Morris Armstrong
Morris has an extensive background in the world of finance. He has spent 25 years as a currency and bond trader, and then another 15 years helping the public with personal financial issues. In 2008, attorneys in Connecticut voted him as one of the top three planners in the Connecticut Law Tribune poll.
He has written for numerous online sites, including Multex Investors, which is now part of Reuters, and has written for several magazines serving the advisory community. He has appeared on CNN. Ocasionally he is graced with a Yahoo Hot 500 badge, and I thank the public for that!
One area that he is passionate about is helping those who are going through a divorce understand the financial ramifications of any settlement. He believes that couples should consider alternatives to the traditional litigation model.
When asked about today's consumer he said "I don't really envy the consumer. Everyone wants to focus on the consumer's assets when in fact it is probably their liabilities that need better managing as well as an introduction to basic budgeting."
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He has written for numerous online sites, including Multex Investors, which is now part of Reuters, and has written for several magazines serving the advisory community. He has appeared on CNN. Ocasionally he is graced with a Yahoo Hot 500 badge, and I thank the public for that!
One area that he is passionate about is helping those who are going through a divorce understand the financial ramifications of any settlement. He believes that couples should consider alternatives to the traditional litigation model.
When asked about today's consumer he said "I don't really envy the consumer. Everyone wants to focus on the consumer's assets when in fact it is probably their liabilities that need better managing as well as an introduction to basic budgeting."
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The Voice of Reason
Displaying Results 1 - 191 (of 191) for All Content
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Learning How to Create a Budget was My Financial SalvationBudgets empower you to reach your goals.
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My Financial Regret -- Having too Much House Cost Me $666,000A large house may be nice but not necessary, and the added expenses for upkeep add up.
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The Republican Party Must Become More Gay-FriendlyThe Republican Party is on its way to oblivion unless they can become flexible on social issues which most Americans want.
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Does Obama Want Election Reform or Federal Control?The voting process is a state issue and should be addressed at a state level.
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Commentary: Rubio Rebukes Obama, but is LukewarmThe Republican rebuttal to Obama was only lukewarm at best.
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Commentary: Obama's Speech Was Aspirational, Not InspirationalThere was nothing new in Obama's political speech. It seemed as if the only thing that he was interested in reducing was personal freedoms and state's rights.
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Words We Will Never Hear Obama SayThe President's inauguration may have a few surprises but I doubt if we will hear much truth.
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Obama's Solution on Gun Control Must Reflect Even EmotionsThe president's proposals on gun control are a great starting point for a healthy debate.
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The Pain of the Newtown Massacre is Felt by AllThe tragedy in Newtown evoked memories of a troubled youth - fortunately not related to today's tragedy.
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First Person: The Right Way to Convert a Roth IRAThere is method that everyone can use to maximize the tax benefits of converting into a Roth IRA. Sure, its a little bit more work, but aren't you worth it?
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This Mets Fan Has Reasons to Give ThanksDespite having yet another losing season, the Mets give us reasons to be thankful.
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Football and Thanksgiving Traditions - My Five Football GuestsImagine having five football stars sitting around your table sharing their best and their worst moments of their career?
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First Person: Behavioral Modification Aids in Quitting SmokingSmoking is a vile habit but like any other habit or addiction, it can be defeated.
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Fiscal Cliff Worries: Inability of Government to Compromise, LeadShould America fall over the fiscal cliff, I think that our political process may be called into question and reforms introduced.
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When It Comes to Smoking I Am Proud to Be a QuitterGiving up cigarettes may have been one of the most difficult things I have ever done but also one of the best.
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Hurricane Sandy - a Chance to Share Both Gasoline and TimeThe damage from Sandy is very uneven. Is it unreasonable to expect those communities that are relatively unscathed to make resources available to those in hurt?
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When Hurricane Sandy Hits Connecticut I’ll Be ReadyHurricane Sandy, dubbed Frankenstorm may hit Connecticut Monday. It is important to prepare for possible power outages and other major inconveniences,
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First Person: My Recipe for Almost Perfect CreditIn today's world we are but a number, and that is our credit score. I am pleased that my scores are still among the best
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Obama-Romney Debate Ends in Draw; Round Three is Nextthe recent polls show that the election is in a dead heat and the same could be said for the debate.
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Obama Loses the 8 Percent YokeFinally we are seeing an unemployment rate that is below 8 percent. However, the report is still mixed and not enough to sway this voter.
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Romney Stayed on Course and ConnectedThe presidential debate went well, with neither candidate making a faux pas and Romney connecting
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Carried Interest Needs to Be AbolishedThe notion that carried interest, the tax mechanism which Romney uses, while legal appears to be unfair and without real value to the economy.
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I Upgraded My Music Collection when the Compact Disc ArrivedIt is hard to believe that the compact disc has been around for 30 years and is on its way to being obsolete
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First Person: How Can I Reduce the Taxable Amount of My Social Security?Understanding how social security benefits are taxed is critical to any planning decisions and you may realize that there is very little that can be done to alter the taxable amount.
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My Economic Confidence Level is Related to the Divorce RateMore people are able to get divorced in better economic times, and I am seeing an increase in that type of business. Is this the classic definition of Schadenfreude
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In '60 Minutes' Interview, Romney Confirms Right Path on Social SecurityObama is correct - this election does present clear choices!
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August's Anemic Employment Report DisappointsFor years ago, there were more than three million more people working - and that highlights the failure of the current administration.
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First Person: Am I Better Off After Four Years?The politicians are asking whether you are better off today than you were four years ago. Should we be happy to tread water? I think not.
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First Person: Supersize Your Social Security Benefits When DivorcedYou can increase your social security benefits by tens of thousands of dollars through planning.
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Mitt Romney's Acceptance Speech Showed Me the WayRomney had to make a great speech, one that showed his humanity, and I think he succeeded.
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Paul Ryan Rocked the RNCPaul Ryan delivered a forceful acceptance speech with laser like attacks on the failures of the current administration.
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Christie Delivers Truth and Respect Over LoveGovernor Christie delivered a good speech in which he urged Americans to face the economic realities and challenges, to restore our core ethos.
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First Person: Without Jobs We Have NothingOur country is in trouble when the official unemployment rate is over 8 percent, and the unofficial rate may be double that. Social unrest becomes more probable when people are hungry. -
Social Security Was a Good Investment for Me -- Depending on the DecadeI will receive substantially more in benefits than I contributed, but if I had invested the FICA into a mutual fund, I could have been much more financially secure.
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First Person: Senator Rubio Is Correct: Olympic Medals Should Not Be TaxedSenator Rubio thinks that winning $25,000 at the Olympics is more of an accomplishment than winning money elsewhere and should be tax-exempt. He is wrong.
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First Person: Why You Need More Than One Traditional IRA AccountIn order to gain maximum flexibilty you should consider having multiple IRA accounts.
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The 72 Percent Club: Americans Who Are Not SatisfiedThe Gallup Organizations says that 28 percent of Americans are satisfied, and that is the optimistic outlook.
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The Stock Market - Lose Money but Gain WeightGained weight? Send a thank-you note to Ben Bernanke, Mario Draghi, Jim Cramer and all those day traders for making the stock market behave the way that it does.
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First Person: Why I Place Company Stock in a 401(k)People should not shy away from having their employer's stock in their retirement plan, just monitor the situation and look at your overall assets.
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Romney-Portman Would Be the Ticket to BeatRomenyt should pick an experienced statesman who understands the political arena and the bureaucracy of DC. Portman has those qualities.
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How My Divorce Helped Me Grow ProfessionallyAfter my divorce, I took the proverbial lemons and made lemonade. I used what I had learned from the process to help others achieve a smoother divorce.
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A Royal Birthday WishPrince William turns 30 on June 21. We asked contributors to send along birthday wishes, goals and suggestions -- in 30 words or less.
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Staying Employed and Being Diversified Kept Me Financially AfloatTreading water financially is better than drowning and according to recent statistics from the Fed, many Americans are drowning.
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First Person: How a $500 Gambling Loss Can Mean Paying More in TaxesThe tax law on reporting gambling winnings and losses is grossly unfair and often the benfit of the losses evaporate into thin air!Also published on:
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Keep Joe Biden on the TicketObama - Biden is the only logical choice right now.
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On 'The View,' Obama Uses Same-Sex Marriage to Deflect Economic IssuesPresident Obama took a political risk in his endorsement of same-sex marriage. How will he deliver?
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First Person: Why Budgeting Is Like DietingDieting and budgeting have many steps in common. We may not like them but usually the results are worth it.
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Controlling Expenses is Key to Business SurvivalUnderstanding how to control business expenses is critical to staying afloat, but it isn't always the largest expenses which can be controlled.
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Facebook Creates Organ Donor Badge -- is it the Ultimate in Friending?Facebook is making it easier for its huge user base to register as organ donors. I am not comfortable displaying that badge on the wide world web.
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Dewey & LeBoeuf May Seek ReorganizationDewey & LeBoeuf, one of America's largest legal firms,may soon be filing for bankruptcy protection and will emerge as a new entity, retaining its key personnel and prominence.
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The Business of Baseball is Business: A Few Financial FactsBaseball is a big business and even though it provides entertainment, fans should never lose sight of the fact that it is all about the money.
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First Person: The Rising Price of Gasoline Is Teaching Me to Slow DownGasoline prices may be headed higher and the best thing that we can do is slow down our speed!
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First Person: The Difference Between Cost and Basis at Tax TimeUnderstanding cost basis is crucial when it comes to reporting a taxable loss or gain. Not knowing the answer will cost you money.Also published on:
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First Person: Sure, You Can Buy a House in Connecticut for $250,000Even though the northeast is the most expensive region to live, there are plenty of nice homes available for the national average.
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First Person: I Found $600 By Checking With My State TreasurerIt is very easy to search if your state is holding any unclaimed property or money in your name. It should be an annual event.
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First Person: How Long Should You Keep Your Tax Returns? ForeverPeople are mistaken when they think that they only have to keep a copy of their return for 3 to 7 years. There is no statute of limitations if the taxing authority claims non-receipt.Also published on:
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Gary Carter, Other Mets Players Have Charitable Foundations: A Fan's LookIt is important for a fan to show support for his favorite player's charitable endeavors.
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Gary Carter Had a Dream-like Mets Debut: A Fan's ViewAll of baseball mourns the passing of Gary Carter but we need to celebrate his life. He had an exuberance that was real and knew what was important in his life.Also published on:
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First Person: The Payroll Tax Extension Won't Factor Into My Hiring DecisionsThe extension of the two percent reduction in FICA contributions by employees is welcome but does not help small business owners.Also published on:
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First Person: I Think My Condo in Connecticut Has Finally Stopped Losing ValueIn my area of Connecticut, home prices are stabilizing, and that is the important first step towards a housing recovery.Also published on:
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Citibank Issues Customers Inflated Form 1099sCitigroup may find itself in a PR nightmare as politicians and lawyers question how they could issue tax forms in exchange for miles, and inflate the value of each mile by nearly double!
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It Will Be a Long Season for Mets Without Jose Reyes: A Fan's TakeThe Mets failed to keep their shortstop who had matured into a leader on the field. The Mets have made several personnel blunders in the past, but this may prove to be the worst.Also published on:
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First Person: From Poverty to Success Thanks to Work Ethic and Public EducationMitt Romney said there are safety nets in place for the poor. I think he is right. Providing a good public education can be considered one of the better safety nets.
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Romney’s “I’m Not Concerned About the Very Poor” Remark is RefreshingSome are arguing that Romney was being dismisisve of the plight of America's poor. Anyone who watches the interview or reads the transcript should understand that is not the case.Also published on:
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First Person: Ditching the Single Serving Coffemaker Is Saving Me $900 a YearAmericans drink a lot of coffee, but how it impacts your budget is definitely within your control.
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East Haven's Top Cop, Leonard Gallo, Should Be Permitted to RetireLeonard Gallo should be allowed to retire. The fact that the mayor and police commission may have been derelict in their duties does not give them the right to deprive Gallo of unused sick time.
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Freedom of Marriage is a Civil RightThe issue of same-sex marriage continues to dominate New Jersey politics and social fabric.
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First Person: The Mistakes First-Time Renters MakeRenting your own place can be a rite of passage. Sometimes we don't know what we don't know and wind up with unexpected expenses.
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East Haven Mayor Needs to ResignMayor Maturo thainks that be eating tacos he is addressing the needs of his Latino residents. He is sorely mistaken.Also published on: -
First Person: The IRS Wanted $6,000 and I Said "No"Getting a letter from the IRS can be harrowing even if you know that you are correct. Fortunately, good documentation can help resolve issues in your favor.Also published on:
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First Person: Happy Valentine’s Day. I Want a DivorceDivorce can be one of the nastiest Valentine's Day gifts, although the received may feel a sense of relief! Pro Se divorces are fairly common - but I think that chocolate is less bitter!
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First Person: Tax Hints for People Divorced in 2011If you were divorced in 2011, you probably have plenty of questions on how to file your tax return. These will address filing status, dependents, alimony and other common issues.Also published on:
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Many Politicians Softening Opposition to Same-Sex MarriagesIt seems that there is a decided increase in the number of influential politicians who are supportive of same-sex marriages. Are politicians leading or following the people?Also published on: -
Gingrich Must Learn the Difference Between Being Poor and Being LazyNewt Gingrich needs to speak bluntly if he wishes to survive the primaries. When he speaks of the poor, and their lack of work ethics, he must define who the poor are.
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First Person: What Is That Trade-In Really Worth?If you are trading in a car, make certain that you know both its market value and insurance value. If you are unfortunate enough to total your car before trading it in, do not blindly sign the title over to the dealership.
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Home Depot and Lowes Can Be My DownfallImpulse spending is wasteful and can lead to clutter. I am guilty of this whenever I go to the big hardware stores and need to learn to control what I buy!
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Republican Attacks on Romney Are OKWould you rather have a candidate's dirty laundry aired before the convention or in the general election? As long as the attacks are fair and honest they should continue.
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First Person: My American Dream May Not Include AmericaSometimes you have to realize that the place where you are simply isn't the place where you should be. The polarization of American politics has caused me to wonder if it is worthwhile to stay in this country when I retire.
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Romney Maintains Lead in Debate -- Perry Blows ItThe New Hampshire debate was incredibly civil and no one seemed to attack the lead person - Mitt Romney.Also published on:
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First Person: The Trouble With Windfall IncomeReceiving a large sum of money is great but sometimes we forget how to cover the most basic of risks.
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How the Boston Red Sox and Atlanta Braves Became My Worst NightmareIt is very painful when you watch each team that you like set a record, for choking and not being able to finish on top!Also published on:
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How I Reduced My Auto Insurance Bill by Following Simple StepsAuto insurance companies offer many attractive discounts so that you can pay less for money for your auto insurance coverage.
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Gingrich Shows Leadership at Final Iowa DebateThe candidates saved the best for last. They all performed well and there were no major gaffes. Gingrich showed poise and focus.Also published on:
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First Person: The Financial 'Facts' That Should Always Be in WritingThere are certain things that a financial adviser must have in writing. Not because he doesn't believe the client, but to avoid confusion.
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First Person: Tax Reminders for the End of the YearEach December 31 marks the end of the year and is the last day that we can impact our tax situation for that year,Also published on:
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Gingrich KOs Romney in Iowa DebateThe Iowa debate allowed the candidates to show how conservative that they are as they attempt to win the caucus.
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First Person: Learning Financial Lessons From Television CommercialsIt is a huge mistake to assume that something which comes easy to you will also be easy for other people. We are all wired differently.
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First Person: When Does the Parental Piggy Bank Close?Parents are still providing financial assistance to their adult children. Retired parents or those near retirement, should consider the impact that this aid will have on their own future. -
First Person: The Disadvantages of Condo OwnershipOwning a condo is much different than owning your own house. The condo by-laws and condo board can bite you in the rear!
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First Person: The United States Must Address the Debt CrisisThe Unites States cannot continue to borrow and Congress must act in a responsible manner to curtail spending and raise revenue.
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First Person: Finding Extra Money for My Holiday SpendingFinding additional money for the holidays needs to be a combination of reduced spending and increased income.
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First Person: How I Use 529 Plans in My PracticeCollege 529 plans may be an effective way to accumulate future tuition payments but there are penalties for non-qualified withdrawals
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First Person: Why I Am Willing to Assume More DebtIt is a mistake to think that all debt is bad. When used prudently, debt allows us to enjoy things today that we do not have the ready assets for.
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First Person: Learning From My First Home SaleSelling a home is a different experience than buying a home. It can be more stressful and you may feel as if your values are being questioned.
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Herman Cain Does Not Remember His AccuserHerman Cain may or may not be innocent of the inappropriate behavior that he has been charged with but his "I do not remember my accuser" line may become fodder for late night show comedians.
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First Person: How Keeping Organized Can Save MoneyBeing able to present required information in a prompt and concise manner will save you money and stress.
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First Person: Shopping for Office Supplies on Black FridayBlack Friday can be a great day to find bargains, both for personal use and for your business.
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First Person: Giving Up Your U.S. Citizenship Isn't FreeApproximately 1,500 people gave up their rights as a US Citizen in 2010. The process is complex and costly.
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Chris Christie Throws Influence Behind RomneyGovernor Chris Christie has endorsed Mitt Romney in his bid to become the Republican presidential candidate.
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Governor Christie to Endorse Mitt RomneyPerry, Cain may focus their attacks on the Republican front-runner.
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Fan’s Reaction: Nelson Cruz’s Walk Off Grand Slam — All the Right Stuff!Nelson Cruz and the Rangers showed us how to hit a real walk off grand slam, although it was not the first ball to be hit over the fence with the bases loaded.
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First Person: Don't Slap Me With a Monthly Debit Card FeeBanks are beginning to charge a monthly fee to use a debit card and that is one step over the line as far as I am concerned.
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Gov. Chris Christie Will Not Enter Presidential RaceSpeculation ended whether he will pick up the gauntlet for 2012.
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First Person: Why You Should Not Pay That Bill From the IRSNot every notice from the IRS is correct and they may ask you for money that they do not deserve.Also published on:
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Unemployment Status Does Not Equal DiscriminationObama's inclusion in the American Jobs Act of a provision enabling those denied employment because they are unemployed is just a political gesture that is wrong.
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The Housing Crisis Is Our Nation’s CrisisThe housing crisis is a major drag on the economy and impacts all citizens. It is not a question of good people versus bad people. Action must be taken that will allow people to maintain homes and free up cash.
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First Person: Compare Spending Over a Decade, Not Over Last YearInflation is like high blood pressure -- you may not even realize that you have it but it is causing financial damage.
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Why is Life and Death in America Different from State to State?If we are one nation united, why are such fundamental issues such as the death penalty and who we can marry determined at the local level?
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Romney and Huntsman Win Round Six; Bachman FadesThe sixth GOP debate was free of major gaffes and points to a narrower field.
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The Emotional Pain of Losing a Pet is the True Cost of OwnershipOwning a pet is a wonderful experience but the price we pay may not be calculated until the end.
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First Person: Save Taxes as Your Roth IRA DeclinesSeptember and early October are the times for you to review your Roth IRA and see if there is an opportunity to save on taxes.Also published on:
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First Person: Planning for a Recession is a Way of LifeYou always need to watch your expenses and know which ones can be eliminated if there is a recession.
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Replacing Your Auto Headlights - DIY and Save MoneyMany auto maintenance tasks are simple and do not require special tools or training. Start with the simple tasks, build confidence and save money.
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Presidential Address Was a BustPresident Obama's televised presentation of his Job Creation Act highlighted his speaking abilities at the expense of a clear cut action plan.
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First Person: 4 Ways to Wreck Your Financial DreamsThere are many ways in which we can derail our financial future. These are four, all to common mistakes that people make.
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First Person: Are My Insurance Needs Really Being Met?The time to know your what your homeowner's insurance covers is long before the hurricane or tornado strikes. You also have to make certain that your insurance is for the correct amount.
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First Person: Trusts Are Not Only for the WealthyClients can have issues that are not about money in the traditional sense and can be helped by listening and referring to the proper professional.
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First Person: How I Saved 167% on a Computer CableThe trials and tribulations of shopping online and at stores can make for an interesting story.
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Please Mr. President, Make America Great AgainAmerica needs to find their true north and hopefully the President can be a successful navigator. -
First Person: Do Not Waste Your Time on These Auto UpgradesBuying a new car is challenging and it is easy to waste money on options that are not needed.
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Steve Jobs Is Still Apple's Chief Visionary OfficerSteve Jobs is stepping down as CEO of Apple and will be missed.
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First Person: Collecting Social Security? You Should Get a Raise in 2012Changes in the inflation rate during the months of July, August and September are used to determine increases in COLA beneifts. It is looking as if there will be an increase in benefits.Also published on:
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First Person: 3 Costly Divorce MistakesDuring the divorce process there are pitfalls and you can make costly financial mistakes. Here are 3 to avoid.
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Seven Steps to a Better DivorceDivorce, while not pleasant, does not have to be a brutal battle in which no one wins.
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Golden Benefits for Those Who Are of the Silver AgeThere are plenty of discounts available for those 55 and over, all you have to do is ask.
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First Person: Teachers, Check Your 403(b) OptionsSchool districts limit the providers that you may use to fund your 403(b) plan and you should look for low cost providers. The difference in expenses over time is mind boggling.
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First Person: Dealing With Market TurmoilThe global stock markets are in a correction and there is heightened nervousness due to all the negative headlines.
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How Olympic athletes make moneyAthletes receive stipends which help them during training, but the money from endorsements is the big pay-off.Also published on:
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Maybe There Should Be a Constitutional Amendment ProposedWe may have dodged a fiscal bullet but the government needs to do create a more long lasting and appropriate approach than waiting to the last moment.
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First Person: The Bright Side of RecessionStatistics show that we have recovered from the economic nadir of 2009, but for many people, their financial lives are not all that much better. People may have seen an increase in portfolio values offset by a decline in home values and still worry.
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First Person: How My Motorcycle Shaped My CharacterWe can learn alot about ourselves from our experiences with our toys. Sometimes we learn the hard way.
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Five Little Actions that Will Make You RicherGetting richer doesn't have to mean making a killing on investments but rather making better use of everyday resources. Simple may be better, it is only a question of execution.
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The Pitfalls of Accepting a Lateral or Downward Career MoveTaking a career move that is lateral or downward is difficult and may not prove productive. However, it may provide insight into your personality and needs..
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First Person: Accessing Your Financial Records After Disaster StrikesEach year countless people have their lives put into turmoil due to a natural disaster. There are some simple steps that you can take to protect your financial records.
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Yours, Mine and Ours - the Low Down on Checking Accounts for CouplesCouples often wonder whether it is best to have a joint checking account or maintain separate accounts. The correct answer is why not have three, just make sure that the bills are paid!
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Helping Couples Communicate Their Financial GoalsMany couples fail in their communications with each other when discussing financial goals. Studies have shown that financial matters play a huge part in having a successful marriage.
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Financial Inequalities in Same Sex MarriagesThe fact that same sex marriages are not recognized at the federal level creates planning challenges that must be addressed. Same sex couples cannot assume that they have equal status.Also published on:
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First Person: My Mortgage is Underwater But I'm NotToo many Americans own property that is worth less than their mortgage balance and have to decide whether to honor their commitment. Sometimes it is a question of feeding the family or the bank; other times it is simply having bought a rapidly depreciating asset.Also published on:
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First Person: Budgeting for a Summer JobSchool is out and many students will soon have their first summer jobs. Learn how to spend and budget.Also published on:
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First Person: Hiding Money From the Spouse?Keeping financial secrets from your spouse or significant other is wrong and shortchanges your relationship.Also published on:
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Do You Have a Mortgage in Retirement?Unless you have unlimited resources, having a mortgage when you retire may not be such a bad idea.
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Society's Attitude Towards Divorce Has ImprovedDivorce has become more common and that is a good thing. The stigma of divorce had caused people to stay in too many bad situations.
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How to Invest like President ObamaRecent disclosure of the President's assets show a very conservative and simple portfolio. It may not be for you but it does contain some lessons.
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Are You Leaving Money to the Wrong Person?Reviewing and naming beneficiaries of your assets is always a great idea but you must follow certain rules.
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Young Adults - Use Your Credit Card SmartlyA few tips on using your credit card wisely
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Roth or Traditional IRA: Is One Better?ROTH vs Traditional IRA - both are an excellent way to invest for the future.
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Getting Divorced? Know the Difference Between Alimony and Child SupportOften, people in a divorce confuse the two methods of support payments.
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First Person: Make Your Spending Pay You BackStretching your budget dollar means thinking smarter.
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Personal Strategic Defaults Are a Character WeaknessA strategic default may sound like a good idea but it runs counter to the idea of personal finance and character.
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First Person: A 'Main Street' Look at Gas PricesThe consumer is experiencing some angst as gas prices rise, but the price is not yet causing major changes in lifestyle.
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Having a Checking Account Is a ResponsibilityIt is important to learn the basics of maintaining a checking account.
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First Person: What I've Learned From Residential Energy AuditsMost utility companies offer residential energy audits. The fee is small and the savings can be big.Also published on:
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What Are You Doing with Your Tax Refund? Spend or Save?Billions of dollars are refunded to people at this time of year. How is it used?
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First Person: Stung By the Tech Upgrade CycleWhen you buy technology it is often out of date by the time you get used to it.Also published on:
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Financial Infidelity Is on the RiseSharing financial information with your significant other is very important and to do otherwise can lead to a sense of betrayal and distrust.
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First Person: My Homeowners Insurance Saved MeNo one likes paying insurance premiums but it is so important to have the right protection.
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Lost and Found: The IRS and Your StateThe IRS may have money waiting for you and all you need to do is ask.
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Getting Divorced? Making the Right Decisions is CrucialKnowing that your spouse wants a divorce is heartbreaking but you need to focus and take the proper steps to protect yourself
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Taxes Due? Don't Delay, File and Pay Over TimeIf you are unable to pay the IRS the money that is due when you file your tax return you should still file the return and then look at the alternative methods to make payments.
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Do We Sweat the Small Stuff?Focusing on headlines or absolute cost at times prevents us from seeing the true value.
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First Job? Time to Invest for Your FutureTime is the best ally of long term savings and you can never be too young to begin investing for the future.
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Things I'll Never Pay List Price ForEveryone loves a bargain and there are many ways to not pay full price!
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Preparing a Home for Spring SaleMany people attempt to sell a house in the spingtime and here are a few suggestions that may help you achieve success
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Money Management for Young AdultsMoney management is a process which requires both a willingness to make the effort and an awareness of what is expected.
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Tax Cheaters Please Step ForwardIn an attempt to narrow the tax gap the IRS has instituted another program to collect taxes.
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First Person: A Look at the Financial Side of DivorceGetting a divorce is an emotional and financial drain. Attorneys may not be your best source of financial guidance.
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Out of Work? You Still Need to FileThere is no bright side to being unemployed but the tax code does may give you some benefits.
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First Person: Till Debt Do Us PartYou have to be aware that just because a divorce paper says that one party is responsible for paying a bill, the creditor may still seek payment from the other side.
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First Person: Why We All Need Estate PlanningThe law of the land has raised the taxable amount of an estate beyond what 99% of Americans have, but that doesn't mean we should ignore common sense and basic estate planning.
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First Person: Do You Even Have to File a Tax Return?People with incomes below a certain level do not need to file a tax return so why waste your time and money?
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First Person: Over 70? Let Your IRA Give to CharityThe new tax legislation should provide incentive for people over 70-1/2 to give to charity and greatly reduce their tax bill and possible and Medicare costs. -
Superbowl Haikuseventeen syllables of football joy!
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Steps to Avoid Probate May Not Save Your MoneyYou really need to weigh the costs involved in all aspects of estate planning because sometimes the nickel and dimes can really chip away at the savings.
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First Person: How to Stretch Your Food BudgetHunger is a probem in America and for many families getting the basics on the table is a daunting task. Hopefully following some of these tips will make it easier to keep your family fed.
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First Person: Is an Annuity Right for Me?Annuities are very complex products that most people seem to either love or hate. If you are considering the purchase of one then there are some basic questions that you need to have answered.
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First Person: More Fun, Less ExpenseValues have changed and extravagance is almost gauche. Spending quality time is more important than spending cash and there are many ways to do this.
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First Person: What a Cheap Euro Means for the Rest of the WorldThe euro is simply the currency of 22 nations that are part of the European Union. Created in 1996, the euro was supposed to lessen some of the complexities of having multiple currencies and monetary policies.
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First Person: Understanding Workplace BenefitsUnderstanding your on the job benefits.
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First Person: Will Brokers and Registered Investment Advisers Be Treated the Same?It seems that for the last decade there have been court battles over how brokers and advisers are regulated. Will Dodd Frank and Ms. Schapiro put an end to it?
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First Person: The Financial Decade in ReviewThe last 10 years are a mirror image of the 80s and 90s and perhaps we all need to keep that in mind realizing that as an economy we have to take the good and the bad and that is what creates averages and statistics.
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First Person: The Money Mistakes We All MakeMoney is complex and we all make some mistakes. Here are a few that I often see along with ways to correct them.
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First Person: A Financial Review of 20102010 was a very interesting year for finance, and just not because of large returns or losses.
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First Person: What the Tax Cut Means for the Rest of UsIt's no wonder so many people do their taxes at the last minute. We are just following Congress' example, as they wait until December 2010 to debate the tax rates for 2011.
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First Person: Financial Planning at Year EndFinancial planning is not about investments but instead about taking steps to make your life easier and help you reach your goals.
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First Person From a Financial Adviser: Where My Money Is Going NowThis is s synopsis of an investment process and some factors that are considered in determining where to allocate resources.
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First Person: Year End Tax Planning for a Confusing YearThe traditional steps that you might take at the end of the year to reduce taxable income might be counterproductive if rates rise next year. You cannot act blindly.
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First Person: Investing After a FallMany people have lost money over the past 3 years and, while that may be a cause for concern, it doesn't mean that the principles of portfolio construction need to be abandoned. Diversification to an appropriate risk tolerance is never out of style.
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Minutes of the FOMC and QE2As the Federal Reserve embarks on a second round of quantitative easing, the minutes of their meetings and actions by politicians show that this approach is not universally favored
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First Person: 5 Retirement Plan Pitfalls to AvoidThe traditional pension has been replaced with plans where the employee is responsible for making sure that they have enough at retirement. Following these steps may help you achieve this goal.
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First Person From a Tax Professional: How to Respond to an IRS NoticeWe have all received notices from the IRS and felt impending doom. There is often no need for that, however. Here is a brief list of things that you can do to make matters easier when dealing with the IRS.
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Divorce '" American StyleAmericans have three basic ways to get divorced and this is a brief guide. Since the divorce rate appears to be near 50% over time, even though not planned, it is important to understand the different processes,