Time to start tax preparation

This is a good time to gather your materials for 2008 tax year returns. For those of certain income levels and return complexity, there are free filing options available online.

Free Finance Book from Suze Orman and Oprah

Suze Orman's latest book, 2009 Action Plan is available for free download for a limited time. In English or Spanish.

Thanks to Suze Orman and Oprah for making this resource available free.

Saving with Coupons

In today's local paper (may not be in all markets) was a coupon for a free Tazo Starbucks tea drink. I had mine today and it was yummy, even tastier for being free!

Lately, I've made many Walgreens trips. Two sales this week are especially good. Garnier hair care products are on sale for $2.99 and there's a $2 off coupon in the Walgreens Easy Saver coupon book (available in their stores, usually near the front door). Also on special (with a coupon from the weekly flyer) is Quaker instant oatmeal 10 count package. Couple it with a manufacturer's coupon and your total price is $.99 per box.

Time for end of the year decisions

There are a few days left 'til end of the year. Time still to make those last minute donations or to sell any stocks to lock in losses or gains.

Use up your flexible spending account funds and health care savings account dollars too--check your plan for rules about carry-over.

Walgreens quickie

I hit Walgreens last night for the last day of the 4-day sale. Biggies on the list were: Arm & Hammer laundry detergent for $1.99 (I got two, the max and had a $1 off coupon), bagged candy (Hershey's Kisses and Brach's both had $5 rebates for buying 4 bags and I need these for our holiday gift giving), Danish butter cookies (ditto, gift giving), a stocking stuff that won't be named in case the intended recipient is reading this.

I had a $5 Catalina, the store coupon for the Arm & Hammer and the manufacturer's for same. Total with coupons was just over $25. I received a $5 Register Reward, since my purchase was $25+. After rebates, the out of pocket is $15--that would have been the cost of the laundry detergent ALONE.

Free Shipping Day is December 18

Many online merchants are offering Free Shipping on December 18th. Christmas delivery is guaranteed-bonus!

Free Shipping Day! More merchants are added daily.

Entertainment Book on Sale

The popular Entertainment Book is now on sale for $10 off with free shipping. It's a great deal--you'll easily save the current price of $15 with use of just one or two of the coupons.

If you are a MyPoints member and go through MyPoints' link (search for Entertainment on the MyPoints page) you'll get 750 points!

This is the sale I wait for every year to buy my book.