fix your financesWellness. It's not just about your waistline any more... Researchers have long known that financial stress can take a toll on physical health. The American Psychological Association says that "for people coping with existing health problems, financial and interpersonal stress can exacerbate their conditions." Now a new survey finds that sticking to financial resolutions helps people stick to fitness goals. TD Bank surveyed 1,444 American adults about their New Year's resolutions and found that 80% made health-related resolutions and 69% set financial goals. The respondents who were satisfied with their current financial condition were more likely to stick to their … [Read more...]
Holiday Budgeting Tips For Conscientious Shoppers
The decorations, the shopping mall and, of course, all those screaming retail deals mean it is time for consumers to start their holiday shopping. One of the few good things about a sluggish economy at holiday time is that it underscores the need to consider what's really essential. It's not just about being frugal; it's about being smart with our money. Setting financial priorities early is the best way to keep the year's biggest spending season worry-free and most important, debt-free. Here are some suggestions that can help you stay in line with your spending goals during the holidays and position yourself for a financially healthy and happy New Year. Revisit your gift policy: … [Read more...]
Web-Only Banking – Advantages and Disadvantages
web-only bankingMost American banks offer online banking services, but now there are banks that exist only online, and you get a good many of the services offered by traditional brick-and-mortar banks. You can scan and deposit checks and transfer funds at any time, and on any day of the year. There are savings, checking, and money market accounts available, as well as CDs, retirement accounts, educational savings plans, loans and mortgages. These "online only" banks offer free transfers, online bill pay, mobile banking and telephone banking. The question is: Are they a good place to put your money? There are advantages, and disadvantages. In the busy 21st century-world we live in, one … [Read more...]
The Stock Market Correction of 2015
Keys to Surviving Market Turbulence Investors were in sell mode ahead of the weekend, and again on Monday, as the major US stock markets sold off substantial amounts and officially entered the technical definition of a market correction (which means dropping 10% from the stock market's previous high water mark). This was the first stock market correction in just over 1,450 trading days, and most of the investment community felt it was long overdue. What caused the recent sell off? Mostly, the reason has been continued poor domestic economic data around lower oil and other commodity prices, and the news that China's economy is most likely slowing faster than the Chinese government would … [Read more...]
Money “Wasters”
money waster's Nearly everyone has holes in their budgets... And as with other kinds of leaks, you may have hardly noticed some of them. But those small drips can quickly add up to big bucks. The trick is to find the leaks and stop them so you can keep more money in your pocket. Here are a few to think about. Overspending on Auto Maintenance...Are you still paying for an oil change every 3,000 miles? Many models nowadays can last 5,000 to 7,000 miles between changes, and some even have built-in sensors to tell you when it's time to change the oil. Check your owner's manual to find the best time for your car's routine maintenance. Not Pulling the Plug on Electronics...U.S. … [Read more...]
Helping Grand-kids Pay for College – A Quick Course for Grandparents
helping grand-kids pay for collegeWith college tuition costs continuing to escalate, grandparents are taking a more active role in helping to fund a college education for their grandchildren via vehicles such as a tax-favored 529 savings plan. More than half (53%) of grandparents are saving or plan to start saving to help pay for college costs, Fidelity reports in its recent 2014 Grandparents and College Savings Study. All told, those grandparents indicated they expect to contribute a median of $25,000 in college education funds for all their grandchildren, with 35% anticipating contributing $50,000 or more. Given the financial ramifications of investing in a grandchild’s education, it’s … [Read more...]
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