Latest Posts

Extended Warranty

by Stacy Brasher on Sep 24, 2018

You’re on the verge of completing your paperwork when the dealer hits you with one more option: an extended warranty. While the thought of never having to pay for auto repairs as long as you own your car is definitely appealing, there’s a lot that auto dealers are not telling you when it comes to extended warranties.

2018 Tax Changes You Need to Know

by Stacy Brasher on Sep 20, 2018

As we draw closer to the last quarter of 2018, Americans are starting to think more about the changes to the U.S. tax code. Though the tax code has been tweaked in recent years, it’s been 27 years since the last major revision that took place under President Reagan. Whether you plan on doing your own taxes, or will be consulting with a CPA or other tax professional, take some time to familiarize yourself with the multiple changes that will take effect in 2019 for the 2018 tax year:

Financial Literacy for Children

by Stacy Brasher on Sep 17, 2018

In a recent survey by JumpStart Coalition for Financial Literacy, only 26 percent of those between the ages of 13-21 said that they had been taught how to manage money. Yet, when they turn 18, kids are signing contracts for student loans, opening credit card accounts, and in many instances, living away from home with little financial guidance available.

Financial FAQs

by Stacy Brasher on Sep 13, 2018

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked financial questions.  

I’ve just started my first job.  Do I really have to start saving for retirement now?

The Ins and Outs of Banking Online

by Stacy Brasher on Sep 10, 2018

In a few short years, it seems as though the banking industry has revolutionized. It is now easier (and more convenient than ever) to tend to your banking needs, all from the comforts of your pyjamas. Gone are the notions of banking hours, and the never ending lineups when you want to deposit your paycheck.

Time to Break That Shopping Habit!

by Stacy Brasher on Sep 3, 2018

It seems like we’ve been conditioned to shop since birth.  While an occasional splurge is nothing to get worked up about, we’ve become incredibly wasteful in the process.  Landfills from coast to coast are full of our discarded belongings such as furniture, equipment, appliances, and electronic items like computers and cellphones.  We no longer repair an item, we simply replace it. Some of our spending habits can certainly be tied to the incessant marketing and advertising that target consumers on a daily basis.

All Donations Are Not Created Equal

by Stacy Brasher on Aug 30, 2018

Giving money to philanthropic causes is important to many of us. Year end giving in particular is popular with both donors and charitable organizations. The most common way to give money for most people is to simply write a check or put a donation on a credit card. The charity then typically sends us a receipt for our donation, and everyone is happy.

Not so fast.

Financial Missteps to Avoid

by Stacy Brasher on Aug 20, 2018

While so much of personal finance is common sense – don’t spend more than you make, don’t buy a house you can’t afford, start to invest money while you’re young, many young people today enter the workforce fresh out of college, with a boatload of student loans, and with no clue how to properly manage their money.