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.
Shopping Health Insurance, Post Reform
Stacy Johnson CPA on March 24, 2010
Health care reform has made learning to shop insurance more important than ever. Whether you get it from work or on your own, you need to understand how it works and what controls the price. Here’s the short course.
Health Care Reform: 8 Positive Changes
Stacy Johnson CPA on March 22, 2010
While health care reform is not yet a done deal, odds are good it’s going to become law. So whether you were for it or against it, it’s time to understand it. Today we’ll look at eight positives arising from the bill that could make your health insurance healthier.
How Health Care Reform Will Affect You
Stacy Johnson CPA on March 22, 2010
Now that health care reform is nearly here, it’s time to find out how it’s going to affect you, your budget and your ability to get coverage. The hysteria surrounding the bill is over. Now’s it’s time to understand the new world we’re facing.
Buying or Selling a Timeshare? Read This First
Stacy Johnson CPA on March 10, 2010
If you’ve ever thought about buying a timeshare, read this article first. Because getting out of these things is a whole lot harder than getting into them.
What to Know Before You Invest in Stocks
Stacy Johnson CPA on March 10, 2010
If you’re tired of earning 1% or less on your savings, maybe you’re considering stocks. But there’s an obvious problem: risk. Here’s some advice that might help you sleep a little better at night and make a little more by day.
26 Tips to Save on Entertainment
Stacy Johnson CPA on March 8, 2010
Saving on entertainment doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fun. Find out how you can get the most from your down-time with these tips to save.
16 Tips to Save on Home Remodeling
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 25, 2010
The best way to save on housing is not to buy or rent more house than you need. The best way to fix up the home you have is to use some simple tips that can save from 20% to 50% on remodeling costs.
18 Tips to Dress for Less
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 23, 2010
For many, clothes are more than an expense, they’re an expression, which can make overspending easy. But whether you view clothing as art or afterthought, use these tips to save a bundle.
Federal Unemployment, Cobra Subsidy in Danger of Expiring
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 23, 2010
More than a million people are in danger of losing extended federal unemployment assistance within the week. Whether you’re one of them or not, here’s some advice on what to do when your unemployment runs out.
Debt Settlement Company Bites Back
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 23, 2010
Debt settlement is a controversial technique to pay less than what you owe. Read this recent email exchange between me and the owner of a debt settlement company and you’ll see what I mean.
New Credit Card Statements: Coming Soon
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 22, 2010
Thanks to the CARD Act, you’re going to have new rights, credit card companies will have fewer, and it’s all going to be spelled out in language that’s a lot easier to understand.
28 Tasty Tips to Save on Food
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 19, 2010
In 2008 the average American family spent $6,100 on food. But if that average family had used these tips, they might’ve saved 10% or $600.
Tax Time is No Time for Mistakes
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 19, 2010
Everybody makes mistakes. But one place you should really try to avoid them is when you do your income taxes. You may think that using software will eliminate any chance for error; if only life were that simple! Before you seal that envelope or hit “send” to file electronically, read/watch this story.
Tragedy in Austin, Lessons Learned?
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 18, 2010
According to his suicide note, Joseph Andrew Stack crashed a small plane into an Austin IRS office today because he was frustrated by a lack of work and an unfair tax system.
I Paid the Collection Agency, But the Negative is Still On My Credit History!
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 18, 2010
Don’t ever be persuaded to pay past due accounts without getting an agreement from the creditor or collection agency to remove any negatives from your credit history!
Understanding, Organizing and Saving on Car Insurance
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 17, 2010
Most people know more about shopping for groceries than shopping insurance. And that’s a shame, since you probably spend more insuring your family than feeding it. Here’s what you need to know to understand, organize and save on car insurance.
Viewer Question: If I Settle a Debt, Do I Have to Pay Taxes?
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 15, 2010
Most people don’t realize it, but when you’re unable to pay your bills, you’ve got more to worry about than damage to your credit score. Because your creditor’s not the only one involved when you avoid repaying part or all of a debt through debt settlement, foreclosure or any other sort of forgiveness. You’ve also got Uncle Sam to worry about.
Tax Pros: Are They a Waste of Money?
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 14, 2010
According to a recent survey, the vast majority of Americans pay a tax professional to do their taxes for them. Since this is a job that you can do yourself in minutes with cheap software, I believe a lot of people are wasting a lot of money. But if you’re going to pay a pro, at least try to find the right one and harness their expertise so they’re worth the extra money.
Difference Between a Loan Shark and a Tax Refund Loan? Not Much.
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 12, 2010
Just because the name is national, the people are friendly and the decor is nice doesn’t mean you can trust your tax preparation service to do the right thing. The rates many preparers charge on refund anticipation loans makes them little more than loan sharks. If you don’t use these loans, you know someone that does. So check out this story, then share it.
Confessions of a Serial Haggler
Stacy Johnson CPA on February 10, 2010
Most people negotiate on super-expensive things like cars and houses. But for many, that’s where the haggling stops. It shouldn’t. Negotiating for better deals on everything from cable bills to doctor visits isn’t just rewarding: it can be fun. Check out this story on how to do it right.
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