A trip to Orlando doesn't have to break the bank
Visitors to Orlando can find plenty of activities that only require a good, sturdy pair of walking shoes and potentially a camera if you want to document your trip.

Make money, make a difference with the power of crowdsourcing
Google the words "meaningful work" and you'll find more than 1.6 million hits, ranging from tips for finding a job you can believe in, to how to find meaning in the job you already have. Perhaps it's another side effect of the recession, but it seems that for many Americans, making money isn't enough anymore; it's just as important to make a difference.

10 scary myths about the law
Did you know that you don't have to be legally drunk to be arrested for driving under the influence? That there are many ways to break a contract or that if you receive a ticket and there's an error on it, it's still valid? Not knowing the law in some of life's most common legal situations can lead to unexpected expenses, substantial penalties or could put yourself and others at risk.

Will you be fiscally fit in 2010?
How is your financial health? If you're not sure where to begin in assessing your fiscal well-being, here's a brief checklist you can review to generate some good ideas.

Need an easy getaway for the family? Plan a budget-friendly trip to a national park
American families have spoken: the vacation is a top priority. To keep the vacation affordable and easy, think about introducing your family to the splendor of the national park system - where activities are abundant and costs are minimal.

You can still get scholarships - here's how
A slow economy and dwindling resources for financial aid may have you worrying more than ever about funding your child's college education. But there are still scholarships available for those who pursue them and take the all-important step of applying long before the school year starts.

Small-business owners see silver lining in the recession
The current gloomy economic conditions contain some good news for the small-business sector. Some small-business owners and managers are finding a silver lining in the current recession, seeing more high-quality candidates available for hire, rising employee retention rates and gains in market share. As a small-business owner, you take advantage of these opportunities and make them work for your business.

Are you getting paid to shop?
Ordering office supplies, classroom materials and doing some everyday shopping online gives you good deals with coupons and discounts. But you can go one step further and get cash back on your purchases as well.

Ideas to make dollars do double duty
Just as many of us have taken on extra work to make ends meet in this economy, everything we buy now must serve a dual purpose as well. It makes sense to spend your hard-earned dollars on items that not only do the job intended for them, but that also save you money in a variety of ways.

Easy-to-do maintenance helps extend vehicle life
After their homes, most Americans' largest financial investment is their vehicle, so helping it stay in good working order for as long as possible is a high priority. Here are some simple, cost-effective tips for helping to protect the performance and longevity of your vehicle.

You can find money to pay for college
In a competitive job market, earning a degree can be the biggest single step one can take to enhance career value and earning potential. As many bask in the glow of making plans to increase their career potential, the prospect of paying for college is a sobering reality.

Shopping strategies help ring in the new year
Now that the holidays are over, it's time to take stock of your New Year's resolutions. With the challenging economy, resolving to improve your money management skills in the new year might be at the top of your list.

Investing: It's not just for men
Financial analysts tend to agree that it's the careful planning and solid research that helps women do what any investor desires: get the greatest return while building a solid portfolio.

Charities need to file returns too
This is the time of year when people start preparing their annual income tax returns. It's also time to remind people who run charities and other tax-exempts that those organizations must file annual returns with the Internal Revenue Service, as well.

A new you for the new year
With the calendar showing 2010, could it be time for a new you? Have you been wearing the same outfits, in the same order? Has your hair and make-up regimen remained unchanged for the last decade? Reinventing your style can give you a new attitude and outlook. And with a few simple updates, you shouldn't have to worry about breaking your budget.

Save money on energy by preparing your heating and cooling system for winter
Getting ready for winter often means changing to warmer clothes and taking stock of mittens and hats. But it's also a good idea to prepare your home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system for winter, too - especially if you want to keep energy bills down.

Preparing your car for the big chill
A few minutes in the garage before the bitter cold hits could help prevent a more time-consuming and unpleasant experience during the winter. Cold weather will only make existing problems worse, according to the experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It's a good idea to read the owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. Here are some additional tips.

Obama's stimulus bill includes huge student aid investments
The Obama administration has set forth an extensive bill designed to get the economy out of the recession and moving again. This $70 billion bill has a large portion directed toward students and investing in their education.

Tips for making your job search easier
Whether you are facing a slowed economy or one that is bursting at the seams, there are ways to make your job search less frustrating. The problem is that you don't know where to start or how to be successful in that search. To get on the fast track with your job search, follow these hints and tips.

Buying from bulk bins saves cents, makes sense
When you hear the term "bulk," do you envision 5 gallon containers and think, "I just don't need that much of anything?" Actually, one of the advantages of buying in bulk is that you can buy a pinch or a pound. A natural foods expert offers tips for your trip to the bulk aisle, where you'll find herbs and spices, gourmet nuts and granola, whole-leaf teas and even body-care items.

Set goals for better business development
For many small businesses who weathered the economic storm in 2009, 2010 represents a new beginning to return to growth and jump-start projects put on hold during the recession. Goal setting will be critical to help small businesses get back on their feet, map out their business plans and prioritize what they wish to achieve in the upcoming year.

Top 5 improvements for spring home sellers
To get your home sold at a good price in a buyer's market, you need to know what to invest in - and what not to invest in.

Price vs. value: Are premium automotive products worth the extra cost?
When does it make sense to upgrade to a premium automotive product? That's a question that stumps a lot of people when confronted with the wide ranges of prices for seemingly comparable products.

Make a resolution to cut automotive costs in the new year
An annual tradition, Americans have their minds on resolutions for the new year. While most hope to loosen their pants, others try to tighten their belt. Whether it is through eating out less, shopping less or traveling less, most try to cut costs in their life, timed to the change in the calendar.

Life insurance: security you can bank on
The current high rate of unemployment is causing consumers to re-evaluate the importance of individual life insurance coverage, with many viewing it as an essential component of long-term financial security for their families and loved ones.

Five ways to use green technology in your home
"Green" living is no longer a trend; American homeowners' commitment to sustainability is here to stay, from all indications.

Planning, taxes and insurance tips to get your new business off to a successful start
With the unemployment rate at an all-time high, many people are starting their own businesses as a way to leverage their work experience. There are a lot of resources for those starting a business, but sometimes the sheer number of resources and the amount of input can be overwhelming. Here are some basic tips around the three major aspects of starting a business: planning, insurance and taxes.

Give your wardrobe an eco-chic update
For many, the new year is synonymous with a new wardrobe, with closets stocked with the fruits of holiday sales. But with the economy struggling, many people are forgoing the new duds this year. Still, there are ways to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank. A thrifty, environmentally conscious and fun new trend may provide the perfect answer.

Families can protect themselves from rising medical costs
All the attention on health care reform and soaring costs leaves many wondering how they will face health challenges in the future. While the debate rages on in Washington, there are steps individuals and families can take right now to help protect themselves against spending a fortune on medical costs. With seven of 2008's top 10 most expensive conditions (the majority of which are chronic) known to occur because of obesity, it's no secret that being at an unhealthy weight increases the costs of health care.

Your credit matters: understanding your APR
You might find the acronym confusing, but the APR (annual percentage rate) on your credit card is a number you should be familiar with. It's important because it describes the cost of your credit balance on a yearly basis. A healthy understanding of what determines this rate can help improve your financial decisions.

Retirees turn to a surprising source of cash in a crunch
A rising number of American households - nearly 45 percent - are "at risk" of not having enough money in retirement, according the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. But some retirees have discovered a surprising source of supplemental retirement income: the cash value of their whole life insurance policies.

Home exterior colors reflect style, personality and environment
Building or renovating a home is a decision-filled process. Some decisions, such as location, size and layout, tend to be more family needs-based than desire-based. But other decisions are based primarily on preference and offer the opportunity to express a homeowner's design style.

Start your federal tax return earlier to cash in on 2009 changes
If you will owe federal taxes for 2009, you may still qualify for other tax breaks. Several ARRA provisions, like the Making Work Pay and First-time Homebuyers Credits, have received a lot of press, but taxpayers don't necessarily realize how much more is included in the stimulus package. Even if you don't normally file a return, there are refundable credits, like the earned income and additional child tax credits, which could make filing worthwhile this year.

Seek the best returns for your hard-earned savings
Savers will have to be a little more creative to earn a respectable return. In light of this, it is helpful to explore some strategies to help make your cash work harder.

SEO expert gives tips on how to improve the visibility of your business on the Web
The business world has always been competitive, but in today's strained economy, business owners have to be tougher and savvier than ever. Danny DeMichele, founder of the Internet marketing agency eVisibility, notes that when you add in the factor of rapidly changing technology, if you're not paying attention, your business can be left in the dust.

Setting and sticking to your travel budget
(ARA) - Travel can be one of the biggest-ticket items you invest in each year, so it's worth it to plan ahead.

Smart tips for baby boomer retirement planning
If you are one of America's 78.2 million baby boomers, you are likely considering what ideal retirement will look like, and the steps required achieving it. With the current economic downturn, many boomers are finding it necessary to revisit their initial retirement goals.

Buying a home or making green home improvements? Don't miss out on these tax credits
A wide range of tax law changes over the last year will result in considerable savings for millions of Americans on their 2009 federal tax returns. Homebuyers and homeowners have some of the most to gain from the changes.

Planning for healthy aging
In just two short years, the first wave of baby boomers will turn 65. For some, this milestone birthday may signal retirement; for others it may not. For all boomers, it should mean an increased focus on health care. Baby boomers can take steps now to help ensure many more healthy years.

Five ways to save time and money on your taxes
The typical taxpayer is expected to spend more than three business days and more than $200 completing his or her tax return. As people get ready to file their 2009 tax returns, here are a few things they can do to save time and money.

Resolve to get your debt under control
The bills are coming in, complete with due dates, minimum amounts due and debt dollars adding up. Sure, you had a great time over the holidays, but now it's time to figure out how you can prepare yourself to start the new year off right with your finances.

Ten vital financial tips to take you through 2010
The few short months between New Year's Day and tax day offer an outstanding opportunity - and, for many of us, strong incentive - to take steps to improve our financial standing. The distraction of the holidays is over, and the arrival of tax forms brings into sharp focus the need to take charge of our finances.

What to do if you're in an auto accident
As winter approaches, snow, ice storms and fewer daylight hours mean more drivers are at the risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Would you know what to do if you were driving and hit another vehicle, a pedestrian or a biker?

Cost-saving office equipment is key to business success in the new economy
Many experts are saying that after spending many months in the doldrums, the economy is showing signs of coming around again. As consumer confidence continues to grow incrementally, businesses are looking forward to a boost.

Make your family's education as debt-free as possible
Whether you intend to send your child off to college or plan to pursue an academic or vocational path for yourself, reducing student debt load makes good financial sense, especially since the sticker shock of almost all kinds of post-secondary education can be daunting.

A vacation home away from home
Getting away during the spring months is popular for many families, especially families with children in school looking for a break from the spring semester. Visiting relatives, traveling from one sightseeing opportunity to another and cramming the whole crew into a hotel room with tight sleeping quarters and one bathroom is all par for the course, right? Well, it doesn't have to be if you rent a vacation home instead.

Understanding your credit opens the door to home-buying success
With many signs pointing to the beginnings of a recovery in the housing market, potential home buyers can still find plenty of selection, low prices and low interest rates. If you're thinking of buying a home, now might be the right time, but before you contact a real estate agent or apply for a mortgage, your top priority should be checking your credit report to see if your credit is in good shape.

Simple precautions help avoid identity theft during tax season
Identity theft affected 10 million Americans last year, an increase of 22 percent from the previous year, according to Javelin Strategy and Research. Those numbers make identity theft one of the nation's fastest growing crimes.

Ways to give without dipping into your wallet
More and more people are resolving to be more giving, and to share what they have with the less fortunate. The current economic climate, however, presents something of a challenge to people who want to give, but lack the budget to do so. Here are some creative ways to give that won't cost you cash.

Discovering financial aid opportunities in the current economy
If you are still searching for that silver lining in the present economic doldrums, going back to school this year might be the remedy for you. Whether you are a first-time freshman or a returning student looking for a new degree to move your career forward, for many the timing could not be better.

What to look for in your auto insurance policy
More than 186 million cars are on the road in the United States, according to The Insurance Information Institute. Most states require drivers to purchase auto liability insurance before they can legally drive a car. Often drivers don't understand what they need in an auto insurance policy or where to purchase it. There are many options and it is important to understand your individual needs.

A new look to credit card statements
Customers can expect a new look to their credit card statements - the enhancements are designed to help consumers better understand their accounts and will be introduced in February when the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure of 2009, also known as the CARD Act, goes into effect.

Achieve your New Year's resolution and get out of debt
Year in and year out, getting out of debt consistently ranks among New Year's top 10 resolutions. If your household is like many American households struggling with the recession, or worse, unemployment, getting out of debt will be close to the top of your list again for 2010. Get your new year off to a great start by reducing and eliminating your debt.

Tips to manage credit card debt
Debt can be a huge burden for families, weighing down heavily and limiting the ability to potentially make positive changes. But one opportunity, loan consolidation, if handled properly, can help a family afford to get out from under debt.

The best time to rediscover a destination - 'shoulder season'
The first few months of the year when many Americans are spending time at home trying to recuperate from the hustle and bustle of the holidays may not seem like an ideal time for a vacation. However, this time known as "shoulder season" is a fantastic time for savvy travelers to find great deals on airfare, hotels and attractions while simultaneously experiencing top destinations in a whole new way.

Tips for saving money with a new generation of rebates
Every consumer has seen the weekly flyers that advertise phones, appliances and even tools as great deals after the manufacturer's rebate. Rebates are surging in popularity. A recent survey found that 83 percent of consumers are seeking rebates today and most consumers are willing to work harder for a rebate that is larger or more meaningful than an instant discount.

Inspect home fencing to ensure safety and security
Weather extremes are brutal on exterior landscaping. Rain, snow, wind and temperature variances all take a toll, especially on residential fencing. Now's the time to inspect fencing, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure all are in good working condition.

Great gifts and deals for Valentine's Day - save on flowers, chocolate and more
Finding the perfect Valentine's Day gift doesn't have to be hard, and if you know where to look, you can take advantage of some fabulous deals.

Houston offers big fun and big savings
As the fifth-largest city in the United States, Houston is a bustling place and a major destination for business travelers. But if you want to take your family for a visit, Houston has a lot to offer. Families and travelers on a budget will find that a number of the city's most interesting attractions offer a lot of interest for a little fee - or no fee at all.

Children with special needs face uncertain financial future
Many parents may be putting their children with disabilities at risk without even knowing it. Because families are so overwhelmed with the daily demands of childcare, they fail to plan for the financial future of their children. But many companies have developed programs and expertise to address this issue.

Fuel facts vs. fuel myths: Help keep your car running at its best
In today's economic times, it's more important than ever to protect the investment in your vehicle - whether it's a vintage collector, luxury car or an everyday car. Yet, there are many misconceptions about car maintenance that make it difficult to know how to best keep your car in good running condition. Properly maintaining the engine and using high-quality fuel in the right grade will go a long way to help protect the life of your vehicle.

Tips for getting financially fit before tax day hits
With winter winding down, spring is on its way, and so is tax time. It's never too early to start setting aside money if you think you'll owe, and if you are getting a refund, organizing your finances will better prepare you for how to use that extra cash.

Banking on the go puts you in control of your money
Ever wish you could get more done in a day? Now it's possible - and easy - to pay bills, transfer money, check balances in your bank accounts, even send money to a strapped family member, all with the device most people never leave home without: the mobile phone.

Bring calm to financial chaos this year
The average person spends nearly five hours a month managing his finances, according to a recent study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In a society where Americans yearn for simplicity, even the most financially savvy consumers are looking for uncomplicated and timely ways to manage their holistic financial profiles.

10 smart money strategies for '10
The recession has altered the way individuals and families think about money and financial security. As Americans begin the slow process of economic recovery, former lifestyle expectations, spending habits and financial plans need a closer look.

An affordable source of financial stability and peace of mind in challenging times
The prospect of shrinking retirement savings and rising unemployment rates has made financial peace of mind hard to come by these days. Americans are looking for ways to cut back on expenses and shore up their savings, and many are considering life insurance as a way to bridge the gap created by other financial losses.

Health care reform advice from America's doctors
As one year ends and another begins, all eyes remain on Congress and the two health bills that will shape the U.S. health system in 2010 and beyond. The American Medical Association has been a regular presence in the health reform debate and has outlined a set of guiding principles for health system reform that will benefit patients and physicians.

Four easy ways to lower bills and save money in 2010
Clipping coupons and counting coins has never been so chic. Following one of the toughest economic years in decades, more Americans are looking for ways to save. Whether you need to pay off debt or cut costs so you can afford an upcoming family vacation, there are a variety of simple ways to save money. Fortunately, many of the easiest money-saving tips can be found under your own roof.

Make your Web site work with marketing video
You have a fantastic product and a great Web site to promote it, but something is missing. Internet video marketing is quickly becoming a strong tool companies are using to attract leads or new customers through their Web sites.

More euro for your dollar: convenience and value in European cruises
There is so much to see in Europe that it can be difficult to narrow down your itinerary, and to give each destination its due attention. And inevitably, if you visit Europe, you start collecting purchased items, adding to the luggage you have to schlep, pack, un-pack and re-pack with every arrival and departure. It's a fun challenge, but a challenge nonetheless.

How to get the most out of your health benefits this year
It's the New Year and like millions of other Americans, you may be thinking about your New Year's resolutions. One resolution that many people may not consider is making the most of their new health benefits plan. By fully maximizing your benefits and learning the ins and outs of your plan, you could save yourself hundreds of dollars this year.

Take control of your household budget in the new year
Sticking to a budget is one of the top resolutions Americans make after the holidays, but many people aren't sure how to start effectively managing their household finances. Wise credit card use is a key step toward achieving such a goal. Understanding a few important facts now will help you to avoid surprises and get back on track when holiday bills arrive in the New Year.

Knowing 'net price' is now essential in college planning
Planning for college is fraught with uncertainty about everything from which college and major to choose to how to much it will really cost. With nearly 70 percent of high school students enrolling in higher education programs after graduation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, millions of students and their families are overwhelmed and looking for guidance about what their options are.

Growing and maintaining a healthy business credit score in 2010
For owners of new and young small businesses, there are a plethora of elements that need to be managed and overseen every day to ensure success. While focusing on income, expenditures, employees and marketing, thinking about your business' credit can sometimes fall by the wayside.

Finding a gift that fits
When shopping for gifts this holiday season, remember the phrases "less is more," and "quality over quantity." With clothing and apparel the most popular holiday gifts from year to year, it's important in this economy to be a smart shopper.

Need help paying for that hearing aid? Here's how to get it
"No one should go without a needed hearing aid because of an inability to pay," says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, executive director of the Better Hearing Institute (BHI). Here's advice on how you can get assistance paying for a hearing aid.

Simple tips to protect and organize your precious data
The old joke goes "death and taxes are the only things you can count on 100 percent." Add a new item to that list - disk and tape drive failure. The good news is there are ways to organize and protect data.

Wood is looking good this winter
With winter rapidly on its way, the government is asking you to think about cost-effective and environmentally responsible ways to heat your home. In fact, it is encouraging eco- and cost-conscious families to consider efficient wood stoves or inserts by offering a 30 percent tax credit, up to $1,500, for the purchase of a 75 percentefficient biomass-burning stove in 2009 and 2010.

A retirement home that helps pay for itself
With today's record low real estate prices and attractive mortgage rates, now may be a good time to think about investing in a second home that ultimately can be used as your permanent residence upon retirement. By taking a "buy-and-rent" approach before you're ready to retire, your new home will actually have partly paid for itself by the time you're ready to move into it.

What you need to know before doing your taxes online
It now takes more than 71,000 pages to cover and explain federal tax laws. So it's not surprising the vast majority of taxpayers look for help preparing and filing their tax returns. Use of online tax preparation and e-filing continues to grow at record rates. In fact, more than 32 million taxpayers e-filed their tax returns from home last year, according to the Internal Revenue Service.