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There are several easy ways to save green by being green. In fact, each room in your home could actually be saving you some serious cash. Don’t flush your money down the toilet. See how a few eco-friendly savers can make a big difference.

Here are some green tips from the nest and the authors of Squeaky Green:

• Living room: Unplug all of your electronics when not in use. Remember, even when they’re off they still use energy – also known as vampire power - a power strip can make this easier.
• Bedroom: Swap standard bulbs for Compact Florescent Lightbulbs (CFLs), which use 75 percent less energy and last longer too.
• Kitchen: Microwave with glass or ceramic dishes to avoid harmful chemicals that may exist in some plastics. Also, switching to homemade or eco-friendly cleaners can be easier on your health, the environment and your wallet.
• Laundry room: Set your washer to cold when you do laundry, just don’t let the bed bugs bite – they suggest using hot water for your bedding to make sure you get rid of dust mites. You can also try good old fashioned line drying and other eco-friendly laundry ideas.
• Bathroom: Use green cleaners in the bathroom too and switch to a water-saving shower head (about $12) for extra savings. Simply taking care of a few leaks can even save you around $200 a year.

Courtesy of Rachaelvoorhees (via Flickr)

Searching for jobs online is a great way to see who’s hiring and allows your resume to be seen by employers. But if you’re only looking online, you may be missing out on job opportunities. Not to mention, there are some common mistakes that can actually keep you from being hired.

While you should search online, you need to get out there and talk to people too. Whether they’re business owners, friends, etc. – you never know who might have a great job for you.

Make sure you’re not standing in the way of your job search. Here are a few places to get you started:

• Five Mistakes Online Job Hunters Make
• Interview do’s and don’ts
• How to find “hidden” jobs
• A basic guide to networking
• Pounding the pavement

It’s important to make a good impression both in person and online. Keep in mind, more employers are using the web to get an idea of who you are. Would you want a future employer to see what you shared on Facebook?

Courtesy of Nanagyei (via Flickr)

Folks just about everywhere are enjoying rising temps and sunny skies. But for some – especially kids, seniors and people who are obese – extreme heat can quickly mean health problems. Being prepared can help you stay safe while you have fun in the sun.

First, it’s important to be aware of the dangers and have a plan for those who may be at risk. Along with preventing sunburns, be able to recognize symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. When these go unnoticed they can become serious and in some cases fatal.

Having a plan can also help you prepare for power outages that may occur. Remember to keep an emergency kit in your home and car for those just-in-case moments.

While you can’t always stay out of the sun, there are a few things you can do to beat the heat:

• Drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and caffeine)
• Do not leave kids or pets in the car
• Stay inside and avoid the heat, especially during the hottest time of the day (usually 2 to 4 pm)
• Keep the heat out: use fans, AC, close blinds, etc. – need cooling assistance? Learn more about LIHEAP
• Dress appropriately (loose, light-colored clothing)
• Relax and try not to over do it

Whatever the weather or emergency may be, knowing what steps to take can help your family stay cool, calm and prepared for anything.

Courtesy of 24oranges.nl (via Flickr)

Whether you want to compare health plans or you’ve been denied coverage because of a pre-existing condition, a new site may be able to help.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched HealthCare.gov — making it easier to navigate your options and get the care you need.

Along with resources, price comparisons and information about the healthcare bill, people who’ve previously been turned away for insurance can sign up for the Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP). PCIP is temporary coverage until the healthcare bill takes effect in 2014. Once the new law becomes effective, insurers can no longer deny coverage or raise rates due to pre-existing conditions.

You can find out which plan is best for you and/or if you’re eligible for PCIP at HealthCare.gov.

Courtesy of Daquella manera (via Flickr)

With options running out, more folks looking to make some extra income are falling prey to work-at-home schemes. Of course, there are legitimate home based jobs out there too. Being able to tell the difference can save you a lot of headache and money.

Before you say yes or offer any information, make sure you know what you’re getting into.

The most common warning signs:

• You’re asked for personal information (bank accounts, social security numbers, etc.)
• Claims of “no experience necessary”
• You have to pay money up front for supplies or instructions
• Promises of “easy money” or high earnings for part time work

How to avoid job scams:

• Research the company: do a search online and check the Better Business Bureau and Federal Trade Commission for complaints
• Don’t give out personal information over the phone or online
• Be aware of the most common scams

Are you looking for a side job? Check out the top 20 home-based businesses and start your own side hustle.

If you think you may be the victim of a job scam, there are a few things you can do.

Courtesy of mikecolvin82 (via Flickr)

Once again, jobless benefits are running out. And the extension that would have continued covering millions on unemployment and COBRA has lapsed. This means 1.2 million people will lose the income they depend on to pay for bills, food, and everything in between. So, what can you do?

If you’re running out of coverage, there are a few things you can do to get through tough times:

Get some help with your job search

• Make some money with a sidehustle
• Get advice, resources and more from the Career Coach

Apply for financial assistance

• Family support services
• Food stamp program (SNAP)
• Low Income Energy Assistance Program (HEAP or LIHEAP)
• Housing Choice vouchers
• Health care assistance

These extensions may or may not get passed, either way make sure you’re prepared and you get the help you need.

Courtesy of justephens (via Flickr)

When you’re trying to save money, the last thing you want is to get nickel-and-dimed. But even your free savings account could be costing you money. What kind of hidden fees are you paying?

It can be a double edged sword. New regulations mean protection for consumers, but fees are becoming a tool for making up lost profits.

For example, since banks can no longer charge overdraft fees, they may charge a maintenance fee instead. So, what used to be a “free” savings account now costs $5 or more a month if you don’t maintain a minimum balance. That adds up fast.

Whether it’s a hotel or your phone bill, you need to be aware of extra fees and what you can do to avoid them:

• CBS looks at the fees you may incur at the ATM, while traveling, and even for calling customer service.
• Money Crashers offers advice on how to avoid service and cancellation fees and other charges from your cable company.
• If you’re getting dinged for your bank account, knowing your options can help you save and get the services you need.

While it never hurts to ask for a refund, it’s best to inquire about fees up front. This way you’ll know what you’re paying for before you get the bill.

Courtesy of davef3138 (via Flickr)

June 20th is the 100th anniversary of Father’s Day! And while goofy ties and knick-knacks are fun, don’t forget it’s a celebration of fatherhood. So, whatever you do, just make sure the guy who’s been there knows how much he means to you.

Now, if you’re like Sonora Dodd (quick history lesson), it’s easy to find reasons to celebrate Dad. But it’s not always easy to decide on a gift. Need some ideas? Whether you’re thinking homemade or you have a present-buying budget there are nifty gifts for every kind of Dad.

Still not sure what he’d like? Let him know you care with some wellness tips any dad will appreciate:

The Daddy to-do list on health

Guiltless grill tips

Make a heart-healthy action plan

Dads — looking for a little help? Find resources, advice and support just for you.

Courtesy of Big Beaks (via Flickr)

While it’s important to pay your credit card on time, one late payment can quickly get out of hand. That’s why the Federal Reserve is offering you a little added protection against late fees.

The Fed’s new rules, which take effect August 22, will limit fees to $25 for a late payment. A helpful break in those unavoidable instances. Card issuers will also be prohibited from charging fees higher than your violation. In other words, if you go over your limit by $5 you can’t be charged more than $5.

Of course, added protection or not, avoiding late fees on your credit card is ideal. If you’re having trouble keeping up, learn the steps you can take to get on the right track.

Along with several rules that took effect in February, other changes to look forward to in August include:

• Bans on inactivity fees, or fees charged to cardholders who don’t use their card to make new purchases
• Card issuers can’t charge multiple fees based on a single late payment

Courtesy of Rob Qld (via Flickr)

According to some, choosing brown rice instead of white means you’re more health conscious. For others it’s simply a matter of taste. Whatever your reason, a new study shows opting for brown rice may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Did you know that white rice can increase your blood sugar levels?

Researchers found that replacing white rice with brown rice and whole grains could cut the risk of diabetes by a third. It doesn’t take much either. Folks who ate two or more servings of brown rice per week reduced their risk by 11 percent.

Keep in mind, exercising and eating a balanced diet can also help. Whether that includes switching to brown rice is up to you.

Know your risk, learn how to manage or prevent type 2 diabetes and take action today.

Courtesy of CarbonNYC (via Flickr)

There are a lot of reasons why people use direct deposit. It cuts costs, helps the environment and prevents check fraud. But with 30 million people lacking bank access, those receiving social security, unemployment, veterans benefits, etc. should be prepared for payment changes coming soon.

The Treasury Department will announce today that all government benefits will be paid electronically by 2013. Once benefits go electronic you’ll receive your check via direct deposit into your bank account. If you don’t have an account you can sign up for the Treasury’s Direct Express program. Either way, you’ll save a trip to the bank and get your benefits faster and more securely.

If you enroll in benefits after March 2011, you’ll be required to sign up for direct deposit. So, if you don’t have a bank account, make sure you know all of your options:

• Open a bank or credit union account
• The difference between credit, debit, EBT or prepaid cards
• Learn more about the Direct Express debit MasterCard

This may seem like a major pain – especially if you don’t have an account. But along with more secure payments, this shift is expected to save taxpayers an estimated $303 million over the first five years. This may take some getting used to, but it should be beneficial in the long run.

Courtesy of sun dazed (via Flickr)

Making a living is important – but sacrificing your health is not worth the extra zeros. While it seems only doctors, lawyers and CEO’s make the big bucks, you can still make a pretty penny without all that stress.

Just a few high-paying, low-stress jobs:

1. Physical therapist
2. Computer software engineer
3. Civil engineer
4. Massage therapist
5. Technical writer

Not only do these jobs typically pay $45,000 – $100,000 a year, but fields like healthcare and infrastructure are expected to boom. So, whether you’re heading to college or looking for a career change, a ‘low-stress’ job could be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Not sure where to start?

Find out how you can afford college

Get help finding your low-stress, high paying dream job

Learn more about vocational training

Of course, if your not in a position to leave your job but you need some stress relief, find out how you can be happy, even at work.

Courtesy of kokopinto (via Flickr)

Being short has its ups and downs, but a new study suggests your short stature may also impact your risk of heart disease.

What’s considered short? According to the study, women under 5′ and men under 5’5″ are 50 percent more likely to die early of heart problems. Keep in mind, weight and lifestyle habits also add to your risk.

So, while you can’t do much about your height, there are things you can do for a healthier heart:

• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit or don’t start smoking
• Watch your blood pressure
• Eat well

Making even a few changes can help prevent heart disease – whether you’re short, tall or somewhere in between.

Courtesy of openDemocracy (via Flickr)

In China, questionable labor practices and an undervalued currency seem to be leading toward economic reform. But increased standards, higher salaries, and currency changes could also mean higher prices worldwide. If you haven’t been, now may be the time to get back to budgeting.

Price increases will likely be minimal, but everything from clothing to electronics may be affected. A rise in production costs mean businesses will have to make up the difference.

Spending wisely today can save you money and stress in the long run:

• Use the Budget Builder tool to track your expenses and find out where you could be saving
• Learn how to better manage your  money with Money Made Easy
• Prepare for the “what-if’s” and find out how you can save more
• Let the Financial Coach help you get on the right track

Even if prices only raise by a few cents, pinching every penny can make a big difference. Make sure you’re not missing out on opportunities to save.

Courtesy of jeopoirrier (via Flickr)

Making healthy lifestyle changes isn’t easy. And it seems finding the motivation to get moving is half the battle. Luckily, whether you’re 6 or 65, there are lots of fun, cheap ways to get active and healthy.

Here are 5 tips to help you get moving:

1. Those shoes were made for walkin’ – shoot for 30 minutes of walking each day
2. Get fit: your green garden awaits
3. Make it a group effort – get family, friends or coworkers together for a game of basketball, volleyball, etc.
4. Take the “work” out of your workout – hula-hoop, jump rope, dance – find something you like to do and do it 3 to 5 times a week for 30 minutes
5. Make realistic goals, find out what motivates you and have fun!

While it’s not going to happen over night, there are steps you can take to help yourself along the way. Learn more about how to eat better, find a balance and live a little healthier each day.

Courtesy of jeferonix (via Flickr)

BP has so far been unsuccessful in stopping the gushing oil well. So, as hurricane season gets underway, it’s anyone’s guess what 100+ mph winds could do. Unfortunately, there is a chance oil could move further into areas that attract thousands of tourists.

This means businesses all along the Gulf Coast could take a serious hit. Fishermen are already feeling the effects. But tourism makes up a large part of the economy in these coastal towns as well.

Of course, in today’s economy (oil spill or not), it’s probably a good idea to have a backup plan.

• Discover a Career
• Get More Education
• Apply for a Job
• Build a Career Plan

Whether you’ve lost your job or you’re concerned, there are things you can do to make sure you’re prepared for those worst case scenarios.

Courtesy of GViciano (via Flickr)

Planning a family vacation or a summer getaway? Make sure you consider all of your options – and the costs – before you put a hole in your wallet that can’t be repaired.

Between travel, room, food and fun, the costs add up quickly too. According to one survey, a summer vacation could cost some folks around $4,000! Which means it’s time to get creative about how you’ll have fun this summer.

A few things to think about before you book your trip:

• If you’re traveling by car, take advantage of cheap gas in your area
• Make sure you compare flights and look for deals
• Consider alternatives to spendy hotels (hostels, vacation rental with family or friends, cheap inns, etc.)

If it’s simply not in the budget, consider the cheaper way to play, and have a “staycation”.

Whether that means opting for a day at the beach or turning your backyard into a cozy camp out, you’re sure to save without sacrificing the fun. You can also find free events, shows, etc in your area with online travel guides or your local paper.

Courtesy of Lohb (via Flickr)

Since the recession began, more folks age 55 and up have made their way back into the job market. Of course, with dwindling retirement accounts and longer lifespans, many have little choice but to find a new niche – even after retiring.

Whether it’s for financial reasons or just for something to do, it seems the 55+ crowd isn’t throwing in the towel any time soon.

In February 2010, 40 percent of the labor force was 55 years and older. Compare that to just 29 percent in 1993 (U.S. Department Of Labor). That’s a big jump. And a trend that hasn’t changed much since May 2010.

Now, whatever your age may be, you probably took a hit during the recession. Meaning more of us will be working well into our retirement years. So, what do semi-retired workers do to earn some extra dough?

The 8 most popular jobs for retirees:

1. Consultant
2. Caterer
3. Greeter
4. Floral assistant
5. Temp
6. Tour guide
7. Retail
8. Keeping the old job with fewer hours

If none of these sound like your cup of tea, there are lots of other ways to make some extra cash while doing what you love. Before you take the job, make sure you know how much you need to live on.

It’s day 37 of the worst oil spill in U.S. history and all attempts by BP to stop the leak have failed. Up next: a ‘top kill’ procedure that may or may not plug the gushing well.

So what is ‘top kill’ and will it work?

A ‘top kill’ procedure means BP will pump 50,000 pounds of thick fluid, or drilling mud, into the leaking well. Assuming everything goes right the mud will stop the oil from spewing. The well can then be cemented shut.

This has a 60-70 percent chance of working. It’s never been attempted a mile under the sea. And there are serious risks to ‘top kill’ – like a new leak.  Not the best odds in this worst-case scenario that seems to only get worse every day.

What can we expect next? President Obama says he won’t rest until the leak is plugged. Obama will also announce plans to strengthen inspections and safety regulation on oil drilling.