Small investments that are made over time can really add up to a sizable sum over a period of decades. But according to the U.S. Census bureau 18.1% of U.S. households had a net worth of Zero or even less than Zero…
5 Reasons Why Investing Is Critical Read More »
No one is immune to the unexpected, and no one can afford to think that sudden financial emergencies will only happen to other people and not them. No matter how well prepared you are, there’s always the chance something can happen that goes beyond what you could have expected. Everyone’s financial situation is unique and complicated, but the two main elements you always need to keep in mind are your income and your expenses.
The 2 Types of Financial Emergency and What to Do For Each Read More »
While food is definitely a necessity, sloppy spending at the store can leave your monthly budget shattered. Instead of constantly bringing food back to the shelves because you can’t afford the items, or seeing perfectly good produce go to waste in the fridge each week, use some budgeting tips to make the next shopping experience less stressful and a little more effective.
How to Save Big on Your Weekly Food Shopping Read More »
Even with health insurance, you can rack up medical bills if you need an extraordinary surgery or simply have to stay in the hospital for a long period of time to recuperate from a dangerous illness or devastating injury. And for those without health insurance, one simple accident could land you in the hospital for a week and in debt for years.
Did You Know You Can Negotiate Your Medical Bills? Read More »
Most people hate, hate, hate the word budget and everything it stands for. For budget haters, curbing spending habits feels very restrictive. However, this is the wrong way to look at it in terms of debt. Having a budget means you always have money. At least that’s the goal.
How to Manage Your Debt Read More »
If you’re like most people, you realize that you put a budget in place to limit spending and to reach other financial goals of saving money or paying down debt. Of course, like most people after living on a budget for a while, you may find that although it does help you save and get rid of debt, it doesn’t make life a whole lot of fun.
The answer to this dilemma is not to change your budget and reduce your savings, it’s to change your bills to free up more of your money. Use these tips to help get more freedom in your budget.
Breaking the Budget Bonds: How to Free Up More of Your Finances Read More »
Many people are oblivious to the importance of a good credit score until the need arises… at which point it is too late. The awakening could come when you have to move out of a parent’s basement, or take out a loan for a car or startup. The tricky part about boosting your credit score is it doesn’t come overnight, or even after a few months. You have to plan strategically and build up your finances over time. Boost your credit score incrementally using these three simple tips.
Tips to Boost Your Credit Score Read More »
For most taxpayers, reducing their annual tax burden is a major financial goal. According to the Internal Revenue Service, millions of Americans claim deductions on their taxes every year. Some examples of popular deductions include real estate taxes, home mortgage interest, charitable gifts, and local taxes. However, many taxpayers overlook a number of tax write-offs that could make a significant impact on their tax burden. Where applicable, consider applying the following tax deductions to your return this year.
Hidden Write-Offs You Shouldn’t Forget in Your Taxes This Year Read More »
Have you ever considered moving internationally? In recent years many retirees have found that there are many places around the world that provide a peaceful, welcoming environment at a much lower cost than if they stayed at home.
If you’re considering moving overseas, then your first order of business should be getting your finances in order. You may think that packing and finding movers is at the top of your priorities, but the fact is that you can run into serious problems in your new home if the money is not in order. It’s best to tend to these issues now so that you can avoid problems when you’re trying to get settled in to your new environment.
How to Get Your Finances in Order Before Moving Internationally Read More »
Most people experience some level of fear when trying something new. And if that new thing has to do with your finances, it can seem daunting and risky. This is often the case when you first begin investing for retirement. How much you should you invest? What if you need the money before you retire? What should you invest in? How much is enough for a stable retired life? This article attempts to highlight some ways you can successfully wade through the murky waters of retirement investing.
Retirement Funds: Smart Investments for Beginners Read More »
For many people, the idea of being on a budget is about as appealing as being on a strict diet. After-all who wants to cut out everything you enjoy? This not only sounds miserable it leads to unsuccessful budgeting for most people. The science of behavioral finance is gaining ground as a way of increasing financial well-being by creating a more reasonable approach to budgeting without the harsh cutbacks.
Budgeting for Wants Not Just Needs Read More »
The key to successful money management is to squeeze the most value out of each dollar you earn. Even if you currently track your expenses, you can always find new ways to cut costs, save money, and improve your lifestyle. In some cases, without even realizing it, you might be paying too much for your monthly bills and other expenses.
5 Things You Are Probably Paying Too Much For… And What You Can Do Read More »
