For the six years that our daughters were in college, my husband dreaded filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid more than doing our income tax return. Like students in most families, though, our girls were going to need some combination of loans and scholarships to pay for college. … [Read more...] about College financial aid: A timeline for high-school students and families
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How airlines hide the true cost of a ticket
When Carolyn DiDonato booked her ticket from Trenton, N.J., to Fort Myers, Fla., she says she was hit with a hidden airline fee. On the last screen, concealed behind a drop-down menu, Frontier Airlines revealed that she would have to pay a nonrefundable $23 carrier interface charge for buying her … [Read more...] about How airlines hide the true cost of a ticket
Cheap, simple and elegant charcuterie board ideas
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Those elaborate charcuterie boards on social media might have you convinced that you need to spend hundreds of dollars on cheese and crackers to have a barely presentable spread. But as the author of three books on cheese and one on sausage, I’m here to tell you that that is false advertising. With … [Read more...] about Cheap, simple and elegant charcuterie board ideas
Is Sam’s Club membership worth it?
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For families and those who have space in their homes to buy in large quantity, a warehouse store membership often makes sense — dollars and cents. But for many frugal people, the idea of paying to shop at a store gives them pause. How can you decide if Sam's Club is worth the membership price?To … [Read more...] about Is Sam’s Club membership worth it?
Eating gluten-free on a budget
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As anyone with celiac or gluten intolerance will tell you, the label “gluten-free” will automatically increase the price of your groceries.But with a little bit of nutritional know-how and shopping savvy, you can stay gluten-free and keep your expenses within your grocery budget. Here are some … [Read more...] about Eating gluten-free on a budget
Best cellphone plans for seniors in 2023
One of the perks of retirement is how much life gets easier. Gone are the days of endless work calls, texts, and emails after business hours. Since your cell phone needs may have changed, you might be in the market for a new phone plan. We’ve researched the best cell phone plans for your specific … [Read more...] about Best cellphone plans for seniors in 2023
Best and worst deals when shopping at ALDI
Shopping regularly at ALDI can save you money, but if you’re not careful, you can end up spending as much or more than you would at a regular grocery store.Here are some tips to help you sort out the best — and worst — deals at ALDI. Editor's note: Prices were accurate as of the … [Read more...] about Best and worst deals when shopping at ALDI
A $50-a-week meal plan for 1 by shopping at ALDI
Sticker shock used to be synonymous with new cars. Now it's in the grocery store (and everywhere else). Along with gasoline prices, the cost of food has increased across the United States. And although the rate of inflation has slowed since this story was first published, cutting your … [Read more...] about A $50-a-week meal plan for 1 by shopping at ALDI
How to find the cheapest ridesharing option
Most of my ride-hailing experiences have been uneventful — except for one recent trip to the airport. On a rainy afternoon, I failed to connect with my driver, which precipitated a soggy 20-minute delay. That got me thinking: Maybe I could benefit from some advice on how to use ride-hailing services … [Read more...] about How to find the cheapest ridesharing option
5 places for (almost) free and cheap summer movies for families
During the summer, parents are always looking for ways to keep the kids entertained on a budget. And, on a hot day, there's nothing better than an air-conditioned theater with a family-friendly flick on the big screen.Going to the movies can be an expensive adventure, so bargain … [Read more...] about 5 places for (almost) free and cheap summer movies for families
GoodRx could help with prescription medication costs
Rising prescription prices, even if you have a solid health insurance plan, can break a monthly budget. GoodRx is a frugal way to lower your out-of-pocket prescription costs and help you stay on track.GoodRx is a database of branded drug savings programs, and offer discounts on non-branded drugs … [Read more...] about GoodRx could help with prescription medication costs
Military Appreciation discounts available all year
Although May (for Military Appreciation Month) and November (for Veterans Day) are full of advertising about military discounts and freebies, lots of deals are available 365 days a year. As a veteran, my best advice when it comes to navigating military discounts is always ask. … [Read more...] about Military Appreciation discounts available all year
30 ways to stay warm, save money this winter
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Looking for ways to stay warm and cozy at home? For many of us, winter is a time when we discover a few more cracks and crannies for the cold air to find its way inside. Not only does that make it harder to keep your house warm, it sends money out the door as the electric or gas bill climbs.So, … [Read more...] about 30 ways to stay warm, save money this winter
How to turn unwanted gift cards into cash
Gift cards are at the top of everyone's wish list, no matter the holiday or occasion. It's the perfect gift because for two reasons: It's quick and easy gift for the giver AND the recipient can pick out exactly what they want (or enjoy a favorite meal.) No need for any returns or … [Read more...] about How to turn unwanted gift cards into cash
Are ‘buy now, pay later’ alternatives to layaway a good idea?
If you're old enough to remember shopping before the Internet, you might remember the layaway desk at department stores. Shoppers who wanted to buy a big-ticket item, or do holiday shopping ahead of time, would put the goods "on layaway." The store would hold the items for them and the customer … [Read more...] about Are ‘buy now, pay later’ alternatives to layaway a good idea?
