Don’t be too quick to whip out the plastic this holiday season! Studies show the average household charges nearly $1,600 worth of holiday gifts on their credit cards. So, here’s how to save $1,000 by the end of the year. So you won’t have to go into debt to buy gifts. Adjust your tax withholdings. The average refund last year was nearly $2,900. If you got a refund, you’re giving Uncle Sam too much money throughout the year. So, file a new W-4 with your H.R. department. Money saved: $500. Read more »

There’s about $33 billion worth of unclaimed money and some of it could be yours. I’ll tell you how to find out if you’re owed money and how to get it. First, let me tell you where the money is and how it got there. According to CBS News, state treasury offices and other agencies are required to hang on to unclaimed money, or what’s officially called “unclaimed property.” For example: Maybe you forgot about an account you had with a bank or credit union. Read more »

Mistake #1: Cashing out your retirement plan. If you leave a job and take the money out of your 401(k) plan, you’ll pay at least 30% in taxes and penalties. Plus, you’ll bankrupt your future. Your best bet is to find another option like an IRA or a new 401(k) to roll the funds into. That way, you’ll avoid big losses and keep your nest egg safe. Mistake #2: Living off credit. Read more »