Making money: Surviving on a smaller paycheck, and more

3 top pieces of financial advice — from planning your dream retirement to guarding against identity theft

Paycheck
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Surviving on a smaller paycheck

If the end of the payroll tax holiday is putting a dent in your wallet, you have several options, says Amy Feldman at Reuters. Consider changing your tax withholdings — doing so won't alter how much you owe, "but it may help smooth out your tax burden for the year." If you always get a big refund, filling out a new W-4 "may be a good way to keep money in your pocket now rather than loaning it to the IRS." One thing you shouldn't consider is cutting your 401(k) contribution. If you're really in a pinch, buck up and find ways to reduce spending. Eat out less, drink less coffee, and pay off your credit card each month to avoid interest and fees.

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Sergio Hernandez is business editor of The Week's print edition. He has previously worked for The DailyProPublica, the Village Voice, and Gawker.