Entry bubble BAILOUT

By: Colleen | October 01, 2008 | Category: Money

Wall Street, New York street signTruth be told, I can recite the entire Phillies lineup by memory, yet I know embarrassingly little about finances.

With all that's been going on this week, it's time I educate myself. A good friend of mine is an I-banker in New York, and I asked him to give me an easy breakdown of what's been going down on Wall Street the past few months. He sent me an e-mail using different sports teams as an analogy. On the most basic of levels, I think I'm starting to understand what all the fuss has been about—and it ain't good.

I realize now more than ever the importance of making wise investments. I'm doing some reading to help get a better understanding of how to be smart with my hard-earned cash.

These are just a few helpful resources available to help you feel more secure in these unsteady economic times. Another helpful site is www.mymoney.gov. It gives ideas on how to plan on everything from investing to paying for college.

With a bailout plan still in limbo on Capitol Hill, we're all anxious to see what's going to happen next. What are you doing to protect yourself and your finances?

| View Comments [13] | envelope E-mail This Entry | Tags: bailout   colleen   deposit   finances   investing   money   wall_st  

 

Entry bubble New Year's Resolutions

By: Colleen | December 31, 2007 | Category: General

So long to 2007, the year when Britney officially went bonkers. Bring on 2008 and whatever it has in store—I'm predicting many more Hollywood divorces and rehab stints.

For us everyday Joes and Janes, it's New Year's resolution time! Each year, millions of Americans resolve to make themselves or the world around them better. Here is a list of the most popular pledges for the next 365 days.

At the top of the heap: Lose weight. No big shocker here. As the holiday season comes to a close, we're all carrying around a little chub. Many thanks to all those cookies, second helpings of mashed potatoes, and the rounds of drinks with friends. The time has come to get back on track, or better yet—the treadmill.

Others hope to get their finances in order. With personal debt at an all-time high (student loans anyone? Years of credit card abuse?) now is the perfect time to sit down and take a hard look at your money. Get on a payment plan, stop spending what you don't have, and work your way to a desirable credit score.

Those living behind a computer screen 9-5 each day vow to take a trip. Most Americans to not even use the full vacation time they are allotted each year. Allow me to help rectify this by letting you in on a secret: the work will always be there, and the universe will remain intact should you not be in the office for a few days. A plug for a few of my favorite vacay destinations to give you some ideas: Key West, FL. Nassau, Bahamas. San Diego, CA. London, England. Places to avoid: Boston, MA. The entire state of Ohio.

Never one to be entirely conventional, here are some ideas for resolutions that stray slightly from the standard.

  • Use coupons more frequently
  • Drink more water
  • Make purchases from local businesses instead of large chain stores
  • TURN OFF THE BLACKBERRY

Best of luck with whatever resolution you chose this year!

| View Comments [4] | envelope E-mail This Entry | Tags: blackberry   britney   colleen   coupons   credit   destination   finances   loss   new   resoltions   vacation   water   weight   year  

 

Entry bubble Going To The Chapel

By: Sam | October 10, 2007 | Category: Home and Family

It’s a running joke in our office that I go to a wedding almost every weekend.  While this may be a slight exaggeration, I do attend a lot each year, and I am always at a loss of what to get the happy couple.  Do I stick with the registry and the knowledge that I have given them something they really wanted?  Or, do I go out on a limb and put together a really creative gift?  Sadly, nine times out of 10, I opt for the registry.

Until today.  Today, I am giving all my brides and brides-to-be the perfect gift…how to legally change your name.  I know it isn’t the trendy red mixer or the fancy china you wanted, but these step-by-step instructions should help make this process a little easier.Car with just married sign and cans tied to it

  • Get extra certified copies of your marriage license from your state’s vital records office;
  • Get a new Social Security Card.  Once you receive your marriage license, fill out an Application For A Social Security Card.  Once completed, either take (or mail) it along with your marriage license and proof of identification to your local Social Security’s office;
  • Get a new driver’s license and vehicle registration.  The required documents vary state by state so it’s best to check with your state’s motor vehicle agency;
  • Change your voter registration through your state election office;
  • A change of last name doesn’t need to be reported to the Post Office if you’re remaining at the same address, but notify the U.S. Postal Service if you’re changing your address;
  • Change work paperwork.  Check with your employer or school (if you’re a student) about what personnel and benefit records need to be changed.  You don’t need to change your tax records since the IRS will receive your name change from the Social Security Administration.  And don’t forget to your change your email address;  
  • Change paperwork regarding your insurance policies, bills, bank statements, credit and debit cards, membership organizations, and frequent flyer programs;
  • Update your passport. If it has been a year since the issue date, follow these instructions from the Department of State.  If it has been longer than a year, you’ll need to renew your passport;
  • And most importantly, start using your new name!

| View Comments [2] | envelope E-mail This Entry | Tags: finances   marriage   passport