Entry bubble Your Turn: What to Keep, Give Up on a Budget

By: Editor | June 08, 2009 | Category: Money

Our Monday blogger, Jake, has work duties that will take him away from Gov Gab until September. In his absence, we’re alternating between “Your Turn” weeks, where we’ll ask a question to spotlight your knowledge about government resources, and posts from guest bloggers across the government.

My husband and I are finally working on making a budget after being married a little over a year. So I’m curious . . .

Today’s question: If you had to stay within a budget you’d created, what would you give up? What couldn’t you live without?

| View Comments [5] | envelope E-mail This Entry | Tags: budget   editor   money   save   spend  

 

Entry bubble Your Turn: Spending Less Money

By: Editor | June 01, 2009 | Category: Money

Our Monday blogger, Jake, has work duties that will take him away from Gov Gab until September. In his absence, we’re alternating between “Your Turn” weeks, where we’ll ask a question to spotlight your knowledge about government resources, and posts from guest bloggers across the government.grocery store receipt

I recently read that “thrifty is the new black.” Who knew that all the lessons my thrifty Midwestern parents taught me growing up would someday land me with the “in” crowd!

Today’s question: What’s your favorite place to find tips and tricks to spend less on daily life? (Can I get a shout out for a government source? Any votes for ConsumerAction.gov?)

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Entry bubble State Sales Tax Holidays

By: Nicole | August 01, 2008 | Category: Money

Gold sandalsA few days ago, I was browsing through one of our many local malls and found a hot deal on a fabulous pair of new shoes. I try to limit my shoe collection to a reasonable amount (which is relative, of course), but I couldn't pass up this sale. So, I bounced up to the counter with a smile and a credit card. Unfortunately, I had forgotten that Maryland recently raised its sales tax to 6 percent. Dude, that can totally add to the cost of new shoes (and most other consumer purchases).

The good news is that many states offer a sales tax holiday. In fact, 14 different states have a tax holiday in August, many beginning today. That should help for those of you who have back-to-school shopping to do.

If you're not sure about your state’s sales tax or its sales tax holiday, be sure to check them out. Most states have rules about which purchases will be tax-free during the holiday, so do a little research before you go. The money you save could help you buy an extra pair of shoes... guilt-free! Happy shopping.

| View Comments [2] | envelope E-mail This Entry | Tags: buy   money   nicole   purchase   sales   sales_tax   spend   tax