The volume of mortgage applications submitted to lenders is at an eight-year low, the AP reports. This news comes a day after the U.S. Commerce Department reported that construction of new homes hit a 17-year low in July. While this news makes … [Read more...]
First-time Home Buyer Tax Credit Provides up to $7,500
August 20, 2008 by
Did you know that if you are an American buying your first home between April 9, 2008 and July 1, 2009, the U.S. government will give you up to $7,500 in the form of a federal tax credit? … [Read more...]
Cruel Overdraft Traps
August 19, 2008 by
I've always figured banks actually want you to overdraw your checking account so they can score a fee, but I had no idea banks manipulate transactions to cause overdrafts, as SmartMoney.com reports. Here are the two most shocking tricks banks use, … [Read more...]
Young People Are In Financial Trouble
August 18, 2008 by
Thanks to Emily from Taking Change for the guest post at Free Money Finance highlighting an important survey showing that young people are in financial dire straights. The report, released by the financial advocacy group Qvisory, indicates that … [Read more...]
Suze Orman is a Buzzkill
August 18, 2008 by
I do not subscribe to the Suze Orman personal finance methodology. Unfortunately, I think most personal finance bloggers do. What am I talking about? It's the notion that: "If you spend money, you're stupid; If you're in debt, you're stupid." … [Read more...]
Emergency Fund Calculator Spreadsheet Now Available
August 15, 2008 by
Due to the interest I have received from my recent post describing a formula to calculate how much you need in your emergency fund, I have created an Excel spreadsheet that can run the formula for you. Download the free spreadsheet in Excel … [Read more...]
How to File a FAFSA as an Independent Undergraduate Student
August 13, 2008 by
It’s a common financial aid quandary: Why does a student who does not receive financial support from mom and dad need to include parents’ finances—including their most recent tax returns—when completing a FAFSA form for federal financial aid? … [Read more...]
Saving Money by Avoiding Sales Tax
August 12, 2008 by
Sixteen states are offering sales tax holidays this August, providing consumers with a couple of days to shop tax-free. Should you take the bait? … [Read more...]
Emergency Fund Calculator: How Much Cash Do You Need?
August 12, 2008 by
Wondering how much you need in your emergency fund? Calculate a rough estimate of how much to stash away for a rainy day using this simple formula. … [Read more...]
Six Must-Follow Resume Tips
August 11, 2008 by
Whether you’re actively aiming for a new gig or just floating a few resumes here and there, following these critical resume tips can make the difference between landing your dream job and never even getting into an interview chair. … [Read more...]
