Budgeting Software Options

When it comes to money management and computer software two programs quickly come to mind: Microsoft Money and Quicken. While these programs are good, I have used both of them, I still find that there are things that I wish I could change about the programs. If you feel this way it may mean that it is time to start thinking outside of the computer budget box. One option that you can do is create your own zero dollar budget online using Excel. If you do this you should have a basic understanding of spreadsheets and what you can accomplish … Continue reading →

A Review of “Maxed Out”

I recently watch the documentary “Maxed Out.” It takes a look at the banking industry, and the loan industry and they ways that they view their customers. It takes an inside look at debt collectors as well. Dave Ramsey also had a brief appearance in the film. Overall, I did not feel as though I learned anything new from this documentary. However, that is because I used to work at a bank, and I understand that banks are a business that is looking to profit off of its customers. The focus of the documentary was really on how others were … Continue reading →

What Should You Do With Your Savings?

If you have money in savings you may want to put the money to work to make your investments grow. It is important to earmark your money so that you know what type of investments that you can make with it. There are several different factors to consider. 1) First you should consider whether you would need to be able to access the money quickly. If it is your emergency fund you may want to leave it in a basic savings or money market account. It is important that you be able to access the money right away. If you … Continue reading →

Money Week in Review July 1-July 7

Flexible Spending Accounts points out the advantages of using this benefit that is offered by your employer. Debbie does an excellent job explaining what these can be used for. The most important thing to realize that if you do not use the money you will lose it! Mortgage Insurance and Your Money explains why your bank may have you pay mortgage insurance. This blog explains that the bank is the one that is protected with this insurance. You can also learn how and when you can stop paying it. Are You Only Making Your Minimum Monthly Payments? explains the disadvantages … Continue reading →

Do You Wish You Had a Personal Accountant?

Have you ever wished that you could hire a personal accountant that would just take care of your finances for you? That way you could simply spend your money, and not worry each week if you were going to overdraw. You could also save money on late fees and the hassle of paying your bills each month. While it is not realistic for most people, there are several things you can do to take the hassle out of your finances. 1) You can sign up for automatic bill pay. You can do this either through your bank or through your … Continue reading →

Break the Paycheck to Paycheck Cycle

How can you break the cycle of living from paycheck to paycheck? It is an awful feeling to know that you need the next paycheck to come in so that you can pay groceries and cover your bills for the month. It can be quite stressful to be counting your pennies and just hoping that your car won’t break down or that some other disaster won’t hit. So how can you break that cycle? Here are five steps that you can take to stop living from paycheck to paycheck. 1) Start by living within your means. At first you may … Continue reading →

Mid-month Budget Crisis!

When you first start a budget, you may end up overspending in some areas. If you have an accident, lose your job or another catastrophe, then you may find out that there is no way that you are going to make your budget for the month. You really have three options available to you. The first is to not spend any money at all, since you have overspent for the month. You can make do with the groceries in your house, and stay home since you do not have any money to buy gas. You may just be hoping that … Continue reading →

Credit Card Scammers on the Horizon

Just when you thought you were safe we hear about a new credit card scam out there. If you ever needed a reason to cut up your cards and just say no, now is the time. I still use a card for a few items. I like to use it when I purchase from the internet – but it also opens me up for scammers. If you are using a card, be careful, the scammers are getting smarter and cleverer and just downright nasty. Here’s how it works: A person calls you on the phone and identifies themselves as a … Continue reading →

Squeezing $150.00 From Nowhere Fast!

A few days ago I posted a blog about how I wanted to go to a workshop, but it cost $150.00 and I didn’t have it budgeted. I asked for ideas on finding quick cash and I got some great ones. You can read the comments here and add your own. Here’s what I did, and yes – I have the $150.00 already and have registered for the class! As Alexandra suggested, (in the comments) I did a coin run. ( I also wrote about collecting change in My Secret Stash of Fun Money ) I’ve got little coin jars … Continue reading →

Money: Week in Review Jan 22 – Jan 28 2007

This week on the Money Blog I’ve been dealing with the death of my Mother in Law, and my blog posts have reflected our loss. I’ve blogged about inheritance and how to make financial decisions if you’ve recently inherited some cash and some ideas about giving away your money. I’ve also thought about going back to school and getting a new job, maybe as a programmer? Miriam wants to make sure that married couples are talking honestly about their finances. Here’s the last week in review: Friday, 26 Jan 2007 Earn More! Top Paid Jobs with Growth Potential. by Michelle … Continue reading →