Archive for August, 2009


How to Save for Multiple Goals

Posted by Jill on August 31, 2009

I am more motivated to save when I know exactly what I am saving for. I’ve found that two things help me stay on track with my savings: prioritizing my goals and planning in advance how each paycheck will be split between the goals. As I mentioned in my post on my financial tracking system, […]

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Is There a Cash for Clunkers Tax?

Posted by Madison on August 28, 2009

Is cash for clunkers taxable? Yes, no, maybe. Even though the Cash for Clunkers program ended, the cash for clunkers tax is generating debate. The cash for clunkers tax is confusing because people are mixing up three kinds of taxes: federal income tax, state income tax, and state sales tax. On top of that, it […]

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Finance in Schools, Investing, and Credit

Posted by Madison on August 27, 2009

A close friend of mine just told me that she got a position teaching personal finance at one of the local universities this semester. Not only was I excited for her, but I was really excited for the students. I just wish that all the students would be required to take the class instead of […]

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Citi Double Rewards for College Student Credit Cards

Posted by Madison on August 21, 2009

Calling all the college students! This one is for you. Citi is doubling the rewards on their student cards just in time for those of you headed back to school. In addition to the double rewards, they’re also giving out bonus points for things like paying on time, having a good GPA, and enrolling in […]

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Vacation, Savings, and Investing

Posted by Madison on August 20, 2009

Hopefully, while you’re reading this, we’re successfully heading south. It’s our first vacation by car with three kids in tow. Wish us luck… we’ll probably need it! While we are out boating and enjoying the houseboat capital of the world you’ll be in good hands. As we travel, you’ll begin to see articles by some […]

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5 Tips to Avoid Overdraft Fees

Posted by Brian on August 19, 2009

A recent report in Financial Times reveals that US Banks stand to take in over $38 Billion in overdraft fees from their customers this year! The bulk of this revenue is said to come from, “the most financially stretched consumers amid the deepest recession since the 1930s, according to research.” Checking account overdraft fees now […]

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The Best Bank for Your Money

Posted by Madison on August 17, 2009

The best banks? That’s what readers often want to know. In addition to the best banks, they also want to know where I bank. With 181 Accounts, I obviously have lots of financial relationships. Here’s a rundown of where I do my business and my favorite in each category. Online Savings Accounts The Best: Capital […]

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TradeKing $50 Sign Up and Referral Bonuses

Posted by Madison on August 14, 2009

TradeKing is celebrating National Friendship Day by offering $50 sign up bonuses and referrals. It’s our Free Money Friday offer this week. How to Get Your Sign up Bonus Have a current TradeKing member refer you*. Use the link in the email you receive to open a new TradeKing account by August 31, 2009. Fund […]

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Back to School, Investing, and Credit Cards

Posted by Madison on August 13, 2009

It’s that time of year again… back to school! Luckily, we have a law here that school can’t start until September (to protect the tourism industry), so the kids still have a few more weeks to enjoy their time off. Back to School If you are getting ready to send your kids back to school, […]

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Scottrade Remains Our Broker of Choice

Posted by Madison on August 11, 2009

Our investment club just finished reevaluating our broker. We do this every couple years to make sure we’re getting the best service and the best rates. We decided to stay with Scottrade. Scottrade Account Details Account Minimum: None Opening Account Minimum: $500 Account Fees: None Trading Fees: $7 per trade (market or limit), which includes […]

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