Picking the right money-handling strategy for your family – separate finances, a joint account or something in between? – can make a big difference on how well you function and how well you get along.
Jessica Francese
Private Debt Collectors Can Seize $1,400 Coronavirus Relief Checks to Pay Creditors
WASHINGTON – A warning for Americans who will receive $1,400 stimulus checks under the third round of direct COVID-relief payments: If you have unpaid debts, creditors may come after your money.
IRS Announces Filing Season Open Date (It’s Later Than Expected)
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced that tax season will open on Friday, February 12, 2021. Yes, on a Friday.
The IRS will begin accepting paper and electronic tax returns that day. This is about two weeks later than had been expected. The delay allows the IRS time to do additional programming and testing of IRS systems following the December 27 tax law changes – especially those involving a second round of stimulus checks (Economic Impact Payments, or EIPs).
Want To Get Financially Healthy In 2021? Four Simple New Year’s Resolutions
It’s that time of year and my unofficial study of everyone I’ve ever known shows that 99.9% of New Year’s resolutions include money. Saving more, spending less, increasing earnings – most of us include some form of financial health as one of our goals for the New Year. ‘Getting my finances together’ is on everyone’s list, but often pushed down with every new list addition. Getting started is a daunting task, and many are intimidated to do so – but you don’t have to be a sophisticated investor to manage your finances.
Heard about the “waiting package” phishing scam?
Phishing scams can be hard to spot. For example, we’ve been hearing about one where people get a text message saying that there’s a package waiting for them, and asking them to click a link to learn more. Sounds innocent enough, right? Unfortunately not.
Petal 2 Visa Credit Card 2020 Forbes’ Review
Anyone nurturing a fair credit history would be wise to consider the no-annual-fee Petal 2 credit card. It’s one of the only no-annual-fee cards available to those with so-so credit with the potential to earn up to 1.5% cash back, making it a rare specimen among unsecured credit cards aimed at building credit.
How to Negotiate With Your Credit Card Company
DO-IT-YOURSELF PROJECTS are a popular way to save money, which is one reason why there are several TV shows and loads of magazines celebrating the joys of hands-on home improvement.
There is another DIY opportunity that gets much less fanfare and can take about as much time as fixing a leaky kitchen faucet – negotiating with your credit card company.
How to Choose the Right Budget System
The best system for you depends on what you’re trying to do — curb spending, pay down debt, build savings or something else.
Budgeting systems are designed to help you understand and evaluate your relationship with money. While all share a common goal, they often use distinct tactics to get you there.
We’ve narrowed down some options to help you find one that resonates. Use these recommendations as a guide.
What you need to know about bankruptcy
If your debts have become unmanageable and you feel there is no other way out, you may be wondering if bankruptcy is your next best step. While it’s true that nobody wants to leave their financial fate in the hands of the courts, there are times when bankruptcy really is the only solution that can work. Keep reading to learn the basics of bankruptcy, how to file and what to keep in mind before you do.