Taxpayers have an extra weekend this year — taxes are due on Monday, April 18. If you haven’t filed yours, there’s no day like today. To help you stay on top of financial matters big and small, here are some of the key dates and money matters to keep an eye on. April 18: Tax Day — Time’s up. Be sure to request an extension if you can’t make the deadline.
April 22: Earth Day — Think green and try to save some money this spring. Plus to save the planet, you can start by relying on reusable grocery bags.
April 24: Easter — Don’t let Easter candy drain your budget. Tap the Web and social networks for all sorts of inexpensive Easter basket ideas.
April 27: Administrative Professionals Day — Taking a moment at the office to recognize the support of those around you doesn’t have to break the bank. A nice lunch can go a long way.
April 29: British Royal Wedding — Certainly your ceremony won’t be this grand, but how can you save money? TheKnot.com offers a helpful list of 30 ways to cut costs, see http://tinyurl.com/4tjf4lw .
Also keep in mind:
» It’s Financial Literacy Month: A helpful starting point is the website of the JumpStart Coalition, www.jumpstart.org .
» Tax refund: If you received a large tax refund, you may want to adjust your withholding so you can keep more cash. For more guidance see IRS Publication 919, http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p919.pdf .
» April showers: If someone won’t let you stand under her umbrella, it’s smart to invest in one that will last. Buying a cheap model is fine in a pinch, but you may end up buying several throughout the spring.
» Summer camp: If you’re a first-timer looking for a summer camp it can be confusing. Ask around for references and visit the site of the American Camp Association, which helps outline the issues you’ll want to consider, see www.acacamps.org .
» Lawn care: The best time to buy a mower is at the end of the summer. But if you’re in need, start looking early. Keep your eyes open and you might stumble across a fantastic deal on a snow blower.
