I have been writing for a couple of years about the large number of people who are ditching their bank account for simpler and lower cost options. In this week's article, I want to share a brand new option- Bluebird. Bluebird is a new account being offered through a joint venture between Wal-Mart and American Express. It is a debit card that provides a simple alternative to a bank checking account. From the Wal-Mart press release - “Our customers tell us that they’re tired of navigating a complex maze of dos and don’ts to avoid the ever growing list of... Read more →

Many Americans have had a very bumpy financial ride through what is now being called, "The Great Recession." One of the casualties many have faced is a bruised credit score. Whether you actually had a foreclosure, or simply went through a loan modification, chances are your credit score was affected. Even a few late credit card payments can destroy years of good credit management. There is a great tool that I have recommended for years that can be used to quickly rebuild damaged credit. This is how I restored my own credit after bankruptcy. I learned very quickly, that even... Read more →

I have always loved movies, especially the experience of going out for a night at a nice movie theater. In recent years, my wife Ann and I have cut back on the number of times we go out to the movies for a couple of reasons. First, we have a large screen TV with surround sound and have a nice little movie theater in our own living room. Secondly, (and probably the biggest reason) is that the cost of going to the movies has really gone up. Nationally, a movie ticket sells on average for about $8, but if you... Read more →

If you're like me, you probably have a lot of stuff around your home and office that you don't really need or use. We all accumulate 'stuff' these days at an alarming rate. I usually make it a habit to go through my closet and clear out the clothes that I haven't worn in six months. This is a great time of year to lighten your load and clear out the clutter, and with the holidays coming up, put some cash in your pocket at the same time. Many people hold a garage sale or sell their unused stuff on... Read more →