Financial Eyes & Ears » Personal Finance

Renewal of Bush tax cuts may be temporary

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:05:29 +0000

Many Americans could be hit with a big tax increase in the next two or three years despite President Obama’s repeated promises to shield the middle class from higher rates.

Barack Obama – Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 – United States – Middle class – President of the United States

Scams: A sucker retires every minute

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:05:27 +0000

More seniors than ever are being lured into investment schemes that are unsuitable for people of their age or are outright swindles.

Fraud – United States – Violence and Abuse – Credit card – Insurance

Tax-wise, Steinbrenner picked a great year to die

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:05:24 +0000

By dying in 2010, the billionaire and long-time New York Yankees owner’s wealth avoids the federal estate tax, likely saving his heirs enough money to field an entire team of Alex Rodriguezes.

New York Yankees – George Steinbrenner – Inheritance tax – sport – United States

Americans’ credit scores at new lows

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:05:21 +0000

The credit scores of millions more Americans are sinking to new lows, according to new figures provided by FICO Inc.

Credit score – FICO – Business – Mortgage – Financial Services

Four registries for non-traditional couples

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:05:18 +0000

The wedding registry has gone way outside any box that would hold traditional presents like candlesticks and Crock-Pots. Couples are creating registries for home down payments, honeymoons anc charities.

Bridal registry – Weddings – Relationships – Shopping – Gift Registry

Best Money Tips: What $1 Trillion Would Buy

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:05:13 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread’s Best Money Tips roundup. Today, we ask about the impact of having a $1 trillion deficit, share 9 ways to cook with foil, and tell about a surprisingly large phone bill!

6 Small Business Mentors You Can Access for Nearly Free!

admin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:05:09 +0000

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If you’ve started a small business and need advice, there are plenty of resources available to lend you a hand. The problem is that many of them are in the form of books, lectures, and "programs" that have no issue with charging you for their services. So what’s an entrepreneur with limited cash and just a handful of questions to do? Get in touch with these local experts. They’ll more than likely be glad to show you the ropes.

1. Your Parents

It doesn’t matter if they have ever owned a business. They didn’t even have to raise you well. If you had a modestly decent childhood and are alive today to tell about it, chances are great that your parents (or at least one of them) had enough business sense to run a household. Asking them about their most important lessons can spur you on in some tough situations, and most of them are applicable to any business.

2. Local Small Business Owner

If you can identify any local business that’s been around for over 20 years, you’ve found a great candidate for getting free advice — with extra points for family businesses. Why? Working in the same community throughout a changing economy takes flexibility, forward-thinking, and perseverance — all qualities that a successful business-owner needs to survive. (And anyone who can work with their own family is especially talented!)

3. Librarian

Your local library is in the business of giving information (literally), and the head librarian is usually very well versed in all kinds of free resources for those wanting to know more about local regulations, tax law, continuing education, and networking opportunities. If you haven’t visited your local branch in awhile, take a day to go in and introduce yourself. Let the librarian know who you are, what you do, and how you could benefit from the library’s resources. Then let them do the talking. They will most likely share all of the perks available to you, including interlibrary loan programs, free information on funding and grants, and more!

4. Chamber of Commerce

If you’re not already hooked up with your local Chamber, there is much you may be missing out on. In addition to networking functions and speaking engagements, you’ll be listed in their directories. While not always free to join, the cost (if any) is usually minimal. (And there is no shortage of professionals who can answer your questions.)

5. College Professor

Thought you had to take a course to get marketing and entrepreneurial info? Think again. Many professors make themselves available to small businesses that are just starting out, and they may appreciate the opportunity to point you in the direction of new trends and tools being studied by current students. Remember that they are busy, too, so don’t take advantage of their kindness. However, a phone call to your local college to inquire about what the students are learning can bring new ideas and opportunities to your business, so don’t hesitate to at least ask!

6. Local Economic Development Groups

In addition to the more formal networks (like the Chamber of Commerce), many communities are forming groups of local businesses for the sole purpose of supporting one another and providing an exchange of ideas and expertise. These groups span several communities (entire states in some cases), and are less formal and political than Chamber groups. Costs can vary from a few dollars to several hundred, but initial communication and participation in their activities is usually free. The opportunity to learn from other businesses is endless!

With the growing popularity of small business startups, it’s natural to assume that you’ll be competing with those more educated or experienced than yourself. However, don’t be intimidated. Your community can be very supportive of your endeavor. After all, growing business locally is good for everyone!

Guest Post Blurb:

This is a guest post by Gagan. Gagan works for GO-Gulf.com, a Dubai-based web design company that provides web development solution in Kuwait, Qatar and all across Middle East.