For this “Money Mentor” post, I wanted to bring attention to someone who’s doing the little things right. It’s really a chance to ask a thrifty friend — the one who seems like she always has it together — the secrets to her … [Read more...]
How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
February 1, 2013 by
Thinking of popping the question? I’m sure you have heard the old tradition that you need to spend two month’s salary on a diamond engagement ring. You’re probably wondering: Do I have to? No, of course not. How much you should spend on … [Read more...]
Funny Money: A Quest to Find the Best $1 Burger
January 30, 2013 by 23 Comments
Since the dawn of the drive-thru, philosophers have pondered that most trying of propositions — where to go to get the best burger for a buck. There are no easy answers to the quandary, and the solution at which one arrives says as much about the … [Read more...]
Military Money: Understanding Financial Benefits of Military Service
January 29, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Members of our armed forces face unique financial challenges during and after their service. At the same time, military members may be eligible for benefits -- the Thrift Savings Program (TSP) and VA loans to name two -- that civilians are not. To … [Read more...]
When to Buy a TV: The Best Time to Buy a Flat Screen Might Not Be When You Think
January 28, 2013 by 3 Comments
Every holiday season, I love to whine about the how Black Friday sales gets people to spend more than they should and puts and unhealthy focus on buying stuff you don’t really need, can’t afford, or both. But that all changes in the event I’m … [Read more...]
Funny Money: How to Watch HBO and Showtime for Free
January 23, 2013 by
I know what you're thinking when you read the headline. "How could there possibly be an entire article on that topic? Just do what everyone does and download episodes of Girls and Homeland on your roommate's computer!" Stop right there. Piracy is … [Read more...]
How to Find a Great Last-Minute Hotel Deal
January 22, 2013 by
When you're on the road, last minute doesn't have to mean full-price. It’s a common misconception that you’re going to end up overpaying if you don’t have the chance to book your hotel room in advance. You can actually save money by booking … [Read more...]
Funny Money: A Quick Way to Cut Medical Costs
January 16, 2013 by
I'm happy to introduce "Funny Money", a new column offering irreverent but otherwise solid financial advice written by author and newspaperman Phil Villarreal. Weclome, Phil. -DW. You may think you're doing OK financially, but most people are a … [Read more...]
Welcome to 2013, the Year of Crowdfunding for College
January 11, 2013 by
When the final draft of 2012 in review gets written, it deserves to go down — in personal finance terms — as the Year of Crowdfunding. All sorts of crowdfunding records were set and shattered, with some remarkable stories as a result. In the … [Read more...]
Car Dealer Secrets: How to Buy an Extended Car Warranty
December 17, 2012 by
In my last post I gave you some questions to ask before you say yes to an extended auto warranty. Today we’ll dive deeper and explore how much car warranties cost and, if you do buy, how to choose the best extended warranty for your needs. As a … [Read more...]
