The Sun's Financial Diary

Our government has been for a while now trying its best to figure out ways to get American workers to help themselves by saving for their retirement.  Too many still think that Social Security is a retirement savings program in and of itself (it’s only designed to provide 20-30% of total retirement income). A couple [...]

In late December 2010, the IRS issued official 2011 tax rate tables with updated Federal tax brackets after Congress passed Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010. The Tax Relief Act of 2010 extended Bush-era tax cut for all Americans for two more years regardless their incomes and reduced payroll taxes temporarily [...]

As we get to the end of the year, it seems like now might be as good a time as any to review some of the major events that shaped our financial lives in 2010.  While most of the news of the year seemed to be doom and gloom there were a few bright spots [...]

The More Card is one of the popular credit cards from Discover for its generous cash back rewards program (at least in certain categories) and big incentive for new cardholders.  During this holiday season, the More Card offers card members the opportunity to get 5% cashback bonus for shopping at restaurants, department stores and clothing stores. [...]

While you’re quite likely to be exhausted both mentally and financially from this year’s go-around, believe it or not, now’s the perfect time to begin creating great savings for next year’s holiday season (as well as other everyday savings, too). Even the smallest invest in steeply discounted holiday wrapping paper, gift bags and ribbons can [...]

The end of the year is always a good time for tying up loose ends.  Whether it’s preparing for a new and healthier you in the new year or taking care of some of this year’s resolution, now is usually the best time to close the books on the current year and get ready to [...]

With widespread unemployment and a still-struggling economy, many have looked to self-employment to help supplement their incomes. Whether it’s a full-time commitment or a part-time activity to bring in just a bit more cash, there are a variety of ways small business owners can harness opportunities throughout the holidays. If you’re an entrepreneur, below are [...]

I came across a bit the other day that caught me a little bit by surprise (although it probably really shouldn’t).  Despite an unemployment rate still hovering around 10% and despite pay freezes at many companies across the country and despite many middle income individuals still fighting to take care of their families, charitable giving [...]