Check the costs before you buy the car
If you're in the market for a new car (or used car), you're probably ready to visit a couple of dealers and take several test drives to get the "feel" of the car. But there are other details you really should consider before you make a purchase - things like potential auto repair costs while you own the car, if the manufacturer has recalls posted for any parts of the car and even what your new insurance costs will be.

Ten vital financial tips to take you through 2010
The few short months between New Year's Day and tax day offer an outstanding opportunity - and, for many of us, strong incentive - to take steps to improve our financial standing. The distraction of the holidays is over, and the arrival of tax forms brings into sharp focus the need to take charge of our finances.

Bring calm to financial chaos this year
The average person spends nearly five hours a month managing his finances, according to a recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In a society where Americans yearn for simplicity, even the most financially savvy consumers are looking for uncomplicated and timely ways to manage their holistic financial profiles.

Entering the third dimension - the best 3D technology bets for 2010
For years, 3D technology was limited to amusement park attractions and comic books. But in 2010, 3D is everywhere -- even in your living room. Here's an overview of the most anticipated 3D products rolling out in 2010 . . .

Smart ways for small business owners to save money
Starting or building a business isn't easy, but it shouldn't cost a lot of money, either.

10 smart money strategies for '10
The recession has altered the way individuals and families think about money and financial security. As Americans begin the slow process of economic recovery, former lifestyle expectations, spending habits and financial plans need a closer look.

Planning, taxes and insurance tips to get your new business off to a successful start
With the unemployment rate at an all-time high, many people are starting their own businesses as a way to leverage their work experience. There are a lot of resources for those starting a business, but sometimes the sheer number of resources and the amount of input can be overwhelming. Here are some basic tips around the three major aspects of starting a business: planning, insurance and taxes.

Save money while loving and caring for your pet
Pets are members of our families. They are our best friends and love us devotedly. Pet care can be a major line item in the family budget, as food, medicine, grooming tools and toys aren't cheap. But there are ways to save money on pet supplies while keeping your pet healthy, happy and looking good.

Seek the best returns for your hard-earned savings
Savers will have to be a little more creative to earn a respectable return. In light of this, it is helpful to explore some strategies to help make your cash work harder.

Price vs. value: Are premium automotive products worth the extra cost?
When does it make sense to upgrade to a premium automotive product? That's a question that stumps a lot of people when confronted with the wide ranges of prices for seemingly comparable products.

What to do if you're in an auto accident
As winter approaches, snow, ice storms and fewer daylight hours mean more drivers are at the risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Would you know what to do if you were driving and hit another vehicle, a pedestrian or a biker?

An affordable source of financial stability and peace of mind in challenging times
The prospect of shrinking retirement savings and rising unemployment rates has made financial peace of mind hard to come by these days. Americans are looking for ways to cut back on expenses and shore up their savings, and many are considering life insurance as a way to bridge the gap created by other financial losses.

Prepaid cards could help balance state government budgets
Every state in the union is facing tough choices with respect to cutting spending to balance their budgets. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, states faced a total budget shortfall of $113.2 billion in 2009 and the forecast for 2010 is a total shortfall of $142.6 billion.

Easy-to-do maintenance helps extend vehicle life
After their homes, most Americans' largest financial investment is their vehicle, so helping it stay in good working order for as long as possible is a high priority. Here are some simple, cost-effective tips for helping to protect the performance and longevity of your vehicle.

Tips for getting financially fit before tax day hits
With winter winding down, spring is on its way, and so is tax time. It's never too early to start setting aside money if you think you'll owe, and if you are getting a refund, organizing your finances will better prepare you for how to use that extra cash.

Need help paying for that hearing aid? Here's how to get it
"No one should go without a needed hearing aid because of an inability to pay," says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, executive director of the Better Hearing Institute (BHI). Here's advice on how you can get assistance paying for a hearing aid.