Some states have sales tax holidays around this time of year to assist families with getting their kids outfitted for school. At other times of the year, some states also have a sales tax holiday that focuses on hurricane preparedness items or energy-saving appliances. So if you plan to make one of … [Read more...] about Sales tax holidays for back-to-school shopping
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How to protect yourself (or your parents) from scams against seniors
We've all heard the sad stories: A senior citizen was fleeced out of his home by an unscrupulous caregiver. A home repair worker turns out to be a thief who takes all the jewelry. A call announcing you've won a prize turns out to be a ploy to get you to empty your bank account. As fast as law … [Read more...] about How to protect yourself (or your parents) from scams against seniors
18 strategies for $4-a-day budget meal planning and grocery shopping
The recent trend for $4 a day budget meal planning was popularized by Leanne Brown in her free online book "Good and Cheap," developed primarily for those using SNAP (food stamp) benefits. When I heard about the project, I decided to try the $4-a-day food budget on a trial basis. Spending … [Read more...] about 18 strategies for $4-a-day budget meal planning and grocery shopping
How to pay for major home improvements
Do you want to improve your home? We all do. Your list may include renovating the kitchen, addding a deck, changing outdated light fixtures, building an addition, update the heating and cooling systems or other projects. All those things sound great but they cost home. Home improvements can be … [Read more...] about How to pay for major home improvements
Act fast! National Parks Lifetime Passes for seniors soon jump from $10 to $80
Though a hefty number of National Parks are free for all, many still charge a fee. And with the coffers a bit low, NPS is raising entry prices across the board. Now comes word that what used to be one the best deals around is about to be not such a good deal. The National Parks Service plans to … [Read more...] about Act fast! National Parks Lifetime Passes for seniors soon jump from $10 to $80
13 ways to save money on hotel rooms
What everyone wants to hear is that there are one or two apps or websites that will always find you the best deal on hotel rooms. Sorry. It’s just not that easy. What worked for last month’s business trip to Chicago may not work for this summer’s family vacation to Disney World – or even … [Read more...] about 13 ways to save money on hotel rooms
10 ways to get the best deal on a rental car
Think finding the lowest airfare is tricky? Try getting the best deal on a rental car. These days, car rental rates change faster than television networks launch reality series. But there are ways to both save and be satisfied, without making you feel like a contestant on Survivor. Here are some … [Read more...] about 10 ways to get the best deal on a rental car
How to save money on food without using coupons
Groceries for a family of four cost an average of $727 to $1,303 a month, not including takeout and restaurant meals, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s a big chunk of change. But there are ways to spend less on food and still eat a healthy, nutritious diet. And you may … [Read more...] about How to save money on food without using coupons
Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
It may be mid-summer, but for many, the hottest days of summer are just beginning. You want the kids to get outdoors and be active, but running around can build up a thirst. Ice pops are a great way to cool off and keep hydrated. Still, with some brands costing nearly $5 for a box of six, … [Read more...] about Keep the kids cool with DIY ice pops
Setting up your perfect home office: what you need
If you are lucky enough to work at home full time, or just get an opportunity to work from home occasionally, do not underestimate the value of a great home office. A well-planned home office can lead to endless productivity and success. A poor work environment, on the other hand, can lead to … [Read more...] about Setting up your perfect home office: what you need
When is the right time to upgrade your laptop?
Sluggish performance, increased errors, and the dreaded Blue Screen of Death are all indicators that your laptop is nearing its end of life, but how do you know when it is time to pull the plug and invest in something new? A new laptop can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to well over … [Read more...] about When is the right time to upgrade your laptop?
Free or cheap summer fun activities with kids
Involving children with cheap activities this summer will help to not only keep your kids entertained, but will also ensure they’re tired come the end of the day. But coming up with ideas that don’t cost a fortune can sometimes be a problem. Maybe this list of free/cheap summer fun activities will … [Read more...] about Free or cheap summer fun activities with kids
