Well, it’s 2012 finally. The planets are aligning in a way that will disrupt the electromagnetic orientation of the Earth and destroy life as we know it. At least that’s what the Mayans predicted when they ended their vaunted calendar later this year. But one thing the Mayans didn’t have insight into is your financial status this fall. There is no calendar for that because it’s a constantly fluctuating variable. The Mayans also didn’t have insurance quotes, title loans, low interest credit cards, or any other relevant financial advice. So, to pick up the slack, here are some personal finance tips to help you start the new year off right:
Get started with your taxes now, while you’re sane. They’re coming, as assuredly as death. The Taxman lurks around the corner this time of year, waiting for his spring offensive. If you know you’ve got your work cut out for you fending off the IRS, you should get started now. Not only will you spare yourself the cost of hiring a professional tax filing service, you’re more likely to get money back off remembered deductions.
is an easy to follow personal finance book that is written specifically for Americans. The author provides some real insight on what is happening today and he suggests that Americans are definitely changing their behaviors toward money. Rather than spending recklessly and borrowing more than they can afford to pay back, he believes Americans are getting back on the right track and becoming more financially responsible. He calls this change “the New Frugality”.