Ken & Daria's Your Money Matters

Ken and Daria's Your Money Matters Weekender

Foreclosures rose by 25% in October compared to the same month last year, as more than 84,000 properties were claimed. The housing crisis continues to rage on and we want to help you protect your home during these troubled times. If you or someone you know is facing foreclosure, start with these steps, including how to avoid becoming a victim of rescue scams.

1.	8 Ways the Crisis is Hurting Your Wallet
2.	9 Money Deals to Avoid
3.	Why the Election Will Raise Your Taxes
4.	Save Hundreds With These Sites
5.	10 Fabulous Freebies!

Are You Making These
Costly Mistakes?

Last week we shared with you some of the top mistakes we see people making with their money in the midst of the financial crisis. But with all the misinformation and bad advice out there, we decided one video just wasn’t enough! Too many scammers and sleazy investors are coming up with inventive new deals that may sound enticing but could end up costing you big bucks. Check out our continuation of major money mistakes to avoid. You and your wallet won’t want to miss a single one!

Recommended Videos and Audio Alerts:

Tapped for Cash? Don't Tap This Source! Well, they’ve taken the cake with this one. We have been bemoaning the fact that many Americans during these difficult financial times are using their 401(k) plans as piggy banks, withdrawing money to pay their bills. Not only is this a bad idea, but now the government has made it even easier to dip into these funds! You can now get a 401(k) debit card to make withdrawals directly from your retirement plan. Even in tight times, this is absolutely fraught with potential retirement-killing consequences. Here’s what you need to know now!

Renter’s Need Insurance, Too

Renter's Need Insurance, Too Even if you’re a renter, you need to protect yourself against loss of property and injury to anyone in your home. We recommend you buy a “tenant’s policy.” Get a policy that has coverage for fire, burglary and personal injury liability.

Learn much more in our Insurance section at Dolans.com.

9 Money “Deals” You Should Avoid

With the stock market see-saw in full swing these days, there’s no shortage of investment “opportunities” out there. And these days we are hammered by them from multiple angles: telephone, mail, Internet, etc. Everywhere you turn, there’s a tempting offer. Don’t get fooled—most of these offers put your money dangerously at risk and should be avoided. Here are nine common deals you should walk away from.

Is Your Nest Egg Cracked?

Then it’s time to fix it before your retirement funds become one scrambled mess! The market meltdown has claimed more than $2 trillion in retirement savings over the last 15 months, so it’s important to act now to stop the bleeding. Make your nest egg golden again with our smart and simple strategies.

6 Ways to Cover Those Tuition Bills

While the financial toll on 401(k) funds has been well-documented, there’s another numbered plan that’s also feeling the effects—529. These college saving plans have taken a big hit, leaving parents with hefty tuition bills. The good news is there ARE ways to make college more affordable. Check out our top six sources that will put your mind—and wallet—at ease.

Getting Back to Basics

In the midst of a financial crisis, people tend to panic and lose sight of basic smart money management. We want to help you through these tough times by keeping you on track. One of the best ways to make sure you are prepared for the long haul is with an emergency savings fund. Use our calculator to determine how much you should have set aside.