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Start 2010 Off Right

It's a near year and that means new financial goals and resolutions. How do you want to improve your finances in the new year? Create a budget? Save more money? Get out of debt? Here's what you should focus on in 2010.

Tips for a Better 2010

Jeremy's Financial Planning Blog

Watch Out For Hidden Credit Card Fees

Monday February 8, 2010

Credit card reform may be on the way, but it isn't all good news. If you're like most people, you probably get a lot of credit card offers in the mail. Many of these offers provide some attractive low interest rates, balance transfers, or reward programs. While it can be tempting to take advantage of some of these offers, you have to be careful. These offers are usually short-lived and can be even more costly than you think.

Whether it is a teaser rate or hidden fees on balance transfers, you want to read all of the fine print before taking advantage of any credit card. Some promotions are legitimately worthwhile, but there is usually more to it than the big 0% they are promoting on the form. Learn how to spot these hidden fees and how to avoid them.

A Few Money Tips For Singles

Saturday February 6, 2010

Everyone needs to plan for the future and find ways to save money, but being single presents a few unique opportunities and issues to consider. When you only need to support yourself and nobody is relying on your income, things like life insurance may not be on the top of your list. At the same time, with only one income you're solely responsible for making money to pay the bills. And when you're young and single, issues like retirement may be the furthest thing from your mind, yet it's still very important to start planning now. Here are a few things to consider when you're single and trying to make the most of your money.

Save Money on Groceries

Wednesday February 3, 2010

In this economy, you're probably finding that your dollar doesn't go as far at the grocery store as it used to, or you simply don't have as many dollars to spend. Groceries and food prices have been increasing steadily over the past few years, and it is beginning to really put a strain on some family budgets. Even as costs continue to rise, there are plenty of ways that you can save money on your next grocery trip. Here are some tips on how to save money on groceries.

In addition to just saving money at the grocery store, now is a good time to take a look at reviewing, or creating a budget so you can find other areas to save money. It is easy to let a little bit of money here and there slip through the cracks, so finding, and stopping those spending leaks can lead to big savings over time.

Investing 101: Bond Basics

Sunday January 31, 2010

There are a lot of investment choices out there. Stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and the list goes on. Most of us are somewhat familiar with stocks since we hear about the markets on the news all the time. But what about bonds? If you have a retirement plan, chances are you're also investing in bonds. So, what are bonds, how do they work, and what place do they have in your overall portfolio? Get a crash course in what bonds are and how they work.

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