http://www.bankrate.com/default.aspx?pid=p:br3 Cheapskates unite! Here's advice and how-to information for living below your means. en-us Copyright 2009, Bankrate Inc. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:19:32 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 Experts suggest tips to get the most bang for your buck on the busiest shopping day of the year. Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/5-tips-for-saving-on-black-friday.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/5-tips-for-saving-on-black-friday.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 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 Food, clothing and other expenses can add up. Follow these tips so they don't add up too much. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/7-tips-to-save-on-baby-costs-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/7-tips-to-save-on-baby-costs-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Explore all your assets to come up with a game plan for ending the uncomfortable debt spiral. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/borrowing-from-family-or-friends-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/debt/borrowing-from-family-or-friends-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Meet a mom whose daily money-saving methods got her national attention. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/frugal-mom-has-thrifty-tips.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/frugal-mom-has-thrifty-tips.aspx?pid=p:br3 Can you learn how to be rich by taking a wealth-management class? Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/learn-how-to-be-rich.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/learn-how-to-be-rich.aspx?pid=p:br3 Most millionaires drive Toyotas and live in homes valued under $300,000, says author Thomas J. Stanley. Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/financial-literacy/to-act-like-the-rich-be-frugal-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/financial-literacy/to-act-like-the-rich-be-frugal-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Michael Emerson says prosperity is a fleeting situation, so he saves for the proverbial rainy day. Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/financial-literacy/lost-actor-grounded-in-frugality-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/financial-literacy/lost-actor-grounded-in-frugality-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 As the Senate debates health care reform, here are four ways to slash medical bills right away. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/6-ways-to-trim-health-costs-today-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/6-ways-to-trim-health-costs-today-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Don't let a sagging economy prevent you from hosting an affordable holiday party with panache. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/5-tips-for-classy-frugal-holiday-fun-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/5-tips-for-classy-frugal-holiday-fun-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 You can cut costs by applying smart shopping strategies to your decor, food and beverage purchases. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/throw-a-great-holiday-party-on-a-budget-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/throw-a-great-holiday-party-on-a-budget-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Sure Santa is a great guy, but a look at his business model demonstrates he's sure not in it for the money. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/santa-s-net-worth-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/santa-s-net-worth-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 You can find yummy groceries in places other than the supermarket. Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/skip-the-supermarket-and-save.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/skip-the-supermarket-and-save.aspx?pid=p:br3 Spending a lot doesn't have to be synonymous with a formal feast. Here are ways to save. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/a-feast-for-pennies-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/a-feast-for-pennies-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Tired of untangling that box of lights every Christmas? Consider hiring a professional decorator. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/pros-can-light-up-your-holidays-at-a-cost-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/pros-can-light-up-your-holidays-at-a-cost-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Don't feel have the money to do the holidays right? Here are some ways to have a great festive season for less. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/holiday-happiness-get-it-all-pay-less.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/holiday-happiness-get-it-all-pay-less.aspx?pid=p:br3 Shop smart and you can enjoy the holidays without putting yourself in the poor house. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/ways-to-save-during-holidays-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/ways-to-save-during-holidays-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 You can save on food costs by buying in bulk, but be sure you can use what you buy. Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/buy-food-in-bulk-and-save.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/buy-food-in-bulk-and-save.aspx?pid=p:br3 There are ways to have a beautiful, meaningful wedding ceremony without going into debt. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/ways-to-save-on-your-wedding.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/ways-to-save-on-your-wedding.aspx?pid=p:br3 Teach your kids financial lessons with these games. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/money-games-for-kids.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/money-games-for-kids.aspx?pid=p:br3 Thanks to the Great Recession, layaway is making a comeback -- with a 21st century twist. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/layaway-makes-a-comeback-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/layaway-makes-a-comeback-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 The way to save money is to do what Santa does: make a list, check it twice. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/saving-on-holiday-shopping.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/saving-on-holiday-shopping.aspx?pid=p:br3 If you're buying gifts online this holiday season, these seven tips will help you through it. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/your-online-shopping-check-list.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/your-online-shopping-check-list.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 Charitable remainder trusts let you skip the tax man, give to charity and receive an income, too. Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/the-nuts-and-bolts-of-charitable-trusts-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/the-nuts-and-bolts-of-charitable-trusts-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 The way you cook and clean up in the kitchen can cost you money and the environment. Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/video-saving-green-by-going-green-kitchen.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/video-saving-green-by-going-green-kitchen.aspx?pid=p:br3 Some people find that buying a haunted house is a treat, not a trick. Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/want-to-buy-a-haunted-house--1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/mortgages/want-to-buy-a-haunted-house--1.aspx?pid=p:br3 In the Great Crash that began 80 years ago, stocks fell 89 percent. Can you stomach that big a loss? Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/blogs/retirement/stocks-a-good-bet-if-you-keep-pluggin-away.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/blogs/retirement/stocks-a-good-bet-if-you-keep-pluggin-away.aspx?pid=p:br3 This month's Frugal $ense winner boosted savings by cutting the cable and building an HD antenna. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/homemade-hd-antenna-saves-hundreds.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/homemade-hd-antenna-saves-hundreds.aspx?pid=p:br3 'Green' auto loan programs promise lower rates for buyers of hybrids and fuel-efficient cars. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/green-auto-loans-offer-lower-rates-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/green-auto-loans-offer-lower-rates-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Here are cheap ways to harness the sun's energy. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/5-cheap-ways-to-go-solar.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/5-cheap-ways-to-go-solar.aspx?pid=p:br3 When the chilly winds blow, get your home, your car and your life ready. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/21-ways-to-winterize-your-life-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/21-ways-to-winterize-your-life-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Twitter isn't just for chatting. The social networking site can also be a tool to find deals and discounts. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/how-to-use-twitter-to-save-cash.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/how-to-use-twitter-to-save-cash.aspx?pid=p:br3 Several Web sites help you write your will yourself. Who should use them? Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/video-creating-a-will-online.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/video-creating-a-will-online.aspx?pid=p:br3 The service is available at a range of costs, but is it the right choice for you and your heirs? Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/do-it-yourself-wills-online-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/do-it-yourself-wills-online-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Ghouls and goblins are expected to buy more than $2 billion worth of treats this Halloween. Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/candy-is-dandy-for-halloween-confectionery-retailers.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/candy-is-dandy-for-halloween-confectionery-retailers.aspx?pid=p:br3 Do it yourself to save in repairs and improvements, unless you get in over your head. Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/diy-or-hire-a-pro.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/diy-or-hire-a-pro.aspx?pid=p:br3 Instead of trawling stores all the time, shop at the right time to get the best deals. Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/best-time-to-shop-fall-bargains.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/best-time-to-shop-fall-bargains.aspx?pid=p:br3 Halloween may seem scary, but your retirement picture could be truly terrifying. Boohoo! Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/blogs/retirement/happy-national-save-for-retirement-week.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/blogs/retirement/happy-national-save-for-retirement-week.aspx?pid=p:br3 You need a pro when designing an estate plan. But there are some aspects you can take on yourself. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-diy-or-pro-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/estate-planning-diy-or-pro-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 The economic crisis reminds humor columnist Jay MacDonald that a few grins go a long way. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/keeping-a-smile-as-the-world-melts-down.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/keeping-a-smile-as-the-world-melts-down.aspx?pid=p:br3 Remember to check out an adviser's background, experience and references. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/finding-a-financial-pro.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/finding-a-financial-pro.aspx?pid=p:br3 We do the math on three personal indulgences. See how much you can save by giving one up. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/are-your-vices-foiling-your-finances--1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/are-your-vices-foiling-your-finances--1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Heating your home is getting pricey, but a few changes can make a big difference. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/energy-savings-get-the-most-for-your-money-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/money-guides/energy-savings-get-the-most-for-your-money-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 An energy audit may save you money. Here's how to do it yourself or call in a specialist. Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/do-an-energy-audit.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/video/do-an-energy-audit.aspx?pid=p:br3 Not sure what you need to get started with an estate plan? Here are nine essentials. Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/9-key-estate-planning-tools-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/9-key-estate-planning-tools-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 There are several ways consumers can save before the holidays to prevent a January bill hangover. Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/best-ways-to-save-for-holiday-shopping.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/best-ways-to-save-for-holiday-shopping.aspx?pid=p:br3 A Christmas club can make you cash-flush for the holiday season and end postholiday card debts. Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/christmas-club-can-tame-holiday-bills-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/christmas-club-can-tame-holiday-bills-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 Don't wait for the boss to recognize your worth. Together, these tips could net you more than $5,000! Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/10-ways-to-save-500-or-more-1.aspx?pid=p:br3 http://www.bankrate.com/finance/personal-finance/10-ways-to-save-500-or-more-1.aspx?pid=p:br3