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Green Wrapping Ideas for the Holidays and Beyond
Tweet Share on Facebook December 20, 2010 CommentGift paper sales have become a big business, with annual sales of $2.6 billion dollars, according to Earth911, an environmental services company. But there are frugal and environmental reasons to conserve and recycle wrapping paper. The potential for financial and environmental savings are huge, according to the Sierra Club. For example, if every household wrapped just three presents with cloth or recycled paper—instead of new gift paper—the amount of saved paper could be spread over 45,000 football fields, the Sierra Club reports.
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Even in Death, the Kardashian Kard Lives On
Tweet Share on Facebook December 17, 2010 Comment (3)People who loved to hate the recently-discontinued Kardashian Prepaid Card need not dismay; there’s a new celebrity-themed prepaid card in town, and this one includes even more celebrities that can be subject to scorn and derision. Earlier this month, a company called Myplash released its new line of prepaid cards featuring musicians, actors, athletes, cartoon characters, brand logos and even Twilight characters.
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How Obama’s Tax Deal Is a Compromise of Details, Not Principles
Tweet Share on Facebook December 16, 2010 Comment (2)Nearly 10 years ago, President George W. Bush signed into legislation sweeping tax cuts for all federal income tax brackets, including various tax credits and estate tax exemptions. Many Americans saw an immediate tax savings, and now those tax cuts are set to expire on December 31, 2010—unless Congress votes to extend them. In most cases this would lead to a great debate between Republicans and Democrats, but instead the parties are negotiating a deal that extends the Bush tax cuts and satisfies everyone.
With an economy going nowhere and a high unemployment rate showing no signs of dropping, President Obama sees the need to naturally stimulate the economy. His previous economic stimulus tactics haven't worked, so he understands that he needs to extend the Bush tax cuts to organically put money back in the pockets of Americans. Last week, Obama and Vice President Biden came up with a plan that they thought would satisfy both Republicans and Democrats. However, House and Senate Democrats were originally furious over the compromise.
[In Pictures: 12 Money Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes]
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3 Questions Before Buying a Second Home
Tweet Share on Facebook December 15, 2010 CommentYou probably don't need me telling you how bad the real estate market is. I'm sure you already know by now and I can personally attest to it. I've had my own home on the market for, get this, almost two years without any buyers. Yeah, it's bad out there.
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Safeguard Your Finances This Holiday Season
Tweet Share on Facebook December 15, 2010 CommentWith the holiday season in full swing, many consumers are taking trips to the shopping mall or are shopping online to stock up on holiday gifts. While this time of year brings out the holiday spirit and good will of most people, it is also a time of year when individuals are more vulnerable to theft and scams. For this reason it is important to be extra cautious and remember general safety tips that will ensure your finances and personal information are safeguarded.
Here are a few ways you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft or fraud this holiday season.
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How to Make the Most of Free Shipping Day
Tweet Share on Facebook December 15, 2010 Comment (1)For a limited time only, shipping is on the house at over 1,000 retailers. That's because Friday, December 17, 2010 is Free Shipping Day. Participating stores also guarantee that your order will arrive before Christmas. Plenty of major retailers are participating: Sears, Kmart, Toys 'R' Us, Zales, Macy’s, Victoria’s Secret and the Disney Store are just a few of the top names.
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4 Money Mistakes That Can Destroy You
Tweet Share on Facebook December 14, 2010 Comment (3)Not all money mistakes are created equal. If you forget to use a coupon when you buy that gallon of milk, it might cost you fifty cents. It stinks to pay more than you need to but the mistake costs you only fifty cents. If you decline the flood rider for your homeowners insurance and are hit with a flash flood, that's a mistake that can cost you dearly. Both are money mistakes, but one has a microscopic impact while the other hurts significantly.
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When to Share Your Credit Card’s Security Code
Tweet Share on Facebook December 14, 2010 Comment (14)Have you ever felt an awkward sense of unease when someone on the telephone requests your credit card security code? The security code is the additional set of three to four digits located on your credit card that are often needed to complete a sales transaction online or on the telephone. We are all so cautious about social security numbers and even our phone numbers. Why then should we be so blasé about our security codes?
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Best and Worst Retail Return Policies
Tweet Share on Facebook December 13, 2010 Comment (21)Research shows that nearly $50 billion in merchandise is returned to retail stores during the holiday season. It’s a good idea to consider the return policy before you make a purchase. Stores with simpler return policies mean fewer headaches for you returning gifts you bought for the kids.
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7 Ways to Save Money on Holiday Travel
Tweet Share on Facebook December 13, 2010 Comment (1)Holiday travel can be a daunting experience, even for those of us who are seasoned travelers. From airport check-in lines to extra baggage fees, the cost of visiting friends and relatives often causes headaches, and January credit card bills. Thankfully, we live in a time where almost everyone has the power to save money with a few clicks online.
Here are seven strategies that will help you save on travel this season:
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