July 2008 Accounting Newsletter

1. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR SPOUSE'S FINANCES
Are you and your spouse knowledgeable about each other's financial situation? Are critical documents up to date? Are you prepared if a spouse is incapacitated or dies? In case of an unexpected emergency, it's prudent to know the details and location of each other's financial records and documents.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=13322

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2. THIS MONTH'S PODCAST: SHOPPING FOR A MORTGAGE
The homebuying process can seem complicated, but if you take things step-by-step, you will soon be holding the keys to your own home. Hear from a CPA about how doing your homework and shopping around can help you negotiate a better deal.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=13333

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3. TIPS FOR GETTING A RAISE
Are you earning the salary you deserve? In a tight economy, many people are finding that they aren't receiving impressive increases when evaluation time rolls around. Don't despair. There are some steps you can take to maximize your chances for a larger paycheck.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=13323

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4. IS YOUR CREDIT SCORE COSTING YOU MONEY?
In these uncertain financial times, even those with excellent credit histories may have trouble getting a mortgage or other type of loan. That's why it's important to know your credit score and the effect it can have on your checkbook.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=13324

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5. WAYS TO REPAIR YOUR CREDIT SCORE
Do you know your credit score? People with poor scores usually pay higher interest rates, which translate into larger monthly payments for a mortgage or an auto or student loan. Poor scores can also cost you when renting an apartment, applying for a cell phone plan or even getting the job you want. Luckily, there are steps you can take to improve your score.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=13325

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6. RETIRING EARLY
Most of us dream about retiring early. For a number of Americans, it is not just a fantasy, but a reality. A few even accomplish it by their 30s. There are different ways to approach an early retirement strategy, but one aspect is certain - it requires careful planning.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=13303

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7. ADDITIONAL HEADLINES
* As Gas Prices Soar, CPAs Offer Advice
* Beyond Boomers: Financial Conversations With Generation X
* Same-Gender Couples Can Benefit from Professional Wisdom

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