by Kristine McKinley | Dec 20, 2006 | Budgeting and Saving, Insurance, Personal Finance
Just ran across the article 50 Ways to Cut Health Care Costs on CNNMoney’s website. As fast as health care costs are rising, I think it’s a good idea to educate yourself about your health care costs and how to cut them. #3 Pay up front, in cash...
by Kristine McKinley | Dec 16, 2006 | Budgeting and Saving, Debt Management, Personal Finance
I noticed that a payday loan store moved into my neighborhood recently, then I looked around and realized there are several in my area. This made me wonder… how profitable are these payday loan places, that they are popping up on every street corner? I’ve...
by Kristine McKinley | Dec 15, 2006 | Personal Finance, Taxes
Uncle Sam is now going to help you pay your mortgage insurance premiums! Mortgage insurance is typically required when home buyers purchase a new home with less than 20 percent down. The newest tax legislation allows taxpayers to deduct premiums paid for...
by Kristine McKinley | Dec 14, 2006 | Budgeting and Saving, Personal Finance
As a financial planner, I encourage my clients to have an emergency fund. This is often met with the following questions: 1. Why do I need an emergency fund? and2. How much should it be? To answer the first question, you need an emergency fund for...
by Kristine McKinley | Dec 13, 2006 | Taxes
If you are a teacher, you probably know about the $250 deduction that is allowed on your income tax return. While this is a very small tax break, every little bit helps. So, I was glad to see that Congress extended this deduction for two more years, until...
