Businesses and consumers hold back on spending

To understand why jobs are so scarce, consider John McFarland and Nicole Rosen. The two share something in common: They're reluctant to spend freely. - 03/11/2010

DIY tax returns? More are trying

Do-it-yourself may be fine for painting a bedroom or changing your car's oil, but how do you know if it makes sense to file your own tax return? - 03/08/2010

Brian J. O'Connor

For musical motivation to exercise, do the math

Even though, after 22 years of marriage, I still find Mrs. Your Money hotter than Woodward Avenue asphalt in July, my wife has decided to hit the gym. - 03/08/2010

New program will pay homeowners to sell at loss

In an effort to end the foreclosure crisis, the Obama administration has been trying to keep defaulting owners in their homes. Now it will take a new approach: paying some to leave. - 03/08/2010

Despite laws, women earn less than men, global study says

Brussels -- Women with children earn almost a third less than men and still face too many career obstacles, a global trade union said in a report released today. - 03/08/2010

Tips on donating effectively during times of catastrophe

No sooner had the shock of Haiti's earthquake passed than Chile was struck. As the repercussions of both disasters continue, urgent need remains in those countries and around the world for charitable contributions. - 03/08/2010

4 ways to resist TV pitches

Whether it's to tighten your tummy, remove dead skin from your feet, give your hair a boost or find use for a towel that supposedly holds 12 times its weight in liquid, you may feel tempted by energetic pitchmen peddling such products via late-night infomercials. - 03/08/2010

Home office may be tax deductible

Many people who received buyouts and severance packages last year used the money to start home-based businesses. Now, they'll want to take tax deductions for their home offices. - 03/01/2010

Brian O'Connor

Financial action is a must-do

There are times when the only course of action to ensure your self-preservation is to do nothing, such as when you're faced with an enraged rhinoceros or find yourself elected to Congress. - 03/01/2010

Credit unions may offer best charge card rates

You're fed up with your bank's credit card fees and terms. Would switching to a credit union bring any relief? - 03/01/2010

Economy watch: 6 industries where the jobs are

In one good sign for the labor market, some companies are posting more ads seeking employees. - 03/01/2010

Despite credit reforms, costly loans and cards remain

A sweeping credit card law that takes effect Monday was supposed to prevent banks from employing tactics that yanked borrowers deeper into debt. Yet an array of loans and cards with crushing terms still beckons from every corner. - 02/22/2010

Mixed blessing: credit card reform may shock some

NEW YORK -- Your next credit card statement is going to contain an ugly truth: how much that card really costs to use. - 02/22/2010

What you need to know about credit card reform

NEW YORK -- The new credit card law is finally here. Starting Monday, banks will need to abide by new regulations on terms and disclosures. The idea behind the landmark law was to prevent banks from using practices that often dug borrowers deeper into debt. - 02/22/2010