Beware of Online Sales and Auction Scams
At any given time, millions of items are being bought and sold via Internet auction sites. Furniture, clothing, sailboats, golf clubs, even a night on the town with your favorite sports star – all are available to the highest bidder. The companies that facilitate these trades are rich indeed. At last count, eBay had a […]
Understand the Time Value of Money
If you were offered the choice of being paid $100 today or $100 a year from now, you would probably choose $100 today. After all, even at today’s low interest rates, your $100 might earn a small return over the next year. This simple example illustrates an important concept: that the value of money changes […]
Lost Pet? Don’t Become a Fraud Target
When a pet disappears, owners can become distraught, calling animal shelters, advertising in local papers, posting photos on every telephone pole and fence post all in the hope of hearing news of their lost animal. At such times, pet owners are also more vulnerable to fraud. Consider the following scenarios: The truck passerby: You get […]
Avoid Tax Traps in Loans to Friends and Family
Lending to friends and relatives is a tricky business, and not only because of the stress it can place on your relationships. There are tax issues involved as well. If you have to lend money to someone close, here are some tips to do it right in the eyes of the tax code. Charge interest […]
Nine Basic Rules of Building a Nest Egg
Building a nest egg to give you a secure financial future doesn’t require a degree in economics, just a degree of common sense. The rules are easy and time-tested, and the smart players always abide by them. 1. It’s never too late or too early to start. Think back five or ten years and say […]
2 must-dos when hiring your first employee
Maybe you started a new business —solo or with a business partner. Now the business is growing and there’s just too much to do. You find yourself working long hours and still not keeping up. It may be time to make your first hire. Think of the hiring process in two stages: 1. Define your […]
Protect Your Privacy in 5 Simple Steps
Do you use a smart phone, tablet, or desktop computer to connect with friends and make purchases, as well as share health concerns with your doctor? If so, your privacy may be at risk. Companies called “data brokers” routinely compile information about your habits and preferences, including your favorite brands, recreational pursuits, and credit habits. […]