Our readers had a lot to say about taxes this month, as well as plenty of funny stories about embarrassing moments at work and a lot of good questions about how to handle their finances.
Although it’s only January, readers are clearly thinking about tax time. A Life Inc. blog post reporting that those who itemize their taxes won’t be able to file until mid-February prompted a heated discussion among readers about whether we should just have a flat tax.
Capn-1 wrote:
“What do I think is fair? I think people should pay for what they use. I don't think 'the average taxpayer' should be paying for entire generations of people to live off welfare.”
Many TODAY Money readers and Twitter followers were fascinated by a study showing that those with last names toward the end of the alphabet may be more impulsive shoppers.
In what is perhaps a sign of these economically troubled times, Beth-38991 wrote:
“My last name starts with a V, but I've curbed my spending. I used to be one who spent a lot, but I've learned how to limit my spending and save money for when I really need it.”
Another hot topic of conversation in our comments and on Facebook was workplace embarrassments. A survey on most embarrassing boss moments prompted plenty of memories about restroom mishaps and technological snafus.
Our takeaway: Be very wary of the “forward” and “reply all” function.
Life Inc. readers also had a lot to say about the fact that most employees go to work sick.
Some of you complained about the colleagues who seem to take advantage of sick leave policies, while others recounted stories of employers refusing to give sick leave and employees passing their illnesses on to the rest of the office.
One reader wrote:
“My wife is also facing a day of work when it is obvious she is very sick. It is unfair on other workers but in today's jobs climate it may be the difference of job or no job.”
Where are you going for dinner tonight? If the answer is “home,” you are likely one of the many readers who was interested in this TODAY Money story on how the recession has prompted many of us to brush up on our cooking skills. More than half of those who responded to our survey said eating out is a luxury these days.
During our weekly live chats with TODAY Money experts, readers queried David Bach about where they should be parking their extra cash and got a scolding from Sharon Epperson for owning more than two credit cards. John Schoen’s chat on the economic ramifications of President Obama’s State of the Union address prompted a wide range of questions and worries.
One simply asked, “Are we doomed?”
“I hope not,” Schoen responded.