SAVING MONEY

A new report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York shows Americans now have less debt than in previous years and are taking steps toward adding to their savings. According to the report, Americans now have less mortgage, auto loan and credit card debt than in 2008 when consumer debt peaked. Even better is that they’ve saved a significant amount since the crisis.

Eliminating Debt and Saving More a Consumer Priority

Ever have that feeling that the sun, moon and stars are lining up in a way that is preventing you from good fortune? Do you ever feel that people born around the same time seem to have all the luck when it comes to personal finance?

If you like reading about horoscope signs then you know that astrologers believe that how the planets were lined up when you were born is connected to every aspect of life, including finances. Want to know how your sign fits into the equation? Let’s take a look at each zodiac sign to find out more.

They say money can’t buy love, but it seems that’s exactly what we try to do each year when Valentine’s Day comes around. We’re not talking about a few greeting cards or chocolates here and there, either. Valentine’s Day has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry. That’s right, billion.

If you have never stopped to consider how much money you’ve basically thrown away over the years on frivolous Valentine’s gifts, perhaps the data in the graphic below will bring you to your senses. If you’re looking for ways to save money in 2011, try skipping the box of chalky heart candies this year and find a better use of your funds.

For many once happily-married couples, going through a divorce is one of the most emotionally difficult processes ever. The idea of tearing a family apart and dissolving a great love can undoubtedly be a devastating experience.

But another part of the process that can be just as heart-wrenching is the price of divorce. In fact, for some, the costs associated with the divorce process are so high that couples actually reconsider going through with the decision. Let’s look at the real price tag for divorce and why some people choose to avoid the process rather than deal with the costs:

Americans have been experiencing increasing food prices, and it’s likely you’re searching for ways to make trips to the grocery store less expensive. Clipping coupons, buying wholesale and swapping in generic options can help you save money, but the first instinct for many Americans is to buy foods that are naturally less expensive.

Buying cheaper foods is certainly one way to cut the grocery bill, but what makes some foods so much more cost effective than others? Is has a lot to do with our government and what it chooses to subsidize. The following infographic demonstrates how much money the government allocates to the top agricultural subsidies in the U.S.

Valentine’s Day baffles many a partner hoping to give the perfect item. All too often they get it wrong and waste their money. So don’t just sit there and cringe or pretend that you like something; give a hint about what you do and do not appreciate so your significant other can save money on unwanted gifts this year. Here are the most common undervalued items received during the holiday of love:

Bunch a flowers. Almost across the board, people (OK, women) have expressed “eh” feelings about cut flowers. Sure they’re pretty, but once snipped their lifespan wilts. If you’re just not into posies, say so before that special someone drops $100 or more on a dozen red roses.

Saving money may become more difficult for many Americans as reports of increasing prices counter the good news of decreased unemployment. While there is no official report that inflation is on the rise, with manufacturers and retailers reporting their increases, the newly employed may not be able to hold on to as much money as desired.

Inflation a Possibility

Setting aside retirement and personal savings has been difficult for a lot of Americans, according to The Harris Poll. In fact, a survey released this week by the internet-based market-research panel found that around one-third of Americans have no retirement savings or no personal savings.

Number of Americans with No Savings is Growing

This post comes from Michael, chief editor of DoughRoller.net, which helps consumers find the best online banks available today.

You hear and read it everywhere: “If you want to save money, look at the little things. They add up! Consider how much you’re spending on that latte!”

Rock star, novelist, fashion designer. We all have a dream job, but the number of us who are actively pursuing it is probably pretty small. That’s because there are quite a few factors that prevent people from finding success in their ideal careers, such as lack of talent, a high level of competition or most importantly, low pay along the way to the top. So while obtaining your dream job may be the answer to finding true joy in life, consider whether you can really afford to be that happy.

Dream Job With Dream Pay Not Likely