The Sun's Financial Diary

It’s common knowledge that everyone should save for and prepare for retirement. Most parents would like to be able to save towards their children’s future college costs as well. Problem is, in today’s economy, the vast majority of household budgets are stretched so incredibly thin, that there’s usually not even two cents left to rub [...]

The parallel between habits when it comes to food and money are significant. Many people reach for a cookie when they’re depressed, others for their credit card. Some celebrate with cake and sweets, still others by purchasing themselves tangible treats. If you’re an emotional spender, best for you – and your budget – to fess [...]

Anyone who believes in the old adage, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” will also agree that the best way to save money is by managing what you already have well. Without some kind of organization in place, this can be easier said than done. That’s where a home directory comes [...]

When it comes to saving money (and even getting more for your money), the old saying is true: the squeaky wheel truly does get the oil. So speak up to make sure you’re getting your fair share and then some.
It’s amazing how simply being friendly and approachable can turn into real profits for your pocketbook. [...]

If your household finances have become a juggling act – or worse – have you upside down entirely, have no fear. There are many ways you can find money where there is seemingly none and, thankfully, none of them require you to get another job or give up any sleep!
The best place to begin is [...]

A few years ago, after a long bout of worrying about money, I came to the realization that it’s expensive to be poor. If you don’t have the money to pay bills on time or at all, you incur expensive late fees and higher interest rates. A lack of available funds to purchase items when [...]

An old adage might say that ignorance is bliss, but in actuality it rarely is. And when it comes to your money, it never is. The good news is that with a little effort it can be easy to educate yourself and truly become your own best advisor and your budget’s best advocate.
Start by seeking [...]

The reasons behind stockpiling items at home are clear: savings and convenience. Only problem is, finding where in the world to stash it all and how exactly to go about doing it.
Chances are if you could really benefit from the savings that stockpiling can offer, than storage space is likely an issue. It has been [...]

Economic times are tough for everyone. From soaring prices and unemployment, it seems the only thing you can really expect is the unexpected. It makes good sense to create a financial safety net for yourself that you can depend on when tough times come your way.
If you’re sitting back in your seat thinking I’m going [...]

Ah, a new year, and another chance to set new goals including those of the financial sort. I have spent the final few months of 2009 crafting and creating a financial program for 2010, and now I’m excited to share it with you. This 12-step financial program does not promise overnight success, but it will [...]