Following the housing bubble burst in 2007, when home values fell by 60 percent or more in some areas, approximately 23 percent of homeowners owed more on their mortgages than their houses were worth by the end of the third quarter of 2009. The lack of equity froze these homeowners in place for years, leaving [...]
Last spring, when my 16-year-old nephew told his father he was excited to get his learner’s permit, my brother cringed. He had dreaded this day. Driving lessons and driving permits would help his son get the necessary practice to be a confident driver, but my brother knew that the number one threat to his son’s [...]
What to do now if you can't pay your taxes in April. Four suggestions to help you get back on track with the IRS if you can't pay your taxes in April. This post was written by guest blogger Eva Rosenberg. When it comes to your taxes, the best way to avoid stress and problems [...]
Seven last-minute tips to maximize your tax refund. Don't miss out on an opportunity to reduce your taxes owed and maximize your tax refund. Tax season has begun, and while you may think it’s too late to do anything that can impact your taxes, that’s not the case. Even now you still can maximize your [...]
What to know when filing a tax extension. When you might need to file an extension and how to find the forms you need when filing a tax extension. The deadline to file your taxes is nearly here. Perhaps you are still waiting for the right paperwork in order to file your tax return. Or [...]
Most of us are familiar with the saying, “There’s no place like home.” Unfortunately, unforeseen incidents, such as fire or water damage, can quickly turn your home upside down. While most homeowners have insurance to cover them in case issues arise, many renters don’t believe they need insurance. Every day, I hear from people who [...]
When it’s time to file taxes, navigating the world of tax credits and tax deductions can be confusing. They seem similar, yet they work differently. How do you know what to claim? What will save you the most money? The Basics: What’s the difference between tax credits and tax deductions? Tax credits reduce your actual [...]
No matter the circumstances, divorce can be painful—both emotionally and financially, including issues surrounding various types of insurance policies. As you work through your finances, be sure to consider the insurance implications of divorce. Auto insurance A divorced or separated couple will need to decide who will wind up with any car (or cars), and [...]
Whether married or single, women face more unique obstacles when it comes to investing for retirement than men. In fact, on average, women spend fewer years in the workforce than men, as women often take time out to care for family members. Women also take home smaller paychecks and have a greater likelihood of working [...]
You’ve been working hard toward retirement, and by taking a few last steps, you can help ensure you’ll be on the right track in your Golden Years. If you’re nearing the end of your career, here are four steps you can take now to get your finances ready. 1. Calculate your retirement needs. If you [...]
