Jack Hawkins articles

My father was a renowned artist. Now, during my divorce, my ex-wife is claiming that he left a valuable painting to her in his will. What can I do?

Divorcing and facing a dispute over inherited artwork? Learn your legal options when an ex-spouse claims a family heirloom left in a will, including property rights, evidence, and expert advice.
March 24, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I need a guarantor to sign for my mortgage. The only one I can think of with the required credit score is my estranged father. Is this a bad idea?

Should you ask an estranged parent to be your mortgage guarantor? Explore the financial risks, emotional impact, and smarter alternatives in this practical, engaging guide.
March 24, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I bought a golden Bald Eagle for a lawn ornament, but my HOA says "patriotic displays" aren't allowed. Can I fight this under the First Amendment?

Can your HOA ban a patriotic lawn display like a bald eagle statue? Learn your rights, legal options, and whether the First Amendment can help you fight HOA restrictions.
March 23, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I tried to deposit $2,000 in coin rolls at my local branch, only to be told they can't accept them. I thought coin rolls were legal tender?

Tried depositing coin rolls at your bank and got refused? Learn why banks don’t always accept coins, what legal tender really means, and smarter ways to handle large amounts of change.
March 23, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I recently found a bag full of what appears to be legitimate cash. There must be $50,000 in here. Can I use it to pay my down payment for a house?

Found $50,000 in cash and wondering if you can use it for a house down payment? Learn the legal, financial, and tax implications before making a costly mistake.
March 23, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I just learned about the Augusta Rule. Can I really use this to pay no tax on rental income throughout the year?

The Augusta Rule allows homeowners to rent their home for up to 14 days per year tax-free. Learn how business owners use this IRS rule, the requirements to qualify, and whether this tax strategy could reduce your tax bill.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins
Two female friends sitting on sofa and arguing with each other. Frie

My father and I built an incredibly successful business together. He passed away suddenly, and my brother is claiming half the profits. What now?

My father and I built a successful business together, but after his sudden death my brother is claiming half the profits. Here’s what business owners need to know about inheritance, ownership rights, and resolving family disputes.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

My family wants a big dog. I've heard that I can claim a Great Pyrenees as a livestock dog on my taxes. Is that true?

Can you claim a Great Pyrenees as a livestock guardian dog on your taxes? Learn when working farm dogs qualify as business deductions—and when they’re just big fluffy pets.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I want to install smart switches and smart lights in my home to save money. My wife scoffed. I was being "too lazy to flick a switch." Is she right?

Are smart lights worth the money? This simple, honest guide explains the real savings, costs, and whether smart home lighting is a smart move—or just a convenient luxury.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins