By Sheryl Rowling
SAN DIEGO — Dear Readers, I have received numerous questions related to Hanukkah. Most of these don’t have much to do with financial matters. However, I will do my best to give a financial take when possible!
Dear Money Maven,
I’m concerned about my kids playing dreidel and betting gelt. Am I teaching them to gamble?
Anxiously, Worried Mother
Dear Worried Mother,
Somehow, I don’t think betting chocolates will lead to a future of Gamblers Anonymous. Just in case, tell your kids that they can’t deduct losses in excess of winnings. That’ll help!
Dear Money Maven,
I become a big fresser during Hanukkah, eating latkes, gelt and sufganiot (jelly donuts). What can I do to avoid gaining a lot of weight?
Heavily, Harriet
Dear Harriet,
To offset overeating, you will need to exercise. But, remember – it’s Hanukkah! I think if you exercise one night, the calories will continue to burn for seven more nights!
Dear Money Maven,
At what age is it appropriate to stop giving eight nightly gifts to your kids?
Curiously, Cori
Dear Cori,
Truthfully, I haven’t figured that out myself! My 25 and 28 year old sons tell me I should keep the tradition! Just remember, if you give any gifts in excess of $13,000 per person per year, you will need to file a gift tax return.
Dear Money Maven,
What is the correct way to spell Hanukkah?
Questioningly, Quinn
Dear Quinn,
Hanukkah is actually an English spelling of a Hebrew word. Thus, you can spell it any way you want! I’ve personally seen many ways of spelling Hanukkah, such as Hanukah, Hannukah, Hannuka, Chanuka, Chanukah, Chanukkah, and Channuka. Have fun with it!
To all my readers, a happy Hanukkah! (However you spell it!)
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Rowling is a certified public accountant, personal finance specialist, and principal of Rowling & Associates. She may be contacted at sheryl.rowling@sdjewishworld.com