Friday Finance Findings for June 10th

Just a heads up for your quarterly estimate tax filers, but the second quarter tax deadline is next week on the 15th. I know, it stinks. What can you do? You’ve gotta pay the man. Speaking of taxes, can you believe we’re already nearly half way through the year? That means you just have a little over six months to do what you can to minimize your tax bill. So, a few quick tips for a mid-year tax checkup.

First, start getting organized. I know, you won’t be getting any tax forms until next year, but I’m sure you have other items that you need to come up with at tax time like receipts and maybe some statements. Do yourself a favor and put together some folders and start organizing those things now. Trust me, you will thank yourself come spring. And second, start looking at ways you can reduce your tax bill now instead of waiting until December. If you’ve got clothes or other items to donate, go do it. If you contribute to an IRA or retirement plan at work, consider bumping up your regular contributions. Think about it: just an extra $40 per paycheck every two weeks is an additional $500 or so in your retirement account, which is a good thing in and of itself. But that’s also probably another $100 you’ll shave off your tax bill and you won’t even notice that money is missing.

So, no slouching on your finances this summer. Here are some links to keep you on-track.

HDHomeRun Prime: End Cable Box Rental Fees! – Just like with most technology that requires a recurring fee, cable boxes add up over time. Especially if you’re paying extra for a DVR. So here’s how you can possibly break free from the fees.

A Primer on Forex Trading – You may have heard of forex trading before, but what is it exactly? Well, it’s a way to trade currency, but there’s a lot more to it than that. Here’s a good introduction.

401k Investment Alternatives – Don’t have a 401k? Don’t worry. There are still ways you can invest for retirement and Ben has some of the best alternatives listed here.

How to Barter for What You Need – Everything has a price, but sometimes you can barter your way to savings without paying a dime. Here’s how.

How To Get Started With Dividend Reinvestment Plans – These plans are an easy way to invest with small amounts of money and keep it growing by reinvesting the dividends over time. Here’s how to get started.

Two Movie Tickets for $9 at Livingsocial – Here is a deal for you movie buffs. Two tickets for under ten bucks. You can’t beat that. Around here it’s hard to get into an evening movie for under ten bucks for just one ticket.

Additional reading:

• The Risk of Variable Annuities
• Vanguard is coming to Canada
• Getting Diapers at a Discount ‒ Possible?
• Save for Retirement or Save for College
• Is A Zero Based Budget Right For You?
• What Is a Probate Lawyer and When Would You Use One?
• Why I Love Shopping At Costco
• A Secured Credit Card that Doesn’t Rip you Off?