Last week, I received two great questions from Money Talk readers. The first asked if NEA member union dues are tax deductible, and if so, how much. Referring to IRS Tax Form Schedule A, union dues may be deductible for tax purposes as part of your miscellaneous itemized deductions (see line 21: Unreimbursed Employee Expenses). To itemize, though, your miscellaneous expenses must exceed 2% of your adjusted gross income. (more…)
March 10, 2010
DecCelebrities Make Hermes Handbags Famous
Tommy Martin asked:
A Hermes obsession takes a lot of work. The prestige and appeal that comes with owning one of their timeless bags is not easily acquired. The most famous Hermes handbag, the Kelly Bag, is among those most coveted by
13DecTypical Mistakes While Selecting Handbags
Whether you want to make a fashion statement, or need a bag that is functional there are lot many styles and types available today which offer great styles that will carry you through the day and into the night. If you cannot decide which is best for you, you can try buying tips. Before you buy, consider your needs, lifestyle, and personal tastes. The best bag for you should hold everything you need to carry, feel comfortable, and fit in well with the rest of your wardrobe.
Types of Handbags
Across body bag
9DecJewelry Watches Have Come A Long Way
J. Lloyd asked:
The hourglass watches of yesteryears are pass
14DecAre you looking for a Swiss Watch Online?
If you are on the hunt for a Swiss watch, don
March 6, 2010
It would be great if life came with guarantees and dress rehearsals
Funny thing about life is that it doesn’t come with an instruction manual and you don’t get a dress rehearsal before you have to give the performance of your life. We constantly hear that practice makes perfect, but when it comes to life we only get one take so we have to do our best with our one chance.
Following the diagnosis of a chronic or life-threatening illness it’s easy to want another take in the living documentary of your life. You’ve probably gone over every scenario throughout your life looking for the one moment when your body decided to have a mind of its own leaving you living a life without a script.
You don’t get a staff room full of writers who will write your lines, provide stunt doubles, or make sure that the light is hitting you at the most flattering angle. When you’re dealing with a health challenge the footage is raw because it’s real. It’s the truth and the truth isn’t always pretty. Health challenges and the role of the patient is the toughest part you’ll ever have to play.
What provides strength is all your previous life experience. Every success, achievement, and accomplishment can be used as a foundation for the next scene you have to play; that of a person moving toward health and healing. This isn’t the time for you to assume a character; it’s the point in your life when you have to be the most authentic. You’re required to be in your body, honor your emotions, and utilize every ounce of spiritual peace you can muster.
It would be great if life came with guarantees and dress rehearsals, but living life with only one take requires you to be in the moment. When you’re distracted time vanishes before your eyes. Living in the place of “what if” is the dream, not the reality. You can work toward making your dreams a reality by complying with your healthcare regimen and creating a dialogue between mind, body and spirit.
Living life in one take is freeing because you don’t ever have to over think it; you just live it!
March 4, 2010
Good News! Tax Credit for Younger or Lower Income Savers
Previously, we chatted about the power of tax deductions and credits. Today, I have another tax credit to share with you: the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit, or what is also referred to as the Low Income Savers Credit. Don’t let the boring name fool you, this one packs a sweet little punch for dedicated savers who are just starting out in their career or aren’t yet pulling in a bigger salary. If you contribute to a qualified retirement savings plan and your AGI or adjusted gross income is lower than the allowable limits, you may be eligible for a tax credit worth up to $1,000 ($2,000 if filing jointly)! (more…)
February 24, 2010
Taxes and Deductions and Credits… Oh My!
Its tax time again — and as an education professional you have some special tax saving benefits available to you. While taxes can be a dry topic, it literally pays to know the ins and outs of allowable deductions and credits, as they can have a big impact on the amount you will owe come April 15th.
Our first lesson is that not all tax savings are created equal. (more…)
February 22, 2010
February 20, 2010
Answering Your Money Talk Questions
From time to time, I expect that questions will arise from readers regarding my blogs posts. When that happens, I will do my best to respond through the blog so that other readers will benefit from further explanation or additionally provided resources. (more…)


