Here’s some information to get you started.

             Is old school for you?

             When does sticking with tradition make sense? It’s highly personal, that decision is best made by you. “Traditional banking benefits from online banking and vice versa,” explains Nick Miceli, market president for TD Bank.

            That said though, he points out some positives of traditional banking. For starters, there is access to a friendly staff that can answer your questions in real time and communicate in a way where you feel comfortable. When making a big purchase, such as a home or car, you can speak directly with an expert for tips and next steps. Staff can walk you through the process of an application and answer any questions. Some banks offer free coin counting machines. Of much importance too, he adds, “Local lenders make local decisions. Your loan is processed by a person who you have a relationship with and it’s about more than just the numbers.”

            Another plus, says Miceli, is the store staff can find creative banking solutions that you might not have considered. “The branch is a gateway to other services, such as wealth management, private and commercial banking,” he adds.

            Then too, says Paula Milsted, director of marketing for Chesapeake Bank, a community bank, and its national online banking arm, Clear Sky Accounts, “An in-person business banker can end up being your partner through many of the complex financial decisions that arise throughout the life of a business. And home loans, usually go a lot smoother when you have a mortgage banker living where you are, as opposed to the other side of the country. Once you establish a relationship with a traditional bank, especially a community bank, they appreciate your business and tend to go above and beyond for the loyal and long-term customers,” she adds.

            However, says Richard Barrington, personal finance expert for MoneyRates.com, while traditional banks have the potential to offer more personal service, They don’t always deliver on that potential.” He says cost-cutting and high staff turnover have made it harder to find that personal touch in recent years. Also, the higher cost structure of traditional banks may well get passed along to you as a banking customer, he adds.

            The hours are another challenge. “While many branches have significantly increased the days and hours that they are open, it sometimes is still hard to physically get to the bank during our busy days,” says Mary Harris, associate professor of business administration at Cabrini College.

             Is it time to break tradition?

            There are two main advantages of an online bank. “One is low cost. Because they don’t have to pay for the space, maintenance, and staff of having branches, online banks generally should have lower overhead than a traditional bank. As a customer, this may show up in the form of low-cost checking accounts, and/or higher interest rates on savings accounts and CDs,” says Barrington.

            The other plus is technology. “If you are looking for the latest capabilities in electronic banking, you are most likely to find them from a bank that specializes in that kind of banking.

            Simply put, “Online banking gives you the ability to create a clear visualization of your money,” says Michael Ley, vice president, eBusiness and Payments at PNC.

            Miceli points out a few other considerations: the ability to access information while traveling or from home; 24 hour service; up-to-date account information, including balances of all deposit accounts, all loan types and lines of credits, and credit cards; transfer funds, arrange for immediate or future transfers; send payments to businesses and individuals; review payment history by payee, date or amount, including the ability to see check images of bills paid via paper check, for example.

            Online banking empowers users to take charge of their own fiscal responsibility and literacy, adds Joe Polverari, senior vice president of strategy and development for Yodlee.

            Then too, “The beauty of online banking is the expectation of a one-stop service center that can handle multiple transactions. Explore a potential online bank’s ability to handle various accounts and streamline account activity,” says Di Morais, an executive with Deposits and Product Innovation at Ally Bank.

            However, cautions Barrington, “If you like personal service, then forget about an online bank. Also, it’s important to determine what ATM networks an online bank belongs to, because if you have to rely on other banks’ ATMs to access your cash, you could find yourself regularly paying extra fees.”  Although some will reimburse you up to a certain amount when you use another bank’s ATM. Inquire about the policy.

            Online banking clearly scores a win on the convenience front, but only if the website is easy to navigate, says Morais. “Compare the sites of potential online banks, and visit the ‘help’ areas of each. Your e-bank should offer simplicity and ease of use, even if you’re not a computer expert. Some sites offer live chat features with customer service representative available to help immediately guide you through your banking transaction,” she adds.

           Privacy, security, identity theft are concerns for some. The FDIC has security standards that all banks must adhere to and offers guidelines on what to look for when browsing the security standards of potential online banks. For instance, make sure your bank provides encryption on al emailed information before hitting “send.” Additional recommendations can be found at http://www.fdic.gov/bank/individual/online/safe.html. 

            So how do you decide what’s best for you?  For many, it may come down to your financial expertise, familiarity with online systems, and time constraints, points out Harris.

            No matter whether you stay traditional or go for I-banking, make sure the institution is FDIC insured. That seal means that deposits are protected for up to at least $250,000 by the U.S. government.

          Then look at how you use your bank. If you do all your banking electronically and have no need for a personal contact at the bank, online is probably okay by you, says Barrington. If you would miss walking into the bank, then you likely want to stick with tradition. Whichever you decide, says Barrington, “You still need to look at the cold, hard facts - how does the bank compare with its peers when it comes to cost or in the rates they offer?”

            The competition is fierce. There are plenty of adults looking for any type of work, be it full time, part time or temporary. So teens will need to be savvy to snag a chance to make some cash.

            Here’s how to get started.

            Think about what you want

          As a starting point, teenagers should ask themselves the following questions - what existing skills and strengths can I leverage to secure summer employment; what skills do I want to develop this summer; do I have hobbies that I can pursue as summer employment; what can I do this summer that is interesting and unique and will catch the eye of a college recruiter or employer, says Dawn Chandler, a professor of management at the Orfalea College of Business at California Polytechnic State University.

            Develop a resume

           Even if you haven’t completed high school, you can still put together a resume that will list your name, address, phone number and email address. “Make sure your email address does not sound silly or seductive. Add any skills you might have, any place you may have worked in the past, your GPA, if it is 3.0 or higher, and any special clubs or sports you belong to, which shows leadership qualities,” advises career coach Lori Gersh Weiner.

              Network

             You never know who might know of someone who is looking to fill a summer spot. Many times the apartment superintendent or the person who cuts your hair will know of a place to send you. Ask parents, friends, relatives, everyone. “This is a real case of the early bird gets the worm. Hitting the pavement and hitting it hard, before the summer rush, will pay off enormously,” says Gersh Weiner.

            Simply put, getting a job is not a solo process. Two-thirds of all job seekers will get a job from someone they already know, according to SimplyHired.com, a search engine for jobs. The good news is teens have extensive social networks on sites like Facebook and Twitter. SimplyHired can help you see the connections you have on LinkedIn so that you can touch base with them for an interview. SimplyHired.com also helps job seekers to get friends involved in the job search, allowing you to share jobs easily with your Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter contacts.

            The jobs could be just about anywhere, the mall, hotel/motel help, parks and recreation departments, golf and tennis clubs, summer camps, fast food restaurants, mowing lawns, pool cleaning, or babysitting. Check on job boards like Monster.com, Craigslist, the local newspaper, the guidance counselor’s office at school, and more.

            While the job market is tough, some industries are booming and hiring big time. Look to health care and green industries, advises Jeff Cohen, author, The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Recession Proof Careers.

           Have an open mind about all opportunities. “Many fast-food restaurants accept applicants at 16. Do not think you are above these jobs, ones that can teach you about work ethic, how to be a team player and customer service,” says Heather Moose, a spokesperson for SnagAJob.com.

            Though there may be one job that you really want, apply for as many jobs as you can.

             Nail the interview

           Finally, when the big day of the interview arrives, be ready. It’s understood that a teenager is teenager, but that’s not license to show up like it’s time to party. Think no flesh, no flash, just class. “Dress like you’re going to a house of worship. Lose the tongue ring and while you’re at it, definitely take out any piercings or nose rings,” says Ellen Pober Rittberg, author, 35 Things Your Teen Won’t Tell You, So I Will.

            Also arrive with one or two forms of identification, social security number or card, and a list of references with contact numbers.

            Do show up having done a little homework. “Visit the store, if it’s a store and see what merchandise or service they sell or provide, and watch how employees greet and interact with customers. If it’s a company, find out what their philosophy or mission statement is, Google or Bing it on the computer to get more information. Try to get a copy of the annual report of the company,” says Pober Rittberg.

            As for what impresses an employer, Tim Arnold, president of 2Bhip.com, a specialty retail website, hires teens/students during the summer and holiday season, highlights what he looks for before and after hiring them. “I look for a kid that is serious. Most kids come in with a ‘I want to hangout and get paid attitude,’. It is important that the teen is mature and acts serious,” he says.

            Arnold doesn’t mind if mom or dad inquires as to whether he is hiring, “but I want the kid to come in for the job. I am not hiring the parent,” he adds.

            Once hired, he expects them to show up to work. “If they are not taking the job seriously, then I am getting rid of them and bringing in someone who wants to work. We hope they like the job and have fun, but our priority is getting the work done. I don’t have time to baby sit and don’t have patience for tardiness or someone who’s social life is more important than showing up.

            Alas, if can’t find a paying gig, volunteer. “While a summer job may enable a high school student to make a few thousand dollars, being a volunteer may yield the same indirectly,” says Barbar Pytel, private college consultant and author, Best College for You: How to Find the Right Fit and Save Big Money. Colleges are looking for leaders and private colleges look at the whole person. Consistent volunteer work and extracurricular activities throughout high school may yield great benefits in the way of scholars and grants that may run in the range of $2,500 up to $25,000. “So if you can’t get a job to earn money for college, don’t take the summer off, volunteer.”

         Check out sites like www.WaysToHelp.org, and ask around in your community.

            The bottom line: get busy now.

            “Labor and materials prices have decreased, making projects more cost effective. Traffic is down for designers and show rooms and it is easier and cheaper to tap those resources,” says Matt Lederer, president of Mahogany Builders.

            But before you rush to call contractors, think about which projects will give you the best return on your investment, which will simply be for your pleasure and what mistakes to avoid.

            Determine whether to go for profit or pleasure

            As for where the big returns on your money are likely to come from, “The kitchen is king. I always tell my clients to put the most effort into their kitchens because it’s where people spend most of their time. If you’re selling your home, it’s the first place that potential buyers want to see,” says Matt Blashaw, of the DIY Network’s Deconstruction. “The rest of the house could be in just fair condition, but if the kitchen has a nice remodel to it, chances are they will be willing to look past the rest,” he adds.

            That said though, you don’t have to go crazy with granite and stainless steel. ” A new paint job, light fixtures, faucet, re-facing the cabinets and maybe even tilting your counter with granite rather than using full sheets will inject that value you seek without breaking the bank,” says Blashaw.

           Master bathrooms, master suites and outside spaces are others that will give you the best return on your investment.

           ”New kitchens and decks are among the most attractive offerings of a home. They are much more visible and emotional than a new roof, for instance,” says Lori Dolnick, a spokesperson who has represented brands in the home industry for more than a decade.

          An outside space offers a secondary living area, thus doubling your entertainment space. A luxurious master bath can give you the feeling of being in a spa.

           Simply put, says Steve Lazar, founder of Lazar Design/Build, “Projects that expand the size of your home. The more square footage you have, the more valuable your house is.”

          As for what might bring you pleasure, but not necessarily profits, include projects like adding a fireplace, building bookshelves, and adding skylights, says Janice Hanks, owner of Next Level Austin Home Decorating and Design Consulting.

            Avoid costly mistakes

            No doubt though, there are many, many things that can go wrong when it comes to remodeling.

            One of the biggest mistakes people make is not hiring a professional remodeler. The best professionals are trained and educated, have a good reputation with the Better Business Bureau, belong to a professional trade association and can provide good references, says Kelly Mack, spokesperson for the National Association of Home Builders which has a remodeling website with tips on planning a successful remodel, www.nahb.org/remodel. Check references and on-line reviews. “You will be living with a construction crew for weeks, if not months. Do your homework and choose wisely,” says Lederer.

            Another faux pas is trying to try to mix apples and oranges. The new addition must blend with the existing house or it looks like you are living in two homes. It is easiest to stay within the footprint of the house - if you need new space, go up and keep the style of the home consistent. “Whether you build up or out, the existing and remodeled portions need to main integrity, or the new will look like an appendage,” warns Lazar.

            Make sure that you understand what is included in the contract and what is expected of you. “Too many times a homeowner hires a contractor then realizes they are expected to source and get all the materials for the jobsite. They also learn the hard way that the contract allows for change orders and extra charges for unforeseen issues,” says Lederer.

            Do not underestimate how hard the process will be on you and your lifestyle while your house is being remodeled, adds Scott McCurdy, owner of Coastal Reconstruction.

            While you want to be budget conscious, buying price not quality, and hiring by price, not quality can be serious missteps, says Igor Crook, owner of Eco Kitchens.

            Prepare yourself financially

            There’s big money involved in this. Look at your entire financial picture. “If you have several large recurring expenses that you just can’t minimize, it might be a good sign that you don’t have the financial bandwidth to take on a new project right now,” says Melanie Donaghy, vice president of Wells Fargo Internet Services.

            Get multiple estimates. This will give you a good idea of what to expect, but it’s a good rule of thumb to multiply the expected cost by a factor of 1.5 to cover changes, contingencies and Murphy’s Law, she add. The unexpected almost always occurs, so just go ahead and plan for it, says Donaghy.

            Once you have a clue about costs, cut back on everyday spending and start saving. See how much you can really save each month and calculate how long it would take you to reach your goal. “If you could save for six months and pay the entire cost upfront, you could save hundreds of dollars by avoiding the interest accrual related to purchasing on credit,” says Donaghy.

            Remember, says Hanks, “The goal is to get the most bang for your buck. Balance wants and needs. Stay on budget.”

             Seek discounts

           Ask your favorite repair shop about frequent customer discounts. “I recently pre-paid for oil changes and tire rotations for the entire year and saved more than 30 percent,” says Kristin Brocoff, marketing manager of CarMD.com.

            Also ask if they honor competitor’s coupons. And if your shop has coupons see if they can be sent to you via email or mail. Be sure however, to schedule your service before the coupon expires. “Beware of premium coupons that throw in a lot of extras. If you don’t need the work done, even the best discount package is not worth it,” she adds.

            Take advantage of “courtesy checks” and free car care clinics in your neighborhood.

             Drive less

             Drive less. It seems obvious, but really think about the savings. “Look at alternatives to driving, such as using public transit, walking, bicycling or carpooling. Six-month savings: Carpooling on even a four-mile daily commuter (where each person drives five times a month) could save $192 if gas goes to $4 a gallon,” says Kevin Gallegos, vice president of Freedom Debt Relief.

             Slow down

             Avoid aggressive driving, such as fast starts and stops and speeding. The driving experts at Edumunds.com found that driving moderately can improve gas mileage by up to 37 percent. Stay below the speed limit, and under 65 on freeways, and ease up on the gas pedal when not accelerating. Six-month savings: For someone who typically uses 90 gallons of gas a month, improving mileage by 37 percent - from 15 miles per gallon to 20 mpg, could save more than $600 over a six-month period, at $4 a gallon, adds Gallegos.

            Do not speed. Speeding burns more gas. In addition, you could get a ticket, giving you an additional car expense, and worse it could cause a hike in your car insurance bill. Avoid one speeding ticket and you can save on average about $150.

             Hold on to receipts

             Keep receipts for everything, whether it’s for a routine maintenance or supplies you bought for a Do-it-Yourself fix. In order to get a mechanical failure covered by a warranty, it’s your sole responsibility to keep accurate records and prove you’re not at fault, points out Eric Brock, an automotive repair shop manger who is an auto expert for www.JustAnswer.com.

             Spend time in your user’s manual

            Getting to know the basics about your vehicle can prevent you from getting ripped off on repairs. That knowledge also comes in handy if you’re in an emergency situation and you have to do a quick fix yourself. For example, you should know how to check and fill all the fluids in your engine compartment because if you use the wrong transmission fluid, for example, you will end up with a failed transmission and you won’t be covered by your warranty, explains Brock.

             Wash your car

             A clean vehicle improves aerodynamics and, over long distances, can improve fuel efficiency and save gas, says Jody DeVere, auto expert with www.AskPatty.com.  Furthermore, says Jimmy Williamson, a certified public accountant with MDA Professional Group, do it yourself and save the typical $10-$20 you would pay to have someone do it for you. If you wash your car a couple of times a month, that might save you a few hundred dollars a year.

             Maintain your car

             Make sure your tires are properly inflated, tires that are not inflated to the proper pressure, as defined in your owner’s manual, can reduce fuel efficiency by 2.8 percent for each 7.5 pounds below the recommended level, says Craig Steinhoff, a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants National CPA Financial Literacy Commission.  

           Change your oil every 5,000 miles. Although the oil change stores have coined the phrase every three months or 3,000 miles, today’s cars are built significantly better than vehicles in the past. In fact, most car manuals state that every 5,000 miles is the recommended frequency between oil changes, he adds.

           Check your air filter. A dirty air filter makes it harder for your engine to breathe and hurts gas mileage. The good news is, air filters are fairly inexpensive to replace, explains DeVere.

          Get a basic tune-up. A poorly tuned engine can reduce fuel efficiency. To ensure your vehicle’s performance, be sure to get a tune-up once a year. It also provides an opportunity to check out your vehicle’s systems, such as brakes and fluid levels.

          Take advantage of grocery store gas rebates

          “I’ve seen some stores that advertise 10 cents off a gallon for each $50 spent. Additionally, these stores also carry gift cards which can be purchased for other stores. Therefore, you should always buy gift cards (for gifts or even to use yourself) from these grocery stores and save some money off your gas,” says Steinhoff.

            Save on insurance

            Set the deductibles. This is a great area for savings. The deductible is the cost the policyholder is obligated to pay for a repair before the insurer pays its portion. The higher the deductible, the lower the premium. The Insurance Information Institute estimates that by choosing a deductible of $500 on collision coverage, instead of $200, a car owner can save up to 30 percent on premiums, says Gallegos. Choose the highest deductible you could afford in the event of an accident, then save the money for the deductible cost in an interest-bearing account, he adds.

            Ask about discounts. Eligibility for discounts might include age (student), driver’s training, care features (air bags, alarm, anti-lock brakes), or having more than only policy with the insurer. Some insurers give discounts for low mileage, but infrequent drivers sometimes pay more. The key is to proactively ask about these.

            Choose medical coverage wisely. Auto medical coverage pays medical expenses from an accident. Compare with what is covered by health insurance policies. “If you do not have health insurance, definitely opt for medical insurance on your auto policy,” says Gallegos.

            After a long, hard winter, you’re ready to hit the road. Don’t let gas prices get in the way of your quest for adventure.

            Here’s how.

             Make a plan for filing

             Set a date to file your taxes to ensure that you will be able to file your income tax return on time. If that’s not possible, file an extension. The Internal Revenue Service is more forgiving of those who follow the rules than those who skip filing, says Jeff Staley, president of Freedom Tax Relief. “Even if you cannot pay your tax debt in full on April 15, filing the required forms will result in smaller penalties,” he adds.

              Do your return early

             Though the truth may be painful, better to know where you stand. Prepare your return early. “You will know how much you owe, then create a budget in order to save what you’ll need to pay your tax bill,” says Melissa Labant, tax technical manager with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

            “Make sure the budget is realistic and stick to it.”

            Avoidance will not deter reality.

            Find the cash to pay

            You can adjust your income tax withholding for 2010, temporarily, to help you collect some extra cash. “After you pay your tax bill, you will need to re-adjust your income tax withholding again to account for the shortfall earlier in the year and take out a little extra so you do not have the same cash flow problem next year,” advises Labant.

            If you automatically contribute to a 401k plan, consider reducing your contribution rate for a few months. “Make sure you understand the company’s matching policy so you do not reduce your contribution to the extent that you lose out on free money though,” she adds. After the cash crunch is over, re-adjust your contributions to your 401k plan.

            This technique can also work with items such as funding your children’s college savings plan. If you turn off contributions temporarily, make sure that you budget to double your contributions later in the year, she adds.

            You will pay interest if you don’t make your payments by April 15, so pay by credit card (an extra fee applies), as a last resort. “Do this particularly, if you can pay the card off soon, or if the rate on the card is lower than the IRS interest rate,” says Thomas Casey, a certified financial planner with Casey, Thomas & Associates.

             Evaluate your alternatives

             If you absolutely will not be able to pay your tax bill, contact the IRS. The agency sometimes gives leeway to taxpayers who contact them directly or pay a late bill voluntarily.

           The IRS might waive penalties for those who cannot pay because of a death in the family, serious illness, financial records lost in a natural disaster or another “reasonable cause,” says Staley.

           Another option, he adds, is tax debt resolution. Tax resolution specialists often can negotiate directly with the IRS on behalf of consumers who owe $10,000 or more. These specialists are usually attorneys, enrolled agents or certified public accountants with special training and experience. They can navigate the maze of IRS forms and calculations, helping you understand what the IRS wants and help you to resolve debt.

            Establish or Contribute to IRA accounts

             You have until the due date of your tax return to establish and contribute to an IRA account for 2009. The maximum that can be contributed is $5,000, or $6,000, if you were over 50 in 2009.

             If you want to contribute to a Roth IRA, you must be under the modified AGI (adjusted gross income) limits ($166,000 for married couples, $105,000 for singles), says Gene Crescente, a senior wealth planner with PNC Wealth Management.

           Be strategic

          In light of the struggling economy, some families are choosing to live in multigenerational households. If you are supporting one of the ever emerging multigenerational households, you may be eligible to claim tax exemptions for the additional household members.

           Exemptions reduce your taxable income, explains Roni Deutch, author of The Tax Lady’s guide To Beating the IRS.

           Run the numbers

          As part of last year’s stimulus package, many American’s received extra money in their paychecks. But approximately 15 million taxpayers will have to repay $250-$400 of the tax credit they received. To avoid getting a nasty surprise when you file, use the IRS Schedule M to determine whether or not you may have to repay Uncle Sam.

          “Although this credit is meant for good, it may cause some harm to unsuspecting taxpayers because the credit was applied automatically to all tax withholdings whether the taxpayer qualified for it or not,” says Deutch. After you determine whether you have to pay this credit back for tax year 2009, you should get a heard start and check your current withholdings as this credit extends to tax year 2010, she adds.

             Double check your deductions

            If you had self-employment income in 2009, you may be able to deduct health insurance premiums paid for yourself and your dependents as an “above the line” business expense (that is without itemizing) on your federal tax return. “Be aware, however, that you may not deduct premiums paid for any month in which you were eligible to participate in an employee-sponsored health insurance plan, and that the amount you deduct cannot be greater than your net self-employment income for the year,” says Carrie McLean, consumer health specialist with www.eHealthInsurance.com.

           Furthermore, says Ted Shalek, chief financial officer of Smart Online, Inc., www.smartonline.com.  ”Pay attention to all the tax changes that have taken place for 2009. There are new deductions and credits for housing, energy, deductions in 2009 for contributions made to Haiti relief in 2010, and more. Do not miss all of the benefits legally available to you under current tax laws.”

           Much as you don’t want to even think about taxes, get going, get it over with and just maybe you’ll do yourself a financial favor by fighting off procrastination.

            Here’s where to begin.

             Sock away money now

           Begin to save your money if you don’t have a stash yet. The average weekly fee for resident, sleep-away camp is $325-780, the average day camp is $100-275 a week, though you can find some as low as $75, according to the American Camp Association.

            You have four months, so do the math. How much will you need and decide on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly amount that you can squirrel away until camp starts.

            If you don’t have a camp in mind, you can go to www.CampParents.org and search the database. You can search by price, location, special needs, activities, length of session, age, and you can search multiple categories at one time. You can also ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations.

            Ask about financial assistance

            Once you’ve found a few possibilities, find out whether the camp offers financial assistance and scholarships.  Some camps offer a portion, or all of the enrollment fees. They may not advertise this fact, so it’s on you to speak up. To take advantage of these opportunities, it’s best to get in line early. You up the odds of getting what you need if you don’t wait until a few weeks before camp starts. In the past, members of the American Camp Association gave away $39 million. Ninety percent of camps offer some form of financial aid.

            Just as there may be financial assistance, look out for discounts, such as for early registration, full-season enrollment, or multiple enrollments.

            Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially in this economy.

            Get all the details

            Avoid nasty surprises. Make sure you know what’s included in enrollment. Some camp fees include transportation, others may not.

           You’ll also want to be clear about fees for special programs, trips, special equipment that is required, laundry service and the camp canteen, for example.

            See if you qualify for tax credits

           Uncle Sam can help. The cost of day camp can count as an expense towards the child and dependent care credit. Expenses for overnight camps, do not qualify, however. For more information visit www.irs.gov.

           Check with your employer too, about whether they offer a flexible spending account for dependent care. If so, you can typically set aside up to $5,000 to cover costs such as child care (including day camp, but not sleep-away camp). Go to www.fsafeds.com/fsafeds/index.asp for more information.

             Be strategic about costs

             Look for ways to shave expenses. For example if the camp has a meal program, see if you can have your child bring their own food instead.

            Then too you can choose to skip camp altogether. Find out what kind of programs are being sponsored in your community, through churches, synagogues, that are free or very low cost.

            Also you can pick shorter sessions. Maybe you decide to have your child attend 2-4 weeks, instead of 6-8, or even just two weeks.

            It’s okay if every second of summer isn’t taken up with organized activity. “There is tremendous value for children in what I call ‘hammock time’. This means doing nothing. Daydreaming, hanging out, getting lost in thoughts, doodling. Call it what you will, it means shifting gears to neutral. Our culture puts too much emphasis on ‘doing’ and children soon pick that up. Children are profoundly nourished by introspective time. Too much focus on busy activities and games leaves very little time to dream, wonder, reflect and discover,” says Susan Kuczmarski, author of The Sacred Flight of a Teenager: A Parent’s Guide to Stepping Back and Letting Go.

            Fill up the gap with family time too. The beaches, parks, await you and they are free.

            Here’s a better plan for your tax return 

           Pay down debt

           Much as it might pain you to take that “fun money” and put it toward bills, it is surely a good thing to do. Maybe even if you don’t put all of your refund toward debt, consider plunking down half or more. You’ll be glad you did later.  Pick your highest interest rate card as your target.

           Strengthen your retirement kitty

          It has perhaps been a challenge to save for retirement with the crazy economy. Make up for some of your losses by salting away your tax refund in a Roth or Traditional IRA or your Keogh plan.  “If you choose a Roth IRA, unlike other retirement accounts, you can always withdraw your original contributions free of taxes and penalties. And all earnings in a Roth are income-tax-free forever, as long as you don’t remove them before age 59 ½,” says Paul Jacobs, a certified financial planner with Palisades Hudson Financial Group.

           Whatever you can contribute will go a long way. Remember, the power of compounding is working in your favor.

           Prepare for an unpleasant surprise

           If you don’t have an emergency fund, now’s a good time to get one going. A bank money market account is good place to put it, recommends Burk Rosenthal, a certified financial planner.  If you already have an emergency fund, pile some more on.

           If there’s anything learned from the last couple of years, trouble does come and it can stay for a while. Job loss, pay cuts and the like are a reality. An extra $1,000 or two can make a big difference if you get a tough spot and keep you from having to turn to a credit card.

          Start your house fund

          Say you’ve been dreaming about a home sweet home. Use that lump sum to jump start the funds you will need for a down payment, suggests Mitchell Freedman, a personal financial advisor with MFAC Financial Advisors. You’ll be surprised that once something is there, it will motivate you to add to it, little bit by little bit. If you already have a home, consider using the money to make an extra payment on your mortgage so the principal will be paid off sooner, he adds.

            Protect your family’s financial future

          “The Great Recession has certainly increased the desire for a stable, dependable way to protect loved ones,” says Gerald Rocchi, senior vice president at New York Life. Life insurance is one way to go.

            A tax return of about $2,800 could be used to purchase term life insurance.  For example, a healthy 35 year-old male could purchase a 20 year term policy, providing coverage for 20 years, with a death benefit of $125,000, with an annual premium of $143 for 20 years, says Rocchi.

           Spend wisely

          It’s okay to spend the money, but purchase something of significance. “Something that will make your life more efficient like a computer,” says Freedman. Using it to take a professional or personal develop class is a good investment as well. The point is, spend if it’s an investment, not just a frivolous, empty purchase.

            Resist temptation

            Don’t go for the electronic gadget that you’ve been thinking about buying. Ask yourself do you really need it? Most likely, no.  Do not use the money for a down payment on a new car if yours will last several years longer, says Freedman. You also shouldn’t view your return as “free money” so you invest it in a stock tip that you got from your best friend. Basically, says Freedman, “Don’t make a compulsive purchase of any kind without totally thinking it through.”

           Make this the year you do the right thing with your refund.

            You’ve missed the joy of dining out, of downing those delectable dishes. It’s time to live a little.

           Here’s how to say, “garcon, garcon,” without guilt.

           Eat before you go

          It may seem silly to eat before you go out. But if you grab a banana or carrot sticks beforehand you can head off your hunger, which will keep you from ordering more than you need. “This is the same principle behind not shopping for groceries on an empty stomach,” says J.D. Roth, author, Your Money: The Missing Manual.

           Take food home

           You may have been taught to clean your plate, but restaurant portions are so huge that not only is it bad for your diet, it’s bad for your budget. If you plan ahead, you can take home leftovers to get an extra meal (or two), cutting your overall food costs. “I actually have a friend who asks for a box immediately when the waiter brings his food; he boxes half his meal right away so he’s not tempted to eat the whole thing,” says Roth.

           Share

          Whether it’s a date, including your spouse or partner, or just having a nice meal with a friend, agree to share an entrée. Order separate appetizers if you like, suggests Jacquette Timmons, president and CEO of Sterling Investment Management. If you each want your own entrée, then consider splitting dessert and or an appetizer. Better still, consider skipping dessert as you know you’re not really hunger by that point. But if your sweet tooth is aching, stop at the ice cream shop on your way home instead, for a fraction of the cost of that calorie-laden mountain of joy at the restaurant.

           Drink water

          It’s not sexy for sure. But $8-10 for a glass of wine and a couple of dollars for a soda can really run up the tab. Drink water. It’s calorie free and free. A splash of lemon will give it a little zip. “Ordering water can save 20 percent off the total bill,” says Gail Cunningham, spokesperson for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.

           Think coupons

           Coupons are not just for the grocery store. It’s not gauche to whip them out at a restaurant. Remember, frugality is the new chic. Check your local papers or the restaurant’s web site.  See what else you can find online at places like Groupon.com which offers discounts on restaurants in many cities across the country. In many cities, Entertainment Books are sold as school fundraisers and often contain hundreds of dollars of savings for local restaurants, everything from fast food to fine dining. These books (www.entertainment.com/discount/?linkName=MSN) can cost as little as $25 for a year’s worth of savings, says Lauren Foster, a CPA and member of the American Institute of Public Accountant’s National CPA Financial Literacy Commission.

            Stay on top of promotions

           Look for the off-peak promotions, either slower days, where wine may be 50 percent off or peak hours such as an early diner program. Almost all restaurants have some promotion in place, says James Sinclair, principal of OnSite Consulting, a hospitality and consulting company.

           Seek out kids eat free deals, or other specials. “I have clients who are using www.opentable.com to book reservations, see if there are any promotional specials at the restaurants, and really are viewing the menus to make sure they are interested in what’s on the menu and to get an exact idea of the cost prior to going to the restaurant,” says John Egan, a certified financial planner.     

           Sign up to be on the email list at your favorite restaurants. Franchises are especially apt to reward their regular customers with savings and often send these deals through email. Savings can be significant and may include amounts of the total bill, buy one get one free meals, or complimentary items such as appetizers or desserts. Once on the mailing list, many restaurants ask for your birthday and send special gift certificates to help you celebrate, says Foster.

            However, do pay attention to the small print on restaurant offers, including expiration dates and exclusions that may include certain days of the week or times of day.  Check out restaurants.com for great savings on dining out, she adds. “This site rewards you for planning ahead and sponsors the purchase of gift certificates at your favorite places at reduced rates. I utilize this site quite often and buy ahead for my favorite restaurants at savings sometimes in excess of 50 percent,” says Foster.

           Check your bill

          Some restaurants will include tips in your overall bill because it’s their policy or because you are part of a large group, says Jenny Realo, executive vice president of CareOne Debt Relief. “Unless you are feeling very generous, skip the tip, if it’s already included in your bill.”

           With a little thought, you can sit back, leave the cooking to someone else and give yourself a much needed good time, without breaking the bank.

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            “You’re screwed. Medical identity theft can affect your medical records. If erroneous information ends up on your medical records that you have allergies or are sick in a way that doctors prescribe deadly medications or insurance companies see you as a liability, this can cost you money and your life,” says Robert Siciliano, CEO of IDTheftSecurity.com.

            The potential fallout can be catastrophic, says Margaret Lewin, MD, medical director, Cinergy Health.

            An estimated 250,000-500,000 individuals have been victims of medical identity theft and the numbers continue to grow. Here’s how to protect yourself.

           Guard your information

          Medical identity theft is the fraudulent use of your personal medical and health insurance information. Most often, employees of medical facilities, who have access to your information, are the primary thieves, says Lewin. They either sell the information on the black market, or use it directly to cover their own medical care, to file false claims against your health insurance, or to buy drugs to feed their addiction or to sell on the street, she adds.

          It can also be something as low tech as a stolen wallet containing a driver’s license and Social Security, where someone walks into a clinic or hospital and receives medical treatment, says Brian Lapidus, chief operating officer of Kroll Fraud Solutions. “When was the last time you were asked for your identification when going to the doctor?” asks Scott Mitic, CEO of TrustedID.

          Additionally, HIPAA laws allow marketers to target audiences based on their medical records, increasing the number of people with access to those records, so insurance companies, marketers, or anyone else with an interest in a patient’s medical history can get some, or all of the information through electronic means, says Mitic.

            Not only can be it be dangerous or deadly if the imposter’s medical information is merged with yours, if unauthorized health insurance claims are filed using your information, it can reduce the lifetime limits of coverage and payments available to you, says Lapidus.

            If a thief uses your insurance to run up large hospital bills in your name, you can be responsible for all charges not covered by the insurance, directly impacting your financial well-being and credit history, says Lewin.  Having false claims for serious illnesses in your medical record can set up pre-existing conditions leading to denial of future healthcare coverage; your insurance carrier can increase your premiums dramatically, or even cancel your insurance altogether, she adds.

            Deception can be hard to detect

           Medical identity theft is one of the more complicated and problematic types of identity theft that can occur. The reasons for these complications are mainly attributed to the current lack of a central repository for medical histories, and the extensive privacy laws in relation to medical file disclosure, says Lapidus. It is difficult to discover, and the fraud may exist until uncovered through a myriad of methods.  More than 10 percent of victims of medical ID theft surveyed were denied health or life insurance for unexplained reasons, says Tom Rusin, CEO of Affinion Security Center.  More than two-thirds of victims surveyed received a bill for medical services that were provided to an imposter, he adds.

            Brandon Sharp got a nasty surprise when he was applying for a loan to buy his first house in 2003. “Someone was using my social security number and receiving emergency hospital care,” says Sharp.  He spent countless hours calling hospitals, collection agencies, his attorney general, providing proof that those charges applied were not his. He had to get the help of a credit monitoring service. “It took six months to get the initial charges taken off. I still get charges and phone calls, although not as much as the initial hit,” says Sharp. He had to postpone the purchase of his house until he was able to get the information off his credit report. He continues to pay $100 per year for credit monitoring services.

            Sharp is not sure how his information was stolen, perhaps a breech of some company’s network. But he had always been safety conscious, shredding important papers and bills.  While there is no guarantee that you won’t be a victim, there are ways to protect yourself. “Check your credit report regularly,” says Sharp.

            Put up a good fight

           Make sure your insurance ID is different from your social security number. Immediately report to your carrier any lost insurance identification. When your insurance pays a medical claim, it should send you an explanation of benefits, detailing charges and payments. Go through this detail each and every time, calling the provider to explain any mysterious entries, and then calling your insurer to report any inadequate explanations, says Lewin. Make sure to follow-up with your insurer in writing, and file a report with the police and the Federal Trade Commission.

            Be familiar with your health care providers’ privacy and security policies, when asked to sign a waiver for the release of your medical records, limit the amount of information that can be released, says Mitic. Keep your health information private. Don’t share your policy information with anyone without knowing how that person plans to use it, who will have access to it, and how the information will be protected, he adds.

            Do not give sensitive information over the phone, warns Dave Miller, chief security officer of Covisint, a subsidiary of Compuware.

            Futhermore, cautions Siciliano, “Don’t carry insurance cards in your wallet unless absolutely necessary, like when you have an actual appointment.”

           Review your confidential records stored at the Medical Information Bureau should any exist. Your MIB records may be utilized by companies to determine your eligibility and liabilities in obtaining an array of insurance, including, health, life, long term care and critical care illness coverage, suggests Rusin.

            If you’re a victim of medical theft identity, keep detailed records of your conversations and copies of your correspondence. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, 1-877-ID-THEFT, http://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov. File a complaint with your local police. Send copies of the report to your health plan’s fraud department, your health care providers, and the nationwide credit reporting companies. Information on how to file a police report is at www.ftc.gov/idtheft/consumers/defend.html.

           Exercise your right under HIPAA to correct errors in your medical and billing records. Write to your health plan or provider detailing the information that seems inaccurate. Include copies (keep the originals) or any document that supports your position. In addition to keeping your complete name and address, your letter should identify each item that you dispute, state the facts and your reasons for disputing the information, and request that each error be corrected or deleted. You may want to enclose a copy of your medical record with the items in question circled. Send your letter by certified mail, and ask for a “return receipt” so you can document what the plan or provider received. Keep copies of your dispute letter and enclosures.

            Says Siciliano, “Treat your medical identity as you treat your financial identity. Protect yourself.”

           Here’s how to up the odds that they ask you to stick around.

             Be a problem solver

           You have an advantage over the outside competition, you’re on the ground, you have first-hand knowledge about the challenges the organization is facing. “Leverage that insight to make a pitch for how you can help them fill in a gap or address a need,” says Shawn Graham, author, Courting Your Career.

            However, listen first, then speak. “Learn about the company from an insider’s point of view. Understand the culture, and gradually begin to offer opinions and suggestions to your manager and peers,” says Barbara Poole, founder of Employaid.

            Produce

            Make no mistake about it, there’s a strong correlation between personal marketability and personal productivity. When managers are making decisions about adding full-time head count, they’re going to focus on your ability to go above and beyond the expectations of your current role as a temporary employee, adds Graham.

            Be a self promoter

            Don’t be shameless. But your perceived value to the organization could hinge solely on your boss and how much he or she promotes your contributions to others in the department or company. “Instead of leaving it to chance, look for opportunities to participate on, and have an impact with, teams comprised of members from all levels of the organization,” says Graham.

            Be a part of the team

            “Don’t act like a temp. Act like you belong there long term,” says Stacey O’Neill, managing director of The Mergis Group, a professional recruiting company. Treat the temp opportunity as a working interview. Dress and act the part, she adds.

            Furthermore, arrive early, be prepared to start work on time and volunteer to stay late if needed. Do exceptional work, no matter how mundane the task, says Roberta Chinsky Matuson, president, Human Resource Solutions.

            Act counter intuitively. “Don’t keep your head down, simply getting your job done. Introduce yourself to peer level and management staff. Become a face with a name,” says Poole.

            Networking is key, and so is finding a mentor. “Even an informal mentor, someone who can champion you to hiring managers and human resources, can make the difference,” says Wendy Boswell, associate professor at the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University.

            Speak up

            Make your intentions known. Tell people of your interest in remaining. “Tell everyone how much you like working there. Ask people to be alert for full time opportunities lest the job you are temping for does not become permanent,” says Sandra Naiman, author, The High Achiever’s Secret Codebook: The Unwritten Rules of Success at Work.

            Then too, ask questions to find out what they are looking for in a permanent employee and do those things, adds Dan Caramanico of Caramanico Maguire Associates.

            Attitude determines altitude

           “Always have a pleasant, cooperative and willing attitude, even if the work sucks or the work environment is not where you would want to work. A good referral from someone there could help you find a permanent position elsewhere,” says Carl Wellenstein, author of 12 Steps to a New Career.

           Don’t go it alone

           If you’re not sure of what moves to make, consider a coach.

         “Get a partner in crime. Two heads are better than one. A coach can brainstorm new directions and help you with blind spots. We can develop an action plan,” says Rich Gee of Rich Gee Coaching.

           You have your foot in the door, make it hard for them to say goodbye.