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Financial Lessons From My Friends

From simple things like how to make my signature more secure, to more complicated investing and tax strategies, I have learned a lot of financial tricks and tips from my friends. Read more here...

Getting Money Back When a Retailer Declares Bankruptcy

Based on my experience, success in getting money back when seller declares bankruptcy depends on method of payment and speed of action. Read more here...

Assessing My Income Tax Audit Risk

Every year, I wonder if my income tax return will be selected for an audit by the IRS. I investigated what the odds of an IRS audit were. According to the files from the 2010 Data Book (most recent available), the IRS audited about 1.7 million income tax returns, which was only 0.9% of the 187 million filed. It seems filing early versus in April, or refund versus tax owed did not have a bearing on audit risk. Two items clearly increased the risk of audit.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Assessing My Income Tax Audit Risk

A $250,000 Budget Means Slim Pickings in New York Real Estate

What does $250,000 buy in a desirable neighborhood in metro New York? Find out HERE...

Budgeting for Pregnancy Related Medical Costs

I believe it is important to be financially ready before having a baby. While the cost of some baby essentials can be managed by parents, pregnancy related medical costs can vary wildly depending upon the type of delivery, hospital and insurance policy. My total billed costs (without insurance) for two pregnancies? Over $87,000. Read more here...

I'm in No Rush to File My Taxes

Every year, some people try to file their income taxes ahead of everyone. They rush to their accountant or tax software as soon as they get their W-2 or 1099. They boast that they will get their tax refund check before any one else. Not me. I am a tortoise when it comes to taxes. Read more here or here...

The Metro New York Housing Market Is Stagnant But I Am Optimistic

Even though employment and consumer confidence are on the uptick, demand for buying new homes is low in metro New York, keeping real estate prices stagnant to slightly lower in the area. Yet, there may be good news for thousands of homeowners in the New York area who are trying to sell their homes. My optimism is based on rental supply and demand, not driven by a bet that real estate prices will rise in 2013. Read more here...

I Hate Income Tax Refunds!

If I were one of the 109.3 million Americans getting a refund, instead of being happy I would be upset. I hate tax refunds. I would rather owe taxes. Read more here...

Pay a Hefty Tax for Miles Rewards? 'No, Thank You' Citibank

In late January 2012, Citibank customers who had responded to a 2011 promotion to receive 25,000 American Airlines frequent flier miles for opening a checking or savings account got a surprise in the mail. An IRS Form 1099-MISC showed a taxable income of $645 from Citibank. What can you do to offset these taxes? Read more here...