Articles

When you're short of cash, raiding your 401(k) plan may seem like a good idea. Here are two reasons why it isn't. Penalties and taxes. If you're not at least 59½ years old, you'll be hit with a 10% penalty for early withdrawals except in certain limited cases, and the...

The stock market may not be the right place for all of your money at all times. Here are two situations when cash accounts can be a better solution. Situation #1. Generally, the stock market is not a good place to invest funds you will need during the next two to...

Gift cards are a convenient way to give your friends and loved ones "just the right thing" at holiday time. They also give thieves an opportunity to make off with your money, according to a public service announcement issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. How...

Part-time employees play a valuable role in a small business. They help deal with fluctuations in workload and can job-share with full-timers. In addition, because part-timers often look for flexibility in hours, you may find a skilled worker whose schedule fits...

Even if you're covered by a credit monitoring service, you may want to keep an eye on your credit report – and you can still do that for free at www.annualcreditreport.com. That's the only official website, so don't be fooled by other "free" claims. At the site, you...

Whether you should take social security retirement benefits at the earliest possible date or defer benefits until reaching normal retirement age (or even age 70), depends on several factors. For example, you'll want to consider your overall health and life expectancy,...

Breakeven analysis is an important and useful tool in business. Whether you're starting a new business, expanding current operations, contemplating an acquisition, downsizing, or approaching banks and other potential lenders, you'll want to know your breakeven....

As year-end approaches, remember to check your 2014 federal income tax return for items that can affect your 2015 planning. Here are three to look for. Capital loss carryover. If your capital losses exceeded your capital gains in 2014, you may be able to carry any...

Study the balance sheet of most retail or manufacturing businesses, and you'll find inventory near the top of the asset list. Accountants define inventory as raw materials, supplies, work in progress, and finished goods. It's the stuff sitting on shelves, parked in...

Couples often enter into marriage without ever having had a serious discussion about financial issues. As a result, they find themselves frequently arguing about money. If you are planning a wedding, here are some steps you can take to get your marriage off to a good...