Jason Alderman’s Practical Money Matters

October 3, 2008
Start college loan search early
As college costs have escalated in recent years, students increasingly depend on their parents to help foot the bill: According to a recent consumer survey conducted by Visa Inc., nearly a quarter of those who attended college in the past five years cited their parents as the primary source of funding for tuition and room and board, trailed by government grants and government-backed loans (15 percent and 14 percent, respectively).

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September 26, 2008
Go green and save green
It's pretty hard to ignore the environmental crisis our world faces today. You've probably already begun altering your behavior in response, whether by recycling, planting trees or simply driving less.

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September 19, 2008
Don't forget taxes when planning retirement
When budgeting how much money they'll need for living expenses after retirement, most folks generally include things like housing, medical expenses, transportation – even food and entertainment. But sometimes people forget to factor in taxes, which can have a substantial impact depending on where you live and what your sources for retirement income are.

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Bring Practical Money Skills
Home with You

Trial and error is the hardest and most expensive way to learn money-management skills. Yet that's the only option available to many consumers, who graduated without even basic skills like balancing a checkbook.

Each of us has goals for our money and dreams for our life. Practical Money Skills for Life is all about helping consumers learn what they need to make those dreams and goals a reality.

Check in with Jean Chatzky's Practical Money Series every week to learn valuable advice and useful tips for financial freedom. You'll find videos, online tools and information on everything from budgeting and buying a home to marriage and retirement planning.

Get Jason Alderman’s Practical Money Matters on important topics–like foiling financial scam artists, catching up on retirement savings, and teaching your kids good money management skills.

Go in-depth in our consumer learning centers. Read step-by-step guides, use our calculators, take quizzes, play games, and download other resources on key money issues like budgeting, debt, and smart shopping.

There's always something new, so check back often.