Author: Stacy Johnson CPA
I'm the founder of Money Talks News and have spent the last 40+ years in the personal finance trenches. I'm a CPA, author of a few books and multiple Emmy recipient. I'm married to a woman I don't deserve, have an awesome dog and live on the water in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Ask Stacy: Should I Buy a Mortgage Acceleration Program?
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 7, 2011
Is there a way to pay off your mortgage in seven to 10 years by using sophisticated techniques involving software and credit lines? No, but the people behind these programs are hoping you’ll bite.
Banks Pushing Cash-Back Credit Cards
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 6, 2011
Cash-back credit cards are more popular than ever – here’s a look at some of the most popular cards, along with pitfalls to watch for.
Why Do Women Find Salad So Funny?
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 5, 2011
My girlfriend tells me that she doesn’t often laugh out loud while eating salad alone. But maybe there’s something wrong with her, because it appears by looking at stock photos that nearly every other woman does.
2011 Forecast: Stocks, Housing, Oil Prices
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 5, 2011
Every year I interview the Chief Economist of a major Wall Street firm and ask for his best guess on the direction of stocks, oil and housing prices. I also ask the same questions of people like you.
How to Fix the Deficit? Most Americans Say Tax the Rich
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 5, 2011
According to one recent survey, when given four choices, more than 60 percent of respondents said they’d fix our ballooning budget deficit by choosing to tax the wealthiest Americans. Which method would you choose?
American Airlines Disappears from Expedia
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 4, 2011
Now Expedia and Obitz aren’t showing American Airlines flights on their sites. Why aren’t they telling you that when you go there to book tickets?
How I Beat the Pants off the Pros Last Year
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 4, 2011
Last year my real-money online portfolio of stocks not only tripled the returns offered by stock market averages, it beat every large-stock mutual fund on Wall Street as well. But the reason I did so well wasn’t because I’m any smarter than you. It’s because I’ve learned from my past mistakes – You can too.
Are You Smarter Than Wall Street Experts?
Stacy Johnson CPA on January 3, 2011
Every year about this time you start seeing supposed “experts” all over the news predicting where stocks, oil, and housing prices are headed. But do the high-priced pros really know any more than you do? We’ve got the answer on tape, and it might surprise you.
Money Talks Top 10 Stories for 2010
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 30, 2010
As we cross the finish line for 2010, here’s a look back at some of our most popular stories this year – most of which are just as useful now as when they were first published. Check them out and see if there’s any news that you can use for 2011!
30 Things Babies Born in 2011 Will Never Know
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 29, 2010
If you think the world hasn’t changed in the last 10 years, then you’ve been living in a cave. Technology has changed the way we work, relax and communicate. Here are some things that are part of your life that won’t be recognized by the next generation.
Itemize? Then You Can’t File Taxes Until February
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 23, 2010
If you’re the type who starts their Christmas shopping on December 24, here’s some good news – thanks to Congressional delays in getting the recent tax bill passed, if you itemize, the IRS won’t be ready for you till Mid-February.
Money Talks Reader Follows Car Advice, Saves $$
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 23, 2010
A viewer recently read an article we posted re buying a new car. He used the advice and it helped him drive a hard bargain.
Supreme Court Decision Could Impact Credit Card Rate Hikes
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 22, 2010
Does your credit card company have the right to raise your interest rate without notice if they previously disclosed that they could in the original account agreement?
Get Computer Questions From Your Parents? You’re Going to Love This
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 22, 2010
If you’re heading home for the holidays, you might be asked to help mom, dad or grandma with their computer. Frustrating? Not any more, thanks to these great videos from Google.
FTC: Be Careful When Buying Platinum Jewelry
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 22, 2010
If one of your last minute holiday gifts involves platinum jewelry, be aware that no platinum is 100% pure, and a lot of it may have less platinum in it than you think.
American Airlines Leaves Orbitz Standing at the Gate
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 21, 2010
After a battle lasting weeks, American Airlines just announced that effective immediately, you can no longer book its tickets through popular travel site Orbitz.
Net Neutrality Passes – Here’s What It Means
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 21, 2010
The FCC just passed rules that are supposed to insure that all Internet traffic receives the same priority. Some say it represents a victory for consumers over big Internet Service Providers. Others say the new rules don’t go nearly far enough.
Is Your Charity Still Charitable? Here’s How to Find Out
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 21, 2010
Credit counseling agencies and charitable organizations gain consumer credibility by being registered as a non-profit. But the IRS can revoke that status. Here’s a list of recent examples.
Another Argument for Boxed Wine
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 20, 2010
If you’re a wine connoisseur, you may enjoy a more expensive bottle of wine. But if you’re the average guy on the street, there’s new research suggesting the more you pay, the less you like it.
Simple Ways to Save Money on Holiday Wrapping Paper
Stacy Johnson CPA on December 18, 2010
It’s tough enough to stick to your budget when buying holiday gifts – and you still have to wrap them. Here’s some advice on wrapping for less.
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