Money Smart Week

In my life I’ve had several apartments, car payments, phone bills, student loans, credit cards, and a handful of jobs with full benefits.  I’ll admit, even with all this financial experience there is still a hefty amount of stuff I don’t know.  Heck, I am currently getting my doctorate in physical therapy right now and am still no expert on the healthcare system, nor do I know how or when I should start saving for retirement.  There is always something more you can learn to make your life easier.  Luckily there is hope.  The 2014 Money Smart Week events will be occurring April 5^th - 12^th throughout DeKalb County.  Different topics will be discussed that range from budgeting and credit scores to eating healthy on a budget.  The only regret I had during my undergrad was that I didn’t take advantage of opportunities like this.  Trust me, the sooner you learn this stuff the better (it’s hard to teach an old dog new tricks).  Take a look at the events going on, I’m positive there is something you find helpful.  Hope to see you there!

Tax Time

The worst time of the year for me is from February to the beginning of April, and it’s not because of the weather.  Tax time is my kryptonite; it makes me want to crawl up in a little ball and hide.  When it comes to filling out, I have no clue what I’m doing.  I just imagine the whole time that the Government is going to lock me up if I make a mistake.  This year I’m in the clear! I finally found a way to beat the system! NIU is having a FREE tax preparation and filing event. It’s every Wednesday, in the Founders Memorial Library, from Noon to 5:00 p.m.  Don’t be a sloppy mess like me, and forget your social security card/earning statement (or else you’ll have to go back home and get it).  Did I mention it’s FREE?!  The tax specialists who were there answered any and, all of my questions.  It took me half the time it takes me to fill out my taxes by myself, and had no more fears of filling it out incorrectly. Take advantage of this opportunity and make these wintery months a joyful experience!