Ready or not, the holidays are coming. With American pocketbooks and investment accounts under pressure, the approaching holidays — particularly how to pay for them — are quickly becoming yet another thing to worry about. Don’t push this looming dilemma to the back of your minds. You...
6 big financial traps to avoidFor most people, each and every day involves some type of financial decision. So how do you feel about your financial decision-making skills? If you think you are making sound choices, ask yourself this: Have you weighed the consequences of your choices against their apparent benefits? In many cases,...
8 ways to cut back without sacrificingWhen times are tight—as they are now for many Americans facing declining home values, depressed stocks, and tighter credit markets—cutting back on indulgences can seem inevitable. But it might not be. U.S. News asked budgeting experts for advice on how to make ends meet during tough times without...
Best time to buy gadgets, furniture, and moreTiming is everything. To get the best deals, you’ve got to know when to shop. There are some purchases that are difficult to time perfectly, such as stocks, airplane tickets and gas. But many other consumer staples — from cars to electronics to furniture — go on sale predictably at...
Best end-of-season salesShopping end-of-summer sales typically involves stocking up on warm-weather gear like swimsuits, shorts and anything made of cotton or linen. The same rules apply this summer, with two welcome exceptions: Discounts are deeper than usual, and more versatile product is up for grabs. Most major retailers,...