Understanding the differences With the number of tax breaks available to help manage the cost of education, it can quickly become a bit of a maze. Here are some of the more common with information to help make some sense out of which to use. Two of the most popular tax breaks to help pay…

  It sometimes feels like technology companies expect us to replace our devices every couple of years while adding another monthly subscription along the way. Fortunately, this isn’t the only path. A few thoughtful habits can help you stay secure, get more life out of the technology you already own, and avoid paying the technology…

Banks regularly compete for new customers by offering cash bonuses, higher interest rates, and other perks. By periodically reviewing your options, you may be able to earn extra money while gaining access to better products and services. Here are some ideas to make banks compete for your business. Your paycheck is worth something to a…

Some of the most effective tax moves are small and can be made year after year, adding up to saving significant money over time. Here are a few tax planning ideas for you to consider:   Adjust your tax withholding. A big refund isn’t a bonus. It means too much tax came out of your paychecks…

Technology often arrives wrapped in promises – faster, smarter, simpler. But many of the beliefs we carry about it aren’t truths at all. They’re myths about how technology actually works and what it can really do. Here are a few of the myths we keep falling for, and some ideas on how you can see…

Spring cleaning isn’t really about dust or closets. It’s about deciding what earns space in your life. Your money deserves the same treatment. Instead of rushing through financial tasks you may only do once per year, such as reviewing your credit report or insurance policies, treat them as a deliberate spring financial checkup. Done thoughtfully,…

Money touches nearly every part of our lives, yet many people are surprised by how common certain financial behaviors actually are. Here are 7 interesting financial facts that highlight real trends in personal finance, along with practical tips to help you make smarter decisions.   Fact #1: 46% of Americans with credit cards carry a balance…

This year marks 250 years of American independence, which also means two-and-a-half centuries of spirited debate over taxes. From the nation’s earliest days, revenue has been raised in inventive, controversial, and occasionally head-scratching ways, often followed closely by creative attempts to avoid it. To mark this anniversary, our annual tax quiz explores the lesser-known, stranger…

Cybercriminals are sidestepping two-factor authentication. Here’s how you can stay ahead. Every day, cybercriminals try to access bank accounts, take over email inboxes, and harvest personal information using passwords purchased in bulk from underground marketplaces. Using two Factor Authentication (2FA), also known as multi-factor authentication, is a way to help block these break-ins by requiring…

Saving for retirement is not a one size fits all journey, as each stage of life comes with different priorities, pressures, and opportunities. No matter where you are in your journey, here are savings tips from established financial publications and organizations to consider for every age. In Your Twenties – Building Early Habits For many…