How to Get Insurance for the Self-Employed
January 31, 2008
Unless you work for a company that has a group insurance plan, health care insurance can be astronomical. In fact, more and more people do not have insurance at all because smaller businesses cannot afford the benefit, and getting insurance on your own becomes a choice between keeping a roof overhead or having a health […]
Would You Call in Sick for a Little Financial Housekeeping?
January 30, 2008
Do you have a list of financial to do’s that you want to get done but just haven’t made time to complete? I’ve had a growing list for a while now that I finally sat down and tackled yesterday instead of going to work. I was actually at home sick but not ill enough that […]
What is Earned Income Credit?
January 29, 2008
A couple of years ago, I did my taxes and mailed it to the IRS. Fortunately, I was going to get a refund. Any amount is better than having to send Uncle Sam an additional check. However, when the check came in the mail, I was shocked to discover the refund was even more than […]
Increase Your After Tax Investment Returns With these Tax Deductions
January 28, 2008
As the tax forms for last year’s investment income start to arrive in the mail we’re rudely reminded of the effect that taxes have on our investment earnings. Especially when we lose money and still have to pay taxes, my Oakmark International fund was down about $100 for the year but generated over $1000 in […]
Tax Rebates, Economic Stimulus, and Recession – Personal Finance Review
January 27, 2008
I was a little hasty in announcing free money for all earlier in the week, I guess I’ve forgotten my classes on US government. The tax rebate was passed by the House of Representatives but still has to make it through the Senate, where it may see some changes. Anyhow, the economy, how to stimulate […]
Tips for Choosing an Accountant or Tax Preparer
January 26, 2008
For my personal needs, tax preparation software works fine. I answer the questions; plug in some numbers; and presto, I send my taxes off into cyberspace. But, when tax issues are complicated, you might want to seek the aid of a professional. Here are some tips that have been shared with me over the years: […]
Identity Theft is Too Easy – Phishing with a Fax Number
January 25, 2008
Have you ever faxed over a copy of your name, address, and social security number to an identity thief? I thought for a brief moment today I might have fallen victim to a savvy phishing/fax scheme that originated with the email below: 2nd Notice! – Important! – W-9 tax form This is just a reminder. […]
Keep Track of Your Home Business Income with Microsoft Office Accounting Express
January 24, 2008
Last week I mentioned how to earn extra money in 2008. Now, you might want to know how to keep track of the extra money you earn. After two kids and a divorce, I went back to college to get an English degree. I got the diploma, but I also acquired a LOT of debt. […]
Personal Finance Review – Market Turmoil Edition
January 23, 2008
Markets are down, what should we do? My best advice is to tune it out. It may be hard to do since it’s all over the news but for my part I’m just going about business as usual. Let’s look at what others are saying about the tough economic times: The Digerati Life has a video […]
How to Get a Free Credit Report
January 22, 2008
If you are interested in purchasing a home, buying a car, or getting a loan for any reason, your lender is going to ask you for the information necessary to get a credit report. Depending on the results of the report, you will be able to obtain a loan or be rejected. So, if you […]