If someone uses your personal identifying information such as your name, address, Social Security number, and credit card numbers to steal money or create a false identity, you have been a victim of identity theft. Scam artists are becoming better and better at stealing sensitive information from credit card machines, over the Web, and even […]
7 Ways to Prevent Identity Theft Read More »
Employers, creditors, and even insurance agents typically ask for your Social Security number as part of their screening or application process. However, there are some situations where you should refrain from sharing those nine digits.
When Not to Give Out Your Social Security Number Read More »
If you end up owing taxes, and don’t have the cash to pay the entire balance, you could just charge what you owe. But is that the smartest thing to do? It depends on a host of factors. The IRS does accept credit card payments for taxes owed and you can decide whether you want
Pros and Cons of Paying Taxes with a Credit Card Read More »
If you couldn’t file your federal tax return by this year’s tax deadline and didn’t submit a request for an extension, you can still file your taxes. In many cases, you can even qualify for a payment plan when filing your taxes late. That’s not to suggest that there aren’t consequences or financial ramifications to
I Was Late Filing My Tax Return. What Should I Do? Read More »
Editor’s note: This article pertains to the 2011 tax year. If you still haven’t filed your state income tax and are considering requesting an extension, make sure you’re aware of all filing due dates for the 2011 tax year. Every state has different filing deadlines and missing the deadline could result in some heavy penalties
What is the Due Date for My State Income Tax Return and Tax Extension? Read More »
Here are 4 last minute tax tips for late filers and anyone that will owe money to the IRS. 1. File an Extension If you can’t file by April 17th for any reason, do request an extension. That will give you an extra 6 months — or until mid October — to complete your tax
Tax Tips for Last Minute Filers and People Who Owe the IRS Read More »
Beware of Car Repossession Scams: If you’re behind on your car payments and desperate to avoid repossession, be cautious—scammers are targeting people just like you. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has cracked down on several auto loan modification companies for making false promises and taking advantage of financially distressed consumers. The Scam: Fake Auto Loan
Beware of Car Repossession Scams: Don’t Fall for Loan Modification Fraud Read More »
Q: If there is a debt that that does not appear on my credit report and it is past the time that they can report it do I have to pay it? What can I do to stop having this company call my home. A: Two different set of laws apply to how long a
Do I Have To Pay an Old Debt That Is Past The Statute of Limitations? Read More »
The April 17th, 2012 tax filing deadline is just a few weeks away. Fortunately, there are some last-minute ways you can still save money. Here are four strategies to lower your tax bill:
Four Strategies to Lower Your Tax Bill Read More »
Mystery shoppers – also known as secret shoppers – are hired to perform random checks at various stores to make sure the store is providing a high level of customer service and meeting certain standards. However, fraudsters and scam artists are capitalizing on this employment opportunity by posing as legitimate mystery shopping companies and then
How To Avoid Mystery Shopper or Secret Shopper Scams Read More »
Natural disasters and other world events that have caused severe emotional, financial, and physical distress in various countries have prompted a number of relief efforts and launches of charitable organizations. Sadly, scam artists have started taking advantage of people’s generosity by setting up fake organizations, bogus websites and fraudulent causes to collect donations. Here are
How to Avoid Charitable Donation Scams Read More »
Has your roof sprung a leak? Has your car broken down? Did your neighbor’s soccer ball find its way through your window? From time to time we all are faced with sudden, unexpected events that require immediate cash, fast. Here is what to do if you need cash for an emergency repair. 1. Obtain a
4 Places To Borrow Money for Emergency Repairs Read More »
Q: I am a saver but my husband is a spender. He has gotten better over the years but his financial history still follows us. Every time I talk about finances or lack of money, he gets upset thinking it is a personal jab to his ego when it is not the case. I try
Can a Saver and a Spender Live in Financial Harmony? Read More »
If you’ve ever received a random phone call from someone claiming that you are delinquent on a payday loan or other type of debt, and must make a payment immediately to avoid legal action, you could be a target of a telephone collection scam. The Internet Complaint Center (IC3) continues to receive complaints from victims
Watch Out for This Payday Loan Telephone Collection Scam Read More »
If you’re a timeshare owner and start to receive emails or phone calls from people claiming to be timeshare company or sales representatives – and saying they can help you sell your timeshare fast – be careful that you don’t become a victim of a timeshare marketing scam. These scams target timeshare owners in hopes
Timeshare Owners: Avoid This Timeshare Marketing Scam Read More »
