Author Archives for Cat

Catherine Alford is the go to personal finance expert for parents who want to better their finances and take on a more active financial role in their families.

9 Smart Uses for Your Tax Refund

Posted by Cat on February 13, 2019 | 13 Comments

Get a tax refund this year? Here are 9 ways to save or spend your tax refund the smart way this year!

Tax season is upon us. Are you ready for it? Whether you have started on your tax return or not yet, if you are expecting a tax refund, you…

7 Super Thoughtful Christmas Gifts That Cost $5 or Less

Posted by Cat on November 12, 2018 | Leave a comment

Thoughtful Christmas gifts don't have to be expensive. Here are 7 thoughtful Christmas gifts under $5 that anyone will love plus keep you on budget.

If you’re on a tight budget this Christmas and haven’t shopped for gifts all year long, don’t worry. There are many thoughtful Christmas gifts you can buy for your…

Will the 4 Gift Rule Work for Your Family this Christmas?

Posted by Cat on October 22, 2018 | 54 Comments

The 4 gift rule for Christmas helps you stay on budget and still get your kids gifts that they want. Here's how the four gift rule can make shopping easy.

Every year, parents struggle deciding what to get their kids for Christmas. It can be challenging to find or even afford the ‘perfect’ gift. It can also be easy…

Should You Compare Your Money Situation to Other People?

Posted by Cat on June 29, 2018 | Leave a comment

It can be scary to compare your money situation to others. Comparing real numbers lets you see where you stand and how to improve your finances.

Theodore Roosevelt famously said “Comparison is the thief of joy.” So, should you compare your money to other people’s? Is it wise?

Most of us know what it’s like to…

6 Creative Ways to Save Money this Summer

Posted by Cat on June 15, 2018 | Leave a comment

There are many creative ways to save money to pad your budget. Here are 6 of the best ways to save money this summer that won't kill the summer fun.

The summer is a great time to save money. The sun is out, people have more energy and are looking forward to fun-filled days. You may not realize it…

Are Side Hustles Worth the Sacrifice?

Posted by Cat on June 8, 2018 | 1 Comment

Side hustles let you earn extra money to make ends meet. But are they worth the sacrifice? Here's why they are plus a few ideas to earn extra cash.

Many personal finance experts recommend side hustles as a way to earn extra money. But are they worth it? After all, you have to give up your time in…

How a Positive Money Mindset Can Make You Rich

Posted by Cat on June 1, 2018 | Leave a comment

A positive money mindset is important to growing your net worth. Here's how you can develop a millionaire money mindset and grow your wealth.

Recently, there’s been a surge of interest in mindset work. For decades, experts have been preaching the importance of having positive thoughts and now, many are applying that to…

How to Save Money on Utilities in the Summer: 5 Smart Ways to Reduce Costs

Posted by Cat on May 18, 2018 | 1 Comment

It's possible to save money on utilities this summer and help your budget. Here are five ways to reduce energy and save a little money this summer.

This past winter was one of the coldest and longest winters on record in many parts of the country. Here in Detroit, where I live, we are still in…

The 7 Best Summer Jobs for College Students

Posted by Cat on May 11, 2018 | Leave a comment

The best summer jobs for college students pay well. Here are the 7 best, highest paying jobs that require little skill but teach valuable skills.

While the summer is a great time for college students to make extra money, many seek out summer jobs that pay minimum wage. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this….

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