spending. Then the holiday spirit takes hold. Rather than questioning a purchase, shoppers just …
Christmas Spending: How Much to Budget This Holiday Read More »
With the economy tanking, more and more people are announcing that they plan to spend less on gifts this year. Some people will keep their lists long and hunt for better deals, while others will opt to buy fewer gifts for fewer people. I’m choosing the former. Here’s how I trim my list without hurting …
Save Money this Holiday: How to Trim Your Christmas Gift List Read More »
