MSN Money Finance Tips

Toyota, safety group squabble over ratings
The automaker objects to being left off a list of the safest vehicles, saying the exclusion is 'extreme and misleading.' The tester defends its methods.

How long can Social Security last?
At the current rate, the system could be operating in the red in just a few years and exhaust its trust fund by 2037. Meanwhile, reform seems more difficult than ever.

Foreclosure or bankruptcy: What to do?
If you find yourself behind on your mortgage, either route may seem like the wrong direction. But your choice will have a big impact. Here's how to make the right one.

The new money-for-life retirement plan
Forget the recommended 4% annual drawdown of your nest egg. This strategy creates both guaranteed income and growth potential.

The case against retirement
The Age of Retirement is over, and a new social revolution is afoot: A majority of boomers expect to earn a paycheck in retirement, and that's a good thing.

If your bank fails, will you be ready?
More than 100 banks have gone belly up in 2009 alone. Your bank could be next, so figure out now how much of your money is protected -- and how much isn't.

Stop acting rich, start getting rich
Among the most important decisions you can make on your way to real wealth is choosing the right neighborhood -- but it's not the neighborhood you might think.

Homebuyer credits: Who qualifies now?
Thanks to the newly extended and expanded tax breaks for buying a home, you might qualify for a credit that you hadn't been able to get before.

When will your housing market recover?
There are lots of reports about national trends in home sales and prices, but none may apply where you live. Here's how to dig up your local data.

5 ways to kill your credit scores
The curtain has parted, albeit slightly, on the mystery of how your credit rating is calculated. Find out what these common credit problems can do to your standing.

Get long-term care -- tax-free
A new law that kicks in Jan. 1 will offer tax breaks on annuity proceeds you spend for long-term-care coverage. But there are limitations you should know about.

Wanted: Auto insurance outlaws
States have been hard-pressed to track down uninsured motorists, making the system easy to cheat. But new online systems could change that.

Homebuyer credit boosts retirement planning
The recent extension includes a provision making many 'longtime residents of the same home' eligible for a tax credit if they downsize or move to a new home.

10 secrets of off-season homebuying
With the housing market in its sluggish months, savvy buyers can squeeze out some nice deals. But first you'll need to do your homework.