HowStuffWorks Newsletter
This channel is where we explore the holistic health of your financial house. Helpful, accurate articles include topics on credit, debt management, financial planning, real estate and taxes.
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Here's one sign that you should start seriously considering filing for bankruptcy: You can't pay your bills. What are the others?
Have you ever wondered how courts find out about your expenses and income during bankruptcy proceedings? That's asset discovery in action.
It's difficult, but not impossible. Ready to learn how you might secure a loan after a bankruptcy?
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It isn't easy, but contrary to popular belief, there are ways to have student loans forgiven through bankruptcy.
After one spouse declares bankruptcy, the other one could be left paying off the debts. Wait, really?
Bankruptcy and debt collection have evolved quite a bit since the days of the Roman Empire. If you have mountains of debt, let's just say that you're glad you're alive now instead of then.
Current hiring trends and practices can create catch-22 scenarios for those looking for work post-bankruptcy. Could your career be affected?
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In a hurry? Not so fast, that short checkout line may not actually be the better option.
By Bambi Turner
You don't need to be a teenage millionaire to have a trust fund. Get a sense of how trusts work and whether this financial tool makes sense for your family.
Here's to you, conscientious citizen. Not only are your energy-efficient home improvements good for the ol' bank account, they're good for the environment, too. You deserve a reward -- or two or three. How do some tax breaks sound?
Although you can't write off home improvements on your taxes, there are several ways you can get tax breaks for home renovations if you follow the guidelines.
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If there's anything certain in this world, it's that kids ask tons of questions. Sure, you may know what to say when they ask why dogs bark or why the sky is blue, but when your kids want to know about paying taxes, what should you tell them?
Saving money is not the only reason to consider doing your taxes yourself. Sometimes, you are your own best accountant. Here's why.
By Alia Hoyt
The Health Care Tax Credit expired on Jan. 1, 2014, to make way for the Affordable Care Act. How many people did it help during its 2002-2013 lifetime? There were an awful lot of requirements to meet.
You get two things when you donate to a charity: a feel-good moment and a tax deduction. And donations don't have to take the form of a cash or check. Property and goods and services count, too — sometimes.
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If you're not the organized type, your tax returns may be languishing in a forgotten file folder in a closet. But never fear — if you need one for a mortgage or loan application and can't find it, the IRS can help you out. Pretty easily, too.
Congratulations! After months of planning, you are officially married. Now it's time to kick back, relax and ... pay the bills? Marriage may be fueled by love, but living together costs money.
Having a kid isn't a sprint. It's a marathon, one likely to have financial implications for the rest of you and your child's lives. Planning and educating early can provide an enduring source of support down the road.
Nobody wants their business to operate at a loss. But come tax time, you might at least be able to get some help if your business is in the red.
By Susan Sherwood
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Applying for a federal tax ID number couldn't be simpler. All you need is a computer, a telephone or access to a post office.
By Susan Sherwood
This might be the scariest phrase in the English language: tax audit. But not every missive you receive from the IRS is going to be bad news.
By Susan Sherwood
Losing your job is extremely tough financially, even with unemployment benefits. Don't get surprised come tax time.
By Susan Sherwood
Sometimes called the Fair Tax, a consumption-based tax is often touted as the answer to the country's tax problems. But could it work?
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With so many people living in one state and working in another these days, taxes can be more complicated than ever before. Here are 10 tax tips to remember when filing.
By Dave Roos & Laurie L. Dove
Adopting a child can be extremely expensive. But as newly adoptive parents you're now eligible for certain federal tax credits. Read on to find out how to file.
By Susan Sherwood