A round of applause for Theresa Bandell, director of the Baltimore accounting firm Stegman & Co., for answering these readers' questions:

Q. A couple bought a house 40 years ago for $30,000. He died 10 years after buying the house and the fair market value was $70,000 at that time. She sold the house in 2008 for $400,000. What is her basis in the house without regards to improvements or settlement fees? I was told that it is $50,000: one half the fair market value at the time of purchase plus half of the market value at the time of her husband’s death. Is that correct?

 

A. The wife may be entitled to a full-step up in basis as of the date of death if the house was a pre-77 spousal joint interest, and the wife did not contribute toward the purchase of the property. In this situation the property was purchased in 1969; therefore the wife is entitled to basis of $70,000 as long as she did not contribute money to the purchase of the property.

Q. We are homeowners who will be non-occupying co-borrowers for a house our son will purchase and be on the title. It will be his primary residence. He will be paying a portion of the mortgage and we will be paying the rest (25 him /75% us). We are pretty sure he will be eligible for the first time homebuyer’s tax credit, but if we rent out a room in the same house to help make our portion of the mortgage payment, will this disqualify him from getting the tax credit? Many thanks for any help you can provide on this!

A. Your son will qualify for the credit based on the percentage he purchased and paid 25%. The fact that you are renting your portion of the property does not affect his credit.

Q. My boyfriend and I purchased a house in Pennsylvania in August 2008. I am a first-time homebuyer; he has owned a house before but not in the last 6 years. We are not living in it yet, as we are living in a rental apartment in New Jersey during renovation work. Do we qualify for the first-time homebuyer credit?

A. You both may be entitled to the credit allocated between the two of you, but you must take possession and occupy the property as your principal residence by December 1, 2009.

UPDATE: Got more questions about the $8,000 first-time homebuyer credit? E-mail them to Eileen.ambrose@baltsun.com before Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009 and then tune in at noon on Sept. 8 for her live chat with IRS spokesman Jim Dupree to get the answers.

Freecreditreport.com will be curtailed even further within nine months, when the recently passed credit card reform bill goes into effect, according to the U.S. PIRG blog.

You may recognize freecreditreport.com from frequent commercials that hardly make a mention of the credit monitoring service it's really pitching.

U.S. PIRG reveals what they call a "hidden gem" in the CARD bill: Section 205, which curtails deceptive marketing of credit reports. Essentially it requires anyone advertising free credit reports must include language to inform consumers that "this is not the free credit report provided for by federal law" and to remind them to go to annualcreditreport.com.

U.S. PIRG also reminds readers that Marylanders are eligible for TWO free credit reports each year ... 

... from each of the credit reporting bureaus. We've told you this before, but U.S. PIRG points out you'll have to do some work to get them: 

"The bureaus hate the state laws, so you'll have to listen carefully to their voicemail pick lists to find out how to order your free reports if you live in one of those free report states. Be persistent and complain to your state Attorney General if you think that it is warranted."

You can also order your free credit reports via mail or phone.

 

Is a Sam's Club $15 summer membership a good deal?

Shanna first told us about it last week. Sign up for the promotion by June 7. With it, you can enjoy Sam's Club deals for 100 days, which should take you through Labor Day and back-to-school shopping.

At 100 days, the seasonal membership only costs 15 cents per day. Sounds good, huh? 

Well, this sounds an awful lot like the 10-weeks-for-$10 special Sam's Club was advertising last October, which we pointed out then ... 

... costs more per week or day than an annual $3540 membership, according to Consumer Reports' analysis.

Basically, if you think you'll save at these stores, you may as well buy the whole year's membership --- and be sure that there will be at least $4035 worth of savings.

Not sure whether it's right for you? Take advantage of Sam's Club's free one-day trial (warning: as Anonymous tells us below, you'll pay a 10 percent service charge on all purchases; valid through June 7) or BJ's free summer membership pass through July 6.

Take a notebook and write down the prices of items you usually buy, like milk, bread, detergent, toilet paper, over-the-counter drugs, etc. (here's warehouse store price comparison to get you started). Then take it to your regular grocery store and do the same thing (or just jot down the prices from some recent receipts).

You might find that the savings is not as great as you might imagine, because the warehouses have limited selection. For example, I bought some party trays at Sam's Club a few months ago, only to discover I could have purchased a better veggie platter at Safeway for the exact same price. They didn't have the kind of napkins I wanted, and I didn't have enough cash to invest in the giant package of disposable cups.

Also, you'll have to watch out for impulse purchases of things you might not normally pick up --- 12-pack of croissants, I'm talking to you!

IN OTHER SAVINGS NEWS ... courtesy of Chris (Harbor East): Restaurant.com is extending its 80 percent off sale through May 30. Pay just $2 for a certificate worth $25 with the coupon code SPECIAL. Usual Restaurant.com warnings and caveats apply.

It’s still a buyer’s market — provided you can qualify for a mortgage.

Standard & Poor’s Case-Shiller Home Price index - covering the nine census divisions - show that the price of homes across the country set a record decline in the first quarter. The index fell a record 19.1 percent in the first quarter, the largest decline in the 21 years of tracking.

“Declines in residential real estate continued at a steady pace into March,” says S&P’s David M. Blitzer.

Of 20 metro areas looked at, all showed negative annual rates with 9 having record annual declines, he says. A bright finding: Nine areas looked at showed some improvement from February to March.

Since the peak of the spring 2006, average home prices plunged 32.2 percent, the S&P reports.

Baltimore isn’t in the index, but Washington, D.C. is. Housing prices in D.C. are down 18.6 percent from a year ago.

Reader Mary Ellen Stepowany made my Friday afternoon when she called to say that the lights along the Harbor Promenade were finally lit after dark.

The waterfront path connecting Federal Hill and Canton is a popular destination for many people whether their usual mode of transportation is bike, stroller or their own two feet.

It's been more than two years since street lights were installed along Union Wharf, an undeveloped property, and more than a year since we first mentioned the unlit street light problem in Watchdog. It was determined that although the city's department of transportation built the path in this area (near where Wolfe Street and Thames streets deadend at the water) the developer Larry Silverstein needed to connect the lights to power.

And as we told you in Sunday's Watchdog update, transportation staff worked with the developer to locate the conduits and connect the lights. Stepowany, who can see the path from her home, saw workers at the lights early last week and spotted the lit fixtures later.

Elsewhere in the Sunday paper ...

... we discussed the credit card reform bill. Consumer advocates seemed to think that there will always be credit available to good consumers, and banks will compete for the business of good customers by offering incentives --- although they may not be as lucrative as they have been in the past, with fewer cards that don't charge an annual fee, fewer perks such as airline miles or cash back rebates, etc.

The bottom line: credit cards will still be available, because banks still make money off them, through interchange fees charged to merchants for every purchase as well as interest and penalties.

However, as Chris (Harbor East) said, the reform will probably make it harder for those with limited credit histories (such as young people or recent immigrants) to get credit. Those with spotty records will have difficulties as well --- both side effects that may slow economic recovery.

How do you use credit cards --- as default payment for every purchase, just for large purchases, or rarely? Would you give up your cards if your bank started charging an annual fee or interest as soon as a purchase was made?

Be sure to check out Watchdog on Sunday to see how three vexing problems have been resolved. Enjoy the holiday weekend, and remember ---- if you're on the road this weekend, or planning to vacation later this summer, check out The Sun's travel page for tips and ideas!

"Specials 4 Tuesday's #bmoretweetup at the Wind-Up Space. $2 Yuenglings, Miller Lites and rail drinks. $3 Tequila sunrises til 8. Fun times!!"

Here's the details:

The Baltimore Sun Tweetup
6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday, May 26
The Windup Space
12 W North Ave, Baltimore, MD 21201

Hope to see you there!

(photo: Gene Sweeney Jr./Baltimore Sun)

 

This year is not last year.

As Getting There blogger Michael Dresser points out, more people are expected to drive this Memorial Day weekend than did in 2008, because the gas costs $1.50 less per gallon on average.

(Check out Dresser's Bay Bridge crossing tips, if you are headed to the shore, and tips for avoiding the Delaware I-95 tolls.)

Don't get me wrong --- it's still more expensive than a few weeks ago, and I'm thinking it's hot enough to revive some of those gas-miser hypermiling tips and techniques we talked about last summer to avoid ruining my fuel efficiency stats with air conditioning use.

If you've got the funds, this might be a good time to take advantage of Walt Disney World discounts and savings, because lower demand means deals abound on Disney hotels and lodging.

But with unemployment on the rise and job security on the decline, staycations aren't out of style yet ... 

... especially now that I've read this list of cheap, fun, easy staycation ideas from Max Winton, the author of The Great American Staycation, as interviewed by Tightwad Tod at Consumer Reports.

I love his suggestion of asking for behind-the-scenes tours of places kids might be curious about, like how the pinsetters at the bowling alley. What about heading to the Thomas A. Dixon Observation Area along the BWI trail in Anne Arundel County to check out aircraft coming in for a landing? Much more fun than waiting on line to get through airport security.

There's also camping in your backyard ... or even the living room, if your kids are not blessed with backyard space. 

Winton's definition of staycation is broad, including nearby attractions such as water parks (Chesapeake Beach Water Park in Calvert County comes to mind) or museums in other towns, such as the Calvert Marine Museum on Solomons Island. Now, I'm not suggesting that $16 or $18 admission per person is cheap --- but it can seem cheap in comparison, when you aren't paying for hotels or airfare.

For adults, there are wineries (check out the Frederick Wine Trail and other Maryland Wine Trails), historic home tours (the Hampton Historic Site in Towson is right off the beltway) and small towns with interesting Main Streets within day-trip distance (how about Easton or St. Michaels?), so you can avoid lodging costs. 

UPDATED: Lots more Maryland staycation ideas can be found on The Sun's Travel page. Any other good options we left out? Please share them in the comments. 

(photo: Kim Hairston/Baltimore Sun)

Coupon! Free Baskin-Robbins 31-below with purchase of another regularly priced blended ice cream thing, via dealnews. Coupon good until June 21, but also enjoy 88-cent Baskin-Robbin soft serve cones until Memorial Day. Via dealnews.

Coupon! Save $10 off $50 purchases at DSW in honor of the store's birthday. Thanks, @Juliemore!

Cleaning and refurnishing the house this weekend? Save 50 percent off clearance items at World Market until Monday. Thanks, @KellyBrew!

And save 50 percent off select items at Pottery Barn. Gratzie, @dealnews!

Not sure what to do with the rugrats -- or significant other -- on a rainy day or one that's too hot to bear? Here are some movie options for the summer months that cost far less than what's offered at your local multiplex.

The Enoch Pratt Free Library will show Free Family Flicks at the Central Library on Saturdays starting Memorial Day weekend. Here's the lineup for May and June:

Cars: Saturday, May 23, 2 p.m., Wheeler Auditorium
Bolt: Saturday, May 30, 2 p.m., Wheeler Auditorium
Surf’s Up: Saturday, June 20, 2 p.m., Meyerhoff Children’s Garden
The Iron Giant: Saturday, June 27, 2 p.m., Meyerhoff Children’s Garden

And here's a list of other free films at the Enoch Pratt Free Library.

The Southeast Anchor Library will also offer free movies on Monday afternoons in July and August.

Last summer we told you about all the free outdoor movies shown in Baltimore -- great ways to stay cool while enjoying some free entertainment. Bring a picnic dinner and it's a frugal deal.

Here's a list of schedules I found for 2009:

Village of Cross Keys MovieFest: films with ties to Baltimore start at about 8:30 p.m. on Saturday nights in June (June 6 through June 27) with dinner specials, music, prizes and other activities kicking off at 6:30 p.m.

Hopkins Summer Outdoor Films, Friday nights starting June 12. The movies start at sunset after live music at 7:30 p.m.

Films on the Pier, Wednesdays at 8:45 p.m. starting July 1 on the Broadway Pier in Fells Point. In case of inclement weather, shown Thursdays. (thanks for the tip, Heather! -- lfk.) 

American Visionary Arts Museum's Free Flicks on the Hill, 9 p.m. Thursdays from July 2 through Aug. 13

Little Italy's Cinema al Fresco, 9 p.m. Fridays from July 3 to Aug. 28

Belvedere Square Free Outdoor Movies, 8:30 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month starting June 16.

Outside of Baltimore, check out the Regal Free Family Film Festival for gratis movies in Westminster, Bel Air, Glen Burnie and Hunt Valley, as well as Frederick, Salisbury, Hagerstown and Germantown. Schedules vary at each theater.

Cheap movies for kids are offered through the AMC Summer MovieCamp in Columbia and Randallstown. There's discount concessions, too, and proceeds go to charity. Here's that schedule:

June 17: Space Chimps (G)
June 24: Kung Fu Panda (PG)
July 1: Madagascar Escape 2 (PG)
July 8: Tale of Despereaux (G)
July 15: Horton Hears a Who (G)
July 22: The Spiderwick Chronicles (PG)
July 29: Nim’s Island (PG)
August 5: Star Wars: The Clone Wars (PG)

Credit card companies will still make tons of profit off credit card users, even with the reforms passed by the Senate yesterday, sez Sun business columnist Jay Hancock over at his blog.

Thus, he's not spooked by the ominous threats posed by the spokesman of the American Bankers Association in a New York Times story predicting credit card issuers will punish people who pay off their bills on time by charging annual fees and interest on purchases as soon as they are made.

I see Jay's point and would also add ... 

... that fees levied on consumers are not the only source of income for credit card issuers. Don't forget that credit card companies also charge merchants for the privilege of accepting a convenient payment method.

Still, incentive programs such as frequent flyer miles or hotel points may change or be eliminated altogether, as one of Jay's commenters has already noted.

And experts quoted by CBS News worry that the credit card issuers will raise fees and otherwise soak consumers before this bill takes effect nine months from now.

The mouse is coming to Maryland? Say it ain't so. (Quick, grab your kids before the words to "It's A Small World" become programmed into their brains.) Apparently it is so, according to this report in today's Washington Post. Disney bought a 15-acre parcel of land at the National Harbor in Prince George's County with plans to build a 500-room resort. It seems that some years ago, Disney had plans to build a history-themed park called "Disney's America" near the Manassas Battlefield in Virginia but were run off by politicians and Civil War-reenactors. Since then, the mouse hasn't made a peep in the area. But now, I guess it's M-I-C, see you real soon. K-E-Y, why? Because they like us.

We've discussed before how not only do  people with lower incomes have less money to spend on their needs, but the poor also often have to pay more for basic expenses as well.

Some of the loyal members of The Sun's talk forums spotted this story in the Washington Post, which took a closer look at the premium charged for the most critical services --- food, banking and even laundry --- in poorer neighborhoods.

For example: you pay more for groceries than folks who have cars and the money to afford memberships to warehouse stores or even the shops with the best prices.

The expenditures take on a cyclical nature as well. If you don't have money when you receive a bill ... 

... you probably can't send a check in the mail, which only costs the price of a stamp. You might go to a check-cashing service to pay a bill on the day it's due to avoid late penalties, even though you have to pay the fee the check casher charges for that convenience.

Another limited resource is time. As the story states, simple errands that many of us take for granted (like doing laundry) can become multiple-hour ordeals when you don't have access to a convenient washer-dryer set up or can't afford a car to ease a commute between work and child care.

We've talked a lot about the value of money; based on this story, it's clear that money offers people choices.

We're in the throes of the high season for limousine rentals, what with proms, wedding and other activities clustered in the warmer months of the year. But don't get burned by an unscrupulous car-for-hire service, like some unlucky teens featured last week by WMAR-TV.

These Cinderellas wanted a Hummer stretch limo for their trip to the ball, but they might have found winter squash more reliable.

According to the story, they hired White Glove Limousine Service, which unfortunately had not followed the procedures set by the Maryland Public Service Commission, the agency that regulates limosines, taxis and other for-hire passenger services.

On Monday the PSC subpeonaed the Owings Mills-based White Glove Limousine Service, calling them to come before the commissioners on Wednesday with documentation, including the names of contractors that have worked with them.

Company officials informed the PSC that they only act as a referral service for limosine sub-contractors that meet PSC regulations, but that contradicts the claims in their advertising.

According to the story, Maryland Limosine Association officials say that companies like these often advertise on the Internet offering rides at discounted rates. So how do you protect yourself?

You can check the PSC Web site for licensed limousine drivers and, more importantly, the limousine companies they work for.

You should also make sure, as the WMAR-TV story points out, that

"... the operator has the proper stickers from the public service commission, the right registration and tags like that end in a ‘B’ ‘LM’ or ‘P,’ and above all go look at the limo you want to rent."

To file a limousine or taxi complaint, go to the PSC Web site.

(photo: Associated Press)

The online travel site BookIt.com is offering a free* Blackberry or smart phone or music phone when you book your vacation at their site. That's a value of $349. But please note the asterisk. You have to enter into a 2-year calling plan agreement and pay the usual activation fees. Still, from what I can tell, the phone itself is free.

I like the fact that it's an instant rebate, no mail-in required. And it looks like BookIt.com has a handy Q&A where they spell out all of the details of the offer - including the fact that iPhones are not part of the deal. The offer doesn't expire until 2010 or while supplies last.

Extended auto warranty calls have been dealt another blow!

An Illinois judge has issued temporary restraining orders against two companies responsible for about a billion  extended car warranty "robo-calls", according to the Associated Press.  

We told you last week that the Federal Trade Commission had sued two companies over these extended auto warranty calls, and readers certainly have shared their robo-call horror stories.

The restraining order will remain in effect until May 29, when an FTC hearing has been scheduled on these calls. 

Don't miss Sunday's Watchdog, where we fill you in on a water leak that has persisted for months without resolution, despite numerous reports by neighbors.

Remember, if you see a problem in Baltimore, call 311 first or submit a 311 report online. Then, hang on to that confirmation number --- it can be e-mailed to you!

Baltimore County residents can also use the online system or call 410.396.5352 to report problems with water service or water main leaks in their communities.

You can use that to check the status of the request in the future, or use it to reference the problem if, say, you decide to e-mail Watchdog about it.

 

A quick roundup of some recent travel stuff:

-Southwest is offering last-minute Memorial Day travel sale. Don't know where to or how good, but it's Southwest, so it's probably a bargain.

-Speaking of Memorial Day, Hampton Inn is offering a $9 Amazon gift card to AAA members who book a weekend stay by June 30. Use code CLOUD9 and you'll also be entered to win a hotel bedding package. Hilton HHonors members can also earn 1,000 bonus points per night.

-Today's the last day for AirTran's most recent 3-day sale. The New York Times writes about the travel trend of "flash sales," basically too-good-to-miss prices/sales that pop up for hours or a few days and are gone in a flash.

-Here's an example of a flash sale: Atlantis Paradise Island Resorts in the Bahamas is having a "48-Hour Frenzy" sale beginning Saturday (at 7 a.m.) with discounts up to 65% off.  There's a 4-night offer at The Reef starting at $399 per person and kids age 11 and under stay free. You have to arrive on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday. Taxes, gratuity, etc may add up to $110 per person. (Please read the fine print.) Here's the link, but it doesn't go live until 7 a.m.

-And if you prefer staying close to home, it's a beautiful time of year to escape to a nearby garden for picnics and more. From the colonial gardens of Colonial Williamsburg to the crisp woods of Winterthur Museum & Country Estate. Take your pick.

Photo courtesy of Atlantis Paradise Island Resorts

Chrysler has closed more than 700 dealerships nationwide, and now more than 1,000 General Motors dealerships are facing a similar closure fate.

Yesterday, the out-of-luck owners on the Chrysler dealership closing list were told they have a limited time to get rid of their inventory. I'm curious: is anyone tempted to buy a vehicle from one of these dealers, because clearly with the need to move product, there could be a lot of room to bargain and negotiate.

As business reporter Andrea Walker wrote: 

Chrysler won't buy back the 40,000 vehicles that are on the lots of the dealers slated to close. The dealers won't be able to sell the cars themselves after June 9 when they are no longer affiliated with the company. Chrysler said it will help redistribute the cars to remaining dealers and said there should be a demand for them because the automaker isn't producing cars while it's in bankruptcy proceedings.

Dealers get loans to purchase cars from the manufacturer, Andrea says, so if they don't make the sales and if Chrysler doesn't have to buy them back, they are in a tight situation.

Then again, you might wonder about the fate of your rebates and other incentives if you've already bought a car from one of these endangered dealers. Consumer Reports offered advice last month about bankrupt car dealerships and other potential problems.

UPDATED: Here's an Los Angeles Times primer on how warranties and rebates would be affected by Chrysler, GM dealership closings. According to them ...

(Photo: Lloyd Fox/Baltimore Sun)

... prices have already been slashed, so dealers might not have much more room to cut. Also:

In addition, with sticker prices already low, buyers need to be wary of aggressive attempts to get them to buy pricey add-ons, such as extended warranties or fabric protection, he said. And with so much unsold inventory sitting on dealer lots, buyers need to make sure that the car they think is a 2009 model isn't actually a leftover 2008, said [Philip] Reed of Edmunds.com.

 

If you're annoyed by telemarketers pitching an extended car warranty on your home or work phone or even your cell phone, here's some good news.

The Federal Trade Commission has filed suit in federal court in Chicago to stop two car warranty companies from calling.

According to the FTC, the suit alleges that the companies --- a telemarketer and a phony auto warranty company --- used pre-recorded random robo-calls to get people to believe that their warranties were expiring. In many cases, the warranties were still valid or had already expired.

But, if people responded, they were pressured to buy extended contracts and were led to believe that the warranties came from the vehicle's manufacturer, prolonging the original warranty. 

A total of five phone numbers resulted in 30,000 complaints to the Do Not Call registry as well as many comments from readers when we first discussed extended auto warranty calls last year.

Here are the FTC's tips for avoiding extended auto warranty scams. If you're a victim, you can file an FTC complaint online or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).

What's a little flu if you can get a great deal? Well, that's my take on it here, and I'm not convinced that those people who talk about "passive" infection are wrong.

But this is travel, not health, so we're all about saving money on your next trip. And if you make that next trip a beach in Mexico, Apple Vacations will save you a lot of dough. The travel provider is offering crazy discounts to Mexico in their "Biggest-Ever Sale" with three nights in Cancun starting at $519 per person, including the flight from Baltimore. Punta Cana starts at $579 for three nights.

That's probably less than what you'll spend in Ocean City this summer, but I haven't heard of any H1N1 flu cases on the Eastern Shore. Just sayin.

Photo of the Grand Sunset Princess in Riviera Maya courtesy of Apple Vacations

Enjoy $17 mini-facials and other spa treatments at Life Time Fitness's LifeSpa this weekend, with Maryland locations in Columbia and Rockville.

Reservations are required for these discounted services, offered from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, May 17.

Treatments, designed to "make you feel 17 again", include:

1. Mini Facial
2. Mini Pedicure (foot soak, shape nails, polish)
3. Shampoo & Style
4. Back and Shoulder Massage
5. Men’s Haircut
6. Men’s Clarifying Hair Treatment

Regular prices range from $20 to $65 for the hair treatments and $35 to $75 for the others. Call 410-953-0022 to make appointments at the Columbia location and 240-314-7022 for Rockville.

Two Targets in Baltimore County will start offering more fresh produce, meats and bakery items this year, according to a spokeswoman.

This is good news for fans of Target's liberal couponing policy, allowing folks to use both store coupons and manufacturers' coupons on the same item.

AND: Don't forget Target posts its store coupons online. Forget your stack at home, or don't have a printer? Just print out Target coupons at the registry kiosk before you shop. 

Pfizer is offering free Viagra, Lipitor and other drugs to recently unemployed workers who meet certain conditions, according to the Associated Press. 

According to the story, you won't be able to pick up free pills if you haven't been using them before:

"The world's biggest drugmaker will provide more than 70 of its prescription drugs at no cost to unemployed, uninsured Americans, regardless of their prior income, who lost jobs since Jan. 1 and have been on the Pfizer drug for three months or more".

Add them to the list of layoff specials offered by many businesses around the country, including  Virgin Mobile's offer to cover cell phone bills for folks on monthly plans, car manufacturers eliminating your monthly payments or Jos. A. Bank refunding the price of a new suit.

The story explains that the offer comes in the wake of lots of criticism of the drug manufacturing industry's practices and prices, especially as more folks find themselves unemployed, and uninsured, due to the recession.

Here's a list of good deals to share:

--- Chris (Harbor East) pointed out Restaurant.com is offering 70 percent off its already discounted gift certificates with the promotion code TASTY until Saturday (May 16). But as we told you before, don't forget to read the fine print on your Restaurant.com offers before you buy!

--- Click the link for the coupon for a free one-day guest pass to Sam's Club via Consumerist.

--- Save on clothes for kids with this 30 percent off Gymboree coupon from Slickdeals.

--- Also from Slickdeals: get a free MEGA building set with purchase of $30 worth of MEGA toys.

Cabbing it to Preakness this year, or have friends coming into town? The Maryland Public Service Commission, which regulates taxi rates in Baltimore city, offers these tips to avoid getting swindled on the way to or from the Stakes. Take note: these rules are in effect year-round, so watch for some of these tricks on other days as well.

•    Taxi cabs being hailed from Baltimore City or Baltimore County may not offer a flat rate to Pimlico.
•    Taxis may not charge per-person charges.
•    Signs displaying a per-person or flat charge rate violate Commission regulations.
•    Passengers should only pay the amount displayed on the meter.
•    If there is no fare displayed on the meter, passengers are NOT obligated to pay the fare requested.  Customers may tip the driver at their discretion.
•    Passengers are required by law to pay is the fare on the meter, which covers the entire party in the cab
•    Check the meter for a blue tab, which shows it has been sealed and checked by the Commission.
•    Customers have the right to check the driver’s badge, which located on the sides and rear cabs.  Get that number if you plan to file a complaint with the Commission – that will confirm the identify of the driver.

Don't take a cab that claims to charge a flat rate to Pimlico. In Baltimore, the only flat rates are from downtown or the cruise ship terminal to BWI Marshall Airport, which cost $30.

Here are the taxi rates:

•    The base meter rate is $1.80 upon entering the cab (this includes the first 1/11 of a mile).
•    Each additional 1/11th mile traveled costs $.0.20 ($2.20 per mile).
•    There is also a charge of $.0.20 for each 30 seconds of waiting time (red lights).
•    A $1 charge (not included on the meter) applies if you call a taxi association for service.

You might remember debate earlier this year about whether taxi rates would change. The commission has decided to review the rates charged above, in light of changing costs of business, but the current rates will remain in effect until changes are approved.

If you ride cabs frequently and would like to submit testimony to the commission about rates, contact:

Maryland Public Service Commission

Transportation Department, attn. Hilary Hammerman
William D. Schaefer Tower
6 St. Paul Street, 15th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202

(photo: Amy Davis)

 

Free skin cancer screenings are available this month thanks to the American Academy of Dermatology, according to Consumer Reports.

In Maryland, there are three medical professionals offering screenings, two on May 21, so make your appointments early --- they are bound to fill up fast. None are in Baltimore --- Chevy Chase, Randallstown and Waldorf. 

As CR states, the screening wouldn't take the place of an exam by your own doctor if you've got something on your skin that you're worried about, but it's a good choice if you don't have health insurance.

UPDATED:  The AAD has offered these screenings as part of Skin Cancer Awareness Month. There's a site in Westminster as well:

The dermatology office of Dr. Lawrence Feldman and Dr. Teri Kahn
8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 30, 2009
902 Washington Road
Westminster, Md.
Call 410-876-0286 to make an appointment.

Searching for good deals on items on eBay? This Consumer Web Site of the Week will help you find auctions with fewer bids --- meaning the products could be purchased for way below market value.

It comes recommended by Community Coordinator Carla, who is also a Savvy Shopper. She found the site Typozay, which lets you search for misspelled listings on eBay. As the site description explains, "no one searches for the auctions with typos."

Other sites that perform similar functions include FatFingers and auction-typos.com. If you've got a favorite, please share below.

This technique works on Craigslist, too:

the site Typobuddy searches both eBay and Craigslist for items listed by sellers who take liberties with brand names. They also include a list of popularly misspelled words, such as Louis Vuitton and Abercrombie.

And don't forget to use RSS feeds to save on Craigslist ... another way to spot deals quickly.

Door-to-door magazine sales have been around for ages, but watch out for the hard sell, warns the Better Business Bureau of Greater Baltimore.

The BBB has received more than 1,100 complaints from 46 states and Washington, DC about door-to-door magazine sales --- usually people who look like high school or college students, some of whom say they are selling to raise money for troops overseas. Or that they won't get to eat today if you don't buy now?

Common complaints, in addition to the heavy pressure to buy, include not receiving the magazines that have been paid for.

But here's a tip regarding door-to-door sales: 

The Federal Trade Commission has a three-day cooling-off rule that allows consumers to cancel purchases greater than $25 not made in the seller's permanent place of business.

It won't work for cars, real estate or crafts purchased at a fair, but it would definitely cover these sorts of sales.

Here's a list of the magazine sales companies that have generated the most complaints, according to the BBB:

* Trinity Public Relations in North Carolina and Seedtime Publications in South Carolina, both owned by the same couple, registered 286 complaints. Complainants report not receiving the subscriptions they paid for and some allege sales reps used high pressure sales tactics. Trinity Public Relations was closed down by the North Carolina attorney general and Seedtime Publications has also closed in South Carolina.

* Prestige Sales, LLC garnered 33 complaints from 12 states. Consumers said they didn't receive their magazines and were told lies about what the funds were being raised for. 

* Michigan City, IN-based Omni Horizons Inc., which has received 122 complaints from consumers in 17 states according to the BBB Serving Northern Indiana;

* Chesapeake, VA-based True Visions Inc., which has received 82 complaints from 13 states according to the BBB of Greater Hampton Roads;

* Memphis-based Greater Image, Inc., which has received 71 complaints from 16 states according to the BBB serving the Mid-South; and,

* Seattle-based Fresh Start Opportunities, which has received 66 complaints from seven states according to the BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington.

 

Free Haagen-Dazs ice cream from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today (May 12) at participating locations! Use the Haagen-Dazs store locator to call your nearest shop first and see whether they are participating before you go.

Get your free scoop of the ice-cream company's "Bee-built" flavors --- designed to highlight the contributions bees make to the tasty foods we eat and to draw attention to the problem of colony collapse disorder, a problem of unknown origin that has led to significant losses in the pollinating bee population across the United States.

Wondering what this means to you? It could lead to higher food prices down the line. "About one mouthful in three in the diet directly or indirectly benefits from honey bee pollination," according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service.

Bees pollinate crops of fruit and nuts, including strawberries, almonds, coconut, pineapple and lemons (not to mention honey they produce themselves). Read more about the Haagen-Dazs Help the Honeybees campaign here.

(photo: Glenn Fawcett/Baltimore Sun)

We all have our limits.

That's what I was thinking when I read the descriptions of the "Cheapest People I Know" over at WalletPop, compiling the best entries from an AOL message board about people who take frugal too far.

Like the guy who gives people "gifts" of books and CDs he had borrowed from the library? Why does anyone still invite him to parties?

Or the husband who collects flowers from the cemetery to arrange a new bouquet for his wife ... how is that not stealing? 

But I don't disagree with some of these habits ... 

... such as taking slivers of soap and molding them into larger bars to avoid waste. But I wouldn't cut back on showering just to save the soap and water. That seems a bit extreme.

And what's wrong with wearing clothes from the lost and found pile at a national park, if you work at said outdoor venue?

But maybe the family that reuses salad dressing --- pours the leftovers from their salad bowls back into the bottle for a future meal --- should use a lighter hand when dousing their greens in the first place. Just saying.

We've covered the difference between frugal and cheap before, but here's how I make the distinction: "frugal" means avoiding waste and maximizing value, without sacrificing safety, logic or  hospitality --- and without violating any laws. No, you can't justify stealing by saying you were saving a buck. And avoiding car maintenance like regular oil changes will just you more in the long run.

Where do you draw the line? What's the most unacceptable thing you've observed someone do in the name of saving money? 

UPDATED: KFC said rainchecks for free grilled chicken will be mailed by June 19.

As a number of readers have noted, if you were able to print your free grilled chicken coupons from the Oprah Winfrey Show promotion, KFC will issue you a raincheck instead of giving you free chicken right away, according to a statement on the KFC Web site.

"We expected an enormous response, but we never expected anything like this," said CEO Roger Eaton.

Be sure to bring it to stores before May 19. The coupon can be redeemed at a later date, and it will also be valid for a free Pepsi drink.

TGIF - for so many reasons. But here's one more: Radisson Hotels is launching a summerlong promotion that lets travelers stay overnight on Fridays for free. Whoa. There is a catch - you also have to stay either the Thursday before or the Saturday after. And you have to pay for that night. So it's kinda like stay one night, get a night free. Either way, it's a great deal. Especially for those of you who like to play hooky on Fridays or just take long weekends. (I'm not looking at you.)

The "Friday is Freeday" offer begins today and is available for travel May 15 through Sept. 15 at participating Radisson Hotels in North, Central and South America and Asia Pacific. Also available at the Radisson Edwardian Hotels in the United Kingdom. That's like, basically, everywhere. Sorta. The extra fine print says the number of rooms for the promotion may be limited at each hotel. And you have to book at least seven days in advance. So plan that sick day now.

Head to realchocolate.com starting at 9 a.m. every Friday through September for the Mars Real Chocolate Relief Act.

On Free Chocolate Fridays, the first 250,000 people who register will get a coupon for a free, full-size Mars chocolate bar.

APOLOGIES IN ADVANCE if the site is down; it's getting a lot of interest, as you might imagine. And before you get excited for your afternoon snack, remember it will take at least six weeks to mail the coupon to you. If you just can't wait, there's also a coupon in print editions of today's USA Today.

The promotion is an attention-grabbing way for Mars to promote its commitment to real chocolate, using only 100 percent cocoa butter, in its U.S. products.

Why is this controversial?

 

The federal Food and Drug Administration definition says chocolate is made with cocoa butter, although some candy companies have been lobbying to change that definition. Manufacturers such as Hershey's have been replacing cocoa butter with cheaper palm or safflower oils and getting around the definition by calling their products "chocolatey" or "chocolate candy" instead.

Mars committed in 2007 to using only cocoa butter in its chocolate products. From the Mars Real Chocolate press release:

"Mars Snackfood US chocolate brands do not compromise on the purity and authenticity of chocolate by diluting it with a cocoa butter substitute," said Michele Kessler, vice president, Mars Snackfood US. "Remember, if it's Mars, it's real chocolate."

(photo: Associated Press)

Let me just preface this post by saying I love my father.

However ... there were many times as a child when his frugal ways seemed to interfere with my ability to have fun.

Case in point: ice cream. My parents weren't opposed to this frozen treat --- but my dad hated going to an ice cream parlor to get a cone, where back in the 80s it would cost $1.50 or more for a single scoop. Because, you see, you could get an entire half-gallon of ice cream at the supermarket for about $2 (on sale, of course).

The same thing with soda. They didn't deny us the fizzy stuff --- except when we were buying fast food. I always lobbied to stay and play in the playground, but my dad wouldn't want to buy a drink that would cost $1 or more. He preferred to take our meal home, where we could drink soda from the two-liter bottle he got from the supermarket (again, on sale) for 99 cents. 

And now, as an adult (and clearly one with a sweet tooth) ...

... I realize I must have learned something during those battles over junk food. I find myself making similar cost comparisons, though perhaps I'm not as strict about it.

For example, I really struggled earlier this week over buying a cupcake, noting the $2 could also probably buy a box of cake mix and that terrible --- but still delicious --- frosting-in-a-tub, most of the ingredients for a similar guilty pleasure treat.

It reminded me about how Elizabeth over at Dining@Large noted a few readers (and she herself) were surprised when she paid nearly $8 for a loaf of bread, but no one sneezed when she spent $4.50 on a single serving of pastry.

Clearly, the environment affects whether we perceive a price as reasonable, but am I the only one who has a hard time paying so much out for what could cost so much less? What in particular do you hate buying out --- but perhaps still do?

 

Free TCBY cone or cup for mothers on Mother's Day! Cheap flowers from ProFlowers and 1-800-FLOWERS (via Consumerist) 15% off Teleflora coupon!

Free or cheap Mother's Day events and activities in Baltimore and beyond, courtesy of Charm City Moms! Don't miss the Urban Pirates special, free for moms!

Given the battered state of our wallets, are you succumbing to the emotional ploy to buy buy buy for Mother's Day? The National Retail Federation estimates that average spending on Mother's Day gifts will decrease to $138.63 from ... $139.14. Down 50 cents. Still, if you consider all the special meals and activities, people can shell out a lot of money $15.8 billion, especially if you're buying items for multiple matriarchs: mothers, grandmothers and wives.

I think it's a better investment to show appreciation to your loved ones year round, as opposed to waiting for the calendar-mandated displays of affection that generally come with a markup.

However! There is still time to take a DIY approach to Mother's Day ...

... and offer the nurturers in your life something with a personal touch. I'm a big fan of photographs, and folks with access to a home computer could put together a photo slide show or perhaps a digital collage. If you plan ahead for next year, you could still make a photobook or collage.

Or, take the analog approach and make your own photo frame or try some of these other Mother's Day gift ideas from CRAFT magazine. Instructables has a Mother's Day gift contest going, with some good homemade ideas including bath salt bars. ABC News suggests decorating flip flops or other items (last page) --- a good project for the kids!

Has anyone seen good Mother's Day dining deals or other specials? Please share! The Downtown Partnership has compiled a list of places offering Mother's Day brunch, lunch or dinner specials.

(photo: Lloyd Fox/Baltimore Sun)

 

 

 

Ah, the dollar store. Usually 99 cent emporiums offer a varied and eclectic collection of products for sale, some of somewhat dubious provenance. How do you decide what's worth the investment, and what is worthlesss --- or even dangerous?

MSN Money has compiled a slideshow of dollar-store deals and duds, praising selections of ...

... shampoo and cleaning products on the bargain end, and labeling toothpaste, lunch containers and electrical products as potential dangers. And batteries just run out of juice too quickly. Jewelry's another item to avoid, given all the recalls of lead-tainted jewelry and toys found at dollar stores.

But gift wrap? If you're going to buy wrapping paper or gift bags, definitely pick up those items at the dollar store rather than lay down $2 or more at another retailer. 

MSN Money quotes the 99 Cent Chef as promoting dollar-store spices, which would be a good idea for flavors you're experimenting with. 

What have you found to be smart dollar store buys? What items seem too risky to purchase?

Thank Theresa M. Bandell, diector of Stegman & Co. in Baltimore, for answering this latest round of economic stimulus questions:

Q. In 2003, my mom purchased a town home (mortgage and title under her name). In 2007, I quit claim deed my name on the title for exemption purposes. Now in June 2009, my husband and I are going to purchase a new home and my mom is going to rent out the town house. Can we qualify for the credit? My husband does not own any property.

A. You may qualify for the credit as long as your mother’s house, which you are on the deed, was not your principal resident within the past three years. If you lived in the house with your mother any time during the past three years, you would not qualify for the credit.

Q. I have a question on the energy related tax credit. Does the credit of 30% on an energy related investment (like windows, furnaces, insulation) up to a maximum of $1,500 apply to rental houses or only to the house occupied by the owner?

A. The non-business energy credit is only available on the taxpayer’s principal residence.

Q.  I have a full time college student that we claim as a dependent and if we jointly purchase a home and it’s his primary residence and he’s on the deed, can we get the credit? Also since he’s a starving college student, he has no taxable income and pays no tax. I’m assuming since it’s a refundable credit that he could still claim the $8,000 credit for 2009?

A. First, no, you are not entitled to the credit since you are not a qualified home buyer and it will not be your principal residence. You are correct the credit is refundable and he would be eligible for the credit even though he has no taxable income. But the credit is not available if the house is gifted to your son. The taxpayer must pay for the house either with personal funds or mortgage.

Q. My wife owned a condo that she sold in August 2006. However, she did not live in the condo from August 2004 through August 2006. She bought the condo in 2003. Does she still have an ownership interest in a personal residence if she was not actually living there in the past 3 years? She did elect to use her capital gain exemption for the 2006 sale (which probably saved her $300). Would amending her 2006 return and not using the exemption qualify us for the stimulus credit?

A. She does not have an ownership interest in a personal residence with regards to the condo. However, if you have an interest in a personal residence, neither of you can qualify for the credit. Using the residence exemption with the 2006 sales would not change her eligibility for the credit.

Q. A friend has quick claim deed his property in 2007 to me and my husband. Now, my husband and I are planning on getting a new property since we don’t have any mortgages just the title of the home we are living in as it was claim deed to us. Will we qualify as first time home buyers?

A. No you do not qualify for the credit because you have an ownership interest in your personal residence.

Q. My boyfriend and brother bought a home together in June 2006. Both of their names are on the deed and mortgage. I am not on either. I have just lived with them. We agreed to live in the house for three years and then go our different ways. I would like to buy the house and I would be considered a first time home buyer, however, I read that you can not buy from a close relative. Therefore, I was wondering if we could remove my brother from the deed by doing a quit claim, but keep him on the mortgage since my boyfriend alone would not qualify for the house loan. Since my brother would now be off the deed (but still on the mortgage) would I be able to buy the house and qualify for the credit since now the deed would only be in my boyfriend’s name?

A. You would be fine qualifying for the credit even with your brother on the deed, because “related” person for this purpose only includes spouse, ancestors (parents, grandparents) and lineal descendants. Thus, a purchase that would otherwise qualify for the credit will not be disqualified merely because the property was acquired from a sibling.

Q. I have read through all of the questions, can’t find the answer. I purchased a home early 2004, got married late 2004. I am the only one on the deed. We have both lived in the house. We are considering purchasing new home, would my wife qualify for first time home credit? If so, would she have to purchase this home by herself?

A. Because you are married and you have an interest in your principal residence neither of you qualify for the credit.

Q. I’m a real estate agent. My buyers file their taxes separately but are married. They are both first-time homebuyers. If they amend their taxes do they each have to do it to get $4,000 each, or can one of them do it and get the full $8,000.?

A.  For married individuals filing separate the credit is limited to $4,000.

We all know it's cheaper to buy your own food and cook it yourself. But, if you're going to go out, it make sense to get the most value for your money.

That's why we're highlighting dinedowntownBaltimore.org as the Consumer Web Site of the Week. The site, run by the Downtown Partnership, highlights specials that can be found at Baltimore's cafes and restaurants.

For example, on Mondays this month ... 

 

... you can take 50 percent off your bill with this coupon for the Tremont Grand Cafe, Plaza Deli or Tug's Bar & Grille.

Or, check out the $6 lunch menu at Donna's Coffee Bar and Cafe, or the $17.50 "Table for Two" dinner special.

Of course, this list will focus on restaurants in downtown Baltimore, so I'm curious: what sites or sources do you check to find out about good coupons, specials, promotions or deals for meals in Baltimore or the surrounding counties? Please share your favorites in the comments.

(photo: Amy Davis/Baltimore Sun)

UPDATED: KFC says rainchecks for free grilled chicken will be mailed by Fri., June 19.

Thanks, Oprah:Free KFC grilled chicken meal coupon, for anyone with access to a printer!

Here's a tip, even if you missed The Oprah Winfrey Show: go to KFC's www.unthinkfc.com for a coupon for a free 2-piece grilled chicken meal with two sides and a biscuit.

You can print up to four coupons before 10 p.m. Wednesday, and you can redeem the coupons starting today through May 19, but NOT on May 10. Guess you'll have to find another way to treat Mom on Mother's Day.

It's the latest example of fast food joints offering cheap or even free food to get people to stop brown-bagging it and resume spending cash during the lunch hour again.

UPDATED: Readers over at Jay Hancock's blog report difficulty printing the Oprah Winfrey KFC coupons and redeeming them. What's your experience?

UPDATED: As several readers have noted, KFC is now giving customers rainchecks instead of redeeming these coupons, due to the overwhelming response. Click here to hear a statement from KFC's CEO about the free grilled chicken coupon giveaway here. 

(photo: courtesy of KFC)

Book by tomorrow for AirTran's two-day nonstop sale with $39 one-way fares from Baltimore to Boston, $99 to Cancun, $59 to Miami, $99 to Seattle. Must travel on a Tuesday or Wednesday and by June 23.

Norwegian Cruise Line's one-day sale has savings of up to 81% on cruises to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Alaska and Europe. In November, sail the Mediterranean on the Norwegian Gem for 7 days, starting at $549 per person, roundtrip from Barcelona. Port calls include Naples, Florence and Cannes, France. Yes, it costs more to get there, but flights to Europe have been incredibly affordable this year.

With the public worried that every small sneeze might be a sign of swine flu, you could count on some people trying to capitalize on this fear.

Federal regulars are now warning consumers about Internet sites and other promotions for products to prevent, diagnose, cure or treat swine flu. And the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Federal Trade Commission are threatening enforcement action against anyone who won’t remove or correct false information about swine flue products.

“The last thing any consumer needs right now is to be conned by someone selling fraudulent flu remedies,” said FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz in a prepared statement.

Go to the Web sites of the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on which products are FDA-approved to treat, prevent or cure infections cause by the swine flu virus, also called H1N1.

So far, two get the FDA thumbs up: Tamiflu and Relenza. The FDA also has tips on how to buy medications online.

Report suspected fake products related to the swine flu virus online to the FDA or call the FTC at 877-382-4357.

Hotels.com kicks off its Memorial Day Sale this month with a bunch of ways to save money. First up, there are more than 450 properties on sale, some with 20% off and others with up to 50% off, although a minimum stay may be required. In addition, hotels.com will give travelers who book at least three nights a $50 prepaid Mastercard debit card (kinda like a gift card - I've booked at hotels.com in the past when they've had prepaid gas card offers and I had no problem redeeming it.).

Local offers include the Radisson Lord Baltimore from $79 per night and the Quality Inn Harbor South from $73/night. In Ocean City, the Clarion Fontainebleau starts at $69/night.

If you're over the flu by then, several Cancun hotels are on the list, some at half-off. Lots of destinations to choose from as long as you book by May 25, for travel May 21-27.

$5 footlongs! $4 torpedoes! Free chicken!

With all the preaching to brown-bag your lunch, it's no wonder that fast-food restaurants have beefed up their bargain offerings?

But how are they able to make ends meet? Because they're taking away the meat -- or just the extra cheese, according to the Los Angeles Times article about cheap or free fast food offerings.

They're cutting corners ---

 

--- taking the extra slice of cheese off the double cheeseburger at McDonalds to save six cents making a sandwich rechristened the "McDouble".

They're also using discounts as an incentive to direct customers toward meals that cost less to make, such as chicken-based combos rather than steak at Qdoba, according to the article.

And they are making up the difference of lower prices by selling larger volumes.

Why free stuff? We've talked about how free is the business model of the future: giving away a sample gets people in the door and hopefully encourages them to return. And the samples themselves may be shrinking, based on one Consumerist readers observation of the recent KFC Grilled Chicken giveaway.

What do you think: are the bargain offerings a good deal for consumers? Does it make you reconsider making your PB&J at home (even though those are still far cheaper than any dollar menu options). 

(photo: Christian Cable)

Just a reminder that Bank of America cardholders get free admission to more than 100 museums across the country during the first weekend of every month. The "Museums on Us" program has been going strong for several years, unlike the bank that sponsors it. The good news is that they recognize the goodwill among customers that an offer like this promotes.

In Maryland, you can get in free to the American Visionary Arts Museum or the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History. In Washington, you can check out the Phillips Collection. If you're elsewhere this weekend, like say New York, you can get in free to the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Whitney Museum. All you need is a Bank of America ATM card, credit card or check card. And you're in like Flynn.

Continental is cutting in half the number of seats (why not flights?) it's flying to Mexico, according to the Associated Press. The airline will fly smaller planes, while maintaining at least some flights to the 29 cities it currently serves.

I don't know how, but I overlooked Continental in my previous post. Here's their policy for rescheduling or rebooking trips to Mexico: As of today, Continental has extended its waiver to allow passengers to reschedule without penalty by the end of the month. Rescheduled flights to the same city will not require additional fare if booked in the same class. If your flight has been cancelled, you can request a refund. Or the value of your ticket also can go towards another flight. And passengers have a year from the issue date of the original reservation to complete their travel. 

Thank Jackson Hewitt’s Mark Steber for these answers to your questions:

Q. I have filed my taxes for 2008. My preparer told me that I was eligible for the $8,000 tax credit if I was going to buy a new home this year. I responded that I thought that I had to purchase the home first and then apply for credit in 2009. He stated that as long as I purchased before Nov. 31st, it was okay. Was this correct? And if not, how do I correct the situation?

A. The IRS allows taxpayers the opportunity to claim and receive the $8,000 credit for a qualifying home purchase between January 1, 2009 and November 30, 2009 to be claimed on a 2008 tax return. If you have already filed your 2008 tax return after you purchase the house, you may amend your 2008 return and claim the credit now or wait and claim the credit on your 2009 tax return next year when you file.

Q. I moved to America this year and I will be transferring my money from Australia to America by wire transfer and I was wondering if I will be taxed for bringing money into America. The money will be about $60,000 dollars. I have been told that I will not be charge any tax on this money in Australia since I have been paying taxes each year. Can you please answer if I will be taxed on the money? Thanks.

A. You will not be taxed on money you bring into the U.S. by the U.S. government, but you may have some tax consequences to Australia.

Q. Hello, I moved from Australia in 2007 and I married my wife (U.S citizen) and we are currently in the process of buying a house. We are looking at the $8,000 first house buyer’s tax and I cannot find an answer to my question. I owned a house in Australia and recently I have sold the property, now the problem is can my wife and I apply for the $8,000 even though I owned a house outside America. Can you please tell me if the $8,000 is only if you have not owned a property inside America in the last 3 years or is it if you owned a property anywhere in the world? Thanks.

 A. If you did not own a principle residence within the U.S. during the last three years preceding the purchase of your new home in the U.S., you may qualify for the first-time homebuyer’s credit. Your wife also must qualify for you to qualify for the credit.

Q. Married 4 years, husband has not filed for 10+ years; I have no income. Am I liable for anything? Should I file?

A. You are not liable for your husband’s tax debt unless you filed a joint return for any of the outstanding years.

Q. I am a first time buyer of a home. It will be my residence only. My sister is going to co-sign with me, she will be on the deed and mortgage, and owns her home now. Will I quality for the $8,000. credit? Thank you in advance for your answer.

A. If you meet all of the qualifications for the First-time Homebuyer’s Credit, you will qualify for the full allowable credit. The maximum allowed credit is 10% of the purchase price up to $8,000.

Q. I am going through a divorce, was married for a year and lived in husband’s house. I just bought my first house and wonder if I qualify for the tax credit when I file 2009 taxes after the divorce is finalized?

A. If you were married when you bought the house and your spouse does not qualify for the credit, you will not qualify for the credit even if you are divorced when you file your 2009 tax return. Marital status eligibility requirements are determined as of the day the house is purchased.

Q. We are refinancing our mortgage and would like to add our daughter to the title who would be a first time home buyer. Would she qualify for the $8,000 credit if she met all the other IRS guidelines for qualifying?

A. Your daughter cannot buy a home from you (this includes a refinance where she is added to the loan) and qualify for the First-time Homebuyer’s Credit If your daughter does not live in the home with you, she could buy her own house before Dec. 1 and possibly qualify for the First-time Homebuyer’s Credit.

Q. My husband and I have had our mobile home for 11 years. My name is on the loan and deed. We want to buy a doublewide. Would we be considered first time home buyers?

A. The qualifications for the first-time homebuyer’s credit are: ¨ You must not have owned a principle residence any time during the three years preceding the purchase of the new home ¨ Your income must be below $95,000 ($170,000 if married filing jointly) ¨ The home must be in the U.S. ¨ The home cannot be purchased from a related party such as; spouse, parent, grandparent, child, sibling, or their descendants ¨ The home cannot be acquired as a gift or inheritance Because you were one of the owners of the home that you lived in for the last 11 years, you do not qualify for the First-time Homebuyer's Credit.

Q. I am a single mother of 3, working two jobs to make sure my kids are taken care of but because I live in a world where I have to work two jobs to put my kids in the right school district, I am penalized at every turn for making "too much" money! I wish I made too much money. What happened to the tax break for 95% of Americans??? Does President Obama mean to tell me that my income of $98,000 per year working two full time jobs puts me in the top 5% of the nation and makes me ineligible for every single aspect of this so called stimulus!! This is terrible. I am buying my first new home after working very hard to come up with some down payment because I make "too much" money for any DPAP and now I find out I can’t even qualify for this $8,000.00 tax credit!! I am so angry. I am about to buy a home for 289,000.00 in a struggling economy and I am able to do it from pure hard work as a middle class American and I am the one who gets screwed!! Why is it always middle class America and why does hard work never seem to pay off!!

A. Her income is basically too high for the common adjustments to income that may lower her income, however, if she is not covered by a pension plan, and she puts a contribution of up to $5,000 ($6,000 if she is 50 or over) into a traditional IRA she can lower her AGI and qualify. For example, if she has an AGI of $98,000, is not covered by a pension plan in either job, and she puts $5,000 into her IRA she will lower her AGI to $93,000. She will qualify for $800 credit (10% of the max allowed credit of $8,000)

Q. I was just told I need a co-signer in order to get my FHA loan approved on a condo. My mother (my co-signer) and I are first-time home buyers. Would we each qualify for the $8000 tax credit, or would we each have to split the $8000 tax credit. Thanks!

A. You can split the allowed credit any way you wish, but you may not exceed the maximum allowed credit amount of 10% of the purchase price or $8,000 whichever is greater. The split includes 100% and 0% up to 50% and 50%. How you split the credit is up to the taxpayers.

Q. My daughter is a full time college student 22 years old. I claim her as a dependent. She currently lives in my house. She would be a first time home buyer. Can we jointly purchase a home for her to live in after June 1, 2009 and before Dec. 1, 2009 and her claim the $8,000 refundable tax credit and I claim her as a dependent for 2009.

A. As long as your daughter meets the requirements for the credit, she will be eligible for the credit even if she qualifies as your dependent for 2009.

The qualifications for the First-time Homebuyer’s Credit are:

¨ You must not have owned a principle residence any time during the three years preceding the purchase of the new home

¨ Your income must be below $95,000 ($170,000 if married filing jointly)

¨ The home must be in the U.S.

 ¨ The home can not be purchased from a related party such as; spouse, parent, grandparent, child, sibling, or their descendants

¨ The home can not be acquired as a gift or inheritance

You should review the rules for dependents annually when you file a tax return. To claim a child as a dependent the child must meet the following qualifications:

¨ Be a U.S. citizen or resident, or resident of Canada or Mexico, for part of the year

¨ Be under 19 or a full-time student under 24

¨ Live with you except for temporary absences (such as school)

¨ The child cannot provide more than ½ of their own support

Q.I bought a house 4 years ago and had to let that go about a year ago. My soon to be husband is planning to get a house. He is purchasing the house on his own, my name will not be on the title. He will be the first time home buyer. If we get marry before he purchase a house, would he be qualify for the tax credit? If we file for tax separately next year, will it change anything?

A: Your fiancé will not qualify for the First-time Homebuyer’s Credit if you marry before you buy the house. If you wait to get married after the house is purchased, he will qualify for the credit even if you marry before the end of the year. Just don’t get married until you close on the house. If you marry before he closes on the house, he will not qualify for the credit even on a separate return.

Get your summer reading now, with great coupons from Borders and Barnes & Noble!

Bob's Deals tweeted about Borders savings --- coupons for a free 12 oz. Seattle's Best drink (not only coffee) at Borders Cafes as well as 40 percent off a Borders book purchase --- via Spoofee. The book coupon expires tomorrow (Saturday) so act fast! You've got a while on the coffee, though --- drink up through Wednesday.

And a 20 percent off Barnes & Noble coupon for online purchases has been circulating for a while, thanks to the Good Deal Gal.

 

OK. So you don't like US Airways' policy on ticketing changes related to the swine flu. You really don't like it and you're letting me - and them - know. You've been so loud and persistent that you've goaded me into doing tedious, mind-numbing, read-the-fine-print research about said policies and I'm not even going to Mexico.

The problem, you tell me, is this: airlines get favorable press for being good citizens during a health emergency by waiving change fees, when in fact, these fees are the least of passenger worries once the airlines start tacking on higher prices for the new tickets you're forced to purchase within a limited period of time. You may be right.

But not so quick. Based on my research, most airlines are being fairly lenient with travelers who need to rebook flights. Most are allowing changes for flights scheduled through May 31. (I think 30 days should be the standard.) And most are also allowing passengers to rebook another flight sometime within several months up to a year. WestJet is even offering full refunds.

The exception in terms of generosity seems to be US Airways, which is funny since they were first out of the gate in waiving change fees. US Airways' policy forcing travelers to use their tickets within 14 days of the original travel date seems unusually restrictive. A spokesperson for US Airways offered to look into specific traveler claims but referred me to their travel advisory page. In the annual Airline Quality Ratings released last month, US Airways had the worst rate in terms of consumer complaints. Enough said.

So here are the policies related to swine flu cancellations/changes from some major airlines that fly to Mexico:

AirTran: Waiving change fees ($75) for flights to/from Cancun scheduled through May 15. You can rebook to Cancun for any time within the next several months. You can also book other cities instead, but you must pay the difference in fare.

American Airlines: Waiving change fee on tickets purchased on or before April 24 for travel by May 31. Passengers can re-ticket for same destination city in Mexico or to another city for travel within 12 months from the original purchase date of their ticket. Any difference in fare still applies. Travelers can also receive a refund in the form of a travel voucher good for up to one year.

Continental: As of today, Continental has extended its waiver to allow passengers to reschedule without penalty by the end of the month. Rescheduled flights to the same city will not require additional fare if booked in the same class. If your flight has been cancelled, you can request a refund. Or the value of your ticket also can go towards another flight. And passengers have a year from the issue date of the original reservation to complete their travel. 

Delta:  Will allow a one-time ticket change without any fare difference or change fees, provided your  rescheduled flight is between the same city pairs and in the same class. If you want to change your destination, you will receive credit toward the purchase of a new ticket for a period of one year from the original issue date. No change fee will apply if you rebook by May 16. These options are for those traveling to/from/through Mexico April 26 to May 16.

United Airlines: No charge for first-time change to an itinerary. Accepting changes for those scheduled on flights through May 31. If you have not begun your trip, you will need to make changes within 21 days of the affected travel dates.

USAirways: Waiving change fee and advance ticketing requirements if you reschedule within 14 days of your original flight. Passengers can rebook for a new destination and apply the full value of wholly unused tickets toward the new ticket, however travel must originate within 14 days of the original scheduled date. (Yikes!) All other fare rules apply, which means you have to pay any difference in price between your old and new flights.

US3000: Waiving change fees if you reschedule your flight by 8 p.m. the day before scheduled departure. Passengers can rebook travel for any time before Dec. 15.  Valid for passengers scheduled on flights April 25-May 13. You will need to pay any difference in fare.