tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12756580624868262852024-03-13T12:00:42.202-07:00Susan Money WiseHelping you take control of your money. My goal is to support your actions to keep more income, pay off bills, and start saving for the future. I'd like to share my personal stories and ideas to help make a positive change now. http://www.moneywiseadvisors.comSusan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-69602011738513258452017-05-05T13:00:00.000-07:002017-05-05T13:00:04.727-07:00Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG)<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve actually written down a new goal that I’ve thought
about for a while, and finally decided to tackle. The only thing we still owe is our mortgage,
which is now at below half of our home value.
While that’s great news, we are ready to attack the BHAG. It seems overwhelming, and we “could” sell
our investments, pay taxes (of course) on the gains, and pay off the mortgage
today. That would create less risk in
our lives, but I don’t feel that’s the best way for us to do it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hfuWjoJD4nw/WQzH9ZHbu3I/AAAAAAAAEBc/eQdS5fh_aH0DpnU3GLZoATN3MCRJFN2vwCLcB/s1600/house-paid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hfuWjoJD4nw/WQzH9ZHbu3I/AAAAAAAAEBc/eQdS5fh_aH0DpnU3GLZoATN3MCRJFN2vwCLcB/s320/house-paid.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It’s important to<a href="http://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/2013/11/change-what.html" target="_blank"> prioritize financial decisions</a>. Start investing early, with the goal of
investing 15% of your income. Somewhere
along the way, we bought a home.
The payments should be less than 25% of your take home pay. California has it a bit tougher, and we
Californians have been known to stretch our payment to 1/3 of our take home
pay, but that’s riskier to keep up with the bills and investments. Once you start making more income, keep up
with the 15% retirement investment, and start adding extra funds to pay down
the mortgage principal. <o:p></o:p></div>
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With the proposed tax reform, mortgage interest is not going
to be as attractive as a write-off, since the standard deduction will most
likely be the best bet for most Americans.
Interest rates are likely to go up this year, so refinancing will not be
as appealing, either. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If we add $700 a month to our payment, we could have the
house paid off in seven years. That
would save us thousands of dollars. My
plan is to take any extra income and <a href="http://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/2017/01/what-have-you-been-missing.html" target="_blank">any savings earned</a> to pay towards the
principal. So far in May, I’ve already
saved $143 by catching a medical billing error on my co-payment, negotiating
with my Internet Service Provider to not charge us equipment rental, and
coupons I used. It’s early in the month,
and now that I’ve written down the goal, my actions will bring in more results.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Is anyone brave enough to make the same challenge? What ways do you think you can engage to
bring in more funds to pay down the principal?
How would it feel to not have a house payment anymore? <o:p></o:p></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com02224 Minden Way, Sacramento, CA 95835, USA38.666637 -121.51044913.623951000000002 -162.819043 63.709323 -80.201855tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-79989405547546429042017-03-07T15:25:00.000-08:002017-03-07T15:25:18.552-08:00Family Members and Money<h2>
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<o:p> </o:p>Why is it that we seem to be making some good choices and
getting ahead financially, when along comes a family setback, and we’re reeling
right along with them. Are you the one
who graduated from college and is doing better than the others, so you are the
caretaker? Are you the oldest child who
takes responsibility for the others? Did
you fill your grandmother’s footsteps as rescue worker?</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s talk about boundaries.
Let’s outline some things that, regardless of your relationship and
ability to pay, you should NEVER do.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<ul>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">NEVER co-sign on a car loan or other purchase</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">NEVER rent a home or rental property to a family
member without a written and signed rental agreement</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">NEVER add other people to your wireless phone
plan</span></li>
</ul>
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So many times, we have a noble intent to help our sister,
and they take that inch and a mile more.
If they can’t buy groceries for their young children, don’t give them
grocery money. Buy them food and bring
it to their home. If they can’t pay the
electric bill, call 211 to find community resources that can help. You may have offered money in the past, so
build up your resolve to help them with information and moral support instead
of money. Teach them how to fish. If they don’t want anything except money, let
them find it elsewhere. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6D1mcU4yTQk/WL8_BCrUI-I/AAAAAAAADzw/rSUJwzhecw4GXKmcoN3dVDXvj4astJMjQCLcB/s1600/Hammitt%2BFamily%2BPhoto%2Bat%2BSanta%2BCruz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6D1mcU4yTQk/WL8_BCrUI-I/AAAAAAAADzw/rSUJwzhecw4GXKmcoN3dVDXvj4astJMjQCLcB/s320/Hammitt%2BFamily%2BPhoto%2Bat%2BSanta%2BCruz.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santa Cruz, CA 1920's My dad is the little guy standing up</td></tr>
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I know this is easier said than done, but making them
dependent on you does no one any favors.
They’ll never grow strong when there’s always someone to fix their
problems. I know this sounds harsh, and
it may be something that a family has never seen before. Maybe they won’t talk to you; that shows that
all they really want is the money, so let them be mad for now. Think how much more independent people would
be if they learned by “tough love” instead of constant coddling.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If it’s your parents, it’s even tougher. You probably acquired a lot of their
struggles when growing up, and may have learned to treat your money
differently. Share with them some of your
scuffles, and encourage them to try incremental changes that may make a big
difference.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If your family relationships cause issues for yourself or
your marriage, read the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Boundaries-When-Take-Control-Your/dp/0310247454/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1488928584&sr=1-1&keywords=henry+cloud" target="_blank">“Boundaries”</a> by Dr. Henry Cloud for some insight
into understanding and addressing the concerns.
Seek advice from someone to help with your resolve to not give in. Ask others for help to stick with your determination
to not hurt yourself financially to dig someone out <i>again</i>. <o:p></o:p></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-58954833157769105802017-01-26T10:22:00.000-08:002017-01-26T10:22:13.322-08:00What Have You Been Missing?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Am I paranoid, or are they really trying to overcharge
me? In the past six months, we changed
our ISP, entertainment, and phone service, saving us $150 each month. I have had to call five months in a row because
my bill was wrong – sometimes up to $200 in errors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I shopped our insurance rates, and it’s reassuring that we
already have a company with the best rates and reliable service. Our homeowners’
insurance company had the wrong start date on the policy, and we were able to
get it corrected and have two additional months of coverage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reduced one bill that provided redundant services and
will save $240 a year, and I did find an error on our medical insurance bill
dating back to August, and we are getting a refund for $200. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All this is from reading the monthly statements for our
bank, credit cards, cell phone carrier, and reviewing the insurance bills at
renewal time. Except for the phone
service and insurance, I accomplished most of these savings in January. Is there anything you have been missing on
your statements? How would you know?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e9yvPcTWE-s/WIlYIAJuw-I/AAAAAAAADb8/4sXmMk-kiocteHuDEvPuaY9HuMTq46PHQCLcB/s1600/20160416_101402_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e9yvPcTWE-s/WIlYIAJuw-I/AAAAAAAADb8/4sXmMk-kiocteHuDEvPuaY9HuMTq46PHQCLcB/s320/20160416_101402_001.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I’ll admit that reading statements and bills is not very
entertaining. I’d rather be perusing
travel brochures and planning our next escape.
That is my motivation for being vigilant about our money – I want to
travel and experience new adventures as often as possible. Our next trip keeps me inspired to save now
and enjoy soon enough.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I’ve talked about this before, <a href="http://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/2013/01/first-step-to-control-review-your-bills.html">First
Step to Control – Review Your Bills</a>.
You don’t have to look at every detail on your 401K account, but make
sure that your contributions are showing up right, and that the money is being
invested the way you had it planned. At
least once a year, have a face to face appointment with your financial advisor
to ensure your investments are doing what you need them to do. Your goals may have changed, and you want to
ensure your securities are still the best choice for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Starting today, read all the statements that you receive in
the mail or e-mail for the next thirty days.
See what you observe about the bills, note any follow-up needed. Make
the calls to get things fixed. You are
more in control of your finances than you were a month ago. Feels good, doesn’t it? Now, you can browse the internet for your next
adventure.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-34551066411990332842016-12-30T12:44:00.003-08:002016-12-30T12:44:52.728-08:00Five Ways I’ve improved my Life in 2016<br /><h2 style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
I promised to reveal ways I felt I improved my life in 2016. Here's what I'd like to share:</h2>
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1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <b>
</b></span><!--[endif]--><u><b>I have less stuff:</b></u> William Morris said
“Have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful or believe to be
beautiful.” That is my thought process
when looking at my clothes, kitchen, pantry, freezer, bathroom cupboards,
bookshelf and files. Having less means
not as much to clean, items are easier to find, and I feel lighter.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <b>
</b></span><!--[endif]--><u><b>Expanded our Travel:</b></u> As we focus more on experiences, we enjoy our
trips even more. Visiting family in
Hawaii, while doing lots of walking and hiking.
Spur of the moment flight to Mexico with no plans or expectations, or
weekday trips to Lake Tahoe to take in all the beauty and fresh air.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <b>
</b></span><!--[endif]--><u><b>I am motivated to enjoy Optimal Health:</b></u> That means physical health, mental health,
and financial health. I try to spread my
efforts into all three areas for a good balance. Earlier this year, I was turning into an old
person by having conversations with friends about our ailments. No more. I’m steering towards encouragement
of positive activities. More farmers
markets, less weight, more cooking from scratch, more planned menus.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <b>
</b></span><!--[endif]--><u><b>I’m striving to be Present:</b></u> Fully participating in conversations,
blocking out distraction, being intensive in what I am doing. Creating a weekly planner to make sure I move
forward with my goals. Breaking it down
to a daily planner to prioritize and takes steps towards progress and
completion. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <b>
</b></span><!--[endif]--><u><b>Letting go:
Not just stuff.</b></u> I’m talking
about still thinking I would take up golfing, or trying one more time to get
along with that negative friend that drains me emotionally. Embracing excellence instead of perfection
(that will always be a challenge for me.)
Saying “no” to responsibilities or obligations I don’t need to carry.
Less disappointment about choices other people make.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What about you? What
have you improved, and what will your focus be for the coming year?<o:p></o:p></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-9601515294117968822016-10-11T14:00:00.000-07:002016-10-12T16:23:59.890-07:00It's Not Your Grandfather's Retirement<div class="MsoNormal">
I remember when I first realized people retire. First of all, they were REALLY OLD. Some of them did a lot of travelling, and
many just stayed home and did hobbies or socialized with their friends and
family. My father retired when he was 55
years old, and I thought that was the norm, and it became my goal to retire at
55. My employer for much of my career
promised a full retirement at age 55 if you had enough service years and had
started young enough, which I had done.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9-kMQ_9VdPs/V_w1gnhmHSI/AAAAAAAAC0s/kZ1gwutnvmognaj-buMoLnJWGcp1wSMtQCLcB/s1600/Dad%2Band%2BMarge%2BSanta%2BCruz%2B_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9-kMQ_9VdPs/V_w1gnhmHSI/AAAAAAAAC0s/kZ1gwutnvmognaj-buMoLnJWGcp1wSMtQCLcB/s320/Dad%2Band%2BMarge%2BSanta%2BCruz%2B_0003.jpg" width="154" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>My dad growing up in Santa Cruz, CA</b></td></tr>
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When I was 45 years old, I realized there was no way I could
work there for another 10 years. The old
ways of staying with one company had gone, and there were so many opportunities
that seemed more appealing to satisfy my need to help, along with my leadership
and financial skills. I left, and never
looked back. Fortunately, I had hired a financial planner as soon as I earned
my MBA, and relied on her <a href="http://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/2015/07/plan-for-your-someday-with-these-3-easy.html" target="_blank">expertise</a> to make the best investment decisions to
meet our risk tolerance and future goals.
My parents taught me how to work hard, spend less than you save, enjoy
life (especially family and travel), and invest in Real Estate and traditional
investments. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I had to realize that when I left behind that corporate job
with a “real” pension, I accepted responsibility for my financial future. <i> </i>I
observed that most people don’t retire until they are 63 years old. I didn’t know I was going to have to work
that long! I started noticing
commercials about your “number.” Why
were those numbers so big? They said I’d
probably spend only 80% of my income in retirement; stop commuting, dry
cleaning, business lunches. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As I have been studying retirement planning for over 10
years now, I see a much different scenario and I don’t think I was the only one
who had bought into our father’s retirement.
Employers started reducing retirement benefits, and of course they would
not tell anyone that they handed over the responsibility to employees. A lot of people really thought Social Security
would provide enough on top of the retirement pension. The government approved
401K and Roth IRAs, and we liked the potential tax savings, but still didn’t
see the whole picture. <o:p></o:p></div>
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According to a study by Chris Hogan, “<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/research/stress-anxiety">Stress and Anxiety
Surrounding Retirement</a>”, <b>half</b> of
Baby Boomers, who were born between 1946 and 1964, have less than $10,000 saved
for retirement. We are in a bad place
with retirement near or already here.
Only 9% of middle income employees save at least 15% towards their
retirement. We don’t have any plans, we’re
not saving. When someone mentions <b>Retirement</b>, we experience anxiety. We lose sleep. We don’t know what to do.<o:p></o:p></div>
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While some families and cultures have several generations in
one home, do you want that to be the <b>only
</b>option? Probably not. As embarrassing as it is, we need our Baby
Boomers to feel comfortable enough to get some help to plan their
retirement. Whether it be their
employer, Money Coach, investment professional, banker, or <i>some</i> trusted professional to provide guidance. It’s time to get in gear, learn your options,
and start setting some money aside.
There are lots of us out there to help – the time is NOW to do
something. Make an appointment
today. Write down some goals and
questions. Listen to the suggestions,
and pick at least one to start with right now.
Move retirement to a<a href="http://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/2015/07/plan-for-your-someday-with-these-3-easy.html" target="_blank"> high priority</a> and make it your second job to make
solid plans. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Please remember, there are a lot of us out there to help you
understand more about retirement, and there’s no need to be mortified when
others see your situation. You’re not
alone. When you get your retirement plan
rolling, help someone else you know do the same. Let’s share a prosperous future with all of
our fellow Baby Boomers. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is the beginning of my series of blogs on
retirement. Today’s Baby Boomers are my
first priority because time is of the essence to do something quickly. You can find out more about me on my website <a href="http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com/">http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-31504372619040468792016-10-06T09:42:00.001-07:002016-10-06T09:42:38.791-07:00<div align="center">
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<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 8.5pt; line-height: 125%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A little research can keep hidden
costs from hitting where it hurts most — your wallet! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=32ab07fc2f&e=f0447bc0f6" target="_blank" title=""></a><a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=32ab07fc2f&e=f0447bc0f6" target=""_blank""><img align="left" border="0" class="mcnImage" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a/images/90f7ca5a-ffd1-4a92-b078-cf5e7d079ca4.jpg" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; border-bottom-width: 0in; border-left-width: 0in; border-right-width: 0in; border-top-width: 0in; display: inline; max-width: 596px; outline: none; padding-bottom: 0in; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: bottom;" title="""" width="564" /></a><a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=32ab07fc2f&e=f0447bc0f6" target="_blank" title=""></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<h2 align="center" style="text-align: center;">
The unexpected costs of buying a home <o:p></o:p></h2>
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<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-table-anchor-horizontal: column; mso-table-anchor-vertical: paragraph; mso-table-left: left; mso-table-lspace: 2.25pt; mso-table-rspace: 2.25pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 100%px;">
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<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Buying
a home is expensive, but it’s not just the price of the house itself
that you need to plan for. If you’re considering a new home, <a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=a110587e37&e=f0447bc0f6" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #679428;">BetterMoneyHabits.com</span></a> can
help you look beyond the sale price to understand and plan for the
extra expenses that come with making this big purchase.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=135d6f0957&e=f0447bc0f6" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank" title=""><span style="color: blue; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><img align="center" border="0" class="mcnImage" id="_x0000_i1025" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a/images/635982b1-6579-4f91-90fd-53a08a070205.png" style="-ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; border-bottom-width: 0in; border-left-width: 0in; border-right-width: 0in; border-top-width: 0in; display: inline; max-width: 534px; outline: none; padding-bottom: 0in; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: bottom;" width="534" /></span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="left" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-table-anchor-horizontal: column; mso-table-anchor-vertical: paragraph; mso-table-left: left; mso-table-lspace: 2.25pt; mso-table-rspace: 2.25pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 100%px;">
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #606060; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Low
Credit Score</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Your
credit score has a big impact on what your mortgage interest rate
will be and how much you will need for a down payment. If your score
isn’t great, you might not even be approved for a home loan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">You
can check your credit report at <a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=1e94e57936&e=f0447bc0f6" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #679428;">annualcreditreport.com</span></a>,
or by contacting one of the three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian,
or TransUnion. But if you find you fall into the lower range of
credit scores, it is not the end of the world. Check out these
BetterMoneyHabits.com videos to get back on track:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="1" type="1">
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #606060; line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=d6febda1b2&e=f0447bc0f6" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank"><em><span style="color: #679428;">Build Credit and Keeping
Yours Healthy</span></em></a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #606060; line-height: 150%; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list 1.0in;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=6d9b82687b&e=f0447bc0f6" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #679428;">What
Really Goes Into Your Credit Score</span></a></span></em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #606060; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Down
Payment and Private Mortgage Insurance</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">The
more you put down on your new home, the better. Ideally, you will
need to put down 20 percent. At that point, you will receive a better
interest rate, have lower monthly payments, and you will not have to
pay for private mortgage insurance, or PMI.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">PMI
is a type of insurance that lenders require you to pay if you are
unable to make a full 20 percent down payment. This protects them if
you default on your loan. And it’s not cheap. PMI can cost up to
about 2 percent of the total loan amount. PMI is either required up
front, or rolled into your monthly mortgage payment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">With
some loans, you won’t have to pay PMI forever, but check with your
lender for more details.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">If
you cannot come up with a 20 percent down payment, there are some
alternative options, such as government programs that require just
3.5 percent. For more information, watch <a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=2a0908c45c&e=f0447bc0f6" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank"><em><span style="color: #679428;">Understanding Alternative Mortgage Options</span></em></a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #606060; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Closing
Costs</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Closing
costs include things like title insurance, appraisals, and attorney
fees. Plan on these closings costs being 3 to 7 percent of the total
loan amount. And remember, this is on top of the down payment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #606060; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Unanticipated
Expenses</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #606060; font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 150%;">Homeownership
may come with some unexpected expenses. These could be increased
energy costs, the price of new appliances, homeowner’s association
fees, or even just the expense of maintaining a nice yard. So make sure
you’ve accounted for all these in your budget. And for good measure,
start an emergency fund for those things you cannot prepare for.
Learn more by watching <a href="http://americasaves.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=17d680c61b75dafadcaed793a&id=9b1e3d879e&e=f0447bc0f6" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank"><em><span style="color: #679428;">Create a Safety Net for Life’s Unexpected Events</span></em></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-54854223180141523072016-08-30T16:00:00.000-07:002016-09-11T19:54:33.753-07:003 Smart Expenses You Can Avoid<div class="MsoNormal">
Looking at your spending plan, it’s fairly easy to
anticipate the regular monthly expenses, and with a bit of planning, the gift
occasions, school activities and annual fees.
What is frequently not anticipated are the expenses that others try to include
without our pre-approval. They offer,
and we accept the opportunity to spend our precious money.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Awareness is the key to this conversation, and please understand the choice placed before you is optional. You can start to realize that commitment
or acceptance of others’ expectations can “force” you into an expense you didn’t
even realize you wanted! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are some examples that I have experienced in my own family’s
finances:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"></span><br />
<ul><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> When our family plan had an available phone
upgrade, they went to our teenage son for a few years as he wore them out
quickly.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Now, when the upgrade becomes
available, there’s the anticipation of using the latest technology.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">As soon as we had a chance, we upgraded my
husband from a flip phone to the newest iPhone.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">He primarily uses it to make calls.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Should we have waited a little longer, or selected a less expensive
phone?</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">It is not a mandatory upgrade. We
had a choice.</span></li>
</span></ul>
<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><br />
<ol>
</ol>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t6sbxxiN9U8/V8TMymib0PI/AAAAAAAACkU/5wKPNgwFFkgGZE1_N8EPaepB46jUFFgRwCLcB/s1600/DSCN0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t6sbxxiN9U8/V8TMymib0PI/AAAAAAAACkU/5wKPNgwFFkgGZE1_N8EPaepB46jUFFgRwCLcB/s400/DSCN0232.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">Our kids, or we as parents, want to experience every sport, musical instrument, and community organization available.</span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">Youth build lifelong skills and friends through activities.</span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">Each pursuit has fees, equipment, travel and various expenses to contribute.</span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">We will spend all afternoon and weekends driving them all over the place to participate.</span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">Parents end up with no free time, and a lot less money.</span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">Who says it has to be this way?</span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">Set a limit on time and money for activities, which is VERY important with blended families who need to ensure all guardians are on board with the plan and able to give money and time.</span><span style="font-stretch: normal; text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-stretch: normal; text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Can you politely decline a destination wedding,
family reunion of 3</span><sup style="text-indent: -0.25in;">rd</sup><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> cousins, or a weekend in Vegas with friends
you don’t really enjoy anymore? If you truly
don’t want to go, save the money and precious time and say no. Tell them you didn’t budget for it, you don’t
have that much time, or whatever honest answer you can give. Other people’s desires and priorities do not
need to be forced onto you. Feel comfortable
telling the truth, and not participating out of guilt or responsibility. You really have the power to make your own
choices.</span></li>
</ul>
<ol>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wouldn’t it feel delightful to have more control of your cherished
time and money? Could you remove the culpability
of not doing the things above, and replace it with the empowerment of making
smart choices? This is my goal at <a href="http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com/" target="_blank">MoneyWise Advisors</a>, to encourage you to take action and power to control your
finances, and start achieving your goals and dreams. Your personal finance strategy becomes the
tool to increase your earning power.
What choices do you have in front of you today?<o:p></o:p></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-62415209664587217002016-02-26T12:28:00.000-08:002016-02-26T12:28:06.878-08:00<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="Wisebread"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">A blog to share celebrating America Saves Week 2016 #ASW2016</span></b></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="Wisebread"><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">7 Ways to Automate Your
Savings<o:p></o:p></span></b></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">by<b> </b>Camilla Cheung, </span><a href="http://www.wisebread.com/"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Wise Bread</span></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Sometimes,
building a healthy cushion of savings can seem like a daunting task. We all
know how easy it is to make a late credit card payment, or to end up spending
all of your paycheck without remembering to save part of it. One easy way to
get started on saving this <a href="http://americasavesweek.org/">America Saves
Week</a> is to automate your savings. Having technology work to save money for
you takes much of the effort out of the equation, saves time, and makes it
easier for you to achieve your goals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">1. Automate Retirement
Contributions<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">If
your employer matches retirement contributions to your 401K or retirement plan,
be sure to take advantage of the free money! Sign up for retirement
contributions to be automatically taken out of your paycheck. This saves you
money in several ways. First, it contributes money before you even see your
paycheck and get an opportunity to spend that money; and second, it saves you
money on taxes as it is withdrawn from your pre-tax income.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Even
if you don’t have a retirement plan with your employer, you can still schedule
your account to contribute automatically to your own retirement plan.
Scheduling your contribution a day or two after you receive your paycheck
ensures that saving for retirement is a priority.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">2. Transfer Money to
Savings Accounts<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">To
prioritize savings, schedule an automatic transfer of a certain amount of your
monthly income into a savings account. Your savings will benefit from being set
aside from your regular spending, as well as benefitting from a higher dividend
rate. Eventually, even just a small amount squirreled aside every month can
translate into a healthy buffer of savings to hold you over on a rainy day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">If
you are self-employed or a freelancer and you have to pay quarterly or yearly
taxes on your income, sending the estimated tax you owe to a separate account
every month will help you to avoid an unpleasant surprise at tax time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">3. Pay Bills Automatically<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Avoid
late fees by paying your bills automatically. Some bills can be put on your
credit card, whereas others can be set up to be paid directly from your bank
account.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It’s
also a good idea to set up your credit card bill to be directly paid from your
bank account. That way, you avoid late fees as well as costly interest on
overdue amounts. Be sure, however, that you have enough money in your account
to avoid overdrawing your account and incurring additional fees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">4. Get Money Back With
Credit Card Rewards<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">There
are many no-fee credit cards that offer cash back or rewards points. Use your
card for all your regular purchases (and your monthly bills), and you’ll earn
free rewards or cash back for your spending. If you plan to spend money on
travel, rewards points that allow you to buy airplane tickets or hotel stays
can also help save you money. Choosing the right credit card can also net you
additional perks like car rental and travel insurance when you pay with your
card.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">It’s
important to <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/12-habits-of-highly-responsible-credit-card-users">use
your credit card responsibly</a>, so be sure you can pay your balance in full
every month to avoid extra fees. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">5. Use Technology to Cut
Energy Costs<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">If
you spend a lot on heating and cooling costs, investing in a smart thermostat
can automatically save you energy and money, by reducing your energy usage
during hours that you are away from home or at night. Many thermostats can also
set different zones of your house to heat and cool differently depending on
your needs, making your energy usage more efficient.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">When
your appliances are in need of replacement, replace them with energy-efficient
models that will automatically reduce your energy usage every time you use
them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">6. Simplify and Save While
Shopping<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Many
people can’t be bothered to cut out physical coupons and fiddle with all those
little slips of paper at the store, but with smartphones, it’s much easier to
automate the couponing process. Many grocery and big box stores have apps that
allow you to choose the coupons you need from the app, and then apply them all
by scanning your phone at checkout. Other apps aggregate coupons from many different
retailers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">For
regular purchases of things like diapers, toilet paper, and other necessities,
consider joining an online subscription service, which will deliver your
purchases to your door regularly, as well as offer a discount in the process.
That way, you won’t be stuck paying full price when you have to run out and buy
these items at the last minute.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">7. Keep an Eye on Your
Accounts<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Staying
aware of the activities in your accounts helps you to track your spending, as
well as detect any fraudulent activity. But it can be a bit of a pain to sign
into each individual credit card and bank account separately. Instead, tie your
accounts into an app (such as Mint.com) that allows you to see your
transactions at a glance. This will help you to rein in your spending if
needed, transfer money to savings or investment accounts, as well as save time
keeping track of your accounts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">By
setting your finances to automatically save for you, you’ll quickly be on your
way to saving both time and money.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">What will you do during <b>America Saves Week</b> to automate your
savings?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.wisebread.com/">Wise Bread</a> is an online personal finance
and credit card education magazine. It has won best of the web awards from PC
Magazine, Kiplinger, and About.com. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">A Personal money coach can help you implement some of these steps if you need a professional to help you get started. We offer many resources and support at our <a href="http://moneywiseadvisors.com/" target="_blank">MoneyWiseAdvisors</a> website; please check out our new website released this week.</span></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-76386396680402945842015-07-17T16:33:00.002-07:002015-07-17T16:33:43.184-07:00Plan For Your ‘Someday’ With These 3 Easy Ways To Save<div class="MsoNormal">
Working hard, paying bills, and putting money aside for your needs and
wants in the “now” are so often automatic in our day-to-day lives – so why
aren’t we thinking about or planning for the future? According to the <a href="http://www.ebri.org/pdf/briefspdf/EBRI_IB_413_Apr15_RCS-2015.pdf">2015
Retirement Confidence Survey</a> from the Employee Benefit Research Institute,
nearly one-third of workers have almost no retirement savings or investments
(< $1,000), and a staggering 57% are underprepared with less than $25,000
for retirement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s clear that anyone not using the present to plan for retirement will
likely be setting themselves up for a less than golden future. But it’s never
too early or too late to save for retirement. Try one – or more! – of these
three ways to take advantage of retirement savings opportunities right now to
build yourself a more secure future:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>1. Open Up a <i>my </i>Social Security Account<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Social Security benefits play an important part of planning for
retirement. Don’t forget about your <a href="http://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">my
Social Security account</a>! This free account can help you determine what your
benefits will be and when will be best for you to start receiving them.<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. Save Early and
Save Often, No Matter How Much You Earn<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting retirement savings early is the best way to take advantage of <a href="http://www.americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/save-for-retirement/miracle-of-compound-interest">compound
interest</a> and establish good savings habits. Take advantage of any <a href="http://www.americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/save-for-retirement/saving-at-work-through-a-401k-plan">workplace
opportunities</a>, like a 401(k) or 403(b), and never turn down “free money”
that comes in the form of employer contributions or matches. <a href="http://www.americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/save-for-retirement/saving-outside-of-work-through-an-individual-retirement-account-ira">Individual
Retirement Accounts</a> or IRAs are also a great way to save, with some tax
benefits in the process. If you get paid by direct deposit from your employer,
you may also be eligible to participate in the new <a href="https://myra.gov/">myRA
program</a>. <a href="https://myra.gov/">myRA</a> is a simple, safe, and
affordable retirement account created by the United States Department of the
Treasury for the millions of Americans who face barriers to saving for retirement.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Need help finding ways to save? Turning off your phone or cable could
save you $5 a month. Find a penny, pick it up; by saving $.50 in change a day,
you will save $15 a month. For more ideas like these, visit <a href="http://www.americasaves.org/for-savers/make-a-plan-how-to-save-money/54-ways-to-save-money">America
Saves online</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting early isn’t possible for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you
can’t play catch-up. Calculate what you will need to save in order to live
comfortably in retirement. Once you have turned 50, you can make “<a href="http://www.irs.gov/Retirement-Plans/Plan-Participant,-Employee/Retirement-Topics-Catch-Up-Contributions">catch-up
contributions</a>” – an extra amount beyond the normal limits that you can
contribute to tax-deferred retirement plans. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3. Take the
America Saves Pledge<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those who make a commitment to themselves and their family to save
usually save more than those who don’t. <a href="http://www.americasaves.org/pledge">Make your commitment</a> to retirement
savings today and receive regular advice and support via email and/or texts while
you save money. America Saves will provide you with the motivation and advice
you need to reach your savings goal.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Tammy Greynolds works
for America Saves, managed by the
nonprofit Consumer Federation of America (CFA), which seeks to motivate,
encourage, and support low- to moderate-income households to save money, reduce
debt, and build wealth. Learn more at <a href="http://www.americasaves.org/">AmericaSaves.org</a></i>. <i>America Saves is proud to be part of the “<a href="http://www.americasaves.org/blog/1112-nonprofit-and-government-groups-launch-campaign-for-a-secure-retirement">Campaign
for a Secure Retirement</a>: Helping Millions of Americans Plan and Save for
Retirement” joint,
national educational retirement campaign to encourage retirement planning
and saving and to promote the online Social Security Statement, available
through <a href="http://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/">mySocial Security</a>, as an important retirement planning tool.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-18852676930696962642015-06-24T16:34:00.001-07:002015-06-24T16:34:42.519-07:00What to Tell the Children<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Often, one of the
hardest decisions people make in the </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333330154419px;">estate planning</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> process is how much (and
when) to tell their children or other heirs about their plans. Many
people are very hesitant to reveal the details of their family's expected
inheritances. Many parents say they fear that if their children find out
they can expect a substantial legacy in the future, they'll be less likely to
work hard and save in the present.</span><br />
<o:p></o:p><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9jrLQ1x5uxE/VYs9Uj06TuI/AAAAAAAAANY/uuDNi897HPw/s1600/portrait-of-an-extended-family-with-their-pet-dog-sitting-at-the-park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="249" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9jrLQ1x5uxE/VYs9Uj06TuI/AAAAAAAAANY/uuDNi897HPw/s320/portrait-of-an-extended-family-with-their-pet-dog-sitting-at-the-park.jpg" title="" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Another
worry is that revealing an estate plan could lead to family squabbling and
resentment. This is especially true if you plan to leave unequal
inheritances to family members. Many families will simply avoid talking
about the subject in order to keep peace. If there's a blended family
with children from a prior marriage, things can get even more complicated.<u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> But
while it can be difficult, there are also some very good reasons for having a
detailed talk with your family about your estate plan. For one thing, if
there's a chance of family squabbling and bitterness, it can be better to tell
everyone what to expect now, while you are still alive and have a chance to
explain your motives and smooth things over. You could explain, for
instance, why you're leaving more assets to a child with a large family than to
a child who is single, or why you're leaving money to a charity that has always
been important to you. <u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Another thing
to consider is that, if someone dies suddenly, the family is often left very
confused about finances. They don't know what assets there are, or where
they're located, and searching for them can be extra stressful when the family
is already suffering the grief of losing a loved one. If you discuss your
assets and your plan now, so that everyone knows what to expect, it can make
things much easier after you pass away.<u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Many parents
who talk about their plans with their children are surprised to discover that
their children sometimes have good ideas. If a family owns a vacation
home, for instance, the parents might have one thought about what to do with
it, but the children might come up with a plan that better protects the home
and better suits their future needs.<u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Talking with
your children also allows you to coordinate your estate plan with your
children's own estate plans. You might discover, for instance, that the
whole family can save taxes if you give more assets directly to your
grandchildren, or create trusts for your children instead of leaving assets to
them outright. <u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> If you
are concerned about these issues, it's a good idea to discuss them with your
attorney.<u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;"><i>Thanks to Joan Medeiros, http://www.sacramentoestateplans.com for sharing this information.</i></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.3333330154419px;"><i>Compassionate Service. Tailored Solutions.</i></span></span></h4>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-79607791051496686402014-06-10T17:57:00.002-07:002014-06-10T17:57:27.385-07:00<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="top"></a> <br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Money down the drain</span></h2>
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Looking for ways to reduce your water usage and waste, while saving yourself some green? Here are some helpful hints and tips for that money-wise and eco-friendly homeowner. Undoubtedly, the toilet is the biggest water hog in the bathroom. Those made prior to 1993 use up to 8 gallons per flush, which is approximately 5 times the current toilet use. If you’re unsure of the age of your toilet, check under the lid. According to the “National Geographic’s Green Guide,” the toilet’s manufacture date is usually stamped under the lid. Plumbing leaks account for 14 percent of total water usage in the average American home. Toilets are the main source of this leak. An inexpensive but effective test to check for a toilet leak is to use 5-10 drops of food coloring in the tank. Do not flush. Check the toilet 15 minutes later for colored water leakage into the tank.<br />
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Another source for water waste is the shower. Older shower heads were not low flow rated. You can test your shower head efficiency with this simple test. Turn the shower and catch the water in a bucket for 2 minutes. If the bucket overflows, your shower head is a wasteful model. Consider replacing it with a low flow shower head. It’ll save you money and reduce water waste. You can find shower heads for as little as $15 at any hardware store. That’s a great return on your investment because you’ll save money and water with every shower. If you really want to be frugal and eco-friendly, turn the shower off while soaping up. EarthEasy.com reminds us that even with a new shower head, a moderately short shower uses between 20 to 40 gallons of water, while a bath can use 50 to 60 gallons of water. When checking for leaks, be sure to inspect your pipes and faucets. Although these may require a professional to assist in the inspection or repair, the long-term benefits will save you money.</div>
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These hints for saving water are courtesy of Julia Frazier Yank/Nebraska Home Sales Realtor<br />
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Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-6887748399819317952014-02-28T17:19:00.000-08:002014-02-28T17:19:35.253-08:00This America Saves Week: Take Action to Improve Your Financial Situation
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">By
Katie Bryan, <a href="http://americasaves.org/"><span style="color: blue;">America Saves</span></a>
Communications Director.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<a href="http://www.americasavesweek.org/"><span style="color: blue;">America Saves Week</span></a>, February 24
– March 1, 2014, is a time to review your finances, decide what you want to
save for, and set up a system that will allow you to save automatically. That’s
why the America Saves Week theme is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Set
a Goal. Make a Plan. Save Automatically.</b> Did you know that only half of
Americans report having good savings habits? Even if you are already saving,
it’s good to take a look at your goals and decide if you can save more or start
a new savings goal. Join thousands of others <a href="http://www.americasaves.org/pledge"><span style="color: blue;">who are pledging</span></a> to pay down
debt, save money, and take financial action during America Saves Week.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Not sure what to save for or what to save for
next?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">
Here are the most popular saving goals of those who have </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">pledged to save through America Saves:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<ul>
<li>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Save
for Emergencies - </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Only 37 percent of low-to-moderate
income households have a savings or money market account at a bank or
credit union and nearly a quarter of savers who have pledged to save have
chosen “emergency savings” as their first wealth-building goal. <a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/save-for-emergencies"><span style="color: blue;">Learn
more</span></a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Save
for Education - </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Saving for education is the second most
popular goal savers select when they pledge to save with America Saves.
There are many different things to factor in when saving and paying for
college. <a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/save-for-education"><span style="color: blue;">Learn
more</span></a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Pay
Down Debt - </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Getting out of debt is the #3 goal Savers
select when they pledge to save. That does not come as a surprise since a <a href="http://www.demos.org/news/more-americans-rely-credit-cards-basics" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">2012 survey</span></a> found that 45% of families with
annual incomes under $50,000 rely on credit cards to pay for basic needs
such as rent, utilities, insurance and food. <a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/debt-and-credit/get-out-of-debt"><span style="color: blue;">Learn
more</span></a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Save
for a Home - </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For decades, home ownership has been the
main path to wealth for most Americans. Today, home equity - the market value
of a home minus the balance on any home loans - represents more than
four-fifths of the typical family's wealth. <a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/save-for-a-home"><span style="color: blue;">Learn
more</span></a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Save
for Retirement - </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Retirement savings is a top priority
for many Savers. Saving for retirement now will ensure that you have
enough money to maintain a comfortable standard of living when you stop or
reduce the amount of hours you work. <a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/set-a-goal-what-to-save-for/save-for-retirement"><span style="color: blue;">Learn
more</span></a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></li>
</ul>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Not
sure how to save for your goals?</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Here are some saving
strategies to help:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Save
Automatically - </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The easiest and most effective way to save
is automatically. This is how millions of Americans save at their bank or
credit union, and how millions of employees save through 401(k) and other
retirement programs at work. <a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/save-automatically"><span style="color: blue;">Learn more</span></a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Save
at Tax Time -</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Do you spend weeks eagerly anticipating
your tax refund? When the money finally comes in, is it gone tomorrow?
Many people view tax refunds as unplanned bonuses. They see the money as a
gift from the government, to use for splurges or treats. But a tax refund
provides the opportunity to improve your financial situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/make-a-plan-how-to-save-money/saving-at-tax-time"><span style="color: blue;">Learn
more</span></a>.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://americasaves.org/for-savers/savings-tools-and-resources/pledge"><span style="color: blue;">Take
the America Saves Pledge</span></a> (or re-pledge) today to set your savings goal and
make a plan to save. When you take the pledge you can also choose to receive
text message tips and reminders to help you save for your goal. And don’t
forget to follow America Saves on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AmericaSaves"><span style="color: blue;">Facebook</span></a>
and <a href="http://www.twitter.com/americasaves"><span style="color: blue;">Twitter</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.1in 0pt 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.americasavesweek.org/"><span style="color: blue;">America Saves Week</span></a> is coordinated
by <a href="http://americasaves.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">America Saves</span></a> and
the <a href="http://www.choosetosave.org/asec/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">American
Savings Education Council</span></a>. Started in 2007, the Week is an annual
opportunity for organizations to promote good savings behavior and a chance for
individuals to assess their own saving status<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-17548218020228680202013-11-11T16:23:00.000-08:002013-11-11T16:23:10.782-08:00Change What?
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I can’t count how many people have told me they will be
ready to work with a money coach as soon as they take care of a few other
things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What could those things be that
would delay starting a positive change in your life?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m too busy or I can’t afford it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My bills and bank statements are disheveled and
I need to get organized first<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let me get done with this big project at work
that is distracting me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m stuck right now anyway, so how could I work
on changing?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If
someone told you the work phrase “do you want fries with that?” could be in
your past, and the new job pays twice the wage with benefits, why would you
stay in the old job another minute?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you received a gift certificate for a house cleaning, would you pick up the
house first so they wouldn’t think you are sloppy?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We
all have reasons we are afraid to move forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What if I start the new job, and find out that they don’t like me?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we try a new spending plan we might not be
able to see the inside of a restaurant ever again unless we’re working there to
make some extra money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s so
overwhelming that looking deeper into the problem will only make it worse and
I’ll get depressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These fears sound
familiar to most of us thinking about a change in our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I
recently was in the same quandary about working with a personal coach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m afraid I’ll try and fail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to be positive that I choose the best
coach for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not sure that I need
to change all that much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could spend
the money on something else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I finally
realized if I think the right coach is going to add value to my life, I should
get started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can think of a few big
decisions that I delayed, and later wondered what took me so long to make the
easy choice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Having
gone through this thought process, I’ve committed to hiring that coach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m ready to be open to change, and I don’t
have to be done with everything else to start the coaching process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Personal coaching is valuable to me, and I
know I’ll make the time and effort to get the most out of it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What decision are you delaying?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take the first step right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Question:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What excuses did you overcome to move forward?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Share in the comments.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-64014211075196675482013-06-10T13:21:00.000-07:002017-12-16T16:47:02.134-08:00Is Grandma Getting Enough Food to Eat?The numbers are shocking. I see the evidence when talking with friends and family, or when I go to the discount stores. One-third of senior households have no money left over each month or is in debt after meeting essential expenses (Institute on Assets and Social Policy). Many of my friends help their parents when they can, but it's tough to raise a family and help older relatives while we are on a tight budget ourselves. <br />
<br />
We all know someone who was raised by a struggling single mom, and that actually describes many adults right now. Think about those people's moms and grandmas now: 60% of women over 54 across the country lack the income to meet basic expenses (Wider Opportunities for Woman.) The struggle never stopped when the kids moved out, the (maybe) child support ended, and mom never had a chance to increase her job-earning skills. <br />
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<a href="http://americasaves.org/" target="_blank">America Saves</a> is stressing the need for all Americans to save for their future. With Americans, especially women, living longer - the reality is that Americans need to save more money for retirement - or work longer. You may have seen these points on <a href="http://moneywiseadvisors.com/" target="_blank">Money Wise Advisors</a>, and here is America Saves' version:<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond-Light;">Tips to Prepare to Live Debt
Free in Retirement<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond-Light;">1. Start saving, keep saving,
and stick to your goals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond-Light;">2. Know how much you will need
for retirement<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Garamond-Light;">3. Save at work and/or through
a Roth IRA<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. Find places to cut back so
you can save more</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">Let's say you're already retired and need help. How much was held out of your paycheck each month while you were working? A Lot. You paid into government programs, and they are now available to provide the support needed to remain healthy and independent. They are not handouts. Millions of low-income seniors can access $1.2 billion in benefits that can help them pay for their health care, prescriptions, food, utilities, and more.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">My goal is to educate the public on services available and avenues they have to qualify. For those of you who are not local, here are two national services available:</span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://benefitscheckup.org/" target="_blank">BenefitsCheckUp</a> - a service of the National Council on Aging (NCOA) - is the nation's most comprehensive web-based service offering information on benefits programs, specifically programs for people with Medicare and limited income and resources.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://eldercare.gov/" target="_blank">The Eldercare Locator</a>, a public service of AoA and administered by 4na, is a nationwide service that connects older adults and their caregivers with information on senior services. In addition to the link above, they have a toll-free hotline at 1-800-677-1116.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
Use the benefits you worked hard for, and share these resources with those who could use them. What is your biggest fear when you look towards retirement?</div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"></span><br />
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"></span></span>
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</span></span>
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</div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "garamond-light" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0.5in 0pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
</div>
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Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-37179007608481008672013-05-17T10:39:00.000-07:002013-05-17T10:39:06.320-07:005 Ways to be Green on Vacation<h4>
</h4>
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">By Susan Wilson, MBA</span></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lucky us, we’re back from our vacation to Anaheim and Los
Angeles for a late spring break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We invested in
a time share (bought it years ago, lesson learned), so we exchanged to a suite
in Anaheim for a $150 fee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have
gotten our value out of the time share, because we use it every year, and try
to prepare some meals to save money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Here’s what we did to <a href="https://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/b/post-preview?token=mv9GtT4BAAA.Ke2a4cVC_mYRfZRRXoCQzg.QTx6y1jYUSbqUqAWUddNhQ&postId=6545186266112824056&type=POST" target="_blank">make it a green</a> vacation:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Rented a 2013 Nissan Altima:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found a Hertz rental facility within five
miles of our home, and compared their daily rental rates and gas usage compared
to my car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had already researched that
<a href="http://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/2013/01/know-your-commute-cost.html" target="_blank">my car costs</a> .46 per mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Nissan
was estimated to cost .38 per mile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
based this on the estimated miles we would drive on our vacation and the
current gas prices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, we saved over
$95 on the car, got to drive around in a new vehicle, and the mileage was
incredible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We filled up the day before
we left LA while out doing some sightseeing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The next day we drove all the way home without filling up, and returned
it to the rental store empty and they refilled it at a guaranteed low
price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We only had to put gas in that
car two times the entire trip!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Almost</span>
1,500 miles – that was a green decision.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I brought reusable grocery bags from home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We packed some snacks in them to eat on the
way, and we used them for souvenir shopping as well as for groceries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also brought an insulated coffee travel cup we filled at refill prices and an aluminum water bottle that we </span>were able to refill at no charge.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Even with staying in a hotel room, we recycled
our bottles and cans; the hotel had a recycle bin for the complimentary
newspapers and other paper products we used. Thanks to the <a href="http://www.shellhospitality.com/Peacock-Suites" target="_blank">Peacock Suites inAnaheim</a> who provided recycling receptacles throughout the property.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Use public transportation when possible – we took
the local transit bus to visit local attractions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We saved on parking fees, the hassle of
locating our car, and we had to travel light with only what we could
carry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Always better for long days with
lots of walking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll include eating
local here – we visited the farmers market, and tried to eat at local
restaurants instead of chains.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We visited three parks during our stay, and
planned our itinerary via Google maps before we started each day of adventuring
to take the most economical route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Local
parks keep us active, and are fun for people watching without using any fuel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We packed food we prepared at the hotel, and
brought cold drinks and hats to protect us from the sun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Knowing how to be green and saving money made the vacation even more
fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, paying for everything in
cash helped, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can you make your
next vacation greener?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-65487429175749874472013-04-18T12:30:00.000-07:002013-04-18T12:30:00.195-07:00Is It Really Making Money?<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">By Susan Wilson, MBA<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Money is an advantageous instrument.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s magnificent to make money and a hobby or
small enterprise can be a fun way to bring more in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully, one of these start-ups can go big
and we will have arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At what point
does the small become big enough to manage?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As soon as there is money involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is the lesson my friend Ron learned with EBay. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It Starts
With a Great Idea<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ron had a
couple of collections, tired of them, and decided to sell stuff to make room
for his other collections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He started
shipping out boxes a couple times of week, and enjoying it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Next thing you know, he’s heading out on
buying trips around the state to find more treasures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, he’s <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">receiving </i></b>packages a
couple times a week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is it Making
Money?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The gambler
will always share stories about their wins, but we rarely hear about the losses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sound familiar?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went to the estate sale and found a $250
item for $10 and sold it in one day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did
those Dancing With The Stars ferret outfits not sell like you expected?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps they are tax-deductible donations to the
local pet shelter.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Keep Track
of Everything<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When you
start your new adventure, write down specific goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make them big enough to justify the effort
you have decided to take.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">How
many items do you want to list and expect to sell each week?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What
is the initial amount of investment? Use cash, not a credit card.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What
margin of profit do you expect? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What
expenses are their besides listing fees, packaging materials, shipping,
mileage, shopping for new items?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Maximum
storage space to use and cost of inventory?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">When
and how will the profits (if any) be used?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, Figure
out the Money<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Start
tracking expenses and income right away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You can do it on a computer spreadsheet or in a notebook if it’s not too
many.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure this is a profitable
enterprise, not a hobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your intent
is to make money, make sure it really is bringing in a profit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Total it up at least monthly to see how you
are doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you used any credit cards
to start out, pay them off in full as soon as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Profits should be used as planned – hopefully
for an emergency fund, towards a large purchase, or to invest.</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">How is your adventure doing? Share your experiences here. Learn more about taking control of your money at </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial Black;">www.moneywiseadvisors.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial Black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-81653897148928303552013-04-03T11:05:00.004-07:002013-04-03T11:05:48.915-07:00Balance Your Checking; Control Your Money
By Susan Wilson, MBA<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Controlling your finances means understanding all
of the money-related statements that your receive online and in the mail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t look forward to reviewing them; it’s
a tedious task, but an important step to see everything is o.k. with your checking
and savings accounts. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s a list of
things I have found myself and heard through my clients:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Life
Insurance on Boat Loan (my hubby before we married)</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span> </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Forgotten
Gym Memberships<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Unwarranted
Overdraft or “Convenience Fee”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">ATM
and Credit Card Fees<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Purchase
Amount Errors<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Unwanted
Payment Protection Plans or Subscription Services</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S-B9bNbUmio/UVxs9k0uyMI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/rosRni3hhWs/s1600/ski+boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S-B9bNbUmio/UVxs9k0uyMI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/rosRni3hhWs/s1600/ski+boat.jpg" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Yikes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These
are usually not small fees, and removing that $15 monthly life insurance on the
boat loan (yes, the heirs would get a paid-for used boat) is instant money
saved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just look through the line
items and make sure they are legitimate. I look for any surprise fee hikes or excessive
ATM fees I didn’t anticipate. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is
how you take control – know what is happening to ALL of your money. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">One more thing - make sure you receive all of your statements
if you have more than one account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Awareness of address changes can prevent identity theft.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Think exes and businesses you frequent.) It’s
not the latest Moscow gang taking our ID’s, it’s most likely someone we
know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This is one more action to take towards controlling
your finances that doesn’t take money out of your pocket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hopefully, you’ll find some places you can recover
money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, don’t take all the findings and
celebrate – pay off that nagging credit card bill that won’t go away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, that’s control. </span></div>
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Please share what you found on your statements. Learn more about taking control of your money at <a href="http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com/">www.moneywiseadvisors.com</a> </span></h4>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-65451862661128240562013-03-21T10:30:00.000-07:002013-03-21T10:30:00.951-07:004 Ways to Save Green While Going Green
<br />
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
By Susan Wilson, MBA</h4>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m all about taking action now to have opportunity for a
prosperous tomorrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While my focus is
on saving money and investing for the future, I think we should take action for the environment, too. Our planet earth could benefit from
our healthy lifestyle. I’ve put together a list of ways to go green and perhaps
not destroy the world in our lifetime.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-echTnP1W0i4/UUpjnqDCBZI/AAAAAAAAAJk/ym1Ixcj5Mbg/s1600/earth+cash+money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-echTnP1W0i4/UUpjnqDCBZI/AAAAAAAAAJk/ym1Ixcj5Mbg/s200/earth+cash+money.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;">
Cut your commute: hybrid or electric
or just high mileage?<o:p></o:p></h3>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>None of the above; save the old car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t waste
it and send another vehicle to the rust pile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Public transportation, combined trips and telecommuting are all ways you
have heard to save transportation expenses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Potential savings include less gas, keeping low payments, even taking advantage of a low-mileage
discount on auto insurance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;">
Take care of accounts online <o:p></o:p></h3>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It's so easy with instant access to your balance,
direct deposit, and statement delivery, automatic <a href="http://goo.gl/HCVmM" target="_blank">bill paying</a> service with no
stamps, envelopes or checks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look at how
to switch<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>at </span><a href="http://www.payitgreen.org/consumer"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.payitgreen.org/consumer</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;">
I grew up drinking water from the
hose... <o:p></o:p></h3>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">in the yard when we were playing
outside, and it hasn’t affected me <s>affected me affected me</s> at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seriously, this bottled water craze has gone
too far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not fond of public drinking
fountains, but at home I can drink filtered tap water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carry a reusable bottle with you<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>when leaving home, and if you do buy a
plastic bottle or two, please recycle them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;">
Actually <u>use</u> your local library<o:p></o:p></h3>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Moms, this is especially true for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you can get away to the library, there are magazines and books to
peruse in a quiet environment, unless you start an argument about <a href="http://brands.nabisco.com/oreo/index.html" target="_blank">oreos</a>. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can save time by searching the catalog
online, and having the books held for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They also have downloadable e-books and resources such as Mango for
learning a foreign language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does
this prevent global warming?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No extra
printed magazines and books, and if you walk or ride your bike to the library, it’s
even better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try this
return-on-investment <a href="http://www.saclibrary.org/calculator" target="_blank">calculator</a>.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h4 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.25in;">
Try these suggestions, and share
other ways we can make a positive difference on our environment and bank
account.<o:p></o:p></h4>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-68418151695826351842013-03-14T10:30:00.000-07:002013-03-14T10:30:03.560-07:00Get Online Bill Pay Already!
<span style="font-family: inherit;">By Susan Wilson, MBA</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When banks and utility companies are all encouraging me to
use </span><a href="http://susanmoneywise.blogspot.com/2013/02/5-ways-to-use-technology-to-save-you.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">online bill pay</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, I think, what are they getting out of it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My money, of course.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What am I giving up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hassle, stamps, check fees, possible
late fees and last minute changes on the amount I pay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am gaining control of my checking account, my time,
keeping my accounts current, possible credit score increase and acceptance of
some risk of overdrawing my account.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zumphNDqXg/UUEbE8oUoZI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/NU13K_3gPI0/s1600/pay+bills+online.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zumphNDqXg/UUEbE8oUoZI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/NU13K_3gPI0/s1600/pay+bills+online.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Weighing both options</strong>, I still highly urge you to pay bills
online, sometimes called automatic bill pay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are a couple of ways to get set up:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Pay through the company billing you </h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Utilities, insurance,
and even the DMV have online bill pay options. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can pay with a credit card or from your bank account. Don’t worry about identity theft, their websites are safe. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you do have an unexpected high
bill that you need to dispute, it may be more difficult to get that money back
in your bank account and to stop future payments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be time consuming to update all the various sites if you change
banks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Pay through your bank </h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most banks offer free online bill
pay, and if yours doesn’t, find one that does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pay anyone on time and accurately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The bank pays most electronically, while the gardener or babysitter will
receive a paper check in the mail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
is easier than through each company, because there are less log ins and
passwords to remember.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can also stop
payments any time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Decide how much and
when to pay, streamlining the time you spend paying bills.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<h3 class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Pay through bill-paying service </h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There are several
companies who offer this service for a fee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It can be used even if you have more than one bank account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is convenient and a quick way to
streamline your bill paying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is a
</span><a href="http://bill-paying-services-review.toptenreviews.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">website</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> that compares some of the bill paying companies .</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>I encourage you to take control</strong> of your finances, free up
some time, and set up online bill pay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gather your bills, select one of the
options above, and get it started.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Figure out whether paying through the biller, your bank, or a bill
paying service is best fitted for your circumstances, and make the switch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll post more information soon with how to
ensure you are taking steps to manage your bills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember, you are in control when <strong>you</strong> tell
your money what to do.</span> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-75275567366645870122013-03-11T14:59:00.002-07:002013-03-11T14:59:53.553-07:004 Questions: Are you ready to become a home owner?<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="mceItemTable" data-mce-style="width: 500px;" style="width: 500px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="medial-big-details"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="medial-heading2"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="medial-small-details"><div align="justify">
By Susan Wilson, MBA</div>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div align="justify">
We hear every day about the foreclosures affecting all our neighborhoods and wonder if it is time to take advantage of the deals that are out there. After all, the American Dream is to own a home, why not live the dream? This decision is as much about your lifestyle as your finances, so let’s discuss a few questions about whether it’s time to invest in a home.</div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" height="12" valign="top"> </td></tr>
<tr><td align="center" valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="mceItemTable" data-mce-style="width: 500px;" style="width: 500px;"><tbody>
<tr><td align="left" data-mce-style="padding-top: 6px;" style="padding-top: 6px;" valign="top" width="18"> </td><td align="left" class="medial-small-details" valign="top"><h3 align="justify">
Are you settled in the location where you plan to stay?</h3>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div align="justify">
Plan to reside in your home at least five to seven years to recoup your buying/moving expenses and take advantage of real estate appreciation. Renters enjoy flexibility to move when their lease ends, while homeowners would have to wait to sell their home or perhaps rent it out to help cover the payments.<br />
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Have you found your life partner?</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
82% of home owners are married couples. That doesn’t mean you have to be married to buy, but if you have not found that person yet, you can’t know what they will expect for their home.</div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="2" height="12" valign="top"> </td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" data-mce-style="padding-top: 6px;" style="padding-top: 6px;" valign="top"> </td><td align="left" class="medial-small-details" valign="top"><h3 align="justify">
Are you under 35?</h3>
<div align="justify">
</div>
<div align="justify">
The percentage of homeowners jumps up for the 35 – 44 age groups, partly due to the first two questions. Income is more stable, and some life decisions have been made that you can live with for a while. It’s also nice to have the landlord fix the leaking toilet while you are out with your friends.</div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td colspan="2" height="12" style="text-align: left;" valign="top"><div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</td></tr>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<tr><td data-mce-style="padding-top: 6px;" style="padding-top: 6px; text-align: left;" valign="top"><div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</td><td class="medial-small-details" style="text-align: left;" valign="top"><h3>
Speaking of leaking toilets, do you like home maintenance? </h3>
<br />
<div align="justify">
None of us really enjoy repairs, but some are handier with the little and big fixes that a house may need. If you are not Mr. or Ms. Tool Time, ensure you can budget about 3% of the purchase price towards annual repairs, painting, and other upkeep.</div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" colspan="2" height="12" valign="top"><h3>
</h3>
</td></tr>
<h3>
</h3>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
<h3>
</h3>
</tbody></table>
<h3 align="justify">
Reflect on your answers. </h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Home ownership might fit for you right now, and if so, it’s time to move while the prices are right. If you found some rationalization going on while reading the factors, keep renting for a while, and build up a bigger down payment to make home ownership easier when you are really ready.</div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-73836088796336467382013-02-11T11:11:00.000-08:002013-02-11T11:11:51.917-08:005 Ways to Use Technology to Save You Money<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have so
many apps available for our use, and some of them can save us money if we take
the time to set them up and really use them consistently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are my top five:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pay Bills Online:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either sign up through your bank for online
bill payment when the amounts are consistent, or register on the biller’s site
to pay with your banking account information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This saves time, is a greener no-paper option, and does not cost
postage. <a href="http://manilla.com/">Manilla.com</a> is a free website that can organize your bills. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An added benefit is that paying
bills on time has a HUGE impact on your credit score.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>30% of your credit score is based on keeping
bills current, so setting your bills to pay automatically is a definite must.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Get off road and meet or collaborate
online as an alternative to face-to-face time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Web conferencing, VoIP and Web Cams make these options easy to
schedule for most of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plan the
meeting with a distributed agenda, ensure everyone has input, and summarize the
action steps and who is responsible for each.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>On-line meetings are usually faster and can be more productive when
planned well and the action steps are clearly communicated.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Use the computer and phone to save
you trips and money on buying things that won’t bring value to your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are running to the store for one item,
and cannot consolidate trips, check to see if it’s in stock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How many times have you driven to the store
to find that they are out of what you need, or the sale had too much demand?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get frustrated, and often buy other items
to justify the trip and not have to go home empty handed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get magazines and DVDs through the library
(many can be downloaded at no cost.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m surprised we still have fax
machines in our world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is so easy to
scan a document and send it via email as an attachment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many home and office printers have the scan
feature you can use, and if you will use it a lot, a portable scanner can be
purchased ONLY if the money saved is worth the purchase price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sending the email with a “read receipt”
option can also be used if the document is very important and you want to track
progress.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Technology will NOT save you money if
you spend more on apps and accessories than they help you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a few of those items gathering dust
right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am now motivated to sell on
<a href="http://gazelle.com/">Gazelle.com</a> or share on <a href="http://freecycle.com/">freecycle.com</a> to get the clutter out of my way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My last
point is the most important – think about what will really save you money and
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take the money you do save and put
it towards <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com/debt.html" target="_blank">debt</a></b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What technology helps you save money?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I'd like to thank Henckel Miranda for requesting this blog. You can learn more about Henkel on his blog "Dough" at <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Fgaripla%2Ewordpress%2Ecom%2F&urlhash=LuId&_t=mbox_grop" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">http://garipla.wordpress.com/</span></a></span></span></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-8506590596107339202013-01-30T12:59:00.001-08:002013-01-30T13:15:16.841-08:00Presenteeism in the Work PlaceGuest Blog by Lucy Burton-Browne<br />
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We`ve all experienced those days when for various personal reasons, we really don`t want to be at work. Those are the days when we put ourselves on automatic pilot and try to get through the day as best we can. Although this is normal for everyone, there are some people who are so overwhelmed by personal problems or financial issues that their work performance suffers. It`s not always easy to leave our personal problems at home when we get to the office, but for employees who are chronically distressed by these issues, it`s virtually impossible.</div>
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If you`re an employer and you`ve noticed that your employees tend to be more distracted by problems at home, you`re not alone. This condition, which is called presenteeism, has become something of an epidemic in the workplace since the onset of the economic recession. Money problems at home lead to other personal problems as well and due to the current economic climate, some employees are finding it harder and harder to leave their troubles at home.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aut8miuoBug/UQmJcZpjjVI/AAAAAAAAAFw/UOhkthq8vX0/s1600/presenteeism_vs_absenteeism.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aut8miuoBug/UQmJcZpjjVI/AAAAAAAAAFw/UOhkthq8vX0/s1600/presenteeism_vs_absenteeism.gif" /></a></div>
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If you`re an employer, here are some of the signs that an employee is under personal stress:</div>
<ul>
<li>Verbal reactions that are inconsistent or unusual for that person.</li>
<li>Changes in personality, such as being quieter and more subdued or acting more aggressively.</li>
<li>Emotionalism during the workday, such as overreacting, laughing too much, crying or looking sad. </li>
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For supervisors and managers, the most important thing is to provide a comfortable environment for employees and one in which they feel they`ll be supported. Otherwise, employees who are in a vulnerable, highly emotional state may feel oppressed and even threatened by the atmosphere at work and this will add greatly to their stress level.</div>
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By creating a positive work environment, employers can motivate and inspire their staff members with confidence. Here are a few things that employers can do to create a better, more comfortable workplace:</div>
<ol>
<li>Motivate employees with incentives. Whether it`s a coupon for a free dinner, a basket of goodies from the gourmet grocery store or a cash bonus, employees need to be rewarded for excellent work. You`ll find that it`s well worth the investment to offer an incentive reward to your staff members every week or two.</li>
<li>Talk to your employees. If you notice that any of them seem to exhibit some of the signs of presenteeism, have a private talk with them. Without prying into their personal lives, let them know that, while it`s obvious that something is wrong, you`re not threatening to fire them; you just want to see if there`s anything you can do to help. A little compassion can go a long way with an emotionally distraught employee.</li>
<li>Delegate within your work staff. Make sure that the brunt of the work isn`t falling on one person. If it seems that there are a few people who are carrying everyone else, step in and divide the workload more evenly. Otherwise, your best employees may break down under the stress and strain.</li>
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Whether you`re considering <a href="http://www.simplyfinance.co.uk/" target="_blank">saving money</a> or looking at your post-employment financial options, it`s important for everyone to take care of their finances while they`re still working. Offering consultations and seminars on budgeting, saving money and investing is one way to show your employees that you`re concerned about their financial worries. By presenting your staff members with financial counseling, you`re offering a valuable support system that in turn, will result in increased productivity during working hours.<br />
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Guest Blogger Lucy Burton-Browne does Online Marketing for <a href="http://www.simplyfinance.co.uk/" target="_blank">www.simplyfinance.co.uk</a> </div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-22635159518978936082013-01-25T12:51:00.001-08:002013-01-25T12:51:02.811-08:00Managing the Calendar, Appointments and Tasks<a href="http://www.organizedhabits.com/managing-the-calendar-appointments-and-tasks">Managing the Calendar, Appointments and Tasks</a> is a useful demonstration of a tool that keeps track of appointments, goals, and tasks viewable together. Right now my tasks and calendar are separate. Natalie, I know you went back to this method after trying Google Calendar. I agree that paper is much more useful for goal setting and prioritizing. I wonder how I could merge the two in some electronic form?Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-64025556641501334472013-01-15T11:56:00.001-08:002013-01-15T11:56:15.562-08:00Know Your Commute Cost
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Taking control of your finances is all about knowledge of
where you money goes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the large
expenses most of us have is commuting to and from work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I now work from home, but still have the
expense of taking my son to school and school related events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can I <a href="http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com/money.html" target="_blank">control my expenses</a> if I don’t even
know how much it costs?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fortunately, the Sacramento region has several associations
and resources to help us calculate our commute cost, as well as options to
reduce our auto expenses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://sacregioncommuterclub.org/cost_calculator.asp" target="_blank">The CommuteCost Calculator</a> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
is a thorough tool that encompasses all the expenses to see what our true cost
is. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found out it costs me $7.36 each
round trip to my son’s school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$37 a week – ouch!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s with a four year old paid for SUV and
decent insurance rates.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S-NrH33oFCQ/UPWteEwEfCI/AAAAAAAAAFI/rLMbJWMv_OM/s1600/money+in+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S-NrH33oFCQ/UPWteEwEfCI/AAAAAAAAAFI/rLMbJWMv_OM/s1600/money+in+tank.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, if we carpooled with another parent, or had him ride his
bike half the time we could save $18 a week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That could amount to over $600 a year savings with a few changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That means I wouldn’t have to drive him to
school every day, which frees me up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
another parent is willing to share the expense, but doesn’t have a car, I know
how much to charge them based on my true expenses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lots more parents are willing to pay for “gas”
if you’ll ask them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of my son’s friends’
parents offer to pay for gas when we take them on field trips or skate park
adventures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">See what knowledge can do for you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can give you more control over how you
choose to spend your money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You do have
more choices than you think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
initially have a tough time convincing another parent or co-worker to ride
together, share this <a href="http://sacregioncommuterclub.org/cost_calculator.asp" target="_blank">commute cost calculator</a> with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They may be more inclined to make some
changes once they see the real cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
can also <s>bribe</s> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>reward my son by
offering money if he’ll ride his bike a few days each week. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Figure out how much your commute cost is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How can you take <a href="http://www.moneywiseadvisors.com/" target="_blank">control</a> of one of your
largest expenses? Share your ideas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1275658062486826285.post-72736973399041244382013-01-08T19:05:00.000-08:002017-01-25T17:51:24.797-08:00First Step to Control – Review your Bills<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">A
strong first step for you to take to control your finances is to review all of
your bills.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gather a month’s worth of
paper or online statements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get settled
in a comfy chair with a <s>shredder</s> highlighter and your stack of papers
(or computer with electronic statements).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AT4tmctTnec/UOzb57uWdeI/AAAAAAAAAEE/OZau1jN8sV4/s1600/stack+of+bills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AT4tmctTnec/UOzb57uWdeI/AAAAAAAAAEE/OZau1jN8sV4/s1600/stack+of+bills.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black";">Here are some things to look for:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Look at whose name(s) are on the
account – is there an ex who shouldn’t be?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Is the address right so you don’t
miss any statements?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">What kind of fees did they
charge you: over limit, late payment, payment processing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Does the balance appear to be
correct<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">a.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">What is the minimum
payment?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> How much will it take to pay off in three years? They are required to provide that information on your statement. <a href="http://www.calcxml.com/calculators/pay-off-loan;jsessionid=ECB373E0DB1F40907E78CA93BF2A343A?skn=#results" target="_blank">Pay Off Loan Calculator</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">b.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">What is the due date?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">c.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Review the interest rate(s) for
the balance(s)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Review all transactions every
month <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">a.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">You typically have 60 days to
dispute an error with the card issuer and have the charge removed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">b.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Credit card fraud sometimes
starts with a very small charge to see if the card number is valid – catch it
quickly and report<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Ensure your most recent payment recorded
correctly<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">Review the special messages section
to see if they are increasing any interest rates, or making other changes to
your account<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial black" , "sans-serif";">The
point of this review is to help you control your finances, and not every action
step requires throwing money at it to make it go away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the big things this review does is
ensure you are not a victim of credit fraud, a lingering ex using your card, or
a processing error by the credit card company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Prevention and early resolution of errors will save you from the larger
crisis that looms around the corner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan MoneyWisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10271751512628761672noreply@blogger.com0