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Low water flow leads to high satisfaction and savings |
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In the United States, Americans consume 3.7 billion gallons of water every year that are not replaced, leaving a huge water deficit - a result of growing demand on finite water supplies. In fact, at least 36 states are anticipating local, regional or statewide water shortages within the next five years. Everyone has the power to change the water equation in the United States and put more money in their own pockets, while helping hydrate the planet. |
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Five bank fees you should stop paying |
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Irritation with unnecessary banking fees is the No. 1 reason consumers switch banks, according to a recent survey. If you're paying these five fees, it's time to look for a bank that doesn't charge them. |
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A few things that may make your auto premiums go up |
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The next time you get an auto insurance (http://www.allstate.com/auto-insurance.aspx) bill in the mail, pay close attention to the premium you are charged. Has it gone up significantly since the last time you received a bill? If so, you may be able to do something about it. |
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Smart online shopping tips to save Moms time and money |
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The average American mother spends nearly an hour a day purchasing products and services and more than two hours a day on household activities like housework, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Clearly, streamlining tasks like shopping can help mothers save money and make their lives easier. |
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'Social savings' - Shoppers unite to find great deals |
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While the negative effects of the economic downturn continue to dominate the headlines, a silver lining has appeared in the midst of monetary misery - lower taxes, a decrease in personal spending and a slight increase in individual savings. And, because misery does indeed love company, we've witnessed the rise of a relatively new phenomenon - the era of "social savings." |
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Is going green worth it? |
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You've stopped buying bottled water, opting instead for a reusable bottle you carry everywhere you go. When you go shopping, your list leans toward the organic and recycled. But when you get home, going "green" seems a lot more daunting. |
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Disability insurance can save your (financial) life |
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Most people do not think twice about insuring their car or their home, but many overlook protecting an asset that is arguably many times more valuable: their paycheck. If you're injured in an accident or faced with a debilitating illness, not only will you have medical bills, but you also could lose your ability to earn an income. That's why it's important to protect your paycheck with disability insurance. |
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Why your credit history matters to insurance companies |
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Do you have bad credit? If so, it's unlikely to get around the fact that it's going to impact more than just your ability to get credit cards. Your credit history offers potential employers, banks and even auto insurance companies a snapshot of how safe or risky you are to employ, rent to or insure. |
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Simple steps to calm the financial jitters |
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Got a case of the financial jitters? You're not alone. A recent survey of 1,000 American adults by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and "Kiplinger's Personal Finance" magazine found that most Americans are still struggling with or worried about their finances. |
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Parents seek ways to protect their investment in a college education |
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Soon, millions of parents will send their children off to college for the first time. As the car pulls out of the driveway, they will reflect with nostalgia as their children embark on the next adventure in their lives - while they are acutely aware of how much of an investment they are making in their education. But what if, mid-semester, your son or daughter becomes ill and has to leave school? |
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Five things small businesses can do to make marketing pay off |
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In shaky economies, companies that invest in their marketing often come out on top. But for small business, making these investments often feels risky. Not only are time and resources tight, many small business owners feel they lack the knowledge to make the marketing choices that provide a return. In fact, figuring out "what works" is the top marketing concern for nearly 80 percent of small business owners. |
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A bad credit score doesn't end car loan and credit opportunities |
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Americans rely heavily on cars and credit cards, and when a credit score gets in the way of obtaining one or both of these items, it can make life difficult. It's no surprise that you should maintain a good credit report. But with the recent economic decline, you might not have a sterling report any longer. Still, you should know what's on your report so you can work toward improving it. |
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Easy ways to take advantage of solar energy at home |
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While installing a complete residential solar energy system can be cost-prohibitive for many homeowners, recent technology that integrates solar power with individual household appliances is making it easier for homeowners to harness the power of the sun without breaking the bank. |
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Four smart home and auto insurance tips for seniors |
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Saving money is important, especial for senior citizens. And seniors may be going through some life changes. There are four simple insurance tips that can help ensure you're adequately covered and getting all eligible discounts. |
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Cuts on campus: Will students go online? |
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New York. Michigan. California. Georgia. All across the country, there's been a steady drumbeat of announcements detailing grim cuts to public higher education budgets at the state level. No institution is completely immune to hard times, but many land-based campuses are struggling to deal with the fallout from the recession while online education outlets continue to grow. |
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Gas-saving tips from the pros |
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In today's economy, consumers are more cost-conscious than ever. The following advice is from the pros at ASE, who note that these tips will not only save gasoline, they'll help extend the life of your vehicle. |
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Savvy investors lead 21st century gold rush |
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The term "don't put your eggs all in one basket" makes perfect sense when talking about financial investments, and after the recent stock market plummet, many families are realizing why they need financial portfolio diversification. |
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Smart household savings start in the laundry room |
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For many families, household budgets are still tight in the wake of the recession. But whether times are tough or not, it makes sense to save money wherever you can. There are plenty of small ways to start cutting costs. One of the best places in your home to start saving is the laundry room. |
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Women's finances: Embrace the power of the purse |
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Every woman should have a healthy relationship with money, but the reality is that many women still heavily rely on men to handle their finances. Now is the time for women to break out of the traditional role and take action to gain financial independence. |
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Life insurance considerations for empty nesters |
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Once your children have left the nest, a lot of things will change. You will find your grocery list looks a lot shorter, your electric bill a lot brighter and your water bill requires fewer liquid assets to pay it each month. But what does that mean for your life insurance? |
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Tips for newlyweds to talk about money |
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Before you walk down the aisle, having a conversation about finances and credit can help ensure a future of wedded bliss, with minimal disagreements over money. Transparency over finances builds trust in a relationship. |
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Plan smart for your family's financial future |
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Few things in life trigger a sense of personal responsibility like having children. Part of that responsibility is ensuring both your own and your children's financial futures. However, a recent survey released by TD Ameritrade shows that many parents cite the expense of raising children as one of the top reasons why they have fallen behind in retirement planning. A good first step in getting back on track for retirement is determining what you need to do to secure your future, as well as your children's. |
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Five ways to save money on your next road trip |
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Are you among the millions of Americans planning a summer road trip? If so, you may be traveling to your destination by car instead of airplane to save money. But road trips can become stressful if you are on a tight budget. |
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Job opportunities for college graduates in financial services are growing |
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Job opportunities are increasing for students graduating with a degree in financial services, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Job growth for auditors and accountants is expected to increase faster than average, and according to a March 19 Wall Street Journal article, opportunities for financial services' most venerable occupation - the life insurance agent - are also on the rise. |
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Escape from winter's chill in your warm house |
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When the deep winter chill hits, the last thing you want to do is shiver inside your own house. But that frequently happens when drafty attics, fireplaces, leaky windows and open vents allow cold air to enter your house and have you hiding under blankets and heavier clothing. And not only are you shivering, you're probably spending a lot of money attempting to keep the temperature at a comfortable level. |
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Tips for travelers to thwart identity thieves |
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You're not the only one looking forward to your vacation or business trip. Identity thieves relish your travel time too, because your vital, personally identifying information may be more exposed when you're traveling than when you're at home or work. Before you head to the airport or start out on your long road trip, take some precautions to safeguard against identity theft - even when you're not at home. |
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Take a lesson in history when buying a used car |
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You may have heard about vehicle history reports and you may already know that they are a good idea, but are they really worth the money? And once you buy one, how can you be sure you understand all the information on it? |
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Rising gold prices make protecting your gold essential |
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Has your jewelry box become a treasure chest? No matter why you possess these metals, your passion (or investment) has recently reached a peak in value. But if something were to happen to that collection, would insurance cover the current value? |
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Five tips college students need to be credit card smart |
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Going to college is, for most students, the first time they'll feel really independent. And, accordingly, the rest of the world starts treating them like adults too, from the expectations of college professors to the credit card offers that will start flooding in. And just as it's important to study hard for a major, it's essential to learn what are the real benefits and repercussions of having a credit card. |
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Ten tips on how to be a good neighbor - and avoid lawsuits |
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Treating your neighbor as you would like to be treated is wisdom that is thousands of years old. And it may be more important than ever in today's litigious society where a growing number of Americans - nearly 80 percent - live side-by-side in urban and suburban areas, in many cases separated only by a wall. |
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The 'keys' to homeownership |
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"It's a buyer's market" is a popular headline right now. It's one that's hard to ignore, especially if you're a young adult or even a long-time renter who has been waiting for the right time to pursue the American dream of owning your own home. |
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Accountants are needed to keep businesses afloat |
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As the economy continues to recover, an increased emphasis will fall on the accountability, transparency and responsible financial management of businesses large and small - putting accountants and auditors more in-demand than ever before. |
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Easy ways to find more time in a day |
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You love your free moments, and having more of them in a day is vital to enjoying life. So here are a couple of time-saving tips you can adopt to give you a bit more of that precious free time. |
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Five steps to ensure a health crisis doesn't mean financial ruin |
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A serious long-term illness or disability can have a devastating, often irreversible, affect on a family's financial well-being. In fact, health care expenses are among the most common cause of bankruptcies, according to findings published in the "American Journal of Medicine" last year. |
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Three tips to make your utility meter run backward |
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(ARA) - What would you do with an extra $2,200 per year? That is the annual energy bill for a typical American home, according to the U.S. Dept. of Energy (DOE). Dramatically reducing that cost, or even selling power back to the utility company, could mean having enough money for a vacation, a down payment on a car or a boost to your child's college savings. |
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Effortless ways to conserve water in the home |
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The summer months are right around the corner, and water conservation will undoubtedly be brought to the forefront for those who are impacted by seasonal droughts and water usage restrictions in their towns. It seems to be abundant, but water is a relatively scarce resource. Less than 1 percent of the world's fresh water is readily accessible for direct human use. Here are a few tips that you can follow to reduce your water consumption in the bath. |
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Six tips for buying life insurance |
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Buying life insurance for the first time can be a daunting task for anyone. Luckily, there are several time and money saving tips that a person can utilize while buying life insurance. |
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Auto insurance coverage you may not know you have |
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You know that you have auto insurance, but do you know how you might be covered if you got in an accident or something happened to your vehicle? Because of the variety of options available when insuring your vehicle, you may not be aware of exactly what your policy really covers. |
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Simple fixes that will make your kitchen feel brand new |
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When it comes to your kitchen, details make all the difference. It's often the most used and best-loved room in the house, so having a room that meets your needs and expresses your personality is key. If your kitchen's design has been frustrating you by creating clutter and giving your home an out-of-date feel, it's time to make some changes. |
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Need money for college? Follow these tips |
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Even though the economy has slowed down, college applications are up. Many people are enrolling in undergraduate programs or going back to school for an advanced degree. There is money out there to help you pay for tuition and room and board -- you just have to find it. Here are some tips. |
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Choosing a bank that's right for you |
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The banking landscape has changed dramatically over the past year and a half. And whether you've been a banking customer for 30 years or are just looking to open your first account, you may find that choosing a bank - or knowing if you're with the right bank - is more difficult than ever. |
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Tips to dress your tot without breaking the bank |
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Many new parents find the cost of keep their little ones comfortable and stylish can add up as quickly as the cost of diapers and formula. Budget-savvy parents should look for clothing sources that offer both durability and affordability. |
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Overwhelmed by debt? Know your options |
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If you find yourself in a financial hole you can't get out of, it's important to know you have options. Being in debt can cause people to continue to make payments that they can't afford or can barely afford without much hope of ever eliminating the debt. If you find yourself in this position, there are a few routes you can pursue to free yourself from overwhelming debt. |
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Savings heat up with solar-powered water heaters |
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Thanks to the federal tax credit program, you can recoup 30 percent of the total installed cost of a solar water heating system. It's a great time to switch to solar power for your water heating needs. But before you buy a solar water heater, do your homework, learn about the technologies available and review just how solar-friendly your home can be. |
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Protect your family's home, even after you are gone |
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Caring for your family is something you do every day of your life. But there might come a time when you won't be available. Mortgage life insurance is a life insurance product designed to help your survivors pay your mortgage after you pass away. |
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Tips to help you become a savvy health care shopper |
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The weather has warmed up. The flowers are blooming. The vacation plans are made. Summer is here. And even though it is almost time for you to choose health benefits for the coming year, there is still plenty of time to make the most of the plan you have now and maximize its value to you and your family. |
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Small businesses get credit boost from new fund |
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With many traditional credit sources continuing to keep a tight rein on lending, many small business owners simply do not have access to conventional means of credit. The good news is that small business owners are increasingly able to access alternative and innovative sources of financing, including Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). |
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Nonprofits leaning on individuals and corporations in tough times |
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A new study released by the Corporation for National and Community Services reported that the number of volunteers in America rose 1.6 million in the past year. The dramatic increase ultimately demonstrates that people are contributing to their communities at an increasing rate, even during financially challenging times. |
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In today's economy, is there a need for a wedding planner? |
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Weddings can be one of life's biggest expenses. In the current economic climate, it's no surprise that couples are looking for ways to cut down the costs. But hiring a wedding planner may actually save you money and time in the long run. |
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Cut college costs with 2010 tax breaks |
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Financing a college education in the 21st century is no small feat. According to the College Board, the average cost of tuition and fees at a four-year private college for the 2009-2010 academic year was $26,273 and $7,020 for a four-year public university. Add several thousands more for room, board, books and supplies. Fortunately, students, parents and graduates can get some of that money back on their 2010 federal tax return. |
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How CDs can benefit your financial planning |
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The economy might be doing a little better, but many families are taking a conservative approach to investing money. And planning for the future - retirement, educational expenses, a new car or house or maybe a long-anticipated vacation - requires careful strategy to make sure you have the money you need, when you need it. |
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Build up your savings account for the future |
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As the manager of your household's money, you're always trying to find the best ways to save for your family's future - maybe for retirement, college tuition, home remodeling, medical expenses or just a few fun trips you'd like to take. |
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Layaway lets buyers plan ahead for purchases - from back-to-school season to the holidays |
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In decades gone by, layaway was a staple for budget-conscious customers in retail stores across the country, but its popularity waned as credit cards became more available and consumers sought alternate finance methods to buy clothing and necessities. With household budgets tighter than ever due to the recent recession, layaway is once again emerging as a viable shopping tool. |
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Tips to help you save money and the environment |
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Spring is here, and after the long winter many people are taking the opportunity to do some much-needed maintenance to their homes, lawns and gardens. While you are pulling together your "honey-do" list, consider making some eco-conscious or green changes, which will help you shrink your carbon footprint and save money. |
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Helping Asian Americans reach their retirement goals |
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The financial downturn has affected most Americans in some way, and Asian Americans are no exception, a new survey reveals. In fact, eight out of 10 Asian Americans polled by Prudential Financial, say their savings and investments have been negatively impacted in recent years. |
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A sustainable bathroom saves water and money |
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With so many products claiming to be green these days, it's hard to know which ones are the real deal. A great indicator for certified sustainability in the bathroom is the WaterSense label, which is granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By learning how (and which) products meet the criteria, you can easily incorporate the best - and most eco-friendly - products into your bath. |
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Tips to help reduce debt |
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When you have debt, eventually it starts affecting your life. If you're unable to pay bills, creditors start calling, you're unable to sign up for credit cards or apply for loans because your credit score has dropped - it's time to re-evaluate your finances and see what options are available to you. |
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What every senior should know about identity theft |
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The very qualities that make some seniors feel safe - a tendency to not use credit much, operating on a cash basis and avoiding technology - make identity thieves view seniors as very appealing targets, credit experts warn. Here are some steps seniors can take to protect themselves. |
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The environmental benefits of soft water |
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When you think of soft water, the first thing that probably comes to mind is lustrous, easy-to-manage hair. Another benefit is washing clothes in the water leaves them softer and saves a significant amount of detergent. Best of all, when cleaning, you don't get that ugly bathtub ring. By eliminating hard water minerals, you can see health and cosmetic benefits as well as reduce the maintenance costs associated with scale buildup in home plumbing. |
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Ways to keep insurance rates lower for young drivers |
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If you have a teenager approaching driving age in the house, hold on to your wallet. The cost of adding a teenage driver to your policy will run you anywhere from an extra $500 to $3,000 per year, according to Lease.com. |
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Smart ways to save money on summer home improvement projects |
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With summer in the air, you're just itching to get that home improvement project going. It's a great time to install a rain garden, improve storm-water runoff in your yard, redo your windows or siding, or even change the look of one of the rooms inside your house with new paint and furniture. |
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Disney Star Demi Lovato offers her tips for teens to channel their inner rock star |
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Teen fashion trends come and go, but one look that's always in style is wearing your personality on your sleeve . . . or pant leg, or shoes. According to Demi Lovato, Disney Channel star and number one selling Hollywood Records artist, a true rock star look begins with wearing whatever showcases your unique personality and allows you to feel confident from head to toe. |
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Lower summer cooling costs with a do-it-yourself project |
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When it comes to do-it-yourself projects that will save money on energy costs, many new products on the market make it possible to save hundreds of dollars over time, with just a few hours of easy installation. Few of these products come close to the long-term benefits of installing a radiant barrier in your attic. |
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Designing with natural light: Good for your health and your wallet |
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Nowhere does the green movement and uplifting design meet and marry better than in the concept of "daylighting" - bringing natural light into a space to both brighten it and reduce dependence on electric lighting. Decorating and designing with natural light is not only energy efficient, but psychologically beneficial as well. |
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Overdraft fee changes are on the way |
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There are new regulations going into effect this summer that could change the way your bank charges overdraft fees for debit card purchases. Are you ready? Officials hope the changes will help consumers avoid unexpected fees, but even after the new government rules go into effect on July 1, many banks will continue to charge a fee if you opt in to their overdraft service. It's important to know how these changes might affect you and your money. |
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Creative fundraising helps to keep schools strong |
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Times are tough, as every parent is keenly aware. But while everyone knows how the economy is affecting household budgets, families with school-age kids are feeling an extra crunch that is being put on their children's schools. |
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Tips to talk money with your children |
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Kids are constantly bombarded with information from all directions on every topic imaginable - except how to manage money. Parents want to educate kids about financial responsibility, a survey shows. Here's some advice on how to do that. |
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Five tips for cutting your kids' hair at home |
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Cutting your kid's hair at home is convenient and saves money. In fact, a majority of people say they are confident using a hair clipper in three haircuts or less, the same amount of time it takes for the clipper to pay for itself. Also, a family of four can easily save $500 annually when three or more family members cut their hair at home. Here are five simple tips from WAHL to use with your kids. |
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