http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/money-management-list.asp OSCPA Dollars and Sense Financial Articles Copyright (c) 2003-2008 The Oklahoma Society of CPAs http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=17069 10/2/2008 5:05:47 PM Worried about what will happen to your business when you retire? Use these basic tips to lay the proper groundwork a successful succession plan. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=17026 9/25/2008 8:51:29 AM The global marketplace offers tremendous business opportunities, and a growing number of small businesses are taking advantage. Before your business takes the plunge, be sure you have all the facts. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16989 9/9/2008 12:12:26 PM Unlike large corporations, family businesses carry a list of unique challenges. If you are involved in a family business or plan to start one, use these CPA-recommended tips to overcome issues. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16962 9/5/2008 9:38:24 AM Many thriving businesses begin with someone?s great idea for a product or service. However, it is also necessary to have a solid roadmap for the future. That?s why every company ? whether a start-up or a long-standing operation ?? must to have a business plan. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16961 9/5/2008 9:35:34 AM Every year, taxpayers wade through piles of documents to find the information needed to file tax returns. But what happens to all that paperwork once the return is mailed? Knowing how long keep your records can be confusing. Follow these guidelines to keep your records straight. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16960 9/5/2008 9:33:33 AM Are you overlooking the value of keeping your savings in a mutual fund? There is nearly $12 trillion invested in the nation?s mutual funds. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16896 8/20/2008 3:57:44 PM Choosing when to retire and start drawing Social Security benefits is an important decision and one that is as unique as the individual who is considering it. It's a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly because it could affect your ability to get a full payment in the future. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16890 8/19/2008 5:41:00 PM Mutual funds allow you to buy into a diverse pool of investments, including short-term securities, stocks and long-term bonds, among other options. However, before you invest, beware of hidden fees that may affect your investment. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16823 8/6/2008 4:35:54 PM Identity theft is a growing problem. On any given day, concerns about consumers' privacy being breeched hits the news. Use these simple tips to help keep your personal information private. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16816 8/4/2008 12:57:53 PM With children wanting the latest trends in clothing, and families trying to continuously clothe growth spurts, the price tag of back-to-school can really add up. These tips can help kick off the school year with some extra cash in your wallet. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16787 7/22/2008 8:51:58 AM Need to bump that number up a bit? Learn how to give your credit a boost. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16775 7/15/2008 2:42:18 PM Do you know your credit score? In uncertain financial times, even individuals with excellent credit histories may have trouble getting a mortgage or other type of loan. That?s why it?s important to know your credit score and the effect it may have on your checkbook. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16761 7/10/2008 2:35:25 PM Are you earning the salary you deserve? In a tight economy, many people are finding that they aren't receiving impressive salary increases when evaluation time rolls around. Find out how to maximize your chances for a fatter paycheck. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16734 7/1/2008 2:06:55 PM Money can be a source of tension in any relationship, but remarried couples often face more trouble. Remarrying couples can these take steps to preserve wedded bliss. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16676 6/24/2008 11:04:57 AM Summer is a popular time for many couples to tie the knot, but before they do, they should make sure they get off on the right financial footing. A total of 84 percent of couples said that money causes arguments in their marriages, according to a Money magazine survey. Taking the right steps toward financial matrimony now can save a lot of tension and disagreement later. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16664 6/18/2008 8:16:32 AM In an uncertain economy, many young adults have decided to spend a few years living with Mom and Dad until they have a stronger financial foundation. CPAs say to be aware of the financial challenges in this situation. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16618 6/4/2008 8:43:18 AM This time of year, many recent graduates are leaving collegiate life behind and embarking on their first ?real? career. It is an exciting time, but it?s also a time of new financial responsibilities. Use these handy tips to make sure your grad gets off on the right financial foot. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16542 5/27/2008 3:04:49 PM Explaining to your teen the good and bad about credit is necessary in today's world. Learn what, when and how to teach them. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16532 5/22/2008 2:11:42 PM Teaching your children the value of a dollar is one of the most important lessons you can teach them. Use these techniques to get a head start on raising money savvy children . http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16494 5/7/2008 10:28:06 AM Tuition and fees for almost all universities have been rising drastically. With scholarship dollars often hard to come by, and parents anxious to get them, it's no surprise that scholarship fraud is also on the rise. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16426 4/29/2008 2:27:35 PM According to the Federal Trade Commission, the number of cases of identity theft committed against children is on the rise. Using these helpful tips should keep your child's identity safe. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16407 4/25/2008 10:33:28 AM Whether you're preparing for the scorching heat of an Oklahoma summer or looking to lower fuel expenses, these simple tips are sure to help you save money. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16403 4/22/2008 1:41:41 PM Some taxpayers file their returns on time and later realize they made mistakes. However, you can file an amended return to correct your error. Get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about filing an amended tax return. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16402 4/22/2008 1:40:42 PM Taxpayers who insist the April 15 deadline "crept up on them," now have an easier way to postpone filing. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16304 3/31/2008 10:24:07 AM While Medicare Advantage plans can be an excellent choice in some circumstances, Congress and many states have investigated abusive sales tactics employed by marketers selling private fee-for-service Medicare Advantage plans. Learn what questions to ask to avoid being taken by fraudulent claims. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16300 3/25/2008 5:00:28 PM With the mortgage crisis seemingly growing worse by the day, many first-time buyers may be wondering if this is a good time to enter the market. Learn how to ensure your investment in an unsure time. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16273 3/13/2008 5:01:00 PM Tax Time maybe especially troublesome for those who are serving in the armed forces. Find out what special tax breaks and programs available to you. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16252 3/11/2008 2:52:56 PM Before you run out and by that new Wii, learn some financially healthy ways to spend that refund. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16184 3/4/2008 3:29:28 PM Get expert advice on the most commonly asked tax questions. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16163 2/26/2008 1:26:04 PM Often people make small mistakes that add up over time to create big financial problems. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16157 2/26/2008 11:54:50 AM While most preparers provide excellent service to their clients, the IRS urges taxpayers to be very careful when choosing a tax preparer. Use these tips to make the right choice. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16156 2/26/2008 11:37:49 AM As the April 15 tax deadline draws closer, many taxpayers face unnecessary stress about filing 2007 income tax returns. Use these tips to reduce your tax stress this year. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16155 2/26/2008 11:27:21 AM While Medicare Advantage plans can be an excellent choice in some circumstances, Congress and many states have investigated abusive sales tactics employed by marketers selling private fee-for-service Medicare Advantage plans. Learn what questions to ask to avoid being taken by fraudulent claims. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16145 2/21/2008 2:56:50 PM Many baby boomers are trying to balance caring for an elderly parent while also tending to the needs of their own children. People are living longer, so there?s a greater chance that this trend will continue. Use these simple tips to ease the burden. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16105 2/13/2008 10:00:22 AM This Valentine's Day, consider giving your sweetheart more than candy, flowers and dinner. Find out how to say "I Love You" in a unique way. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16074 2/12/2008 11:23:47 AM The National Coalition on Health Care says typical out-of-pocket expenses consumers pay has jumped more than 115 percent since the year 2000. Learn what you can do to minimize your costs. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16051 1/31/2008 4:29:25 PM Tax credits can cut your IRS bill in half. Learn which ones your family qualifies for. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16049 1/31/2008 1:57:53 PM Employees who pay business-related expenses not reimbursed by their companies may be entitled to valuable tax deductions. Learn what you need to do to qualify. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=16046 1/31/2008 11:13:13 AM Employers are increasingly shifting the responsibility for retirement savings to the employee. Learn simple rules to master your retirement planning. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=15940 1/15/2008 3:56:25 PM Whatever your financial savings objectives are this year,you can turn your financial dreams into realistic goals. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=15925 1/8/2008 10:54:19 AM Saving money and paying off debt are two of the most common resolutions made for New Year's. Get easy tips to help you keep your money resolutions. http://www.oscpa.com/consumer/rss-article.asp?id=15924 1/8/2008 10:52:07 AM Identity theft costs consumers millions of dollars each year. Save yourself the trouble and the money by following these easy steps to help keep you from becoming a victim.