Do You Save First or Spend First?

Posted by Jill on October 21, 2010

I asked recently whether you thought a financial fast was right for you. I’ve definitely come to the conclusion that it’s not for me. But as I try to work out my financial goals going forward, I’m trying to figure out exactly what is right for me long-term. Each time I get a paycheck, should […]

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Student Loans: The Basics

Posted by Jill on October 19, 2010

This is the first in a series of posts on student loans. Be sure to check out upcoming posts on repayment options, consolidation, and the effects of extra payments. College costs are increasing at over twice the rate of inflation. At the same time, rising unemployment and falling stock prices could make it difficult for […]

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To Roth 401k or Not to Roth 401k?

Posted by Derek on October 18, 2010

Roth 401ks have been around for a few years now, but have been recently increasing in popularity. In fact, my employer has just opened up an opportunity for its employees to invest in a Roth 401k in addition to the traditional 401k. I had heard rumors about these plans for a few years but have […]

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PerkStreet 5% Cash Back Bonus

Posted by Kate on October 15, 2010

With the holidays coming up, who couldn’t use a great Free Money Friday offer? PerkStreet is offering 5% cash back through the end of the year for your holiday shopping. How to Get Your Cash Back Open a PerkStreet account online and fund it with $25 by November 15, 2010. Earn 5% cash back on […]

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3 Membership Programs You Want to Subscribe To

Posted by Amanda on October 14, 2010

Many times I have signed up for membership and loyalty programs only to be barraged with worthless emails and advertisements for years afterwards. In fact, every year or so I go through my email account and unsubscribe from at least five of these programs. But some membership and loyalty rewards programs are well worth joining […]

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My Evolving Credit Card Arbitrage Strategies

Posted by Madison on October 13, 2010

Long time readers will probably remember my credit card arbitrage strategy. I’d regularly take about $200,000 in credit card balance transfers and put it into high yield savings accounts earning interest and cash in on the difference. And while the credit card act and credit crisis changed the landscape of credit cards, it didn’t kill […]

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How to Save on Taxes This Year

Posted by Madison on October 12, 2010

It’s time to start talking about tax savings! With 4th quarter here, it is time for a reminder on some tax saving strategies, some of which will expire this year. Saving money on taxes is essentially free money, you just need to remember to claim them when you file! I suggest keeping a running list […]

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Vanguard Admiral Shares Lower Minimum Balance Requirements

Posted by Madison on October 11, 2010

Admiral shares at Vanguard have lower minimum balance requirements! This is great news for all the investors at Vanguard, since the admiral shares have a lower expense ratio, which means you’ll keep more of your money in your own pocket. Lower Minimums for Vanguard Admiral Funds Vanguard lowered the minimum per fund for the admiral […]

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American Express $250 Sign Up Bonus

Posted by Kate on October 8, 2010

It’s back! The American Express offer that was popular last spring comes through for us again this week with a great opportunity to score some points worth the equivalent of about $250! It’s Free Money Friday, but you’ll have to hurry, this offer is only good for four days! How to Get Your 25,000 American […]

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Have You Tried Once a Month Cooking?

Posted by Madison on October 7, 2010

When Jill mentioned once a month cooking, yesterday in 6 Ways to Change the Impact of Food on your Budget, I got sucked in and spent a bunch of time reading about once a month cooking. We all know I am not a good cook, even though I try. (Although I have mastered Sue’s frugal […]

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