Now that Tax Season is over and you have (hopefully) completed your tax returns and put them behind you, here are some things you can do to make the next tax season even easier. 

The following tips will help you get organized and stay organized so you'll know where everything is when it comes time to prepare for your taxes.

If you didn't pick up your Series I savings bonds by April 30th, it may be too late to bother now.  On May 1 2008, the inflation rate on Series I Savings Bonds fell to 0% interest! 

According to Bloomberg, this is the lowest these savings bonds have fallen since I-Series bonds (also known as Inflation-Indexed bonds) were introduced in the 1990's. 

Fortunately, these bonds cannot fall any lower, as the return on I-Series bonds cannot go into negative numbers.  If they did, bondholders would be paying interest on these savings bonds. With any hope, the rates on I-Series bonds will be adjusted upward when rates are reset on November 1st. 

A brand new website will help you get your money back if it goes on sale after you purchased it.  The site is called PriceProtectr (funny spelling and all).

Here's how it works...

One would think that hand-washing dishes is more economical than using the dishwasher.  That is far from true. 

Now, if you hand wash dishes and then put them in the dishwasher, then you reduce your costs by using the dishwasher.  However, measuring one method of doing dishes against another, dishwashers cost less and get your dishes cleaner. 

Here are some other things you can do to save money while using the dishwasher...

I am used to high-pressure sales.  I actually enjoy resisting them. 

In fact, I have a sure-fire list of rules that I use whenever I purchase appliances, furnishings, or cars so that I can avoid high-pressure sales tactics.

However, what's a shopper to do when they are confronted with high-pressure sales in the supermarket of all places?

Subtitled: "How To Serve 35 Guests Party Food On A Budget"

I tend to be a bit more generous with my food budget when I am entertaining or serving others.  I go to the best supermarket in the area to make sure I am serving the freshest foods.  I purchase the best cuts of meat, even asking for the butcher’s advice.  I splurge on restaurant-brand condiments instead of store-brand.  Presenting the best foods to friends and family doesn't necessarily mean being wasteful. 

But, one thing I don't do is buy store-bought food platters anymore. Here's why...

The death of a spouse is a traumatic experience that can set your head spinning and your heart reeling.  Few people are ever ready for this tragic event emotionally or even financially.

Unfortunately, adding to the inner turmoil that you are probably experiencing, are the financial matters that must be dealt with immediately.  Knowing what needs to be taken care of can be a tremendous help at this point, alleviating some of the stress and tension that is certainly swirling around you.