Recent Blog Entries

Taxpayers abroad can limit US taxes

Shorten Uncle Sam's global tax reach by claiming the foreign income exclusion. Here are some rules.

IRA has separate deposit insurance limit

An IRA held at a depository institution has its own separate $250,000 FDIC limit.

Paying for college: 5 top mistakes

Paying for college is a problem that can keep parents awake at night. Here's what NOT to do.

5 reasons to use mobile banking

Banks are rushing to bring services to your cell phone. Here are reasons to start using them.

Pay cash? Ask for a discount

The discounts aren't always huge, but businesses are willing to trim your tab if you pay cash.

Down market could produce tax surprises

Even when mutual funds have dropped in value, shareholders could pay capital gains taxes.

Toyoda or Toyota? It's all about crazy 8s

Why is Akio Toyoda's company called "Toyota"? Humor columnist Jay MacDonald investigates.

The case for getting a monthly annuity

Annuities can be an attractive option, offering a steady paycheck for life and certain guarantees.

Pros and cons of taking the lump sum

Lump sums can be a challenge to manage, but if you do so successfully, you can come out ahead.