http://www.bankrate.com/default.aspx?pid=p:br3 Get personal finance advice from Bankrate.com experts. en-us Copyright 2009, Bankrate Inc. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:12:54 GMT webmaster@bankrate.com (webmaster) http://www.bankrate.com/Images/logos/bankratelogo.gif http://www.bankrate.com/default.aspx?pid=p:br3 118 22 60 The U.S. government offers some handy online tools for determining a savings bond's worth. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/how-do-you-find-bond-values.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/how-do-you-find-bond-values.aspx?pid=p:br3 With today's rebates and these car features, here are five models worth considering. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/5-car-deals-with-today-s-incentives.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/5-car-deals-with-today-s-incentives.aspx?pid=p:br3 If a second name is on the paperwork, you can't sell the car separately. Better make a deal. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/can-co-signed-car-title-prevent-its-sale.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/can-co-signed-car-title-prevent-its-sale.aspx?pid=p:br3 A man who lives in a community property state may have no claim on a gift his wife received. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/husband-has-no-claim-on-wife-s-gift.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/husband-has-no-claim-on-wife-s-gift.aspx?pid=p:br3 Follow this approach to socking away money and putting things in order -- before it's too late. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/4-tips-to-retirement-planning.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/4-tips-to-retirement-planning.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you missed out on earlier tax credits, they are being reintroduced. But there is a limit. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/energy-efficient-home-tax-credit.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/energy-efficient-home-tax-credit.aspx?pid=p:br3 Using home equity to finance improvement projects makes sense in some situations, but not others. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/home-equity/know-risks-before-tapping-home-equity.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/home-equity/know-risks-before-tapping-home-equity.aspx?pid=p:br3 A woman continues to pay her half of the mortgage while her spouse makes excuses. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/husband-won-t-pay-fair-share-of-mortgage.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/husband-won-t-pay-fair-share-of-mortgage.aspx?pid=p:br3 Parents shouldn't put themselves in financial jeopardy when the kids can help pay their own bills. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/bank-of-mom-not-kids-crutch.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/bank-of-mom-not-kids-crutch.aspx?pid=p:br3 Federal rules prevent a bank from taking a deposit and holding the funds for an indefinite period. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/checking/how-long-can-a-bank-hold-deposit.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/checking/how-long-can-a-bank-hold-deposit.aspx?pid=p:br3 Humor columnist Jay MacDonald says the Postal Service is getting bold in its search for revenue. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/not-your-father-s-post-office.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/not-your-father-s-post-office.aspx?pid=p:br3 A Series I savings bond investor should not grouse about the effect of a negative inflation rate. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/don-t-whine-about-inflation-rate.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/don-t-whine-about-inflation-rate.aspx?pid=p:br3 If your bank doesn't make enough when the home is sold, it can target your cash for the difference. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/is-my-money-safe-after-foreclosure.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/is-my-money-safe-after-foreclosure.aspx?pid=p:br3 With the estate tax in flux, planning for estate taxes at death is uncertain at best. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/die-in-2011-and-you-ll-pay.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/die-in-2011-and-you-ll-pay.aspx?pid=p:br3 The Internal Revenue Service and other authorities have many tools to uncover money shenanigans. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/checking/hiding-assets-likely-to-backfire.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/checking/hiding-assets-likely-to-backfire.aspx?pid=p:br3 In a last-minute push for financial aid, these tips will help you get the most bang for your buck. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/college-finance/tips-for-tapping-needs-based-financial-aid.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/college-finance/tips-for-tapping-needs-based-financial-aid.aspx?pid=p:br3 Even if a car is repossessed, you're liable for costs the lender can't recoup when it's resold. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/car-loan-co-signer-gets-socked-with-costs.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/car-loan-co-signer-gets-socked-with-costs.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you want someone to truly represent you in a property deal, stay away from dual agents. Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/whose-agent-are-you-anyway.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/whose-agent-are-you-anyway.aspx?pid=p:br3 Put your financial house in order now so your loved ones won't have to sleuth after you die. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/clean-up-messy-financial-affairs.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/clean-up-messy-financial-affairs.aspx?pid=p:br3 New owner Fiat is dumping unpopular model designs and offering a fresh, new look. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/chrysler-cars-to-get-a-major-makeover.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/chrysler-cars-to-get-a-major-makeover.aspx?pid=p:br3 Think twice before going bankrupt to stop your car from being repossessed. It's a hefty price to pay. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/bankruptcy-iffy-way-to-stop-car-repo.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/bankruptcy-iffy-way-to-stop-car-repo.aspx?pid=p:br3 Skipping a payment during the mortgage refinance process results in having to pay up later. Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/there-s-no-free-lunch-when-refinancing.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/there-s-no-free-lunch-when-refinancing.aspx?pid=p:br3 The IRS has rules for claiming the child care credit if you pay a relative to provide the care. Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/tax-credit-for-child-care.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/tax-credit-for-child-care.aspx?pid=p:br3 A homeowner with low tax expenses and a top return on her savings should not prepay her mortgage. Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/mortgage-prepayment-may-be-unwise.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/mortgage-prepayment-may-be-unwise.aspx?pid=p:br3 If a buyer gets cold feet in a home deal, even a novel excuse won't prevent the loss of a deposit. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/buyer-reneges-grab-earnest-money.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/buyer-reneges-grab-earnest-money.aspx?pid=p:br3 Cardholder who opts out will still be able to pay down her credit card at same rate. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/does-credit-card-opt-out-preserve-rate.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/does-credit-card-opt-out-preserve-rate.aspx?pid=p:br3 A 66-year-old man can raid his retirement funds to pay down a loan. But such a move may be unwise. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/is-ira-good-source-of-mortgage-cash.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/is-ira-good-source-of-mortgage-cash.aspx?pid=p:br3 Parents do not need a minor's consent to cash in savings bonds registered in the child's name. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/parents-can-cash-bonds-in-kids-names.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/parents-can-cash-bonds-in-kids-names.aspx?pid=p:br3 Follow these three hints and this credit recovery strategy might put you back in good standing. Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/3-tips-for-seeking-payment-for-deletion.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/3-tips-for-seeking-payment-for-deletion.aspx?pid=p:br3 These possibilities may keep you out of jail after you've ignored a court summons for nonpayment. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/4-options-when-police-call-about-debt.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/4-options-when-police-call-about-debt.aspx?pid=p:br3 Past individual credit mistakes will follow a betrothed couple into their marriage. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/marriage-doesn-t-wipe-out-credit-history.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/marriage-doesn-t-wipe-out-credit-history.aspx?pid=p:br3 You'll need a survey, but for old properties, you and your neighbor may have to set the line in writing. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/finding-your-property-line-not-so-easy.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/finding-your-property-line-not-so-easy.aspx?pid=p:br3 In order to qualify for the COBRA subsidy, an employee must have been laid off or fired. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/cobra-tax-law-changes.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/cobra-tax-law-changes.aspx?pid=p:br3 Cardholder wants to negotiate a settlement with the issuer without hurting his credit score. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/what-are-effects-of-card-debt-settlement.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/what-are-effects-of-card-debt-settlement.aspx?pid=p:br3 A woman who's considering a refinance should break up the decision process into two parts. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/home-equity/heloc-makes-sense-if-refinance-doesn-t.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/home-equity/heloc-makes-sense-if-refinance-doesn-t.aspx?pid=p:br3 Some homeowners mistakenly think they can avoid making second-mortgage payments. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/unwise-to-skip-second-mortgage-payment.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/unwise-to-skip-second-mortgage-payment.aspx?pid=p:br3 How long it takes to recoup the $1,300 jump depends on many things, including the price of gas. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/recoup-1-300-cost-of-new-fuel-standards.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/recoup-1-300-cost-of-new-fuel-standards.aspx?pid=p:br3 If a lender won't agree to a weekly mortgage plan, it's easy to create your own DIY version. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/create-diy-mortgage-payment-plan.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/create-diy-mortgage-payment-plan.aspx?pid=p:br3 It's a way to avoid frittering away your rent money, but beware of these obstacles before signing. Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/rent-to-own-deal-can-be-risky.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/real-estate/rent-to-own-deal-can-be-risky.aspx?pid=p:br3 There are several ways for taxpayers to report the interest earned on savings bonds. Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/deferring-interest-on-ee-bonds.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/deferring-interest-on-ee-bonds.aspx?pid=p:br3 Hyundai and Kia have come a long way with quality while keeping prices low. Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/hyundai-s-cheap-sturdy-cars-draw-buyers.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/hyundai-s-cheap-sturdy-cars-draw-buyers.aspx?pid=p:br3 A repossession sticks to your credit report for seven years but has less effect each of those years. Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/how-repossession-affects-credit-score.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/how-repossession-affects-credit-score.aspx?pid=p:br3 The rules for depreciating a home that was converted to a rental can get tricky. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/figuring-depreciation-on-a-rental.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/figuring-depreciation-on-a-rental.aspx?pid=p:br3 New tax rules will make 2010 an ideal time to convert a traditional IRA to a Roth. Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/retirement/2010-is-great-time-to-choose-roth-ira.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/retirement/2010-is-great-time-to-choose-roth-ira.aspx?pid=p:br3 Humor columnist Jay MacDonald says Swedish home furnishing retailer Ikea has a lesson for the Fed. Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/economic-sos-ikea-to-the-rescue.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/economic-sos-ikea-to-the-rescue.aspx?pid=p:br3 Taking an early distribution from a tax-deferred account can endanger long-term financial goals. Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/retirement/ira-withdrawal-endangers-retirement.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/retirement/ira-withdrawal-endangers-retirement.aspx?pid=p:br3 An investor in a money market mutual fund wonders if the net asset value is incorrect. Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/investing/fund-s-share-price-jolts-investor.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/investing/fund-s-share-price-jolts-investor.aspx?pid=p:br3 Don't walk away from your credit card with a high interest rate. It could hurt your credit rating. Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/lose-the-high-rate-not-the-credit-card.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/lose-the-high-rate-not-the-credit-card.aspx?pid=p:br3 It's unwise to leave $10,000 in a safe-deposit box, where the savings will earn no interest. Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/fix-10-000-savings-mistake.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/savings/fix-10-000-savings-mistake.aspx?pid=p:br3 There's probably no need to divvy up your retirement nest egg among several investment firms. Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/retirement/safe-to-keep-nest-egg-with-one-firm.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/retirement/safe-to-keep-nest-egg-with-one-firm.aspx?pid=p:br3