Tax Credits and Deductions for Home Improvements

Taxes

Home improvements can make your home more comfortable, raise its value and lower energy costs over time. Some projects may also qualify for tax credits or deductions. These tax breaks can reduce what you owe…

Owner Financing: What It Is and How It Works

Mortgage

PC Photography/Getty Images; Illustration by Austin Courregé/Bankrate Key takeaways With owner financing, the homeowner or seller extends a loan to the homebuyer, rather than a bank or mortgage lender providing the loan. The contract can be structured in a number of ways, including as a second mortgage, a rent-to-own deal…

Austin Airport TSA Lines wrap outside amid DHS shutdown

News

Airport security lines in Austin stretched outside the door early Friday with passengers waiting hours to board their flights amid pressure on Congressional lawmakers to reach a deal to reopen the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  Video footage posted online showed Transportation Security Administration (TSA) lines at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport…

Federal Tax vs. State Tax: Definitions and Examples

Taxes

Most people see taxes come out of their paycheck without thinking much about where the money goes. Federal taxes follow one set of rules no matter where you live, but state taxes vary widely depending on your location. Some states have no income tax at all while others take a…

Is Your Young Gen Z-er Ready for a ‘Fin Lit’ Final Exam?

Debt Management

Try to Offer Advice or Support Instead of Criticism While younger generations are often criticized for their lack of financial literacy, getting into debt can happen to any one at any age, and for a variety of reasons. The suggestion that younger generations are “terrible with money” is certainly not…