Money & Ethics

Ever wonder whether you're handling financial matters in an ethical manner? Each month, Knight Kiplinger, editor in chief of Kiplinger publications gives readers advice on dealing with the moral side of personal finance.

Below, you'll find a collection of his latest Money & Ethics columns, covering a range of situations -- from divorce to paying your mortgage. Plus, put your instincts to the test with our Money & Ethics QUIZ.

Must I Disclose the Murder in my House?

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Not your average seller's quandary. Plus, what's the right return policy?

Is It Wrong to Ditch a New Job for a Better Offer?

Show the company that hired you the respect that they deserve.

Will a Discount for Cash Run Afoul of the IRS?

If you take a cash discount from vendors who offer the deal to dodge taxes, you aren't at legal risk -- they are.

In Tough Times, the Best CEOs Lead by Example

Cutbacks should start at the top before trickling down.

It's All Right to Ask Your Kids to Chip In

When money is tight, family members can pool their earnings to make ends meet -- even the children.

No Home-Team Edge for Local Businesses

Communities should offer tax incentives not only to entice new businesses, but to help local companies expand. Plus, are divorce laws fair?

When Firms Are Hurting, the Pain Should be Shared

This can be best accomplished with company-wide unpaid furloughs, which at least give employees more free time in exchange for lower earnings.

Employers Owe Laid-Off Workers Extra Help

Assistance packages should be sweetened when jobs are scarce in a recession.

Should I Lend $50,000

To My Brother-In-Law?

Is it possible to lend money to family without it affecting the relationship for the worst? Plus, what to do when the bank makes an error in your favor.

Don't Force Mom

Into a Reverse Mortgage

Putting undue pressure on a loved one is unethical, regardless of the merits of the case.

Pretending to be in Distress?

If you qualify for help from a mortgage-relief program but you don't really need it, should you take it?

When Students Plan to Take the Money and Run

Is it okay to accept an ROTC scholarship and drop out of the program later to avoid paying back the grant? Plus, should a restaurant take responsibility for a patron's allergic reaction?

Why Should Seniors Get the Discounts?

Lower prices for the elderly herald from a bygone era, but they're not going anywhere. Plus, when is imitation not flattery?

Just Say No to Handouts for Sports Teams

Team owners should pay for their own facilities as other business do. Plus, is it okay to leave one child a larger inheritance than another?

Does Charity Begin at Home or Abroad?

Is better to support those in need in the U.S. or focus on those in the poorest nations?

Should We Walk Out on Our Mortgage?

Surrendering a home in foreclosure should be the last resort for truly desperate homeowners. Plus, how should you handle politics in the workplace?

Should a Rich Kid Accept a College Scholarship?

A wealthy family whose child has earned a merit scholarship should consider repaying the amount through tax-deductible donations to the school.