Clearing clutter with freecycle

A reader sent a comment after my last blog about clearing clutter with Freecycle (thanks Kristin!). We weren't able to post the comment because of a policy of not allowing websites to be listed in comments. So, I'm writing this follow-up blog to tell you more about Freecycle.

Clearing the holiday clutter

During the time from Thanksgiving to New Year's, we create an extra 5 million tons of garbage. The extra waste is generated because the average American household increases its trash output by 25 percent during the holidays. To keep all of that extra trash from filling up our landfills, we need to think twice before tossing it into the garbage can.

Save money on insurance

One thing that no one can afford to be without is insurance. You might roll the dice and go without it. But the odds are that sooner or later you will encounter a serious life circumstance that you cannot afford.

Don't get caught in a money trap

Last week we talked about traditional and non-traditional banking services. Sometimes people have problems with the traditional services provided by credit unions and banks. Then, they tend to seek out non-traditional services which can often be money traps. In some cases, such as with check cashing and money orders, the services are simply more expensive.

Traditional and non-traditional banking

Sometimes I hear people say that they would rather not put their money in a bank or credit union. Some of the reasons they give include trouble managing a checking account in the past, low interest rates, fear that creditors will take the funds, and problems with identity theft.

News related scams

You've probably heard about the scams related to charitable donations. Did you also realize that Internet scams can be related to the news itself?

Developing a spending and savings plan

Many people have a negative feeling about the word "budget." The word brings to mind a straight jacket or perhaps chains -- something that holds you back or keeps you in check. But the purpose behind a budget is exactly the opposite.

Use credit wisely, instead of not at all

From time to time I hear people say that because of their bad experiences with credit, they want to pay cash for everything and never borrow again. This may seem like an admirable goal. but in reality, a life totally without credit can actually reduce your financial stability.

Personal finance foundations

If you want to build stability into your personal finances, you have to start with a firm foundation. The first step is to get organized. You'll need a simple home filing system, a way to keep track of which bills are due when, and one place to store everything. You can use large envelopes, file folders, notebooks, or calendars to organize. The best system is the one that works for you!

Of love and money...

During February, everyone's mind turns to hearts and flowers (and chocolate!) as we celebrate Valentine's Day. My son recently mentioned a new title for the holiday, "Single's Awareness Day." Singles may wish they had someone to share the flowers and chocolate with, but they do have one advantage over couples in the area of money management. Singles don't have to argue with a partner over how to spend their money.