IQ

December 2008

Economic hard times such as the nation is now experiencing bring out the schemes and scams that aim to make a buck on people who may be feeling pressure financially and who are unwary. In the last few weeks, I have seen dozens of ads and email solicitations for “opportunities” that could wreck an already stressed budget. So this month’s report details 1) some schemes and scams to avoid always and 2) some services that may be helpful in certain circumstances but that you must choose wisely how to use.

November 2008

According to two recent national surveys, health care coverage costs will continue to increase in 2009. Are you one of the many consumers who are concerned about rising health care costs? This month's report looks at various ways to help you save on health care costs.

Health Care Savings Programs

There are various programs established by Congress that can help you save money on health care costs. The following types of plans utilize tax either pre-tax or tax free dollars to pay for health care.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

Health Savings Accounts are tax-exempt savings account that allows account holders to pay covered health care expenses with pre-tax dollars. To qualify for an HSA you must:

October 2008

At present high prices continue at the gas pump and are creeping up at the supermarket checkout counter. Every month it seems the Consumer Price Index ticks a little higher over last year. These trends tend to make most of us budget conscious. Have you been looking for ways to save a few dollars? If so, this report’s for you. This month I've searched the Web for lots of tips to help you save dollars. The savings can start to add up, the more tips you follow.

Are you considering purchasing a fuel-efficient car?

Fuel efficient vehicles, as well as vehicles that only look fuel-efficient, are selling fast and selling at "list" price or more. This means that you need to be a smart buyer if you’re in the market. Here are a couple of tips to help.

September 2008

Have you seen ads like these?

• Save 20-50% On Your Home


• Buy up to 60% Below Market Value


• Homes for Half Price!

Ads like these are pushing foreclosed homes. Buying a foreclosed home may or not be a “deal,” however. The process of buying foreclosed properties is more complicated and has more pitfalls and risks than buying a regular new or existing home (without foreclosure problems) on the real estate market. If you’re weighing the option of purchasing a foreclosed residence, this month's report provides tips and points to help you be better prepared.

August 2008

As average gas prices climb over $4 per gallon, lots of us are feeling the pain at the pump. As the price of a fill-up climbs toward $70 and beyond, the thought of trading for a more fuel-efficient vehicle is appealing. In addition, the news is full of stories about slow sales and economic pressures on auto manufacturers and dealers. Maybe, you think, now could be a good time to get a good deal on a new or used vehicle. Yes or no? The answer depends on your individual financial situation and needs in a vehicle. This report offers some questions to ask yourself and tips for savvy shopping.

What is your current financial situation?

Is your job stable or is the slow economy threatening your industry, company, or job? Are you easily staying within your budget and income or are you stretched, perhaps having some trouble paying bills? If your financial picture is secure, now may be a good time to trade. But first, think about the following questions.