THE MONEY BIZ

How much life insurance do you need?

Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:35:54 +0000

The answer depends on your health, income, age, savings and whether you have a spouse, kids or mortgage. Here’s a simple way to calculate an actual dollar amount.

Believe it or not, a housing shortage

SmartMoney — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 21:00:00 +0000

Yes, even with months of inventory languishing on the market, some real-estate experts see a day coming when demand for new homes will exceed supply.

Bribed — to pay off credit cards

Liz Pulliam Weston — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:32:55 +0000

Some customers who have been chipping away at big balances are being offered cash if they’ll knock down their debts faster. Could you be one of them?

Strapped states find virtue in vice

The Wall Street Journal — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 16:32:50 +0000

Cities and states are investigating ‘anything and everything’ — including looser restrictions on gambling, alcohol and strip clubs — to drum up revenue.

This is credit card reform?

TheStreet — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 19:16:58 +0000

Many cardholders are seeing higher fees and steeper interest rates. But rate hikes have slowed, and some issuers are offering their best customers longer teaser rates.

Rent a car, risk a ticket surprise

Christopher Solomon — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:29:35 +0000

Traffic camera operator ATS gets drivers’ credit card data from rental companies, so if one of its cameras catches you, an unexpected charge may pop up on your bill.

Uncle Sam’s unseen health care plan

Liz Pulliam Weston — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:20:03 +0000

If you’re in the market for long-term-care insurance, take a look at what the government will offer soon. But should you wait for it or buy other coverage now?

Mortgages that require little down

Bankrate.com — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:15:29 +0000

Once again, you can buy a house without a lot upfront — or even with no down payment. Here are 5 options for potential homeowners who are short on cash.

Financial Aid 101: How to get more cash

The Wall Street Journal — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:44:13 +0000

Even well-off families may find they’re expected to pay more for college than they can really afford. But with the right financial moves, they can qualify for more aid.

10 credit cards that won’t rip you off

Liz Pulliam Weston — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 19:46:43 +0000

Whether you’re trying to repair bad credit, pay off high-interest cards or chase sweet rewards, these cards are worth considering. But, as always, read the fine print.