S'mores around the campfire, cannonballs in the pool — vacation homes can be used for many things. Owners may even be able to claim charitable-giving tax breaks related to their properties. But the rules are tricky, and the circumstances must be just right. We explore some of the pertinent details.

Many parents and students focus only on the sticker price of higher education. But other elements come into play. This article looks at how financial aid — including loans, grants and scholarships — can lower the actual cost. A sidebar explores the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit, which can help defray college costs.