Maybe you pick up coins in the street or search for loose change in purses and sofas – but have you ever checked to see if you have unclaimed money that is yours for the asking? It could be a deposit for a utility service that you never requested when you moved, interest from a bank account, a trust … [Read more...] about Get (your) free money – it’s easy to find
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Teaching kids about money with allowances
A lot of people are surprised that I run Chicago on the Cheap, because it seems like such a deviation for someone who wrote Hedge Funds For Dummies. However, you can't enter the world of high finance if you don't have money to invest. Here's something interesting I've learned over the years: Just … [Read more...] about Teaching kids about money with allowances
When medical bills go bad: Fixing costly insurance errors
Each year, the American Medical Association issues its health insurer report card, which reports on the costs and efficiency of health care billing. In 2013, they found that commercial health insurers made mistakes on 7.1% of submitted claims and denied coverage on another 1.8%. The numbers have … [Read more...] about When medical bills go bad: Fixing costly insurance errors
5 ways to get discounted gift cards
Looking for a way to stretch your shopping dollars? Get gift cards for less than their face value. If you pay $80 for a retailer card that has a value of $100, it’s like finding $20 in FREE money. You should never have to buy gift cards at full price. Here are five strategies for finding them at a … [Read more...] about 5 ways to get discounted gift cards
Save money by dehydrating home-grown foods
My sister, Andrea Vargo, lives in Minnesota and is an avid gardener. She also is a dedicated dehydrator. She says if you grow a garden, dehydration is the best method for preserving all that bounty. It’s easy, the food retains its flavor, and it takes up way less space and equipment than … [Read more...] about Save money by dehydrating home-grown foods
Meat truck deals: How to tell a bargain from a bad idea
The idea of strangers peddling a side of beef, chicken cuts or maybe even bacon slices door to door isn't actually new. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture says it has taken reports of meat vendors for "many years" now. But with the popularity of consumer items being sold from a moving vehicle … [Read more...] about Meat truck deals: How to tell a bargain from a bad idea
Grocery savings: Price book smacks down warehouse stores
A price book is simple, powerful cheapskate tool. You start taking notes of what particular items cost at different stores you shop. It does not have to be fancy; start by tracking items you usually buy, like this:PASTA Store brand: $0.89 (must buy 10 offer) Brand X: $1.25 Brand Y: … [Read more...] about Grocery savings: Price book smacks down warehouse stores
How to feed your book habit without going broke
With the younger generations headed off to school, it's natural to feel a tad nostalgic for No. 2 pencils and a backpack. Only hitting the books, adult style, is way more fun. As you send the kids back to the classroom, why not look into increasing your own reading time — and at a budget that can … [Read more...] about How to feed your book habit without going broke
In over your head with debt? How to find real help
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Nathan Rabin is a great writer who has published several books about pop culture. Among other things, he is the co-author of Weird Al Yankovic's biography, Weird Al: The Book. He also got himself in a mess of financial trouble that only got worse when he signed up with a … [Read more...] about In over your head with debt? How to find real help
Free cell phones with texting for eligible households
If you’ve wanted a cell phone but couldn’t afford one, the federal government may be able to help. Thanks to the Lifeline Assistance program, everyone who needs a telephone for emergencies can get one. Back in the day, that meant a landline, but since 1996, the subsidy has been available to wireless … [Read more...] about Free cell phones with texting for eligible households
Craft store smartphone apps save money on the spot
If you've ever tackled a do-it-yourself project of the crafty nature — or simply wanted to buy a cool picture frame as a shower gift — you know the frustration. You are face to face with that edge punch, that set of artist's brushes, that stem of artificial flowers, and the disappointment nearly … [Read more...] about Craft store smartphone apps save money on the spot
10 ways to wipe out your student loan debt
Beginning July 1, new federal student loans will carry an interest rate of 6.8%, twice the 3.4% rate on loans issued last year. Given that student loans cannot be discharged in bankruptcy, the rate should be close to zero, as the lender has very little risk. But no one is listening to me!Student … [Read more...] about 10 ways to wipe out your student loan debt
8 ways to save when moving into a new home
Congratulations: You’ve been given the keys to your new home. Now the physical work begins. Moving, even locally, can be a very expensive process. Here are eight money-saving tips that I discovered during our move within the same city last year. Get free boxes and use towels as packing … [Read more...] about 8 ways to save when moving into a new home
5 best websites for do-it-yourselfers
A lot of my DIY knowledge came from my father. He taught me at a young age that French cleats are not shoes, tire irons do not flatten tires, and doing things myself can bring satisfaction. I held onto those tattered old Family Handyman books for years before passing them on to one of my sons. But … [Read more...] about 5 best websites for do-it-yourselfers
What you need to know before buying a home
With interest rates still at an all-time low, many first-time homebuyers are looking to make the leap into home ownership. Choosing a home is the easy part of the process – you’ll also need to deal with contract offers, inspection, securing a mortgage and insurance, and the closing, all of which … [Read more...] about What you need to know before buying a home
