Articles by Madison


FatWallet Cash Back

Posted by Madison on June 26, 2009

Recently, I asked What is Your Favorite Cash Back Program? A reader, Simon, pointed out that I forgot FatWallet! I often mention the FatWallet Finance forums as one of my favorite places to hang out. But, as Simon reminded me, FatWallet also has a special place in my heart for earning cash back! Let’s explore […]

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Student Loan Rates Will Drop to All Time Low

Posted by Madison on June 25, 2009

Great news for those of you with student loans! On July 1, the interest rates on Stafford loans and PLUS loans will drop to an all time low! Here’s what the new rates will look like: Stafford loans in in-school or grace period status: 2.00% Stafford loans in repayment: 2.50% PLUS loans: 3.38% This is […]

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Microsoft Money Being Discontinued Next Week

Posted by Madison on June 24, 2009

I’m heartbroken. Microsoft is pulling the plug on the Microsoft Money product. I’ve been a diehard user for more than a decade! That’s thousands of transactions and details from almost every financial move I’ve ever made. Microsoft Money Plus Home and Business is the center of my Financial Organization detailing almost 200 accounts in multiple […]

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What is Your Favorite Cash Back Program?

Posted by Madison on June 19, 2009

What is your favorite cash back program? That’s what a reader, Howard, wants to know. He brings up a great point: I’m sure mathematically, it might make sense to pick the optimal program every time. For those of us who don’t wish to keep track of so many, do you recommend one over the others? […]

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Switching from Satellite to Cable… Again!

Posted by Madison on June 18, 2009

We’re switching from DirecTV back to Charter cable. My husband does an annual review of our TV, internet, and phone services to make sure we’re getting the best rates. It seems like every time we check, the other service is offering an incentive that’s lower than our current bill. After a year, they always seem […]

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Shopping List for a Newborn Baby

Posted by Madison on June 17, 2009

What do newborn babies need? What should you put on a shopping list for a newborn baby? What should you register for? Some friends of ours are having a their first baby. They are registering soon and were looking for advice on things you couldn’t live without. She asks: “What should I definitely register for, […]

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Money By the Numbers

Posted by Madison on June 15, 2009

Photography: Numbers in Transport by James Cridland My boys have been busy working on letters and numbers recently, so I thought it would be fun to follow up Personal Finance A to Z with an expanded money by the numbers and my favorite find in each. Personal Finance: By the Numbers 1 Reason Not to […]

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New Cash Back Program from Bing

Posted by Madison on June 12, 2009

Microsoft introduced the new search engine, Bing, last week. It might actually give Google some competition. But, what does this have to do with Free Money Friday? Bing recently replaced the cash back program with Bing Rewards. You can now earn a 250 Credit Sign Up Bonus for enrolling in the new Bing Rewards. If […]

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What are You Getting Dad for Father’s Day?

Posted by Madison on June 11, 2009

Father’s Day is just around the corner, June 21 to be exact. I’m struggling to find something for my dad, who is one of those guys that has everything he needs. My husband is also on my list, since my kids are little. I like to help them pick out a little something for their […]

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Tax Credit for First Time Home Buyers Improved

Posted by Madison on June 10, 2009

The $8,000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit just got even better! You can now get an advance on your $8,000 tax credit at the time you purchase your home. It allows buyers to use the tax credit for closing costs and additional down payments instead of waiting until you file your tax return. It’s […]

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