Hope to Prosper

Simple Practices that Lead to Wealth

Should you Prepare your own Taxes?

Taxes /

This year, I paid to have my taxes done. I had been preparing my own taxes since my Mom shut down her tax service many years ago. I finally got fed up with doing my own taxes and went into H&R Block.

Is Gasoline Busting your Budget?

Economy /

I read an article last week that estimated 15% of gas prices are caused purely by speculators. So, even though domestic use of gasoline in this country is down from 2008, oil prices aren’t.

What the End of Free Checking Really Means For Consumers

Finances /

This is a guest contribution from Bill Hazelton, CEO of Credit Card Assist where he provides tips, news and advice on credit cards, balance transfers, rewards programs and all things credit-related. While it’s not yet officially the end of free checking, consumers are finding it harder and harder to find banks that will waive fees …

The Stock Market makes a Comeback

Investing /

This week, the Dow finally crossed the magical 13K mark and is holding steady. More impressive, the S&P 500 closed above 1,400 for the first time since 2008 and the NASDAQ composite closed above 3,000 for the first time since 2000.