Invention Intervention from The Women Inventorz Network

It takes more than a good idea and a lot of money for inventors to successfully move a product from conception to market. There are too many details that, if left unchecked, can result in financial loss. Dhana Cohen (pictured right) and Melinda Knight, founders of The Women Inventorz Network (WIN), have seen it happen too […]

Pitfalls and Praise of Craigslist

Call it a hobby, financial arbitrage or even a form of personal therapy. For bargain-hunters, DIY interior designers, and those who get an emotional high from purging unwanted items from their homes, there is no greater treasure trove than Craigslist. It’s a win-win for those looking to make a local match with a buyer and/or […]

9 Steps to Better Estate Planning for Women

Every woman needs an estate plan, particularly if they have children or other dependents. Unfortunately, most American women either don’t have an estate plan, or they let their husbands do the planning. This needs to change. “On average in the United States, women become widowed at 59, but their average lifespan is 80,” says Kathy Roeser, Executive Director and Wealth Advisor […]

How Women Can Take Financial Responsibility

While many women have no problem cutting coupons or finding a great deal, they may lack interest in long-term financial planning. According to a 2012 Time Magazine report, “More than a third of American women are the family breadwinner, yet still tend to pass the buck on important money matters, such as investing and retirement.” […]

Should You File Taxes Jointly or Separately?

You and your spouse are partners in life, but should you stick together when it comes to your taxes? Lake Forest CPA Jerrold Jacks says that in the vast majority of cases, it is financially advantageous for married couples to file joint tax returns. “It provides for a lower tax rate,” Jacks says. “You are actually paying almost a […]

Nanny Taxes: What You Need to Know

If you use the services of a nanny, did you realize that you are required to pay taxes just like any employer would? Many parents are not aware of their responsibilities around “nanny taxes.” So we asked Laura Weiland, president of The Nanny Tax Company, a tax preparation company in Park Ridge, for the scoop. […]

6 Strategies for Black Friday Shopping

If you’re going to wake up early and battle crowds to score holiday shopping deals, you’ve got to make it count. Consider these tips to maximize your savings: 1. Charge your smartphone There are loads of websites and apps to help you track down deals. Money Crashers editor David Bakke recommends The Black Friday, which aggregates […]