More than 200,000 Americans will lose their unemployment checks this week.

Of these folks, nearly half live in California.  The other states affected are Texas, Florida, Colorado, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Illinois.

The federal program provided an addition 20 weeks of benefits after the state benefits had ended.  More on this story at CNNMoney.com.

Hostess Brands based in Irving, has given notice to several states, including Texas, that lay offs may be coming if the Chapter 11 restructuring is not successful.

Hostess is not looking to implement layoffs unless negotiations with unions do not result in consensual agreement.  Additional information available at the Star Telegram.

U.S. drivers are getting some relief at the pump in time for the beginning of summer.

Typically May is the time of year gas prices hit their high mark.  This year the average price for a gallon of unleaded has already been declining for the past month.   The biggest decrease in price occurred this past week with prices down 6 cents.

New technology has increased production and that is helping drive the price down.  The West Coast prices have not yet fallen ...

Whether you’re dealing with a mountain of debt or trying to save money for your retirement, there are numerous reasons to change your spending habits. Frugal living is typically viewed in a negative light, where the word “sacrifice” becomes synonymous with “suffering.” However, this does not have to be the case. Here are 10 frugal living tips to achieve happiness on a tight budget.  Candofinance.com

1.  Keep track of your spending.

2.  Change your spending habits.

3.  Monitor your money.

4.  Carry a ...

An April survey shows that nearly half of consumers cannot afford to contribute to an IRA. The age range from 18 to 34 are the ones least likely to be saving. Of this age group 56% do not contribute to an IRA or 401(k).
LIMRA, a trade association for the financial services industry conducted the survey. They found the statistics disturbing considering that consumers are currently using personal savings to make ends meet. Retirement may last 20 or more years.
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Wells Fargo will give $50,00 to the Red Cross/North Texas Tornado Relief.  If customers would like to donate, 100% of the donation will go to the cause.

The bank also would like any customers or businesses affected by the tornados contact their nearest Wells Fargo branch to discuss options.

Read more at the Star Telegram.