Helping clients navigate loan requests from their family members is tricky. The decision to lend or give money to family or friends is extremely emotional and very personal. This article on lending money to family members is unlike most you will read. It isn’t going to tell you to emphatically always say “No.” It will not provide you with definitive… Read More
Archive for the ‘ Budgeting ’ Category
Back-to-School Expenses
As school season ramps up, shopping commercials will become more prevalent as parents and their children start planning for the next school year. Below are strategies to keep in mind as you navigate back-to-school expenses. Set a Budget According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), $3.4 billion was projected to be spent on backpacks alone in 2017. Take the time… Read More
Married to an Addict – How to Protect Your Finances from Addiction
Addiction doesn’t discriminate. This insidious disease grabs ahold of the unsuspecting, brightest, strongest and most caring individuals. As you watch your loved one succumb to addiction, you try to wrap your arms around “why” and “how” this could have happened. You plead, fight, scream and cry enough to wake up a whole neighborhood. However, you are simply hoping that you… Read More
Child Care Costs
Referenced on Babycenter.com, the average cost of center-based daycare in the United States is $11,666 per year ($972 a month), but prices range from $3,582 to $18,773 a year ($300 to $1,564 monthly), according to the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies. Below are some topics that may give insight on money-saving ideas. Selective Scheduling Scheduling arrangements such as staggering spousal work schedules or… Read More
Are You on Track to Meet Your Financial Goals?
What do you see when you think of the next 10, 20, 30+ years of your life? Perhaps you’re looking to retire close to a white beach, maybe you’d like to take your family on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to the Serengeti, or you’d like to pay for your child’s wedding. Have you considered how you will reach these goals? Perhaps… Read More
Leasing vs Buying a New Car
Shopping for a new vehicle? If you’re deciding on whether to buy or lease your next vehicle you should weigh both options. Below are some items to consider. Leasing vs Buying a New Car Monthly Costs I’m sure you’ve seen the enticing commercials promoting low lease payments. When you lease a vehicle, your payments are typically lower than a loan… Read More
Seven Things to Do Before You Buy Your First House
Buying a home is an exciting and significant event in your life. Before taking a dive into house hunting, it is important to do your research and have your eyes wide open to reality. The more you understand about the total cost in purchasing and owning a home, the better off you will be financially. Do your research on credits… Read More
Fall Financial Check-Up
As summer winds down, vacations are dwindling, and kids are heading back to school. Remember the financial goals you set back in January? Now is a great time to revisit them with the holidays and end of year quickly approaching. Review Your Retirement Savings Are you maximizing your 401(k) contributions? Now is a great time to evaluate what you’ve contributed… Read More
Five Financial Hacks for College Students
The cost of obtaining a college degree has increased significantly over the last few years. Therefore, it is more important than ever today’s students effectively manage their finances. Here are five financial hacks for college students. Stick to a Budget No matter where your college funding comes from, having a budget will reduce stress, help plan for expenses, and establish… Read More
What Should You Do with Your Tax Refund?
Many people look forward to receiving a refund instead of paying taxes. Have you received or are anticipating a tax refund this year? A tax refund may feel like a bonus from the government. However, receiving a tax refund simply means you overpaid on your taxes last year and gave the government an interest free loan. This is money that… Read More
How to Talk to Your Kids About Money
When I was growing up, I went to a public school. There were no financial literacy classes offered to me. My parents, immigrants and new to the American financial system themselves, did their best to instill sound financial habits into my life. I knew I shouldn’t spend more than I earn, I should save for things I want, be wary… Read More
Our 7 Favorite Creative and Unique Scholarships
Every student has talents that are special and unique. While some kids are amazing at math, some are great writers. Some kids may not do well on standardized tests, but perhaps they are amazing interior designers or talented video producers. For current and aspiring college students, there are many unique scholarship programs available today that reward them for not only… Read More
‘Tis the Season to Manage Holiday Financial Stress
While the holidays are a fun time to spend time with family and friends they can also be financially stressful. Gift exchanges, parties and traveling can all burn a hole in your checking account. Here are some tips to help reduce the financial stress and make your holiday more enjoyable. Set a budget Review your earnings and expenses and then… Read More
7 Ways to Rock Your Twenties: How to Invest in Happiness, Finances and Relationships
Your twenties are an exciting yet mysterious time. You want good relationships, healthy finances and to be in a general state of happiness. Although you have spent decades on this earth and have gathered years of knowledge and life experience, you are still discovering who you are and what you want and need from your life. As a 20-something myself,… Read More
Don’t Let Taxes Bust Your Budget
Summer has ended. Vacations were enjoyed. The kids are back in school. Time to start our hustle. Don’t wait until next spring; now is the time to look at your finances and start tax planning. Often, I hear clients tell me, “I don’t want to pay taxes.” Realistically, the only way to not pay taxes is to have no income…. Read More