May 17, 2012

Taxpayers Rights in Audit

Though studies estimate that only about 1% of all tax returns are actually audited each year, your lifetime chances of being questioned by the IRS are closer to 50%. If your tax return is audited, it’s important to know your rights. Refer to IRS Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer, to read about the [...]

Steps to Home Ownership

Thinking about buying a home? The steps you need to take may seem a bit overwhelming if you are a first time home buyer. Here are the basic steps you need to make to call it home sweet home. 1. Offer Once you look around and find the perfect home, you’ll need to make an [...]

Year of the Pig Affects Market

This is the Year of the Pig and experts in Asian markets predict that earthy stocks such as banks and properties will fare well. If you are looking for Chinese property plays, stocks such as Shimao Property Holdings Ltd., China Resources Land, and China Overseas Land and Investment Ltd. may be of interest. Stocks in [...]

The Evils of Credit

Partly amusing, partly true, these thoughtful words on the topic of credit are courtesy of Poor Richard via Ben Franklin. If you are being chased by the credit monster, this wisdom may help you to see your credit in a different light. Fond Pride of Dress, is sure a very Curse; E’er Fancy you consult, [...]

Profit From New Laws

Changes in legislation for 2007 just might put more money in your pocket. The government has made decisions regarding taxation and retirement account contributions that you may find valuable in the coming year. Higher Limits on Roth IRA Income Single tax filers with incomes below $114,000 now qualify for a Roth, as do married couples [...]

Small Ways to Save Big Money

Here are a few easy ways to make little changes around your home that will turn into dollars in the long run. 1. Ask your power company to do a free energy audit on your home to help you find ways to cut waste (and costs). Remember to do this annually. 2. Lower the thermostat [...]

Banking Bonus: Free Trades

If you have an account with Bank of America, you may be able to trade stocks for free. Bank of America recently announced that if you hold $25,000 in your combined accounts with them, you are eligible for 30 free equity trades each month. The combined balance can include checkings and savings accounts as well [...]