The Dollar Stretcher "Living Better...For Less"
June 15, 2009
Volume 14, Number 24


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In This Issue:

Introduction

-- Surviving Tough Times --
Finding a New Job
by Tricia Goss
When finding a job is your job

In The Dollar Stretcher Community
I Can't Get These Credit Cards Paid Off Fast Enough!
Ouch. Credit card interest rates are going up for everyone, it
seems.

-- Surviving Tough Times --
Help With Prescriptions
by Kirby Horton
How to save money on your medicine

Dollar Stretcher Community Poll
Your Saving Rate
Have you adjusted your saving rate due to the economy?

-- Surviving Tough Times --
Food Away from Home
by Gregory Karp
3 ways to reduce the cost of eating out

Bloggles: Blogs that will blow your mind
Next Year's Perennials
It's June; your annuals are coming along or in pots. Your
perennials are growing fast. So why not just sit back and not
worry about your flowerbeds until next spring?

Wood for Projects
by E. E. Kane
You don't need to go to the lumberyard and pay full price

Tips, Quips, Quotes & Questions

On www.Stretcher.com This Week


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Introduction
by Gary Foreman
gary@stretcher.com

Hello to all my Frugal Friends!

We have a winner! (actually 2 winners - as promised!) It
wasn't easy, but our team of crackerjack experts made the hard
choices, and after collecting more information from a selected
group of contestants, we made a decision. We had a lot of
excellent entries. We could easily have chosen a dozen or
more. There were that many great ideas. Just not enough prizes
to go around!

Our two winners are Denise Mendenhall of Fort Dodge, IA and
Matt Lichlyter of Littleton, CO. Denise wants to market her
stained glass creations and Matt wants to promote food safety.
They both have interesting stories, but we'll let them share
that in the blogs that each will be starting here on The
Dollar Stretcher. We'll let you know what the URL is for each
in an upcoming issue.

I also want to thank everyone who entered. As I said, I was
impressed with the many excellent ideas presented. I've been
giving financial advice and managing people and businesses for
over 30 years. Had successes and failures. I believe that
there are many workable ideas among those we received.

And, while we couldn't give every great idea SBI!, I really
believe that there are other businesses that can be built with
time, effort and the proper guidance. Don't give up your
dream. Often the difference between success and failure is
just a matter of trying one more time.

I also believe that SBI! is a superb tool for those who want
to build their own e-business. As I said, I've been around the
block a few times and like to think I can identify what's
real. I've worked with the people at SBI! and can confidently
say that they're the real deal. No smoke and mirrors. Just
sound advice that added to your focus and hard work can give
you the best possible odds at success. So don't let losing a
contest shut your down. If you still dream of building an e-
business, you owe it to yourself to check them out. You'll
find more information about SBI! here
<http://www.stretcher.com/recommended/sbi3.cfm>

Keep on Stretching Those Dollars!
Gary


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Our Sponsor


Surviving Tough Times

Surviving Tough Times, a free email newsletter, provides
tips and articles on ways to help you survive financially
as the cost of everyday items rise and economic times become
tougher. Each issue features six or seven articles and tips
to help you stretch your dollar!

To subscribe to Surviving Tough Times free ezine, email
mailto:subscribe-inflationfighters@hub.thedollarstretcher.com
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-- Surviving Tough Times --
Finding a New Job
by Tricia Goss
When finding a job is your job

These days no one is immune from sudden job loss. The position
you once considered completely secure one day might be
eliminated the next. If it happens to you, it is perfectly
understandable and acceptable to take a little time off. Give
yourself a chance to lick your wounds, brush up your resume
and possibly rethink your career path. After a week or two,
though, it is time to start pounding the proverbial pavement.
To land the next terrific job in the least amount of time, you
much treat your job search as a full-time position.

Shoot for forty hours each week. Get up, shower and get
dressed to the shoes every single weekday. This type of
dedication will pay off in helping you find a job more
quickly. It will also help you maintain a sense of purpose and
stave off feelings of hopelessness. Besides, you never know
whom you might run into at the mailbox or corner store and
making a good first impression is crucial.

Begin by creating a schedule. Use your Outlook or Google
calendar, your day planner, or simply a small notepad. At the
beginning of the week, whether that is Sunday afternoon or
early Monday morning for you, browse the help wanted ads and
online job listings. Make three columns on a sheet of paper
when reading the classifieds. In the first column, note ads
with phone numbers to call. In the second column, enter those
with walk-in addresses. In the third column, list employers
requesting mailed or emailed resumes.

Make optimal use of business hours. First thing Monday
morning, begin calling those in Column 1. If you are unable to
speak to the hiring manager at that time, leave a message,
adding politely that you will call again later. When you have
made all of the calls, head to the employers listed in Column
2. After applying for these, head home and call back those you
were unable to reach in the morning. Send off resumes to the
employers in Column 3 at the end of the day.

Networking is considered the best way to land a new job. Spend
an ample amount of your forty hours each week doing so. Make a
list of everyone who would be able to put a face to your name
over the phone. Along with family and friends, list people
from church, your child's school, former jobs, and so on. Call
the first person on the list and relay your situation. Ask
each contact if there are any openings where they work, as
well as if they know of someone else you might call. Make sure
they know how to reach you if they hear about something later.
Take copious notes and graciously thank each contact, whether
or not they provided any new information.

Follow up with employers you called, visited or emailed at the
end of each week. Ask outright if you might schedule an
interview. With the current number of candidates all vying for
a limited number of jobs, your resume may not be prominent. A
courteous phone call stating your deep interest in a position
might be the key that gets your foot in the door.

If you are taking all of these steps but still have some of
those forty hours to spare, don't zone out in front of the TV.
Instead, take a class that will boost your employability.
Check your community college's schedule or contact local high
schools to ask about classes in topics like computer software
programs, business management or accounting.

Another great way to spend this time is performing volunteer
work. Helping others will allow you to forget your own
troubles for a while. Volunteering looks good on your r,sum,,
and it just might connect you with someone who knows of a job
that is perfect for you.

Finally, make sure you document any costs incurred during your
job search. Be certain to retain receipts and break down
expenses, such as mileage driven and cell phone minutes used.
Depending on your circumstances, these costs may very well be
tax-deductible.

Take the Next Step:
- For more on finding a new job, please visit
http://www.stretcher.com/menu/topic-r.htm#workfind
- Subscribe to our new weekly "Surviving Tough Times:
Inflation fighters" newsletter by sending
<mailto:subscribe-InflationFighters@hub.thedollarstretcher.com>
This free email newsletter will provide ways to help you save
money as the cost of everyday items rise. Each issue features
six or seven articles to help you stretch your dollar!


===========================================================


In The Dollar Stretcher Community
I Can't Get These Credit Cards Paid Off Fast Enough!
Ouch. Credit card interest rates are going up for everyone, it
seems.

http://community.stretcher.com/forums/p/10874/113167.aspx


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-- Surviving Tough Times --
Help With Prescriptions
by Kirby Horton
How to save money on your medicine

Anyone who takes medicine knows that the cost of prescription
medication is rising in this country. For a lot of us,
prescriptions help us live a more productive, happier life,
but only if we can afford to take them. Here are some ideas
that may help you pay less.

- Talk to your doctor. Not being able to afford medications is
nothing to be embarrassed about. Your doctor wants to know
everything that affects your healthcare, including whether or
not you can pay for your medications. If the price means you
may not fill your prescriptions and take your medicine, then
it is important to be honest about this with your doctor.
Taking your prescriptions helps him help you! There may be a
cheaper generic drug or a similar medicine that you can take,
but your doctor may not consider these unless you explain that
you cannot pay for the more expensive drug. Your doctor may
also have samples of your medicine that he can give you at no
cost.

- Shop around. Studies have shown that prices can vary a
substantial amount from pharmacy to pharmacy. Surprisingly, a
medicine may be cheaper at one pharmacy than at another. As
much as you may like to have everything at one store and may
like a particular pharmacist, shop around to help lower your
prescription medicine costs. You should ask your pharmacy if
it can match the lower price. You can also ask the pharmacist
for part of the prescription if there is the possibility that
the side effects will mean you cannot take this drug. Ask your
pharmacist if you can fill the rest of the prescription at no
extra cost if the prescription works for you.

- Consider buying online. Savings can be huge. Some very
reputable Canadian drug stores offer the original, brand name
medicine and can save you up to 70%! Be very cautious though.
Do not buy from sites that will sell prescription medicines
without a prescription. That is the first sign that they are
not legit. If it's too good to be true, it probably isn't
true, so don't send money or a credit card number.

- Look for $4 Generics. Recently, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club and
Target announced that their stores now offer generic medicine
for $4 per prescription fill or refill. Walgreens and other
pharmacies are considering meeting this price. Be aware that
not all generic drugs are offered through these programs and
some local pharmacies have been offering the drugs, on the
lists, at a similar price. Some critics say that this pricing
is a "bait and switch" tactic because many of the drugs on the
lists are older generics that are rarely used. For example,
Wal-Mart hopes people who can't get their medication for $4
may buy it at the higher price then shop at the store before
leaving.

- Study your medical benefits carefully. If you have health
insurance, know what is covered and whether or not there is a
limit to the total amount of coverage each year. You can get
help with insurance questions through a SHIP (State Health
Insurance Assistance Program).

- Look for Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs). If you have a
low income and haven't checked out these programs, do so. Rx
Help is available to individuals who meet criteria set by each
individual drug company. PAPs provide low-cost or free
medication for those who qualify. Remember to look for all
your medicines, not just the most expensive.

- Check out Assistance for Specific Diseases and Conditions.
In this category, you can find help with a variety of medical
expenses, ranging from insurance co-pay assistance to medical
supplies. These programs are listed by particular ailment and
are sometimes limited to specific geographic areas.

There is prescription help out there; you just need to be
creative and assertive to get the medicine that you
desperately need.
__________________

Kirby Horton is Founder, President and CEO of Rx HELP
<http://www.rxhelp4u.com>, a Prescription Assistance Company.
He has over 30 years experience helping Americans with their
healthcare needs. He can be reached at 866-960-9497

Take the Next Step:
- Subscribe to our new weekly "Surviving Tough Times:
Inflation fighters" newsletter by sending
<mailto:subscribe-InflationFighters@hub.thedollarstretcher.com>
This free email newsletter will provide ways to help you save
money as the cost of everyday items rise. Each issue features
six or seven articles to help you stretch your dollar!


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Dollar Stretcher Community Poll
Your Saving Rate
Have you adjusted your saving rate due to the economy?

http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun01p.cfm


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-- Surviving Tough Times --
Food Away from Home
by Gregory Karp
3 ways to reduce the cost of eating out

Excerpted with permission from "The 1-2-3 Money Plan: The
Three Most Important Steps to Saving and Spending Smart"
<http://www.amazon.com/1-2-3-Money-Plan-Important-
Spending/dp/0137141734/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1243609581&sr=8-1> by
Gregory Karp (FT Press; $17.99)

The first rule of dining out for less is to do it
infrequently. By all means, go out to celebrate a wedding
anniversary or job promotion. But try to avoid loading the
family in the car and going to a restaurant because you're a
poor meal planner. And when dining out, look for reasonable
ways to cut your tab without cutting enjoyment.

Food Away from Home, 1-2-3

1. Make freezer meals.
2. Use coupons and discounts.
3. Skimp on what you don't care about.

1. Make Freezer Meals

We've all done it. Dinnertime sneaks up on us, and we don't
have anything planned and don't feel like cooking. The easiest
solution is takeout, delivery, or schlepping to the nearest
chain restaurant.

The simple solution is freezer meals. It's different from
simple leftovers in the fridge. With freezer meals, you make
double and triple batches when you cook. Then on those harried
evenings, you're only microwave minutes away from a quicker,
more healthful, and less-expensive entree than you probably
would get dining out. Whip up a few quick sides, and presto! A
meal.

A little meal planning goes a long way toward saving money,
and not just on dinner. Taking lunch to work instead of buying
is, admittedly, obvious and tired advice. But do you brown-bag
it every day? Ask yourself why not. And what about that
morning latte from Starbucks that every money advice-giver
wants to cut from your morning routine? Well, that's up to
you, of course. Just make sure it's truly how you want to
spend your money. You might have seen the math before, but
I'll repeat it here: Cut a $4 coffee and $7 lunch each
workday, and you save $2,750 a year. If nearly three grand is
no big deal to you and you don't need to spend it on something
else, then eat out.

2. Use Coupons and Discounts

Granted, if a man is on a first date, he might not want to
whip out coupons when the bill comes, unless he knows his date
is of like-minded frugality. But coupons and discounts can
save significant money on dining out.

One secret method keeps anyone from knowing you're getting a
discount. Sign up at www.RewardsNetwork.com. Tell them what
credit cards and debit cards you use to pay for meals, and if
you dine at a participating restaurant, you get a discount
automatically credited to your credit or debit account. You do
nothing. Discounts are typically 5 percent to 10 percent.

Also check out Restaurant.com
<http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-457969-10422977>,
www.OpenTable.com, and the ubiquitous Entertainment book from
Entertainment.com <http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-457969-
10573314>. If you're looking for a cheap way to take the kids
out, look for special deals at www.KidsMealDeals.com.

3. Skimp on What You Don't Care About

Sometimes, we're on autopilot at a restaurant, ordering a soft
drink, appetizer, entree, and dessert. Then we wonder why
we're so uncomfortably full when we leave. Cut out what you
don't care about. Do you like free water just as well as a $3
soft drink? Can you wait until you get home for a beer or
glass of wine? Can you skip the appetizer or eat an appetizer
and skip the entree? Are the portions big enough to share an
entree? What about skipping the tempting dessert and coming
back some other time for dessert only?

This isn't rocket science, but it does take discipline and a
willingness to break your routine. Listen to your body about
how hungry you actually are and order less. And look for
reasonable substitutions that will cut your tab without
cutting your enjoyment.
_________________

Greg Karp is the author of "The 1-2-3 Money Plan" You can
learn more from Greg by checking out his blog at
www.SpendingSmart.net

Take the Next Step:
- Subscribe to our new weekly "Surviving Tough Times:
Inflation fighters" newsletter by sending
<mailto:subscribe-InflationFighters@hub.thedollarstretcher.com>
This free email newsletter will provide ways to help you save
money as the cost of everyday items rise. Each issue features
six or seven articles to help you stretch your dollar!


===========================================================


Bloggles: Blogs that will blow your mind
Next Year's Perennials
It's June; your annuals are coming along or in pots. Your
perennials are growing fast. So why not just sit back and not
worry about your flowerbeds until next spring?

<http://community.stretcher.com/blogs/dollar_stretcher_guest_bloggers/archive/
2009/06/05/next-year-s-perennials.aspx>

<a
href="http://community.stretcher.com/blogs/dollar_stretcher_guest_bloggers/archi
ve/2009/06/05/next-year-s-perennials.aspx">here</a>


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Wood for Projects
by E. E. Kane
You don't need to go to the lumberyard and pay full price

Walk into any building supply that sells lumber and you might
be surprised at the price of wood. But you don't need to pay
that price. There are other sources that could cost much less.
In fact, some sources of wood are free.

Wood Pallets

Eco artist Mark Dabelstein found a new line of work, featured
on www.PalletArt.com , when he began making whimsical pieces
from pallets he noticed discarded in dumpsters. Pallet wood
may not be top-grade material, but it is not much different
from what you will buy at big-box home improvement stores. You
will have to fill some holes, but you can't argue with free.
Ask for discarded pallets at warehouses (it helps to know a
friend). Use pallet wood to frame windows, build shelves, or
for any small project.

Culled Wood Bundles

The next time you walk through any purveyor of lumber, ask the
manager at the contractor's desk if they have culled wood
bundles. The bundles are made up of a variety of lesser-
quality planks culled from stock. These culled bundles are
sold at a deep discount, sometimes up to 75%. If your project
does not require perfect lumber, a culled wood bundle is a
bargain.

Reclaimed Wood

You can't buy old growth wood at your local building supply,
but it was the standard material a century or so ago. Thanks
to a renewed appreciation for the quality of old wood and the
eco-conscious desire to reuse it, you can buy reclaimed wood
from de-constructed homes, barns and old factories. Reclaimed
wood is centuries old and rich with resin and the patina that
only comes from age. This wood was center-cut from trees that
grew slowly in dense forests, producing tight inner rings that
yield strength and beauty that current fast-growth trees can
never rival. The reclamation process of removing nails, sawing
and re-milling old wood is usually more expensive.

Reclaimed wood is a worthy investment for any home, but if
your budget will not allow for it, you might obtain it by good
old initiative and sweat equity. Ask friends, put an ad in the
paper or online like Craigslist, and take frequent drives in
the country looking for falling-down structures. Ask the owner
of such a structure if he will allow you to take the wood in
exchange for cleaning up the site.

Be forewarned that deconstruction is a huge and sometimes
dangerous undertaking, and it helps if you know what you are
doing. Wear safety gear and gather several friends who will
share the proceeds for their help and contribution of
equipment needed, like a tractor, trucks, pry bars and claw
hammers. Make sure that you make safety your number one
priority.

Salvaged Building Material Suppliers

Baseboard, crown molding, fireplace mantels and solid wood
doors are available at a salvaged building materials supplier.
Search online for a local salvaged materials supplier. Similar
options exist through the following websites:

www.PlanetReuse.com - A nation-wide free source for anyone in
the construction business, both professional and layperson.
You can advertise or browse listed materials, then click on an
ad to let Planet Reuse set up an interface between you and the
seller.

www.Freecycle.org - Available in most major cities, the great
thing about Freecycle is that everything is free, even
membership. You can make requests or offer unwanted items.
Freecycle sends daily emails, so be prepared for an overloaded
inbox. Be ready to respond quickly if you see what you want.

Finding inexpensive sources of wood is a great bargain,
especially for someone who loves to work with it!


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Tips, Quips, Quotes and Questions


*********
Can You Help This Reader?
*********
Ant Invasion!

Little black ants used to make a yearly invasion at one spot
in the house like the front door. I'd suck them up in the
vacuum and throw some borax around the door and we were done.
But not this year! First they were at the back door and then
the front door! Now they are coming into the house by the
front door through the cracks in the wood floor. Nothing has
worked to get rid of them. With pets, little kids and a
teenager in the house, clean floors are a five-minute memory.
At least the kids kill them now instead of playing with them.
Any family friendly ideas?
MarthaMFI

Please send your answers mailto:CanYouHelp@stretcher.com with
"Ant Invasion" as the subject or join the discussion in The
Dollar Stretcher Community
<http://community.stretcher.com/forums/t/12096.aspx>. We'll
include the best solutions in future issues.


*********
Yes, We Can Help This Reader
Dumping a Timeshare
*********

If this goes to collections, they can get court ordered
garnishment of your income unless you are on Social Security.
They can also freeze your bank account. Technically, they
can't freeze one that has mostly Social Security benefits
going into it, but it still happens. And it can be a while
before you can get back into court to get this cleared up. In
the meantime, there is no way to pay bills or buy food. If you
really don't have any savings, what happens when the car quits
and you need a loan for a new one?

If it's the ethics of the timeshare board that is bothering
you and you are just making a statement by not paying it, it
would be better to turn them into the Attorney General's
office and keep making a small payment every month to keep the
collectors away from you.

Short of selling it (impossible if it's run down), I think you
are stuck unless the company goes under. Check with a
bankruptcy attorney if you are way over your head with other
debts. You may be able to unload this asset with court backing
and get out of the maintenance contract.
Christine

editor's note: more suggestions at
<http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15a.cfm> or join the
discussion in The Dollar Stretcher Community
<http://community.stretcher.com/forums/p/11781/122653.aspx>.


*********
Free Internet for Month?!

Before you go on vacation, check with your Internet provider
to see if you can get a credit for the time you're away and
not using your connection. My Internet provider allows for two
vacation credits per year. It never would have occurred to me
to ask if the guy setting up our Internet connection hadn't
mentioned it. If you pay $30/month for your service and go
away twice during the year for two weeks at a time, that would
equal $30 in savings, which is the equivalent of one free
month of service.
Sheri R.


*********
$5 Fridays

Since my son-in-law was laid off at the first of this year,
money for the family has been tight. My daughter used to take
her five kids out to breakfast or lunch every Friday while her
husband was working. Since that is no longer an option, she
and the kids have come up with $5 Fridays.

They can buy $5 worth of balloons and have a water balloon
fight. One Friday evening they can walk to the library and
choose books to read, then make snow cones for a treat.
Sometimes they take a picnic of peanut butter sandwiches,
homemade iced tea, and fruit to the park. Another time they'll
pop popcorn and rent a movie they've been wanting to see.

Well, you get the idea. They all have to come up with
something that doesn't cost more than $5, and everyone has
some input for their special times together. Even though they
don't spend a lot of money, they are really enjoying their
summer.
Judy


*********
Re-purpose Redecorating

I've always enjoyed decorating and arranging my home
differently, so it always looks neat and fresh. I found an
"old" throw blanket that has a print of one of Thomas
Kinkade's paintings on it. It's a bit too thin for my taste to
use as an actual throw blanket, so I re-purposed it to be a
throw rug under my coffee table in the living room. It really
makes a nice focal point.

If you have any old throws or wall hangings, consider re-
purposing these items. It makes a large change in the way your
home looks, and costs nothing but a few minutes of your time.
Candy J. in TN


*********
Little Luxury:
Movie Night

We live outside a metropolitan area that is surrounded by
small towns. Some of our small towns still have small movie
theaters that are still running. Typically these small
theaters show second run movies (the blockbuster that was in
the mega-plex last month) or even limited release or imported
movies that you just won't find at the mega-plex. Tickets at
our small town theater (which has been in business since the
1950's!) are $3.50 most nights. On Tuesdays it's $2.50.
Sometimes they even run $2 matinees. They show one movie at a
time since they only have one screen. Sometimes they have two
movies, and one shows at the early show time the other at the
later show time. Fountain drinks are $1 and the rest of the
concession goodies are about the same.

So instead of taking out a mortgage to take the family to the
movie, we just wait until it gets to our little theater and
then have a lovely night out. Most of the small town theaters
in our area are old theaters that have either been lovingly
maintained or have been painstakingly restored. Typically
local business people and families run these small town
theaters. By being patient, you get a great night out without
breaking the bank and you support local business. What more
could you ask for?

Oh, you said free? Then check out your local library! One of
our local public libraries has free family movie nights about
once a month, but you have to wait for the day of the movie to
find out what is showing. In the summer, this library also
hosts free music concerts on their lawn! Another small public
library near us has free kids movies. They often show them on
days when the kids are out of school and a couple times a
month in the summer. They even give the kids free popcorn and
a cup of juice! I took my daughter and the neighbor kids on
the day after Christmas. It was a nice way to get out of the
house for a few calm hours during the holiday hustle and
bustle. In the summer, it's a great way to get out of the
heat. One of our local mega-plexes has also gotten in on the
act. During the summer months, they offer free mid-morning
kids movies (some of these are several years old but the kids
don't care). My daughter's summer camp took advantage of these
movies and took the campers to the movies once a week. Even
the concession stand has discount prices.
Jennifer D.

editor's note: Many of us have given up a lot because of the
economy. So we're looking for "Little Luxuries" that we can
share with everyone. If you have an inexpensive way to make
yourself feel good, please send it by
mailto:gary@stretcher.com?subject=Little_Luxuries We'll share
the best ones in future issues.


*********


What would you do with an extra $100? Last month, Janet from
Sherwood, AR won a $100 check just for sending in a favorite
time or money saving idea. This month it could be you. Just
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On www.Stretcher.com This Week
<http://www.stretcher.com>

editor's note: Hotmail and WebTV users may have trouble with
some addresses. Please access them from our front page
<www.stretcher.com>


Money
http://www.stretcher.com/money/index.cfm
----------------------------------------

Dumping a Timeshare
Is there another choice besides just turning it back to the
association?
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15a.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15a.cfm
</a>

Dollar Stretcher Community Poll
Your Saving Rate
Have you adjusted your saving rate due to the economy?
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun01p.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun01p.cfm
</a>

Don't Default on Student Loans
If making student loan payments is tough, you can set up a new
payment plan, among several other options.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun06a.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun06a.htm </a>

Your Wealth Blog: Women and Wealth
Whatever your means, spending below them is a lesson well
learned.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08c.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08c.htm </a>

Bad Certified Check Won't Damage Credit
Cashing a counterfeit certified check at a bank will not
damage the credit score of the payee.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04f.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04f.htm </a>

IRA CD Ladder Smoothes Retirement Bumps
Breaking a single IRA CD into multiple versions is easy if you
use a laddering technique.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04g.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04g.htm </a>

Cashing in Savings Bonds to Fund 529 Plan
Parents who qualify can use the Education Savings Bond Program
to help trim college costs.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03k.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03k.htm </a>

Fiance's Debt Won't Ding Woman's Credit
A fiancee isn't obligated to repay her betrothed's existing
debts when she becomes his wife.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03j.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03j.htm </a>

Small-Business Microlending on the Rise
As more banks shy away from making business loans,
microlending is finding a market niche.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05c.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05c.htm </a>

5 Economic Indicators to Watch
Economic indicators are gauges of hope and despair. We explain
what they mean and why they matter.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03f.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03f.htm </a>

Personal Savings Rate Could Soar
Consumers are stashing more away. So how can they make the
most of their newfound personal savings?
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03h.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03h.htm </a>

Ex Still Beneficiary of Retirement
IRA A woman wants her ex removed as primary beneficiary of an
IRA she started to secure her retirement.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun09b.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun09b.htm </a>

Soft Inquiry Won't Harm Credit Score
An employer's so-called "soft inquiry" on your credit report
will not hurt your FICO score.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08e.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08e.htm </a>

Son Can't Flee Bank Checking Account
There's no easy way for a son to remove his name from his
mother's bank checking account.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05f.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05f.htm </a>


In Critical Condition
http://www.stretcher.com/critical/index.cfm
-------------------------------------------

4 Limits on Modifying Bankruptcy
You can lower your Chapter 13 bankruptcy payment, if you're
not hung up by one of these obstacles.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun09a.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun09a.htm </a>

Bad Credit? Fix It Yourself and Save
Costly credit repair firms can't perform magic. What they can
do, you can do for free.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08b.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08b.htm </a>

Don't Ignore Creditors on Debt Collection
Creditors may be willing to work with you, if they know you're
unemployed and without an income.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04c.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04c.htm </a>


Just Starting Out
http://www.stretcher.com/startingout/index.cfm
----------------------------------------------

Young Adults and Credit
by Bill Hardekopf, CEO LowCards.com
Will new law solve credit card problems for young adults?
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15g.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15g.cfm
</a>


Family
http://www.stretcher.com/family/index.cfm
-----------------------------------------

A Beginner's Guide to Frugal Cloth Diapering
by Jacqueline Harris-Stone
What you need to know to save money on diapers
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15f.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15f.cfm
</a>

5 School Options for Children
How do you pick the best school? Choose one that caters to
your child's learning style and interests.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03b.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03b.htm </a>

Financial Planning for Dogs and Cats
Your pet depends on you. Plan for the unexpected by getting
pet health insurance and a pet trust.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03e.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03e.htm </a>


Home and Auto
http://www.stretcher.com/homeauto/index.cfm
-------------------------------------------

Wood for Projects
by E. E. Kane
You don't need to go to the lumberyard and pay full price
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15e.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15e.cfm
</a>

Surrendering the Suburbs
Yesteryear's flight to the suburbs is yielding to a return to
the cities, thanks to sustainable elements, transit access and
pricing. What to look for.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03a.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03a.htm </a>

10 Ways to Turn Off a Homebuyer
Homeowners hoping to sell their homes in a tough market should
avoid these 10 buyer turnoffs.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08a.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08a.htm </a>

Think Twice About Becoming a Landlord
The current economy may not be the best time to try out
landlording.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03c.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03c.htm </a>

16 Costly Car Noises
These common car noises can spell trouble and cost a lot of
money, especially if ignored.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03d.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03d.htm </a>

8 Freebies Builders May Give Away
It's a fact of life -- home builders are hurting big time.
Unfortunate for them but it gives you a great chance to buy a
brand new home and get a slew of extras thrown in.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08d.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun08d.htm </a>

11 Car Fix-Ups for Spring
A little time, effort and money can reduce costly repairs on
your car and boost resale value.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun06b.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun06b.htm </a>

New Fuel Standard Could Raise Vehicle Cost
The cost of a car could jump $1,300, depending on its actual
fuel-efficiency and how much you drive.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05a.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05a.htm </a>

Mechanic Faulted for Engine Damage
The shop may replace your damaged engine, but don't expect a
new car out of the deal.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05b.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05b.htm </a>

Want to Modify Mortgage? Get a Trial Run
We answer 10 questions about how the required Home Affordable
Modification trial period works.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04a.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04a.htm </a>

Video: Questions to Ask before Refinancing
With mortgage rates near record low, is it time to refinance?
Find out if it will benefit you.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04b.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04b.htm </a>

Utility Firms Help Some Pay Bill
Some needy customers stay cool in summer with financial
assistance from Sun Belt utility firms.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03g.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun03g.htm </a>

Today's Reality: Small Homes New Big Thing
Welcome to the new realty reality. Ostentation is pass,. Size
is so not cool. Small is the new big. And oh, by the way --
have you hugged your home lately?
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04e.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04e.htm </a>


Lifestyle
http://www.stretcher.com/lifestyle/index.cfm
--------------------------------------------

Finding a New Job
by Tricia Goss
When finding a job is your job
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15b.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15b.cfm
</a>

Help With Prescriptions
by Kirby Horton
How to save money on your medicine
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15c.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15c.cfm
</a>

Food Away from Home
by Gregory Karp
3 ways to reduce the cost of eating out
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15d.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15d.cfm
</a>

Eating Right when the Budget Is Tight
Simple changes can help you cook up savings and health
advantages
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15h.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15h.cfm
</a>

Cooking Up Car Engine Cuisine
Some rolling road-trip recipes perfect for the recession.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04d.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04d.htm </a>


Your Taxes
----------

Disputing an IRS Letter
When the IRS sends a letter saying you owe more income tax,
get your facts in order.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun09c.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun09c.htm </a>

Roth IRA Can Offset Tax Loss
When offsetting a Schedule E tax loss, you can recharacterize
excess Roth IRA conversions.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04h.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun04h.htm </a>


Everything Else
---------------

Online Poll: Is Your Job Secure?
Take this quiz about jobs and job security and compare your
answers to those of other Americans.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05d.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05d.htm </a>

Older Workers Hit Harder by Economy
Bankrate's poll reveals a schism between older and younger
workers in their outlook on job security.
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05e.htm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/brm/09/09jun05e.htm </a>

Readers' Tips
<a href=" http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15t.cfm ">
Story Here - http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09jun15t.cfm
</a>


===========================================================


Decision-Making Tools

For Your Home
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/home1.htm">
Rent or Buy Your Next Home?</a>
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/home2.htm">
Mortgage Calculator</a>
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/home3.htm">
15-Year or 30-Year Mortgage?</a>
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/home4.htm">
Fixed or Adjustable Rate Mortgage?</a>
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/home5.htm">
Mortgage Points Adviser</a>

For Your Car
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/car1.htm">
How much car can you afford?</a>
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/car2.htm">
Buy or lease your next car?</a>
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/car3.htm">
Your next car:</a> New or used?
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/car4.htm">
Auto Loan Calculator</a>
- <a href="http://www.stretcher.com/brm/car5.htm">
Is a hybrid car right for you?</a>


===========================================================


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