Sarah Graves
Sarah Graves, Ph.D. is a freelance writer specializing in personal finance, parenting, education, and creative entrepreneurship. She's also a college instructor of English and humanities. When not busy writing or teaching her students the proper use of a semicolon, you can find her hanging out with her awesome husband and adorable son watching way too many superhero movies.
How to Donate a Used Car to Charity
If an extra vehicle is gathering dust in your driveway, donating it to charity lets you skip the hassle of selling it and may land you a tax deduction. But it’s crucial to follow these steps to ensure the charity gets the most it can from the car — and you get the biggest tax deduction possible.
Income-Driven Repayment Plans – Pros & Cons of IDR for Student Loans
Income-driven repayment (IDR) plans can be a lifesaver for those seriously struggling with student loan debt. However, not everyone benefits from an IDR plan. Before you decide to enroll, carefully weigh the pros and cons against your own debt and income levels.
12 Ways to Save on Spring Cleaning Costs – Tips & Ideas
The arrival of spring heralds the season of cleaning. It can be a therapeutic activity that leaves you feeling lighter and your home fresher. But if you’re not careful, it can also lighten your wallet. That’s why it’s crucial to follow these tips to save money anywhere and everywhere you can.
How to Donate Your Used Stuff to Charity – 6 Tips for Giving the...
Do you have a lot of stuff you just don’t need? Fortunately, you can donate it to charity for a tax deduction. But don’t just drop stuff off at a drop box. Several best practices ensure the donation process goes as smoothly and the charity can make the most of your donation.
28 Best Places to Donate Your Used Stuff (Charities & Thrift Stores)
Few things make it easier to let go of possessions than knowing they’re going to a worthy cause. But to maximize the good your stuff can do, you have to know the best places to donate different types of merchandise. These charities have different niches, but they all allow you to help those in need.
Container Gardening 101: How to Grow Your Own Food in Plant Pots
More and more people are enjoying the benefits of food gardening. But you don’t have to dig a plot in the ground to grow your own fruits and vegetables. It’s relatively easy to begin container gardening. You just need a few basic supplies and some tips to get your garden going on the cheap.
35 Ways to Save Money on a Home Vegetable Garden
Penny-pinchers and green thumbs alike often tout gardening as a way to save on groceries. But it’s easy to spend a small fortune on it. Fortunately, with a few DIY skills, you don’t have to spend a lot. It’s possible to start your own vegetable garden for next to nothing.
Should I Consolidate My Federal Student Loans? – When It Makes Sense
Federal student loan consolidation can help you manage multiple monthly payments to multiple servicers. And there are certain circumstances under which federal student loan consolidation makes sense. But it’s not right for everyone. Find out whether it’s the right strategy for you.
How to Consolidate Federal Student Loans Into One Monthly Payment
If you’re one of the millions of Americans who’ve graduated with student loan debt, you're likely making multiple loan payments. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by so many monthly payments. That’s where student loan consolidation comes in. But how do you do it, and what are your options?
What to Do With Your Undergrad Student Loans Before Grad School
If you’re going to grad school, you probably have student loan debt left over from your undergrad degree. Ignoring it could be costly thanks to accruing interest and capitalization effects. Deciding on a plan to tackle this debt before heading back to school will help you save in the long run.
30 Fun New Year’s Eve Party Ideas for Food, Games & Decorations
Many of us think of New Year’s Eve as a holiday geared toward adults. After all, we stay up past kids’ bedtimes, wear fancy clothes, and toast the new year with Champagne. But there are lots of fun ways to involve kids in New Year’s Eve celebrations.
40 Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Teens (on Every Budget)
Teens are a tricky group to buy for. They’re the first to latch onto the latest trends. And their tastes change faster than you can make a shopping list. But with this list of trendy ideas, you’re sure to find something to thrill the teen on your list, no matter your holiday budget.
