Brandpoint - Free Online Content http://www.brandpointcontent.com Personal Financeen-us 5 5 expert tips to help you get your finances in order https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42826/ 242731042826 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 06:01:00 GMT (BPT) - While many costs may be stabilizing or even slightly decreasing these days, the Consumer Price Index reveals that some prices remain stubbornly high, including basics like rent and many food items. These external circumstances can make it difficult to stay on top of your household finances, even with steady employment. Some things are still in your control, however, including how you manage your budget and work on paying down debt.

Many financial experts recommend taking a proactive approach, and not being afraid to put down on paper what you're earning, spending and saving to help you reach your goals.

Here are top tips that can make a difference when it comes to managing your money.

1. Create a budget

The word "budget" may sound unpleasant, but if you view it as a simple tool for keeping your finances in order, it doesn't seem so bad. Simply put, write down what all your income and expenses are over the course of a month or two. Then take a good look at what you're spending, prioritizing needs like food, rent, utilities, insurance and minimum debt payments.

If it's clear you're spending more than you're earning (or close to it), that means it's time to cut down on some discretionary expenses — "wants" versus "needs," like entertainment, gifts, etc. Also review how you're spending on some of the needs — such as choosing to dine out frequently rather than making dinners at home. Spending less than you earn is key to a workable budget.

To get started, you can find plenty of free online budget templates and tools you can download and use without having to sign up for a budgeting app or service, if you don't want to do that.

2. Budget for inflation

Unfortunately, the realities of things you can't control — like inflation — mean that it's also a good idea to allow for the possibility that prices may go up. For example, you may want to base your allowance for gas to help you get to work every day on what you've been paying, but gas prices can go up, especially during the summer, around holidays, or sometimes in response to world events. Adding a cushion into expenses that can be more volatile is a good idea.

3. Reduce your debt

Paying down as much debt as you can — especially higher interest debt — can help you get control of your finances more quickly. Two schools of thought around reducing debt are out there, and either one can work:

  • Pay down highest interest debt first: Bottom line, this will reduce the interest you're paying on debt the fastest, which can mean saving more money in the long run.
  • Pay down smallest debts first: Psychologically, this can be very effective. You may see entire debts being erased more quickly, such as store credit cards, which can inspire you to keep going with your efforts (just make sure not to keep using those cards). That also means having fewer payments to track every month.

Whichever approach you take, set aside in your budget an amount that's over the minimum monthly payment for the debt you'll focus on first.

4. Pay attention to online spending habits

It can be all too easy to overspend when surfing the web — and easy to lose track of how much you're spending. One tactic to avoid impulse buys is to give it 24 hours. Don't click "order now" before thinking about it and reviewing your budget to see how you're doing. Ask: Do you need this?

Don't be fooled by sites that say there's "only one left" or another tactic to urge you to buy on impulse. Chances are, it will not be your last opportunity to buy that product.

5. Save on healthcare expenses with a VSP vision plan

While healthcare expenses overall may seem like another aspect of your budget that's hard to control, you can make some smarter choices when it comes to your eye health. With VSP® Individual Vision Plans, for example, you can purchase vision insurance at any time, with no need to wait for an open enrollment period.

You can visit an eye doctor and save with VSP vision insurance, benefiting from 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. Best yet, you can find the best vision plan for you.

Unsure about what kind of plan you may need? Compare vision plans and find the one that meets your needs.

Making smarter decisions around budgeting, spending and finding ways to save will help you feel better as you work to improve your financial situation. These tips will help you get started.

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Discover 5 affordable ways to make the most of summer https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42635/ 241801042635 Mon, 18 Mar 2024 06:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Summer is just around the corner! With the kids out of school, it's the perfect time to plan a trip or two and spend quality time together as a family. However, family vacations can get pretty pricey. With booking hotel rooms, flights and more, a summer trip can put a strain on your wallet.

This summer, you can make the most of the sunny season while sticking to your budget using these five tips.

1. Book early

Don't wait! One of the best ways to make the most of your summer and save is to plan ahead and book early. This is especially true when planning air travel.

According to the CheapAir.com Annual Airfare Study, a fare will change 49 times on average from the day the trip first goes on sale. If you want affordable, flexible flights, aim to book your trip 2.5 to 7.5 months in advance.

In addition to flights, accommodations, concerts and activities like summer camp can sell out months in advance. To make sure your family doesn't miss out on the fun, book ahead. Booking early not only secures your spot, but you can also get some discounts.

2. Look for deals

Watch for promotions and special offers on activities, attractions and events. Check an organization or company's websites and social media accounts to make your summer outings more budget-friendly.

Another way to save is to see if any of your existing accounts or services have member perks. For example, T-Mobile customers on qualifying plans now have Magenta Status, which unlocks VIP treatment with premium one-of-a-kind deals and experiences across nationally loved brands. One amazing perk of Magenta Status is getting a special rate at Hilton's 22 leading hotel brands worldwide and automatic upgrade to Hilton Honors Silver status when you sign up for a Hilton Honors membership. Silver benefits include free Wi-Fi, a fifth night free on rewards stays, an all-inclusive spa discount and more. To learn more, visit T-Mobile.com/Status.

3. Explore the great outdoors

Nature offers endless entertainment for free or on the cheap. It’s no wonder that 26% of Americans plan to take an outdoor trip this year, according to Forbes.

For day trips, head to a nearby regional or state park for a hike and picnic or catch some waves at the beach. If you're seeking longer excursions, plan a family camping trip. If you don't have the right gear, don't feel pressured to spend a ton of money. Ask family and friends to borrow tents, sleeping bags, coolers, lanterns and camp cookware.

As long as you pack your snacks, sunscreen and sense of adventure, you can make lasting memories in nature without draining your bank account.

4. Hit the road

Pack the car and get ready for a good old-fashioned road trip! A family road trip can be an exciting and budget-friendly vacation where the journey there can be just as fun as the destination.

Plan a weeklong trip to a historic site, a natural wonder or a city you've never visited. No matter where you choose to go, preparation is key. Load up the car with snacks, games, movies and all your device charging cords. Don't forget to stop along the way. You may be surprised at the hidden gems you discover on the way to your destination.

If you’d like to keep the miles off your car, don't stress! Renting a car with extra amenities is an affordable way to make a road trip comfortable and convenient. If you're a T-Mobile customer, renting a gas or electric vehicle is a breeze. Best of all, you won't have to worry about filling up the gas tank at Dollar or recharging your electric vehicle (EV) at Hertz before returning it.

5. Plan a staycation

Sometimes, the best summer memories are made right at home. Staycations surged in popularity during the pandemic, and an international study found that the travel trend is unlikely to flag anytime soon. A trip where you stick close to home with loved ones can’t be beat for affordability and convenience.

Need some staycation ideas? Turn your living room into a day spa, host a game night, camp in your backyard or plan a scavenger hunt. The only limit is your imagination. If you want to look a little farther afield, use your staycation to explore your town! During the summer, your town or city may host celebrations and festivals your family can enjoy. Find out if local museums, theme parks and community centers offer discounts to children, students and families.

Make a list of upcoming summer blockbusters and hit the theaters. If you have T-Mobile Magenta Status, you can get a $5 movie ticket to a new major motion picture every single month, guaranteed.

With a little creativity, planning and a willingness to think outside the box, you can make the most of summer without putting a strain on your finances.

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Safeguarding your finances: A guide to protecting yourself from fraud https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42849/ 242841042849 Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In today's digital age, the growing portion of our lives taking place online has led to an increased risk of fraud. Cybercriminals are getting smarter and constantly finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. In fact, 2023 was the worst year ever for scams, causing people to lose $10 billion according to the FTC.

Yet, that doesn’t mean you need to panic! New technologies are helping protect individuals from scams before they even happen. And by taking a few simple steps, you can ensure your transactions and personal information are kept secure.

Here are some best practices you can adopt to safeguard yourself from fraud:

Keep Your Devices Updated:

One of the fundamental steps in fortifying your defense against fraud is to ensure that your devices, including smartphones, tablets and computers, are running on the latest operating system and software updates. Developers regularly release security patches and updates to address vulnerabilities, and by keeping your devices up to date, you minimize the risk of falling victim to known security loopholes.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Online Shopping:

Public Wi-Fi networks, while convenient, are hotspots for potential security breaches. Cybercriminals can easily intercept data transmitted over unsecured networks, putting your sensitive information at risk. It's advisable to avoid making online purchases or accessing your financial accounts when connected to public Wi-Fi. Instead, use a secure and private connection, such as a personal hotspot or a trusted home network, to conduct sensitive transactions.

Use Your Smartphone’s Digital Wallet:

Your smartphone’s digital wallet isn’t just super convenient, but it’s also a more secure way to pay. By setting a unique passcode (that isn’t your address, birthday or phone number) and biometrics (such as facial recognition or fingerprint), your digital wallet will be even more secure than your physical one! Also, be on the lookout for enhancements to wallets that will provide even more features to keep you secure, including by letting users verify identities and manage their data all in one place.

Shop at Reputable Vendors:

When shopping online, it's crucial to stick to reputable vendors and well-known e-commerce platforms. Be wary of unfamiliar websites that may lack the necessary security measures to protect your personal and financial information. Look for websites with secure payment options, indicated by "https://" in the URL, and familiarize yourself with the vendor's reputation by reading reviews from other customers.

Use Multi-Factor Authentication:

Enhance the security of your online accounts by enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring users to verify their identity through a secondary method, such as a one-time code sent to their mobile device or email. This additional step makes it significantly more difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access to your accounts, even if they have your login credentials.

Zero-Liability Has Your Back:

Financial institutions that issue Mastercard cards won’t hold consumers responsible for “unauthorized transactions,” provided they are promptly reported and the cardholder used reasonable care in protecting the card from loss or theft. As a Mastercard cardholder, Zero Liability applies to your purchases made in the store, over the telephone, online, or via a mobile device and ATM transactions. With protections like that, paying with your card brings more peace of mind than paying with cash or check.

Mastercard has an entire suite of solutions dedicated to fighting fraud and helping approve genuine transactions. That includes identity solutions that validate you are a genuine person; ID Theft Protection, which provides proactive monitoring and resolution of identity theft threats for U.S. Mastercard cardholders; SafetyNet, which leverages AI and machine learning to detect and address fraud more accurately and more quickly than ever before, and more.

Protecting yourself from fraud requires a combination of awareness, vigilance and proactive measures. By keeping your devices updated, avoiding public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, choosing reputable vendors, using multi-factor authentication and paying securely with your card, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudulent activities. Stay informed, stay cautious and take the necessary steps to fortify your digital defenses in the ever-evolving landscape of online security. Learn more about all the ways Mastercard protects cardholders at https://www.mastercard.us/en-us/personal/get-support/safety-security.html.

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New HVAC trends increase sustainability and savings for homeowners https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42597/ 241671042597 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 13:21:00 GMT (BPT) - Like many sectors, the HVAC industry is no stranger to new challenges, technological advancements and regulatory shifts which in turn can impact homeowners. Today, the sector is buzzing with trends that directly impact homeowners’ comfort, wallet and the planet.

The following insights will help homeowners navigate the evolving HVAC market, enabling them to make informed decisions that benefit their homes and create a more sustainable future.

Decarbonization-Focused Products Offer Sustainability and Savings

In many parts of the country, fossil fuels, such as propane, coal and natural gas, deliver the energy necessary to power furnaces, boilers and water heaters. Using these resources as efficiently as possible is important to saving consumers money and safeguarding the environment. The reality is that the supply of these resources is limited and burning fuels adds harmful greenhouse gases to our atmosphere.

Homeowners concerned about the environment can act to decarbonize their homes, without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Decarbonization is a strategy focused on reducing dependence on resources that produce high levels of carbon emissions and greenhouse gases. The objective of decarbonization is to create a cleaner, more sustainable future that supports the demands and benefits of our modern lifestyle.

With their significant impact on any home’s energy use, HVAC systems are critical in any homeowner’s sustainability and decarbonization journey. Fortunately, the HVAC industry is increasingly championing sustainability, and homeowners today can seek environmentally conscious solutions and companies when making decisions about home heating and cooling equipment. Products that households may consider when following the decarbonization trend are heat pumps, which not only offer efficient temperature control but also contribute to reducing carbon footprints and provide savings on utility bills. For those that may not be familiar, heat pumps offer an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners, and they use the refrigeration cycle to move heat from the outside in, or the inside out, keeping your home at the perfect temperature.

Homeowners should also consider their surrounding environment when selecting a unit. For example, another option that works in all environment types would be a dual fuel system. Often overlooked, a dual fuel system includes a heat pump and gas furnace. On days with colder temperatures, the furnace will ensure that homes stay comfortable despite what’s going on outside.

Leverage New Regulatory Standards to be Clean, Green and Code Compliant

Homeowners often find themselves navigating a maze of regulations impacting a range of home products, including HVAC systems. Starting January 1, 2025, a significant change from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will involve the switch to more sustainable refrigerants.

Rheem®, a forward-thinking industry player and HVAC manufacturer, has been actively preparing its product lines for this transition and offers homeowners product options, such as heat pumps, that can help reduce a user’s environmental footprint.

Explore Financing and Tax Credit Savings

Inflation and higher interest rates can pose challenges to homeowners looking to invest in highly efficient products. Recognizing this, many contractors offer financing options such as Rheem’s KwikComfort® financing. Additionally, and specifically for homeowners, tax incentives such as the IRA come with incentives for homeowners to upgrade and install environmentally friendly equipment and appliances throughout their home. By taking advantage of the tax credit, homeowners can reduce their tax bill by up to $3,200 and offset some of the upfront costs of making energy-efficient home improvements.

Being a savvy homeowner isn't just about comfort — it's about empowerment. By embracing decarbonization and regulatory shifts, homeowners can actively contribute to a greener, more sustainable future while enhancing the comfort and efficiency of their homes and saving money.

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Money Matters: Key Insights into Tax Refunds and Financial Priorities https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42819/ 242681042819 Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:00:00 GMT (BPT) - Tax season can be a stressful and challenging time for many Americans. In fact, according to the second-annual “Straight Talk Wireless™ Tax Stress Index,” 1 in 5 people want to throw their phone due to frustration over taxes.

That’s not all Straight Talk uncovered. Below are three key findings from Straight Talk’s annual survey that shed light on American attitudes about taxes and their refunds.

1. Shrinking Refunds

A common fear among tax filers in 2024 is the possibility of smaller returns. 49 percent are worried their tax refund this year won’t be as high as last year.

While no one likes receiving less money than expected, a smaller refund could make life harder for some. The survey found that 60 percent of Americans are in more debt than last year and many of them are counting on their refunds to secure financial stability - 34 percent plan to use their refund to pay off debt.

2. Financial Management

Aside from debt, many Americans have earmarked their refunds for other financial goals. According to the survey, 37 percent plan to save their refund and 34 percent will use it for household expenses.

“Finances remain top of mind for tax filers,” said Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, personal finance expert and bestselling author of the new book Bounce Back: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience. “Inflation anxiety and rising debt continue to plague Americans. It’s not surprising that instead of paying for a vacation or buying luxury items, people are using their refunds as part of their financial management strategy.”

3. Upgrades

While extravagant spending may not be in the cards, many tax filers do plan to spend their refunds on practical expenses. Nearly half, about 44 percent of Americans, say they plan to upgrade their phone using their tax refund.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your phone, tax season may be your best bet. Not only will you have extra cash, but you’re also likely to find deals. For example, with Straight Talk, you’ll find great deals on service plans with a wide selection of smartphones at affordable prices. Right now, Straight Talk is offering a Samsung Galaxy A14 5G for free with the purchase of the Extended Silver Unlimited plan.* To learn more, visit StraightTalk.com or a Walmart store near you.

With prepaid, no-contract plans, you can embrace benefits like flexibility and savings all year long – but especially during tax season.

*Offer valid through 6/9/24 while supplies last. At participating stores. Must purchase a Straight Talk Extended Silver Unlimited Plan to qualify (90-Day, 180-Day or Annual Plan). In-Store activation required at Walmart. Limit of two phones per customer. Taxes and fees apply. ©2024 TRACFONE.

Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Straight Talk Wireless between January 16 and January 21, 2024. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll.

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Experts say viewing your car as an investment can improve your finances https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42641/ 241821042641 Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In these inflationary times, the cost of owning a car seems to increase on a daily basis. The price of buying a car is growing, and so is the cost of operating one. We all want personal transportation and the joy of car ownership, but the statistics are challenging.

Simply purchasing a car is more costly than ever. The prices of new and used vehicles skyrocketed in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to J.D. Power, new-vehicle transaction prices shot up 13% in 2021 and then surged up another 13% in 2022. The increases moderated a bit last year, but prices haven’t fallen.

The prices of used vehicles have escalated even more rapidly over the last several years as consumers who couldn't find an affordable new car have turned to the used car market. Again, the prices have moderated in 2023, but used vehicle prices are up at least 20% versus their level in 2021.

At the same time, the cost of maintenance and replacement parts has also zoomed up. So has the hourly rate of auto repair labor. Though fuel prices have dropped from their all-time high of a couple of years ago, they are still inflated versus their level when the decade began.

The economic news regarding transportation costs is challenging. Still, the auto experts at Mercury Insurance have a suggestion that could change the way you look at these costs. The suggestion is to treat your vehicle as an investment, not an expense.

“Many personal finance experts define automobiles as expense items,” said Justin Yoshizawa, director, Product Management State. “While that is generally true, viewing your vehicle as a long-term asset just might change the way you purchase and maintain your cars. And it will probably save you money.”

Viewing your vehicle as a long-term asset implies that you will purchase it differently, finance it differently and maintain it differently. Rather than seeing your vehicle as a piece of equipment that needs to be replaced frequently, like a cellphone, for example, it may be smarter to treat your car as a long-term asset that you can feel comfortable owning and driving for years, which could save you thousands of dollars.

Mercury offers these suggestions for viewing your car as an investment:

  • Buy the right car. Choose a vehicle appropriate for your long-term needs with the expectation that you will drive it for the next 10 years. With that in mind, the car you purchase should offer a low cost to own based on good dependability and reliability, low maintenance and repair costs, good fuel economy, and low cost to insure. (Mercury Insurance offers advice on the least expensive sedans, trucks and SUVs, and electric vehicles to insure)
  • Consider a used vehicle. Smart shoppers will find that two- to three-year-old used cars, trucks, SUVs and vans are much less expensive to purchase than the equivalent new vehicles. The savings could easily reach $10,000 or more for a premium-brand SUV. Buyers who might be afraid of "getting a lemon" when they buy a used car should consider certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. These vehicles are hand-picked and meticulously inspected prior to being sold, and they are backed with a warranty very similar to a new-car warranty.
  • Finance responsibly. The absolute best financing is buying the vehicle with cash. When you do that, you immediately acquire complete ownership of the asset (the car), and you never face financing expenses or monthly car payments. In this era of high interest rates, that is a giant advantage. If you can't purchase an appropriate car with cash and you need a car immediately, then borrow as little money as possible for as short a term as possible. This will save you hundreds of dollars in interest payments versus the typical car loan that is now stretching toward six years in length.
  • Keep the vehicle. The key to gaining financial advantage from viewing your car as an asset is owning it for a long period of time. While the average car on the road today is over 11 years old, typically, cars that age have had several owners. Instead, your goal should be to maintain your vehicle so it is useful to you for at least a decade. This implies preventative maintenance and, yes, some repairs over time. But while repairing a vehicle is more expensive than it used to be, it is still far cheaper than replacing the vehicle with a new car, truck or SUV.

"The days when new vehicles would rust out and wear out in just a few years are over," Yoshizawa said. "Today's new and late-model used vehicles have long, useful lives ahead of them. Buying the right vehicle and continuing to maintain and repair it as needed is the best way to assure yourself the lowest personal transportation costs."

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3 last-minute tax filing tips for small business owners https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42912/ 243301042912 Wed, 06 Mar 2024 17:01:00 GMT (BPT) - While tax filing can often be tedious and complicated as a salaried employee, the process can be even more difficult as an entrepreneur or small business owner. From getting all of the paperwork in order, to ensuring books are up to date, to knowing what to file for … It’s no wonder why many understandably procrastinate starting the process of filing to avoid the headache for as long as possible. As we near the deadline for many LLCs and LLPs to file their taxes on March 15, there are a number of ways business owners who have not filed yet can manage the final stretch.

Maximize your deductions

Making the most of the deductions available to you and your business can put more money in your pocket. This can include expenses related to business operations, like home office supplies, equipment purchases, rent, employee wages, and more. You’ll want to have these expenses reflected on your income statement, which will lower your income taxes. Ideally, you should be tracking these expenses throughout the year, so they’re easily pulled into your filing. If you haven’t done this, make sure to make a note to start doing it now to get ahead next year.

Tap the tools at your disposal

Thirty-seven percent of small businesses report that they struggle with feelings of anxiety and confusion about how to file taxes — one way to reduce this stress is finding tools that can streamline your experience. With so many nuances and rules that apply to small businesses, tapping a resource that can guide you through filing with confidence can be a huge relief. TurboTax Live Business is an easy-to-use solution that uncomplicates the tax process for small business owners filing as an S-corp, partnership, LLC, or sole proprietorship. The two tracks offered through the platform, Assisted or Full Service, provide options for those that need a guided experience with live tax expert support, or would like to simply hand everything off to an expert. Leveraging solutions like this can ease the tensions around tax time and instill trust that you filed accurately. TurboTax offers a 100% accuracy guarantee and audit protection to its Small Business customers.

If you need an extension, file now

After all is said and done, if you’re finding yourself needing more time to get your books together and ready, an extension can be filed. Take a look at the IRS website for more details on how to file for an extension ahead of the March 15 deadline. Solutions like TurboTax Live Business can support your extension filing, either on your own or with the support of an expert, at no cost to you. Take caution, though, if the March 15 deadline is missed, no extensions can be filed and you’ll be subject to a hefty monthly penalty from the IRS until you file.

Don’t let tax time feel daunting. With the right knowledge, tools, and organization, this stressful experience has a light at the end of the tunnel. To learn more about TurboTax Live Business offerings, see here.

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8 tax tips to help you get fiscally fit https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42771/ 242311042771 Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - On the heels of your 2024 New Year's resolution and with tax season kicking off, it is the perfect time to focus on your fiscal fitness! According to CNBC 62% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Creating small money changes and smart financial habits can help them kick-start their financial progress.

So if you are one of the many Americans who avoid thinking about their financial situation until tax season hits, check out these eight tips for taking advantage of the hidden opportunities this season offers.

Determine if you need help from a pro. Even if you think your taxes are as straightforward as they come, consider finding a tax expert to take a look. Today, there is so much information available online that it can feel overwhelming to do your taxes and ensure they are done correctly. There are many skilled, experienced tax professionals out there, so don’t be afraid to get a second set of eyes on your taxes.

Don’t forget about those deductions and credits. Do you have any student loans that you are working to pay off? If so, now is the time to claim a student loan interest deduction. Did you make a charitable donation this year? Or start working for yourself? Make sure you're getting all the deductions and credits you have a right to claim.

Staying organized will help you in the long run. Get yourself a filing folder and keep any tax-related paperwork in there. From your W2 to any write-off-related receipts, stash the appropriate documents and save them until you are ready to tackle your taxes.

File on time. This will eliminate any late filing penalties and fees. Many people don’t realize that the IRS can charge interest on owed payments, so get ahead and avoid those charges! If you think you’ll need more time to pay, you can request a tax extension using Form 4868.

Talk with the IRS. If you owe money this year, be realistic about what you need to do to take care of that. Promptly reach out to the IRS and set up a payment plan that works for your budget. This way, you're not forking over a big chunk of change all at once, maybe at the expense of paying other bills or contributing to savings.

Plan to save at least part of your refund. If you're getting a refund, that's awesome! You may be tempted to treat yourself a little. Go ahead, you've earned it. But plan on saving part of that windfall, say 25%. Consider it an opportunity to supplement your emergency fund, or tackle some credit card debt that has been weighing you down.

Sign up for direct deposit of your refund. With a banking app like Chime, you may get your federal tax refund up to six days early1 with direct deposit. The process is easy. You'll need to open a Chime Checking Account, and simply add the account and routing numbers on the tax forms when you file, indicating direct deposit, and Chime will alert you when it's there. Chime members can get their paychecks up to two days early2 with direct deposit, accounts with no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements, fee-free overdrafts up to $2003, a Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card4, and more. These services have led Chime to be the #1 most loved banking app5.

Know your tax terms. The first step in making the most of your taxes is knowing the language. Some of the most commonly used and confusing terms include:

  • Above-the-line deduction, which allows you to decrease the amount of taxes you owe. Student loan interest, health savings account (HSA) contributions and tuition all qualify.
  • Adjusted gross income is your total annual income, including wages, tips, interest, dividends and capital gains, minus deductions.
  • Earned income tax credit is a refundable tax credit designed for low-to-moderate earners. Your income needs to be less than $63,398 to qualify.

Making progress on your financial goals can feel daunting, but this is a marathon, not a sprint. Habits over time will help you make progress, and a great way to start is to minimize your tax burden and maximize your return this tax season.


Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The Chime Visa® Debit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank.

This guide is for informational purposes only. Chime does not provide financial, legal, or tax advice. You should check with your legal, financial, or tax advisor for advice specific to your situation. Your state or local unemployment agency is responsible for making all determinations on your eligibility for unemployment benefits. Please contact your state or local unemployment agency if you have questions.

1 Chime does not guarantee timing of refund. Six day refund estimate is based on 2022 tax year filing data. Refund timing estimates are dependent upon timing of complete tax return submission and other requirements.

2 Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

3 SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your physical Chime Visa® Debit Card or secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card.

Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime's sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions and fees associated with OTC cash withdrawals. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.

4 To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.

5 #1 Most Loved Banking App Source: Chime received the highest 2023 Qualtrics® NPS score.

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New study: 2 in 5 Americans define 'making it' as achieving financial independence https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41903/ 238091041903 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:15:00 GMT (BPT) - Financial independence is important to 67% of Americans, though nearly a quarter (24%) say they haven’t yet achieved it, according to new research from Empower, a leader in financial planning, investing, and advice.

The definition of “making it” financially varies among spenders and savers, though many equate it with resilience and independence: 44% of Americans say it’s synonymous with not needing to rely on anyone else for money, 39% say it’s career advancement and one quarter say it’s reaching a certain net worth.

To put a dollar value on it: $94,000 per year is the magic number average Americans feel they need to earn to achieve financial freedom, and 60% feel optimistic they can reach this money milestone.

Top signs you've financially "made it" in life:

  • Being financially independent/not relying on anyone else for money - 44%
  • Moving up in my career/getting promoted - 39%
  • Having a job I love - 37%
  • Making a certain amount of money - 25%
  • Not having to work at all - 25%
  • Being able to spend money without worrying - 22%
  • Being able to pay my bills on time - 9%
  • Buying luxury items I want - 7%
  • Being able to retire comfortably - 7%
  • Buying a home - 6%

Set clear financial goals

Despite having financial aspirations for the future, a majority of people (72%) admit they currently stress over their finances at least once per month and nearly 1 in 5 (17%) say they worry about money daily.

Getting on track doesn’t have a time limit, but it does require a honed focus. “No matter your age, financial independence starts with clarity,” underscores Keith Jones, senior financial professional with Empower. “Ask yourself what you want and why you want it. Establishing clear financial goals provides both direction and purpose, motivating you to work towards a more secure and satisfying financial future.”

The journey looks different for everyone

Over half (57%) of Americans say they still rely on their family and friends for financial support, especially for help paying their rent (62%), internet and streaming services (56%), and their phone bill (54%). Of those who don’t feel financially independent, 3 in 10 (31%) are optimistic they will be in the future, while 54% don’t think they’ll ever be able to pay their bills without help.

The majority (92%) of financially independent Americans say they only started to feel that way once they reached the age of 36.

Money talks are important

Among parents surveyed, many linked communicating about finances to achieving financial independence, with 57% saying they regret not having more money conversations with their children while they were growing up. In fact, 3 in 5 parents (60%) say if they could turn back the clock and do things differently, they would have made financial literacy a priority.

Although many believe their kids should be able to pay their own bills and expenses by age 23, 40% of parents with adult children aged 20 or older currently support them financially. More than half (53%) are dipping into their retirement savings to do so and 49% say they live with their children to help manage expenses.

Methodology:

This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Empower and fielded by market research company OnePoll between December 11 and December 12, 2023.

RO3385810-0224

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Just 3 in 10 Americans say they aspire to the C-suite: New study https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41904/ 238091041904 Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:09:00 GMT (BPT) - Who wants to be the boss? Just 3 in 10 Americans say they aspire to hold a C-suite role, according to new research from Empower, a leader in financial planning, investing, and advice. Out of all generations, millennials show the highest interest in becoming a top executive (39%), though nearly a third of people don’t want their job description to change — even if it means sacrificing a promotion or raise.

The study reveals that the number one driver of job satisfaction is money (67%), which Americans say trumps being rewarded for loyalty and longevity at a company (40%), recognition for the job performed (34%) and being an inspiring leader or leading by example (32%).

The paycheck paradox

For some, there may be a paycheck paradox — a chicken or the egg dilemma: 38% (and 55% of Gen Z) believe they don’t get paid enough to go above and beyond their current job description. At the same time, nearly 1 in 4 people say they’re not working at full capacity, and nothing will motivate them to work harder (23% overall, 37% Gen Z).

More Americans plan to increase their contributions to their retirement savings in 2024 (34%) than ask for a promotion (23%) or quit to find a higher paying job (14%). Of all generations, Gen Z is looking to make more money by “job zwitching” (16%).

So, if people are placing less focus on rising through the ranks, what do people value at work? Let’s take a closer look.

What’s on the Workplace Wishlist?

Respondents point to greater access to financial advice and benefits as topping the list; over 2 in 5 Americans (44%) wish their employer offered more one-on-one financial help.

  • Advice advantage: 39% say their employer doesn't offer enough financial planning support. Half (48%) say financial coaching is a major must-have and 52% wish their job would provide more financial literacy opportunities.
  • Retirement roll: 71% of Americans say retirement plan matching is an important employee benefit and over half (54%) wish their job automatically enrolled them into a 401(k) plan.
  • Betting on a bonus: Bonuses are important to 75% of Americans, though nearly 1 in 5 respondents (17%) say their employer doesn’t offer one. One in 4 put their annual bonus toward essential items (24%), savings (44%), and retirement (28%), though 32% plan to spend it on a vacation.
  • The big flex: 48% say they'd be willing to go back to the office if their employer offered a four-day work week — just 6% would be willing to take a pay cut to go remote. On the flip side, 1 in 4 Americans (26%) say if their employer asks them to go back to the office more this year, they'll quit.
  • Paycheck principles: When it comes to salary/compensation goals in 2024, Americans are focused on making enough money to pay their bills on time (45%) and to retire when they want to (39%). Over 1 in 4 want to make enough to avoid working multiple jobs.

Top money goals for the year ahead

Inflation and cost of living continue to be top concerns for Americans, as 6 in 10 say their income isn’t keeping up with rising prices. These economic concerns far outweigh worries about the job market (7%) or career growth (4%).

Despite these challenges, just a third (31%) plan on asking for a raise this year, and the trend of “quiet quitting” seems to be waning: 9% plan to employ this strategy in the year ahead. Some 44% feel they make enough money to live comfortably, and overall, Americans feel optimistic, with 58% of respondents believing they will continue to make more money in the future.

Access the full report on The Currency.

Methodology: This study is based on online survey responses from 1,117 Americans ages 18+ commissioned by Empower and fielded by Morning Consult from January 3-4, 2024.

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Experts provide tips to avoid becoming a distracted driving statistic https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42005/ 238841042005 Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:25:00 GMT (BPT) - Multitasking has become the theme of the decade as people try to balance work, family and social obligations in a world where time seems to be shrinking while the number of things to do is expanding.

While multitasking might be a good strategy in some situations, it is potentially disastrous when you are behind the wheel of a car. Why? When you are in control of a multi-ton object going forward at freeway speeds, a little lapse in attention can have very serious consequences.

"We all understand the pressures of trying to do more in less time," said Mercury VP, Claims, Kevin Quinn. "And in this era where connectivity feels critically important, many people don't want to wait to field that text, look at the most recent TikTok, or return their boss's email. But driving should take all of your attention, not just some of it."

Quinn offers these suggestions to those who might find the temptations of distractions like social media, in-car entertainment and hunger to be difficult to resist:

  • Don't text and drive. Texting using a smartphone keyboard requires a great deal of attention. Even using voice-to-text functions can take your attention from the road ahead. A recent Mercury Insurance survey revealed that over 1 in 4 American drivers have come dangerously close to or been involved in an accident due to texting behind the wheel.
  • Limit phone use on the road. Even hands-free phone use draws your attention from the driving task.
  • Don’t eat or drink when driving. These behaviors force driving with one hand on the steering wheel, a practice more dangerous than two-handed driving.
  • Don't apply makeup when driving. Applying makeup necessitates looking in the mirror rather than down the road.
  • Secure personal items within the car. If something drops, don't begin looking for it while still underway. It will still be in the car when you stop.
  • Secure pets in the car, and don't let them wander around the cabin. Having your dog, cat or iguana on your lap might seem comforting, but that pet can become an instant distraction.
  • Set up the vehicle for driving before you get underway. Adjusting mirrors, seats, temperature and audio choices as you drive can pull your attention from the driving task for multiple seconds at a time.

Why does all this matter? Distracted driving accidents continue to be a national problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say nine people in the United States are killed every day in crashes that are reported to involve a distracted driver. According to DefensiveDriving.org, texting makes you eight times more likely to get into an accident. The impairments associated with using a cell phone while driving can be as damaging as those associated with driving while drunk.

Here are some sobering statistics from Mercury Insurance’s October 2023 survey of 1,000 active drivers on distracted driving behaviors:

  • 86% of active drivers think people are more distracted while driving compared to five years ago
  • 26% of active drivers have either come close or been in an accident due to texting and driving
  • 67% of active drivers do not wait until they’ve reached their destination before checking phone notifications
  • 66% of active drivers admit to using their phone while driving
  • 48% of active drivers have been distracted by their navigational system

While the problem of distracted driving is very real, there are hopeful signs on the horizon. Many auto manufacturers are now making voice-to-text and text reader systems more prevalent in the vehicles they build. Societal pressure is helping to make a dent in distracted driving, illustrated by the fact that 58% of respondents to the Mercury Insurance survey said that they are less likely to be on their phones when they have a passenger in the vehicle.

The best advice is this: When you are behind the wheel of an automobile, driving should be your only task. Everything else can wait.

For additional safety tips regarding distracted driving, visit:

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Tax Refund Checks More Important Than Ever, According To New Survey https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42818/ 242681042818 Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:49:00 GMT (BPT) - Straight Talk Wireless commissioned its second-annual survey to understand consumer sentiment around tax time and found that 60 percent of survey respondents say they are more in debt than last year and will file their taxes early.

The sooner taxpayers file, the faster they get their refund, which 61 percent say is vital to their household’s financial stability. But with consumer debt at a new high*, timing won’t be everything as the survey also showed that taxpayers continue to worry the money won’t be enough. Find out more here.

*The total household debt of $17.3 trillion entering 2024 is a new high for the U.S. The largest increase in any category was credit card debt, which swelled by 16.6% between Q3 2022 and Q3 2023, the most recent term for which federal data was available.


Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Straight Talk Wireless between January 16 and January 21, 2024. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll.

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Survey Finds Americans Are Helping Neighbors – and Want to Do Even More https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41927/ 238271041927 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 09:07:00 GMT (BPT) - According to results from a national survey1 released by Wells Fargo and Ipsos, Americans helped their neighbors on average six times in the last year without expecting anything in return and 77% did so at least once. Furthermore, 73% of Americans strive to support their communities by shopping local, and on average, shopped at or supported a local small business 11 times in the last year.

The survey showed they want to do more. More than half of Americans would like to volunteer more time (57%) and donate more money (57%) to local organizations; and 53% wish they knew where to go to learn which organizations in their community are looking for volunteers or donations.

“As The Bank of Doing, we have an important responsibility to help strengthen the communities we serve — and we’re glad to see our fellow neighbors are taking action to help others, too,” said Kristy Fercho, Head of Diverse Segments, Representation and Inclusion at Wells Fargo. “Doing goes far beyond the investments we make. It is the sum of the impact we have when we work together to tackle societal challenges.”

Wells Fargo commissioned the online survey of more than 5,000 adults in the U.S. to understand how Americans give back and what they prioritize most in their communities. The survey is part of The Bank of Doing campaign, which reinforces Wells Fargo’s longstanding commitment to putting people and communities first.

How would you spend $1 million to help your community?

In another question, those surveyed were asked how they would spend $1 million if given that amount to improve their communities. Americans answered — on average, they’d allocate the most money toward affordable housing investments.

Overall, they believe their local community needs additional financial investment in the availability of affordable housing (70%), the condition of roads and sidewalks (69%), and support for small businesses (67%).

The good news is Americans also believe progress has already been made in their communities. For example, many indicated they are satisfied that their local communities have made improvements in small business support (60%), internet infrastructure (60%), and job creation (46%).

Since 2019, Wells Fargo has donated $525 million to help address housing affordability, including supporting available and affordable rentals, homeownership, and housing stability.

Additionally, The Bank of Doing has funded $107 million in higher education scholarships and programming for diverse communities and has donated about $420 million to organizations that support small businesses through its Open for Business Fund, a recovery effort created in July 2020. That initiative has impacted a projected 178,000 small businesses to help them create or preserve more than 222,000 jobs.

For more information, visit www.wellsfargo.com/impact.

1 An online survey was conducted among 7,067 total adults age 18+ from the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii by Ipsos on behalf of Wells Fargo from May 31 through June 15, 2023. The sample consisted of 5,077 adults 18+, divided evenly across each state in the U.S., for a minimum of 100 respondents from each state, and 1990 adults 18+, within 14 targeted media markets within the U.S. Weights were applied to national and state data cuts to match the Census on age, gender, region, race/ethnicity, and income. The targeted markets were also weighted to Census data on age, gender, race/ethnicity, and household income.

The precision of Ipsos online non-probability polls is measured using a credibility interval. In this case, the poll has a credibility interval of plus or minus 1.4 percentage points for all respondents, plus or minus 1.7 percentage points for the national sample, and a range of 11.0-12.0 percentage points for the individual states.

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How to design your next trip around your travel personality https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42570/ 241541042570 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - When imagining your next vacation, ask yourself: What kind of traveler are you? Recent research and various travel experts have identified popular types of travelers according to their preferences, beliefs, and destination "must-haves." Recognizing where you may fit in one of these categories can help you discover the perfect destination for your next travel adventure. Read on to learn more about three of the top traveler categories, along with a great location that will fit your unique travel preferences.

Once you've found the perfect destination, make your travel experience more enjoyable with a travel credit card so you can take advantage of amazing benefits and earn points toward your next trip. For example, from now until April 3, 2024, new Chase IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Cardmembers can earn 165,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months from account opening, and new Chase IHG One Traveler Credit Cardmembers can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 in the first three months from account opening.

With these offers, many ways to earn points through everyday purchases on the cards, and other benefits, you'll be able to get going on your perfect trip even faster, no matter where it is.

Pop Culture Enthusiasts

Are you motivated to visit locales featured in your favorite movies or TV shows? You may just be a pop culture enthusiast. In fact, 86% of travelers surveyed by Skyscanner were inspired by destinations in movies or TV, with 33% of U.S. travelers wanting to "experience Paris" like their favorite TV show character. You may also enjoy following current media trends and major cultural events — and you're always looking for places that are "Insta-worthy."

For anyone in this category, a Paris voyage would be high on your list, especially with some major sporting events in 2024 top of mind. The "City of Love" is not only the fashion capital of the world, but its iconic landmarks, romantic river bridges and picturesque architecture also make it a very Instagrammable locale.

You can make your stay even more memorable by booking a luxury central Paris hotel such as IHG Hotels & Resorts®' Kimpton St. Honoré or InterContinental Paris – Le Grand. And the Chase IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card can make international travel simpler; cardmembers can receive a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to the card.

Wellness Wanderers

If your idea of the perfect vacation involves nothing more strenuous than walking from your massage to the pool, you could be a wellness wanderer. These travelers consider trips primarily as opportunities to rejuvenate and refresh. A whopping 94% of travelers want to incorporate self-care into their trips this year, and 29% are interested in traveling for wellness.

These kinds of vacations never feel long enough, but when Chase IHG One Rewards Premier and Traveler Credit Cardmembers redeem IHG One Rewards points for a consecutive four-night IHG hotel stay, they receive the fourth Reward Night free (redeemable at that same hotel during that same stay), making extra time for rest and relaxation easier.

Wellness wanderers want to spend their well-deserved time away at tranquil, remote locations where they can take advantage of natural surroundings to enhance their wellness. For example, the Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek is located in a quiet, scenic area with Arizona's famed red sandstone canyons as its backdrop, offering a pool and proximity to plenty of spas for a relaxing, peaceful getaway.

Sustainable Travelers

Are you concerned about the economic or environmental impacts of traveling? If so, you may be a sustainable traveler. In 2023, 69% actively sought sustainable travel options, and Google searches for "sustainable travel" have increased 226% over the last five years. Sustainable travelers want to explore nature and seek places to stay that provide a sustainable infrastructure and opportunities to give back to local communities.

Did you know Melbourne, Australia, was named the most sustainable city in the world? With over 480 parks, this beautiful city offers tours with sustainability or conservation-focused guides. You could also plan your stay at voco Melbourne Central, which embodies sustainability through beds made of recycled materials as well as bedding made from recycled plastic and biodegradable materials.

No matter what profile you fit or what city you choose, IHG® Hotels and Resorts has just the right stay for you. With a growing portfolio of 19 brands and over 6,000 hotels across the globe, every type of traveler will be able to find a spot that checks off all their must-haves.

And with all of the rewards that help Chase IHG One Rewards Cardmembers get the most out of their travels, you could enjoy your next trip that much more. Visit chase.com/ihgcards to learn more about current offers.

Chase credit cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply. Offer subject to change.

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Destination Dupes: Four Unexpected Travel Adventures in Your Backyard https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42735/ 242181042735 Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:47:24 GMT (BPT) - A rising travel trend for 2024 is quickly becoming trips to destination “dupes.” These sometimes-unexpected locales are often cost-effective, yet experience-rich alternatives to their tourist-packed counterparts; and many of them happen to be right in our backyards! Ahead of spring and summer travel, there’s never been a better time to stay ahead of the trend and lock in your next vacation. Not only will this give you something to look forward to, but you can also tap into travel offers to help you make more out of upcoming trips.

Seeking a Bustling and Historic Cityscape?

While your first thought might be London, Athens, or New York City, you might also consider a weekend trip to Chicago. With its robust history, sweeping skylines, lively theater scene, and one of the oldest and largest museums in the world, Chicago has plenty to offer any traveler open to exploring its rich history.

Be sure to also visit the iconic Bean art installation in Millennium Park or enjoy a relaxing architectural river cruise. You can also experience the city atop one of the many fantastic observation decks and upgrade your camera roll with unparalleled panoramic views. What’s more, Chicago is one of the most walkable cities in the country (take a day to stroll through Grant Park!) but it also hosts a bustling infrastructure of transportation options to help you cover more ground. If you use the right travel card when making your way through the city, you can even earn points to use toward your next vacation. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Premier, and Priority Credit Cards, for example, offer Cardmembers the ability to earn 2X points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting purchases, including rideshare.

Looking to Live Out Your Outdoor Adventure?

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the outdoors, Australia or Iceland might be on your travel bucket list. But did you know Denver also offers a host of memorable experiences in the great outdoors, all year round? Colorado’s unique climate means you can hit the slopes any season, so you’ll want to get your gear ready for skiing, hiking, and biking in the Rocky Mountains. You can also enjoy soaking in Eldorado hot springs, strolling through Denver’s lush 23-acre botanic gardens, rollerblading around Washington Park, or climbing the impressive 2,000 ft. Manitou Incline. Rent a car to take a scenic drive around Lookout Mountain for the best views of the city (Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers earn 2X the points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards car rental partner purchases for use towards their next adventure!).

Searching for the site of your next “friendcation?”

The number one concern when traveling with friends is making sure there’s something for everyone.

Though trips to Porto, Dublin, or Mykonos might be top of mind, Orlando, Florida, is jam-packed with activities to keep your full friend group happy the entire trip. Not only that, but you can also count on reliably warm weather year-round—and even if it rains, there’s still plenty to do both indoors and outdoors. If you’re looking for a daytime activity for your sportier friends, Orlando boasts some of the country’s best golf courses, with several expert-level play courses across the city. Alternatively, if you’re interested in a more adrenaline-filled experience, check out any number of the city’s adventure parks, like Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, for some friendly competition along their ropes course or racing down their zip lines. You’ll also have access to spend the day exploring local attractions, from the Kennedy Space Center to the wildlife-teeming Everglades, giving you more opportunities to make memories you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Lights, Camera, Action! Explore The True Heart of Cinema

Thinking of traveling to LA to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame? Instead, witness the magic of television come to life in Burbank, CA. Known as the ‘Media Capital of the World,’ Burbank is home to some of the most famous media companies and major movie studios. While in Burbank, experience exciting backlot tours of the places where your favorite movies and TV shows are filmed. It’s also just a short ride away from Los Angeles and Hollywood, so you can use the city as your tourist-light home base while exploring the sights in these California hot spots.

With spring approaching and some great travel offers already available, it’s the perfect time to consider a travel dupe for an upcoming vacation. Plus, when selecting a travel credit card, like the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Premier, and Priority Credit Cards, you can earn points toward future travel and access travel benefits like the Companion Pass; or access to 2 EarlyBird Check-In® per year on the Premier, and Plus Cards and 4 Upgraded Boardings per year on the Priority Card, when available. Your next adventure is just a short flight away.

*Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply. Cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply and can be found at Southwest.com/rrterms.

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3 Ways to Prioritize Financial Wellness — Without Cutting Out the Fun Stuff — in 2024 https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42140/ 239681042140 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:46:40 GMT (BPT) - By Mary Hines Droesch, Head of Consumer, Small Business & Wealth Management Banking and Lending Products

If you’ve been grocery shopping lately, you’ve probably cursed inflation under your breath. With rising food prices, it’s no wonder why Bank of America’s recent publication, Bank of America Spend Scape: Decoding 2023’s Consumer Credit and Debit Card Spending Frontiers and the Road Ahead, shows that groceries were Americans’ biggest expenditure last year. But rising prices on necessities didn’t stop consumers from seeking experiences to enjoy.

As consumers continued to be resilient in 2023, they made time for fun. From vacations across Europe to catching iconic pop stars on stage to going all-out in pink to see their favorite childhood toy come to life on the big screen, travel and entertainment spending increased by 7% year-over-year (YoY). Travel and entertainment weren’t the only experiences consumers prioritized last year: restaurants (2%) and fitness and grooming services (3%) spending also increased YoY.

Compared to 2022, spending on many material goods dropped — consumers spent less on electronics, furnishings and appliances (-9%) and sporting and fitness goods (-4%). Last year’s spending patterns clearly showed that consumers prioritized making memories over splurging on nonessential items — but what will 2024 bring?

This year, consumers may pull back slightly on experiential spending to pursue stronger financial stability. In a recent survey, Bank of America asked Americans to share their financial resolutions for 2024. Many respondents plan to continue seeking out travel (29% have resolutions to take vacations), but maintaining financial wellness is a top goal as well (45% want to increase their savings, and 30% want to pay off credit cards).

If these resolutions sound familiar, and you’re hoping to spend responsibly without compromising on fun, you’re in luck. We’ve got some tips for how you may be able to stretch your money further — so you can spend with intention, practice self-care and make memories to last a lifetime.

1. Don’t leave fun out of your budget. The new year is the perfect time to refresh your budget. Start by evaluating how much money you expect to come in and go out each month. Then make a list of all the things you plan to regularly spend on. For example, some Americans plan to prioritize their spending on groceries (51%) and personal wellness (35%) this year. Next, make a list of all of your anticipated “wants” — whether it’s a beach vacation or a new pair of shoes. Getting your needs and wants on paper can help you identify areas you may need to cut back on to afford your basics, and if you’re like 42% of Americans, you may deprioritize dining out and ordering takeout this year. Lastly, with your needs and wants in mind, utilize the 50/30/20 rule. Take 50% of your after-tax income to cover your needs, 30% to cover your wants and take 20% to put toward your savings. Just like how prices of basic needs fluctuate, your budget will, too — so make sure you take a look at it monthly and adjust as needed.

2. Keep an eye out for deals. Make extra room in your budget by utilizing deals not only for your wants, but also for your needs. Make sure you sign up for newsletters and rewards programs at all of your favorite places like grocery stores, airlines, movie theaters and more. Finding deals for basic goods and activities you already have carved out in your budget will allow you to save more in the long run. Even check to see what perks your bank may offer you such as loyalty and cash back programs as well as free activities to take advantage of around your city.

3. Use a rewards card to make your money work for you. As you spend throughout 2024, consider using a flexible rewards credit card like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards card, which allows cardholders to earn 3% cash back in one of six spending categories of their choice each month, 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (on the first $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club purchases each quarter), and 1% cash back on all other purchases. With this card in your wallet, you can easily adapt to shifts in your lifestyle and routine so that no matter what you’re prioritizing this year, you can still maximize rewards earnings — all without needing to change cards. Whether your category of choice is online shopping, travel or simply purchases at drug stores, you can choose to use your redeemed cash back to offset future purchases — like expenses during a trip or treating yourself at your favorite coffee shop. In 2023, Customized Cash Rewards cardholders earned an average of $250 cash back per account!

If you’re looking to get a solid financial footing in 2024 but don’t want to miss out on memory-making, the tips above and some careful planning can help you get the best of both worlds.

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Have you had these 6 important financial talks with your teen before college? https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41345/ 234191041345 Mon, 05 Feb 2024 08:03:00 GMT (BPT) - Financial skills are some of the most important lessons you can teach your children. It's especially critical to talk with teens and young adults in college who are starting to make decisions that can impact their financial wellness for the rest of their life. And teens want to have this conversation — according to a recent College Ave survey of college students, parents rank as the number one resource where students get their personal finance information.

By teaching your kids good money habits and helping them with key steps like building good credit, you can give them a solid foundation for future financial success. If you haven't already, have these six financial talks and take action to help your child thrive financially now and as an adult.

Budgeting

According to the College Ave survey, only around half of college students (49%) understand how to budget. Even if teens don’t have any real expenses, teaching them how to manage money is essential. Start by helping them create a simple budget, even if it’s just for their allowance. Because teens love technology, consider budgeting online through an app or via a shared document. Teach kids that making a plan for their money is a priority and soon they’ll understand how empowering a budget can be.

Saving

Saving money regularly is a fundamental habit and helps teach them about compound interest and having your money work for you. Consider encouraging your teen to do automatic saving deposits with their paychecks, so it becomes part of their regular financial habits. Savings is also a valuable tool to teach delayed gratification when they save for something they really want over time and then pay for it themselves.

Emergency fund

As your young adult takes on more responsibility, there’s bound to be unexpected expenses. To ensure those don’t derail their finances, discuss the importance of having an emergency fund. This is money that sits untouched unless there is an urgent expense. Having an emergency fund can reduce stress and helps your child avoid going into debt when things like car repairs, medical bills and other sudden expenses occur.

Building credit history

Building good credit is significant because it sets the stage for future financial success for things like apartment leases, car loans and more. Make sure young adults understand what it means to have good credit and help them get started. One easy way to build credit history is to get the Ambition Card by College Ave. This secured credit card helps college students build their credit history safely and easily without worry about overspending or going into debt. Plus, there’s no credit check, interest charges or late fees.

Secured credit cards

How does a secured credit card like the Ambition Card work? Unlike traditional unsecured credit cards, which rely solely on your creditworthiness, secured credit cards require a cash deposit by the parent or child. For example, if you deposit $500, your credit limit would be $500. Use the card to make on-time payments that are reported to the three credit bureaus, which helps build good credit.

Interest

At some point in your child’s life, they will have to take out a loan. Having good credit will help them get better terms for interest and repayment, which ultimately will help them save money. Help your kid understand that interest is the cost of borrowing money. Consider sharing your car payment or mortgage statement to show them how the costs break down.

As a parent or caregiver, you want the best for your child. By teaching them about financial wellness, you'll help them succeed throughout life by giving them the confidence to make smart money choices.

Note the Ambition Card is designed to help you build your credit history; however, a variety of factors impact your credit including payment history, utilization, derogatory marks, account age, total number of accounts, and inquiries—not all factors are equally weighted. 0% APR.

Account is subject to a monthly account fee of $2, account fee is waived for the initial six-monthly billing cycles.

College Ave is not a bank. Banking services provided by, and the College Ave Mastercard Charge Card is issued by Evolve Bank & Trust, Member FDIC pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated.

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Smart steps to economic empowerment in the new year https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41265/ 233621041265 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Despite today’s challenging economic climate, the majority of Americans feel economically empowered and continue to strive for their professional goals, but there are generational differences, with Gen Z and millennials feeling more confident than Gen X and baby boomers.

According to a survey commissioned by Herbalife, 55% of Americans are currently taking steps to feel more economically empowered. In fact, 73% of respondents said that starting their own business or partaking in freelance work feels like the only way to become economically empowered.

The study, which surveyed 2,000 Americans and 5,000 international respondents from 6 different countries, defined economic empowerment as providing people with the education, training and skills that they need to find a job, earn an income and become self-supporting.

Economic realities

According to survey findings, 78% of Americans are more aware of their economic situation in the past five years, with almost half (47%) attributing it to the pandemic.

“In recent years, Americans have faced a number of barriers to achieving economic empowerment such as inflation, business closures and unfair lending processes. Providing more opportunities for economic empowerment is essential for all,” said Humbi Calleja, vice president and general manager of Herbalife, North America.

Nevertheless, Americans are hopeful. In fact, 67% believe that they will be economically empowered in the future.

Finding economic opportunities

The new year is the ideal time to embrace economic empowerment and set goals. Of those Americans taking steps to become more empowered, 40% are educating themselves about personal finance, budgeting, investing and managing debt.

The survey also revealed generational differences. For example, Gen Z and millennials are the most likely to currently feel economically empowered (66% and 70%, respectively) compared to 51% of Gen X and 52% of American baby boomers.

Interestingly, over half of both Gen Z and millennials have a side hustle compared to 35% of Gen X and only 7% of baby boomers.

“There are many opportunities available for people looking to achieve economic empowerment by starting their own business,” said Ibi Montesino, executive vice president, chief of staff, Herbalife. “For example, network marketing allows you to start a business at a manageable cost, plus receive ongoing training, resources and support."

Calleja and Montesino suggest these tips to help people take steps toward economic empowerment:

Improve your financial literacy: Learn more about effectively managing, saving and investing your money. This can include budgeting, eliminating debt, buying insurance, exploring investments and creating retirement savings plans.

Set clear financial goals: Goals should be specific, measurable and achievable for your short-term and long-term future, including saving money regularly and paying off debts. Creating goals can help you turn vision into reality.

Invest in education and skill development: By attending continued education like on-the-job training, online and certification courses, you are investing in yourself and your future. This demonstrates your commitment to your personal and professional growth, which can lead to better career prospects and financial rewards.

Start your own business or side hustle: Today, almost half of Americans have a side hustle outside of their day job to generate additional income. Consider your interests and options to set yourself up for success.

Work to build strong personal and professional networks: Having strong connections in your personal and professional life offers many benefits. You have access to support, mentors, opportunities and so much more.

Now is the ideal time to set yourself up for professional success and take steps toward economic empowerment. To learn more about starting a new business and earning some extra income, visit Herbalife.com.

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3 planning ideas to fund your retirement https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41110/ 233021041110 Wed, 31 Jan 2024 23:01:00 GMT (BPT) - If only there was a way to predict the future. It would be helpful for quite a few things, especially retirement planning.

Figuring out how much money you’ll need to live the life you want — for the entirety of your retirement — is one of adulthood’s biggest challenges. And managing the possibility that you won’t outlive your savings has a name: longevity risk. No matter what, proactive financial planning is necessary to give you the greatest chance for success.

As you plan and set goals for the year ahead, now is a good time to think about longevity risk and develop strategies to ensure your retirement funds last as long as you do. After all, what good is a nest egg if it runs out early? And on the flip side, what good are hard-earned savings if you don't spend them out of fear of running out?

Better planning for better outcomes

Over the past few decades, there has been a shift from traditional pension plans, where you get a defined monetary benefit in retirement, to 401(k)s and other defined contribution retirement plans, which puts more responsibility and stress on the shoulders of individuals to contribute a large portion toward their retirement savings. Fortunately, you don’t need an MBA to know that better planning leads to better outcomes; so here are three ideas to build a retirement plan that you feel confident in and have the resiliency to follow.

Planning idea No. 1: Lifestyle is important. So is keeping options open.

If you’re like most people, you have ideas about what you want to do in retirement, like owning a second home, traveling or volunteering in your community. Your plan should have the flexibility to balance your desired lifestyle with what you can afford. To do this, trade-offs such as delaying retirement, part-time work or waiting to collect social security all may need to be on the table as you’re planning.

Planning idea No. 2: Knowledge is power

A lack of preparedness can lead to undesirable spending cuts, but you can guard against this by getting educated about available solutions.

One of the biggest steps you can take to increase your income and ensure that it will last your lifetime is waiting to claim social security. Simply delaying your claim from age 67 to 70 results in a nearly 25% increase in payments, and that larger payment will grow with cost-of-living adjustments.

Another is insured products. For many, protected savings and lifetime income options limit risk and insulate assets from the effects of market volatility — all while generating predictable income streams for fixed expenses in retirement. Such products are available from Prudential and can help improve retirement security for a lifetime. But they’re not for every person or every situation, so discuss the possibilities with a financial advisor. Which leads us to the final planning idea...

Planning idea No. 3: Don’t go it alone

If you are open to getting help, but don’t know where to start, there are many tools and resources to help you plan, with a trusted financial advisor being at the top of the list. Advisors will likely start the conversation by asking about your current financial situation and desired outcomes. If you’re clear on those outcomes, it will be easier to make choices from the range of options and strategies.

And if you’re not quite ready to meet in person with an advisor, there are online tools to help. The web-based Prudential Stages for Retirement will unlock your personalized Retirement Confidence Score and generate custom projections of your retirement income and spending over time. When you’re ready to kick things up a notch, you can connect virtually or in person with a financial advisor to help you define, refine and realize your financial goals.

Remember: There is no time like the present

As we dive into a new year, now is the ideal time to think about building a plan to reach your goals. Every day counts, so get started today and good luck on your financial planning journey — you've got this!

This material is being provided for informational or educational purposes only and does not take into account the investment objectives or financial situation of any client or prospective clients.

The information is not intended as investment advice and is not a recommendation about managing or investing your retirement savings. If you would like information about your particular investment needs, please contact a financial professional.

Annuities are issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ, and its affiliates.

Prudential Stages is an umbrella marketing name for Pruco Securities LLC (sometimes referred to as “Pruco”) under the marketing name Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to a separate agreement. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Pruco, a registered investment advisor.

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How one company is making a big difference for kids in need https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40334/ 228841040334 Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:15:00 GMT (BPT) - Running a business of any size is complex. Logistics, finances, employee management and more are always top of mind. But a business is more than just processes and spreadsheets — organizations can also be a positive force in their communities and for people in need.

Giving back is a Core Value at ABC Supply Co., Inc., the largest wholesale distributor of roofing and other select exterior and interior building products in North America. That’s why they have recommitted to creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses with another $3 million pledge to Make-A-Wish America. Since becoming a national partner in 2020, ABC Supply has helped grant the wishes of more than 400 children nationwide.

Helping children with critical illness

Every 20 minutes a child is diagnosed with a critical illness — and every day Make-A-Wish grants more than 15 wishes to these amazing children. This would not be possible without a generous network of donors, partners and volunteers, such as ABC Supply.

“Giving back is at the heart of our business and culture,” said Mike Jost, chief operating officer of ABC Supply. “Make-A-Wish is an extraordinary organization, and we’re so happy to continue supporting their mission and efforts to grant wishes and deliver hope to many more deserving children.”

ABC Supply shared some of the important efforts the company has made to support Make-A-Wish:

Sky Carp Make-A-Wish event

ABC Supply and the Beloit Sky Carp Minor League Baseball in Wisconsin partnered to host a fun and meaningful Make-A-Wish Night at ABC Supply Stadium in August 2023. With a raffle, prizes and sports memorabilia, there was something to entice everyone. The Sky Carp players even wore special jerseys that were auctioned off following the game. Make-A-Wish kids in attendance were given the star treatment and were guests of honor at the event.

Eden’s she-shed

Eden is a 7-year-old sickle cell warrior. While much of her day-to-day routine is filled with doctors’ appointments and medications, she still finds ways to be joyful and creative amidst the chaos. After taking some time to think through what her wish might be, she shared that she wanted a space of her own to craft, read, play chess, cross-stitch and make jewelry with her friends. ABC Supply helped make this girl's vision come to life with a she-shed space that is as unique and special as she is.

Belle’s dragon

Wish kid Belle is a 14-year-old with bone cancer who has always wanted her own “pet robotic dragon.” Earlier this year, her wish and imagination came to life when she was surprised with her 15-pound pet dragon at a massive 15th-century-style castle. The castle experience took place via virtual reality (VR) and transported Belle to a fantastical place far, far away, where she saw her dragon for the first time. When she removed the VR headset, her pet dragon was there by her side.

Blaize’s play structure

At only eight months old, Blaize was diagnosed with infant leukemia. For more than a year and a half, he was in and out of treatment. His cancer reoccurred at 14 months and he had to undergo a risky bone marrow transplant surgery. Blaize’s surgery was successful, and at 18 months old, he was finally able to return to the comfort of home. His family worked closely with Make-A-Wish, and with the help of ABC Supply, created a backyard play space just right for him.

Whether volunteering or raising funds for nonprofit organizations such as Make-A-Wish, ABC Supply’s associates are making a difference in communities across the country. To read more inspiring stories and to learn how you or your business can support Make-A-Wish, visit Wish.org.

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How to maintain a healthier home on a budget https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42004/ 238841042004 Fri, 26 Jan 2024 14:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Living healthily remains a primary concern for many today, with homeowners looking to make home improvements with an emphasis on the health benefits of living in an environmentally friendly space.

"When it comes to home improvement, eco-friendly choices can be budget-friendly," said Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. "Healthy home choices, especially for large renovations, can bring your homeowner cost down and save you money on insurance too.”

The journey to a healthier home begins by identifying areas needing regular maintenance and determining which environmentally friendly products can replace current ones. Here's a roundup of beneficial and feasible home enhancements:

Breathe easier with clean air

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. The air filters in your home's heating and cooling equipment weed out contaminants like dust and pet dander; however, a dirty filter hampers their efficiency. Regularly cleaning or changing these filters, especially HEPA filters that cost as little as $30, can ensure clean air.

A costless preventive measure is to maintain the proper functioning of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. Fires and carbon monoxide poisoning are more likely during winter when homes are typically heated, making detector maintenance an important step.

Ensuring safe water

Water filters offer a health-centric and budget-conscious upgrade to homes. Filter pitchers start from as low as $20, and there are more upscale alternatives available like under-sink, countertop or faucet-mounted systems.

Water leak detection devices present another home improvement avenue. These systems alert homeowners when a leak is detected and can automatically shut off the water system if a significant issue exists. Mercury Insurance offers a related discount to eligible homes equipped with these devices.

Environmentally friendly and effective household supplies

Attentions have shifted due to concerns over the composition of traditional cleaning products, paints, flooring and construction materials. Many homeowners now prefer environmentally friendly alternatives. Look for biodegradable products based on renewable resources. When painting the walls of your home, look for volatile organic compounds (VOC)-free options or those that are Green Seal or GreenGuard certified.

When it comes to appliances, aim for LEED-certified or STAR-rated products for lower energy usage and eligibility for an insurance discount for green homeowners. For flooring, consider alternatives like unfinished hardwood, stone or concrete, and carpets made from natural fibers. Look for non-toxic adhesives to further limit chemical exposure.

For building materials like drywall and insulation, opt for GreenGuard-certified products to avoid hazardous chemicals.

Adopting routine maintenance and home improvements can foster a healthier living environment and offer financial rewards. For instance, Mercury Insurance provides a 5% green home insurance discount to homeowners with a certification from either the U.S. Green Building Council LEED or the National Association of Home Builders Green Building Guidelines (NAHB).

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It’s tax time — don’t procrastinate, learn why it’s important to file early https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42459/ 240881042459 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 13:19:00 GMT (BPT) - Whether this year will be your first time filing or you've been doing your taxes for years, it's never too early to prepare for tax season. By knowing ahead of time what documents you'll need, you'll be more likely to make tax prep easier and more efficient — helping reduce the stress that can come from waiting until the last minute.

Advance preparation can also help you file early to get your refund earlier if you're entitled to one. With an average of 3 out of 4 taxpayers receiving a tax refund, don't wait till tax day.

Here are important tips to help when preparing to file:

Make a checklist

To get started, create a checklist so you'll know what documents to watch for and collect. Most tax documents like W-2s are made available by employers and other institutions online, although they may also be mailed. You can check with your employer's HR department to find out how and when tax documents are likely to be delivered.

If you've been a gig worker — even part time — or are entirely self-employed, you'll need to gather documents like 1099-Ks, plus all the receipts and records of your self-employment income and expenses throughout the year, including quarterly estimated tax payments you may have already made.

For anyone who has filed before, take out last year's taxes for an idea of what you'll likely need this year. Information and documents you'll need depend on your unique situation, and they include but are not limited to:

  • Your Social Security number (as well as your spouse's and children's, if applicable)
  • Records of income received, including interest income
  • Mortgage interest statements (1098)
  • Payments for tuition (1098-T) or student loan interest (1098-E)
  • Health care and childcare expenses
  • Vehicle or home purchase documents
  • Charitable contribution receipts

"By preparing early, you'll have more time to gather documents, review your tax return and speak with your Tax Pro, helping you feel more confident and less stressed," said Mark Steber, chief tax information officer, Jackson Hewitt Tax Services. "By waiting until the April deadline, you could make a mistake, requiring the filing of an amended tax return or subjecting yourself to avoidable penalties and interest."

Decide how you'll file

Taxes can be confusing, no matter your circumstances, so it's a good idea to consider how you'd like to file this year. It can help to have someone on your side who understands recent changes in tax laws, how to file accurately — and how to make the most of applicable deductions.

You can get expert help filing your taxes at Jackson Hewitt Tax Services. Choosing a professional tax service can take the worry out of figuring out your taxes, no matter your circumstances.

Make sure you and your tax professional electronically file your tax return. It's not only the fastest way to make sure the IRS receives your return, but it's the safest way. This keeps paper from getting stolen out of your mailbox or getting lost in the mail.

Also, electronically deposit your tax refund. Having your refund directly deposit into your bank account or on a prepaid bank card is the safest option. This avoids the possibility of your check getting stolen or getting marked as "undeliverable" if sent to the wrong mailbox.

"These two bonus tips alone can cut days and weeks off your tax return refund timing and better safeguard your information and money," said Steber.

The chance to double your refund

With Jackson Hewitt's second annual Double Your Refund Sweepstakes, you could win a prize equal to your federal tax refund. The 15-week sweepstakes starts the first week of January and goes through April 15. Each week there will be two grand prize winners who will win a prize equal to their federal tax refund (a maximum match of $10,000 and minimum of $1,500), plus 20 runner-up winners each week who will win $200. In addition, there will be a season-long drawing where there will be two additional grand prize winners and 20 runner-up winners randomly drawn.

"As we launch the 2024 tax season, the second annual Double Your Refund sweepstakes will allow hundreds of clients the chance to win extra money during tax time — with the chance to potentially double the size of their tax refund — which we know will be financially beneficial," said Kim Hudson, SVP and chief marketing officer at Jackson Hewitt Tax Services.

How to enter: File your 2023 federal tax return at any Jackson Hewitt location within the 15-week period or mail an entry form by the Monday following the week you file your tax return. For the season-long drawing, enter at JacksonHewitt.com.

To find a Jackson Hewitt office near you, visit JacksonHewitt.com.

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4 ways small businesses can innovate without a big budget https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42093/ 239581042093 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:01:01 GMT (BPT) - By Irana Wasti, Chief Product Officer at BILL

In today's fast-paced business landscape, it’s important for small business owners to adopt a mindset for innovation. However, the misconception that innovation requires vast resources and significant time investment can often deter entrepreneurs and business builders from pursuing new ideas and strategies. But with the right approach and perspective, small businesses can foster a culture within the company to make innovation more of an ongoing tenet of a successful business.

As small businesses look at their goals for the new year, with some businesses also thinking about how to do more with the same, consider these four practical tips to innovate without breaking the bank or spinning too many resources.

1. Nurture an innovation mindset with your team

Innovation starts with your team. Cultivating an innovation mindset among your team members is the first step toward achieving small wins that lead to breakthroughs. As someone who has led product development teams for over 20 years, I know that the ability and willingness to analyze the environment, listen to feedback, and adapt to change are key disciplines to delivering products that delight customers. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Embrace diverse perspectives: Different backgrounds and experiences bring unique viewpoints that can spark creativity and improve collaboration within your organization. Where you can, build diversity into your hiring strategy.

Foster a culture of openness: Create an atmosphere where employees feel safe to share their ideas and insights freely. Make them feel that their opinions matter and that they have a stake in the company's success. You can do this with monthly brainstorm sessions to get the whole team thinking about different challenges faced by the business.

Promote continuous learning: Encourage ongoing learning and skills development. There are lots of free online training resources that help employees stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.

By nurturing an innovation mindset within your team, you can tap into their collective creativity, which can lead to cost-effective innovations that drive your business forward.

2. Listen to your customers and innovate for them

Research from McKinsey & Company has shown that improving the client experience can increase sales revenues by 2%–7%. However, one common pitfall in innovation is over-engineering solutions that don't align with your customers' needs. Prioritize innovation that is rooted in customer feedback, provides value, and aligns with business goals, and is measurable. Here are a few ways you can build trust with your customers and serve as a pipeline to fuel innovation:

Provide multi-channel support: For customers who still need help after navigating your educational resources, offer support across the platforms that matter to them — such as email, social media, SMS, in-app support and more. Leverage tech-enabled tools, such as finance software that offers free phone and chat support with live agents. This meets your customers where they are, letting them reach you in a way they find comfortable and convenient.

Deliver a personalized customer experience with AI tools: Chatbots make a particularly helpful AI-powered customer support tool. A chatbot can respond to customers in real time, offering additional information about your products or services or even fielding customer service questions. AI-powered marketing tools can be used for content creation, social media management, and more. Chatbots and other AI tools can do more than just answer customer inquiries about your products. The best AI tools can adapt and learn from customer behavior.

Cascade the outside, inside: Often customer feedback does not go beyond the customer support team. To help drive more organic innovation, enable regular touch points between team members who face customers and team members who are on the front lines of innovation.

By keeping your customers' needs at the forefront of your innovation efforts, you can ensure your new ideas are well-targeted.

3. Ensure your tech tools help you move the business forward

Efficiency is a cornerstone of cost-effective innovation. Leveraging technology to automate manual tasks lets you accomplish more in less time, freeing up valuable staff time to focus on strategic and creative thinking. You want to work with technology partners that can help you customize tools to meet the needs of your business and facilitate integration. Remember that innovation can come from anywhere in your business so keep your automation goals broad. Here's how some small businesses have found solutions that make an impact:

Automate financial operations: Using technology to eliminate manual activities, such as invoicing, bill payments and financial reporting, helps you streamline operations and reduce human error. It also helps you get back to focusing on what matters to you, your business. Finding a solution that pre-populates invoice information can save business owners, on average, 50% of time on bill pay alone. One of BILL’s customers, Ascent Respiratory Care, a home health care provider that helps patients with respiratory issues, eliminated writing paper checks entirely. “We do not write checks anymore. I would say about 95% of what we do is all paid out via BILL, whether it's a hard copy check or an electronic payment,” said Ascent Respiratory Care Senior Business Development Associate Heather Thompson.

Use data analysis to uncover business insights more easily: Solutions that bring efficiency and optimization to your business can provide valuable analytics that can uncover insights to fuel innovation, inform your decision-making and identify areas for improvement. Golf Genius has seen firsthand how financial analytics has provided better control, visibility and efficiency. “I believe we’re saving thousands of dollars a quarter as a result of real-time budget tracking. Before [BILL], people would ask where they were against their budgets, and now we know,” says Golf Genius CFO, Lou Lombardo.

By harnessing technology to optimize key foundational parts of your business operations, you can achieve cost savings and efficiency gains that contribute to your overall business innovation. For example, BILL’s Financial Operations Platform for SMBs allows businesses to manage and optimize their cash flow all on one platform, delivering the most comprehensive suite of capabilities for SMBs.

4. Don't be afraid to fail forward

Innovation is inherently risky, and not every idea will yield immediate success. However, the more efficient and automated some functions or processes are, the more a small business can embrace a culture of "failing forward," where failure is viewed as a learning opportunity rather than a setback. It will help employees have the space and time to be more creative or innovative. Here's how to do it:

Encourage experimentation: As product leaders, oftentimes we tell our peers: “If experiments aren't failing often, then you are not experimenting enough”. Encourage your team to experiment with new ideas and approaches, even if they come with a degree of uncertainty. Build in time to test-run the idea, with an evaluation checkpoint, before implementing it system-wide.

Iterate and refine: After an experiment, assess what worked and what didn't. Use these insights to refine your approach and try again.

Acknowledge lessons learned from failures: Celebrate the lessons learned from failures. This will encourage a culture where innovation is valued regardless of the outcome, giving business owners a competitive edge and supporting employee retention.

Remember that many groundbreaking innovations have emerged from a series of trial and error. By embracing failure as a stepping stone to success, your small business can take actionable steps toward building a culture that promotes creative thinking, and develop innovative solutions without a big investment.

In conclusion, innovation isn't solely reserved for large corporations with deep pockets. Small businesses can thrive in today's competitive landscape by adopting an innovation mindset, listening to customers, harnessing technology to optimize and adapt to market shifts, and being unafraid to experiment and learn from failures. With the right strategies and a commitment to cost-effective innovation, your small business can stay ahead of the curve.

At BILL, we’re 100% focused on helping SMBs to get more control, visibility, and efficiency in their business. Automating financial operations can be a game changer for your business, saving valuable team time on inefficient manual processes and focusing on high-value strategic tasks instead. BILL helps businesses thrive with technology that is powerful, secure, and easy to integrate and use. To learn more, visit Bill.com/Resources.

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5 tips to make the most of your Health Savings Account https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41239/ 233481041239 Wed, 03 Jan 2024 11:01:00 GMT (BPT) - It’s that time of year again: you feel the tickle in the back of your throat, think you’re coming down with something, and visit the local urgent care. They ask for a copay, and you pay it. But have you given any thought to how you pay for medical expenses?

Enter the health savings account. HSAs can be a powerful tool to help save and pay for qualified medical expenses. If you’re one of many Americans enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), you have access to one of the most tax-efficient savings options available.

If this is news to you, you’re not alone: research from Fidelity Investments finds more than half of Americans are unfamiliar with the features of HSAs. Here’s what you need to know to start unlocking the potential of your HSA:

1. Leverage the triple-tax advantage[i]

Navigating the health journey can be incredibly complicated, and rising health care costs don’t make it any easier. The triple tax–advantaged nature of HSAs can offer some help by reducing your taxable income: the money you contribute to the account goes in tax-free, you can withdraw your HSA funds to spend on qualified medical expenses with no tax penalty, and all the money in the account can grow tax-free as well.

“With such a strong link between health and financial well-being, HSAs can play an important role in your overall financial plan,” said Karen Volo, head of health and benefit accounts at Fidelity. “Having a dedicated, tax-advantaged way to pay for both anticipated and unexpected health costs can bring greater peace of mind.”

2. You can pay for a lot more than just doctor visits

Qualified medical expenses that apply to an HSA run the gamut from copays and deductibles to more niche services you might not expect. Things like medical equipment, family planning services, acupuncture, or even lead-based paint removal may fall under this umbrella if certain requirements are met.

3. Your employer may make contributions

Many employers actually help their workforce pay for health care costs through contributions to their HSA. If you’re enrolled in a high-deductible health plan through your employer, make sure you check to see if this benefit is available to you.

“Think of this like an employer contribution for your health,” said Volo. “You won’t get a tax deduction on what your employer contributes, but you will be able to spend it on qualified expenses tax-free or give it the potential to grow over time by investing it.”

4. You can invest funds held in your HSA

The money you contribute to your HSA is tax-free, and it can be invested to potentially grow over time, which is an especially valuable contribution to your retirement nest egg. That’s great news for your wallet when you consider that the average 65-year-old retiring in 2023 can expect to spend $157,500 in health care costs throughout retirement.[ii]

5. Your HSA is yours to keep

According to Fidelity, 46% of Americans believe they’ll have to forfeit the money in their HSA at the end of the year if they don’t use it. Thankfully, that isn’t the case.

“Remember, unlike a flexible spending account, there are no use-it-or-lose-it rules in your HSA,” explained Volo. “The account is always yours, even if you change employers, and the money you contribute can be used now and in the future.”

Is an HSA right for you?

If you’re eligible and interested in opening an account, consider a Fidelity HSA™, named the #1 HSA by Morningstar for 2023.[iii]

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Keep in mind that investing involves risk. The value of your investment will fluctuate over time, and you may gain or lose money.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated, based on the information available at that time, and may change based on market or other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments or its affiliates. Fidelity does not assume any duty to update any of the information.

The information provided here is general in nature. It is not intended, nor should it be construed, as legal or tax advice. Because the administration of an HSA is a taxpayer responsibility, customers should be strongly encouraged to consult their tax advisor before opening an HSA. Customers are also encouraged to review information available from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for taxpayers, which can be found on the IRS Web site at www.IRS.gov. They can find IRS Publication 969, Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans, and IRS Publication 502,Medical and Dental Expenses (including the Health Coverage Tax Credit), online, or you can call the IRS to request a copy of each at 800.829.3676.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC

900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

1118687.1.0

© 2023 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.



[i] With respect to federal taxation only. Contributions, investment earning, and distributions may or may not be subject to state taxation.

[ii] Fidelity Investments 2023 Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate based on a single person retiring in 2023, 65-years-old, with life expectancies that align with Society of Actuaries' RP-2014 Healthy Annuitant rates projected with Mortality Improvements Scale MP-2020 as of 2022. Actual assets needed may be more or less depending on actual health status, area of residence, and longevity. Estimate is net of taxes. The Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate assumes individuals do not have employer-provided retiree health care coverage, but do qualify for the federal government’s insurance program, original Medicare. The calculation takes into account Medicare Part B base premiums and cost-sharing provisions (such as deductibles and coinsurance) associated with Medicare Part A and Part B (inpatient and outpatient medical insurance). It also considers Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) premiums and out-of-pocket costs, as well as certain services excluded by original Medicare. The estimate does not include other health-related expenses, such as over-the-counter medications, most dental services and long-term care.

[iii] Morningstar Research, “The Best HSA Providers of 2023.”

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Secure Your Financial Future During Home Renovations https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41256/ 233571041256 Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:07:00 GMT (BPT) - Home renovations can be expensive. In fact, an average home renovation cost $22,000 in 2022, according to Houzz research. Even with the cost being substantial, more than half of homeowners say they’re planning on undertaking a renovation in the coming year. While making those investments in your home, reviewing important insurance considerations can ensure you’re not putting your financial future at risk.

Considerations for working with a contractor

Mishaps during renovations can be costly. To mitigate some of your risk, any contractor you work with should have the following:

  • Contracting License Ensures the legality of your renovation and provides peace of mind knowing your contractor is sufficiently knowledgeable.
  • General Liability Insurance Provides protection against the cost of property damage and injuries that may occur during the renovation.
  • Workers’ Compensation Provides financial protection in case workers are injured while working on the project.

John Lack was a contractor for 35 years before joining Acuity Insurance as the carrier’s construction consultant. He has the following suggestion for getting this documentation from your contractor:

“Just ask. Reputable contractors expect to provide this information to you. You should always work with a licensed contractor. As for insurance, they should be able to provide you a certificate of insurance (COI). That COI should include three things: your name as an additional insured; the policy-in-force dates, which should span the entire time they will be working on your home; and their coverages.”

How home renovations can impact your homeowners insurance

If you’re undertaking a small renovation like changing paint colors, updating carpet, or adding a backsplash, that will likely not impact your homeowners policy limits. If your renovation is more extensive, like adding an addition, remodeling a kitchen or adding a bathroom, you may be changing the value of your home enough to need a change in your homeowners insurance limits. Consider how much your home would cost to rebuild — not the market value. If your renovation increases the amount it would cost to replace everything you have, you should change your limits.

One renovation that may reduce your cost of insurance is replacing your roof. If you replace your roof, be sure to report the update to your agent. Many insurance companies will provide broader coverage and possibly a reduced price for newer roofs.

It's best to talk with your independent insurance agent about how your renovation might impact your insurance needs. They can help ensure you’re covered and that your investment is adequately protected.

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Today's financial stressors have Americans questioning their financial futures https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41241/ 233501041241 Tue, 02 Jan 2024 04:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Rising inflation and uncertain financial futures are negatively impacting the American workforce. Most U.S. working adults are stressed about their current finances. About half aren't confident they can retire comfortably on only an employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Here are some surprising findings on how U.S. working adults' financial stress is spilling into the workplace.


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Fueling the future: Addressing childhood food insecurity in our communities https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42400/ 240601042400 Thu, 28 Dec 2023 06:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Food insecurity is a growing issue in the United States and poses a particular challenge for families with children under the age of 18. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 6.5 million American households with children experienced food insecurity in 2022, when they were uncertain of having or unable to acquire enough food to meet the needs of all their family members.

The winter months can be especially hard for families facing food insecurity. Extra expenses during this time of year, like higher home heating costs, often force many families to make tough choices about basic needs.

According to Feed the Children — a nonprofit focused on alleviating childhood food insecurity — higher food prices, economic instability and other factors have made providing for a family even harder, with one in five children in the U.S. being hungry this holiday season.

While there's no single solution, individuals and organizations can step up to help. For example, one company is working to support students in high-needs communities with access to food and other critical resources.

Supporting children now and year-round

Food companies play an important role in addressing this issue, often through collaboration with nonprofit groups. That's why for over a decade, Frito-Lay has partnered with Feed the Children to provide food for families across the U.S. and help achieve its mission to create more smiles and a brighter future with every bite.

At the start of the pandemic, Frito-Lay and Feed the Children recognized that the role of schools in the United States was changing. Due to this shift, they expanded their partnership by launching Building the Future Together. Schools across the country are often providing more than just education. The partnership strategically evaluated what was needed most and set out to create a program that enables school districts to provide students and their families with everyday essential items and other much-needed resources.

“Food security is more critical than ever and as a food company, we have a responsibility to do our part to ensure students and families have what they need to succeed,” said Nikki Jolly, Senior Manager of Corporate Citizenship and Social Impact at PepsiCo Foods North America. “We believe that when our communities thrive, we all thrive.”

Supplies such as shelf-stable food items, hygiene products, books and more are given to school districts to distribute to students and their families throughout the school year and whenever they are needed most. The products stocked in schools’ resource rooms can be a lifeline for families, especially in times of tragedy.

“We had a family impacted by a house fire and spent time in temporary housing, hotels, etc.,” said a staff member at Phoenix Union High School District. “We were able to tell this family to save money for living expenses and visit the resource center weekly ­­­­— and sometimes biweekly — for food, snacks and hygiene products.”

So far, the program has served over 110,000 families and has provided nearly 1.5 million pounds of resources. In its fourth year, Building the Future Together has launched in some of the highest-needs cities across the country to provide additional support to local school districts, including Atlanta, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Orlando and Phoenix.

Schools that have participated in the Building the Future Together program say they've seen a 63% increase in school attendance and student engagement, a 38% increase in student confidence and a 25% improvement in student grades. The measurable impact of this program allows more students to complete their education, setting them up for greater financial stability and independence for themselves and their families.

“Food insecurity is often invisible,” said Feed the Children President and CEO Travis Arnold. "We rarely know what someone else is going through, which is why we need to take care of our neighbors. Feed the Children is thankful for the partnership with Frito-Lay and their support of the Building the Future Together program as we tackle the important issue of childhood food security."

There is still more work to be done to address childhood food insecurity. During the colder months, get into the spirit of the season and do your part to help children and their families receive what they need to succeed. To learn more or donate, visit FeedTheChildren.org.

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Avoiding a Financial Fumble: How Football Fans Can Better Manage Money https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42133/ 239681042133 Fri, 22 Dec 2023 09:55:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - Experian is sharing new survey data that shows fans spend $743 on football-related expenses. From the tickets to the tailgate, it can be easy to blitz the budget. Fans and college students are passionate about their favorite football team, but it’s important to be just as passionate about their financial health. Being a die-hard can be expensive if you consider all the expenses that go with seeing games, buying tickets, food, parking, and don’t forget the merch! Fans should assess all the costs, create a budget, and then prioritize what items to spend on.

Experian’s survey also found that 1 in 5 football fans would take on $5,000 in debt if it meant their team would win a championship. It’s a make-believe scenario but what is real is how unmanageable debt can impact consumers’ credit scores and financial health. The holidays are also here which means that it can be easy to overspend. Consumers should consider paying in cash or with a debit card to stay within their budget.

To help avoid a financial fumble, Experian is here to help fans better manage their money this football season and beyond. With the new Smart Money™ Digital Checking Account & Debit Card, consumers can build credit without debt and manage their finances all in one place! To learn more visit www.experian.com/smartmoney.

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3 sneaky reasons you have trouble saving and how to start saving more https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41236/ 233481041236 Fri, 22 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Are you struggling to save more and spend within your means? You’re not alone. According to Fidelity’s Money Mindset study, 59% of young Americans cringe at the thought of checking their bank account balance and 57% dread budgeting. While it’s understandable to avoid tasks that cause stress, neglecting your finances now will only add up to more money worries in the long run.

If you’re ready to start spending smarter, save more and improve your financial health, you may be interested to know what could be keeping you from having a better relationship with money. Check out these three sneaky reasons why you might be having trouble saving money and how you can take steps to overcome them.

1. You avoid thinking about your money

Sometimes, when something causes us stress, we avoid thinking about it altogether. Finances are no different. In fact, Fidelity’s Money Mindset study found 1-in-3 young Americans say they would rather deep clean their bathroom than check their savings account. While not monitoring your money might provide momentary relief, in the long term, it can make your financial situation worse. You might forget about automated and recurring payments or overspend, and not realize until it’s too late to save.

Instead, be proactive about your financial health. Getting your finances in check can sound scary, but it doesn’t have to be! Sit down and think about how you’re spending your money and what changes you’d like to make.

One great tool to use is automation. Automatically transferring a certain amount into your savings every month can be a great option to make sure you’re making progress toward your goals without daily monitoring and stress. There are plenty of apps that can help you get started with this process. For example, Fidelity Bloom® is a free financial app that offers automated routines to help you grow your savings – like recurring transfers to your Bloom Save account.

In addition to automating savings routines, built-in incentives and recurring transfers, the app can also help expand your financial knowledge. In-app prompts and friendly nudges provide actionable steps you can take every day to help you navigate day-to-day finances and address the underlying causes that might be making it difficult for you to save.

2. FOMO and societal pressures keep you spending

The fear of missing out (FOMO) might also lead to missing out on savings. Many young Americans report feeling pressure to keep up with their peers which can lead to spending more money than they originally intended and impact their ability to save. Fidelity found that 61% of young Americans admit they spend more money than they intend because of FOMO.

This doesn’t mean you have to skip every concert and vacation but try to limit your spending to the activities you really want to attend and know you can afford. Soon enough, you may find that you’re able to both spend on the activities you really want and save for your future.

With Fidelity Bloom®, you get access to two accounts: one “save” account that helps you build your savings and a “spend” account that helps you track everyday spending. Having these two separate accounts, can help you be sure you’re only spending the amount you’ve set aside for spending, instead of tapping into your savings.

3. You think you can wait to save

Saving for the future can seem like a lofty, far-off goal, especially when there is so much to spend on now. In fact, 76% of young Americans believe that to save money, they’d have to cut back on spending on things that bring them joy. But the earlier you prioritize saving, the less stressed and better prepared you’ll be for the future.

A good first step is to create an emergency savings account, so you’re prepared for any unexpected expenses that come up or potential job loss. Nearly half of young Americans (49%) say they wouldn’t be able to cover an unexpected expense of $1,000. Fidelity suggests saving at least six months’ worth of essential expenses in an emergency fund.

Fidelity Bloom® can also help you with your savings goals. It’s the only app that matches up to 10% on your Save account each year up to $300. You can also save while spending on everyday purchases with debit card rewards and customizable round-ups into your Save account.

Changing your saving and spending habits can be difficult, but becoming aware of them is the first step to changing them. To help you with your saving and spending journey, download the Fidelity Bloom® app so you can take an honest look at your finances and start saving today. To learn more, visit Fidelity.com/Mobile/Bloom.

About Fidelity Investments

Fidelity’s mission is to strengthen the financial well-being of our customers and deliver better outcomes for the clients and businesses we serve. With assets under administration of $11.5 trillion, including discretionary assets of $4.4 trillion as of September 30, 2023, we focus on meeting the unique needs of a diverse set of customers. Privately held for 77 years, Fidelity employs more than 73,000 associates who are focused on the long-term success of our customers. For more information about Fidelity Investments, visit https://www.fidelity.com/about-fidelity/ourcompany.

About Fidelity’s 2022 Money Mindset Study

The 2022 Money Mindset Study presents the findings of an online sample of 2,010 adults 18 years of age and older with a checking or savings account, which represents 98% of American adults, with a focus on the 1,008 respondents 18-44 years old. Interviewing for this CARAVAN omnibus survey was conducted April 15-20, 2022, by ENGINE INSIGHTS, which is not affiliated with Fidelity Investments. The results of this survey may not be representative of all respondents meeting the same criteria as those surveyed for this study.

Important Information

The Fidelity Bloom App is designed to help with your saving and spending behaviors through your Save and Spend accounts, which are brokerage accounts covered by SIPC. They are not bank accounts and therefore are not covered by FDIC insurance.

Keep in mind that investing involves risk. The value of your investment will fluctuate over time, and you may gain or lose money.

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Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

1124467.1.0

©2023 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.

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Trends in homebuying: Understanding today’s real estate landscape https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42674/ 241911042674 Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Trends in real estate and home buying go far beyond mortgage rates and home prices. Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate has identified several more trends that provide insight into today’s homebuyer and what they are looking for in a home.

Who are the buyers?

There is a big difference between a first-time buyer and someone who already owns a home. In fact, the 2023 Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reports a 23-year age gap between a typical first-time buyer (35 years old) and a repeat buyer (58 years old).

There are also more unmarried people buying homes today. While 59% of all buyers were married couples, single females purchased 19% of homes, followed by single men (10%) and unmarried couples (9%). It’s also noteworthy that 70% of recent home buyers did not have a child under 18 living in the home, a drastic increase from 42% back in 1985.

“First-time buyers remain active and continue to account for about 30% of all home purchases,” said Ginger Wilcox, president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. “While saving for a down payment remains a challenge, the overwhelming majority of first-time homebuyers are not putting down 20% and many are getting financial help from parents, families and friends. The repeat buyer has a significant advantage as they can utilize equity from their previous home to either pay cash or reduce their mortgage as they move up or down in home size.”

Staying close … again

“The pandemic-fueled, work-from-anywhere trend that allowed so many to purchase a home in more affordable areas seems to be subsiding,” Wilcox said. “Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate affiliated agents are reporting more and more buyers who left a market are starting to return due to work or because they miss family and friends.”

This trend is shown in NAR data, according to Wilcox.

“For years before the pandemic, it was normal for repeat buyers to move within 15 miles of their previous home,” she said. “It jumped to 50 miles a year ago as so many opted to move to more affordable locations and take advantage of the remote work boom. We are back to a 20-mile radius today.”

What do buyers want?

NAR reported that 39% of repeat buyers traded up, while 33% purchased a smaller home. But home size is not the only consideration, according to Wilcox.

“It was interesting to see that 60% of all buyers said the quality of the neighborhood was the most important factor in determining where to live,” she said. “We are returning to a real estate market where life events trigger buying decisions. Being close to family and friends is the biggest driver of where people want to be, even more than affordability.

“We are also seeing a trend in longevity in a home. While most live in their home for 10 years, today’s buyer believes they will stay in their recently purchased home for at least 15 years. Therefore, it is important for potential buyers to look as far into the future as possible when choosing their next home and thinking about job locations, marriage, children, and other factors.”

What about older Americans?

Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate is tracking the home buying and selling patterns of baby boomers. This generation, those now 59-77, have redefined societal norms since they were born and are now doing the same in housing as they age. The U.S. Census reports the homeownership rate is more than 75% for baby boomers and AARP reports an overwhelming majority of this group wants to age in place.

“One of the big questions hanging over the housing market is how long baby boomers will stay in their existing homes,” Wilcox said. “As those in this demographic move on to the next phase in their lives, they will be looking for more manageable homes, nearby medical facilities, accessible community amenities and proximity to friends and loved ones. A good real estate professional will be able to assist and understand how to maximize the equity they have built.”

NAR shared that those over 60 almost tripled the number of home purchases in senior-related housing compared to the previous year (19% vs. 7%, respectively). Retirement, health of a loved one and the desire to downsize are the driving factors for a move for those 65 and older. Only 3% in this age group say they want a larger home.

The process

The fast-paced housing market continues. It’s important that buyers select an agent with whom they are comfortable, with a like-minded communication style and experience working in the price points and communities the buyer is interested in. It is also important to choose an agent who can help identify reputable loan officers with various financing options.

“More than half of all buyers use an agent who was referred to them or someone they worked with previously,” Wilcox said. “I always encourage buyers to ask around and interview more than one agent. Don’t be afraid to spend time with your potential agent to ensure they are right for you.”

If you’re thinking about making a move, connect with a Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate affiliated agent today. Visit https://www.bhgre.com/find-agents.

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74% of Americans say inflation is influencing their holiday spending: 3 money tips that can help https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41901/ 238091041901 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 12:01:00 GMT (BPT) - 'Tis the season, but U.S. consumers say high prices are impacting their spending habits and making them feel stressed (61%).

Citing inflation concerns (74%), recent research from financial services company Empower shows over a third (34%) of Americans are trimming their holiday budgets in favor of saving during the most wonderful time of year.

How much spend is just right? Let your budget be your guide. Here are three tips for embracing the spirit of giving.

1. Start budgeting for the holidays early

It’s always best to plan ahead. With rising prices, it may be harder to buy last-minute impulse gifts or squeeze in a few extra presents. That’s why it’s helpful to create a list of all your holiday expenses first.

Most people think of gifts when it comes to outlining holiday expenses. And while presents may comprise the bulk of your expenses, there are additional costs to consider like holiday decorations, travel, parties, entertainment, cards, wrapping paper, food and shipping charges for sending gifts to friends and family members who live far away.

Empower data shows that more than half of shoppers (55%) plan to focus on a significant or “big gift” item for those on their list, while 45% prefer to give an array of smaller presents. Budget-wise, more than a third of Americans (37%) have allocated less than $250 in total for gifts this year.

Keith Jones, senior financial professional at Empower, says, “Determine the total amount of money you want to spend on your holiday purchases. Write this figure down and put it in a prominent place where you will see it often. This way you’ll be reminded of your spending limit every day during the holidays, when it can be tempting to want to overspend.”

2. Prioritize what brings you the most holiday joy

According to the findings, half of Americans are cutting back on buying gifts for friends (50%). Deciding who you will — and won’t — buy gifts for this year can be the hardest part of creating a holiday spending budget.

“How you allocate your holiday budget will depend on what’s most important to you — this year, you may prioritize travel to visit family that you typically only see during the holidays over decorations or cut back on social commitments in order to give yourself a larger budget for holiday gifts,” says Jones.

Americans are embracing the gift of time, choosing low-cost activities like seeing holiday lights (56%) and watching movies at home (47%). These precious moments can build new holiday traditions and create priceless memories for your friends and family members to enjoy.

3. Start thinking about next year

Planning for the new year can help keep your eye on the prize. Americans’ top goals for next year include: Saving more money each month (54%), handling their debt (37%) and lowering any non-essential spending (34%). Budgeting is on the wish list, with 20% planning to set or stay on a budget next year.

It’s important to be realistic when setting a spending limit. This starts with understanding your overall financial situation. Working with a financial professional can help you identify your money goals and create a road map to help get you there.

Methodology:

This survey of 1,003 Americans ages 18+ was commissioned by Empower: 20% were baby boomers, 26% were Gen X, 26% were millennials, and 28% were Gen Z.

RO3292205-1223

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Smart holiday shopping tips to prevent big bills in January https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42463/ 240911042463 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season is all about celebrating with family and friends. But unfortunately, making the most of this festive time of year can also come at a cost. That becomes clear in January when the credit card bills show up — including bills for higher phone plan usage.

To help avoid the pain of post-holiday sticker shock, finance expert and author of New York Times bestseller "Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom" Lynnette Khalfani-Cox — also known as The Money Coach — offers her money-saving tips for enjoying the holidays without breaking the bank.

"Shopping smart now makes all the difference when January rolls around," says Khalfani-Cox. "So make the most of the deals and offers that might only be available around the holidays, and your bank account will thank you!"

Here are her tips for making sure your holiday mood doesn't come to a halt when the January bills come due.

1. Make your list — and check it twice

Setting a budget for holiday shopping and making a list of who you're shopping for — then sticking to it — is the smartest way to be sure you don't end up with unexpectedly high bills next month. Where possible, consider going in for group gifts, or choose gift cards for picky gift recipients so you can control exactly what you're spending — and that they'll love what they get.

"Keep a running list of what you're spending, whether you shop online or in person, to stay on track," advises Khalfani-Cox. "It's all too easy to overspend when you're not writing down every purchase."

2. Dive into deals to make the holidays bright

Comparison shopping is the name of the game when it comes to finding the best deals for everything from gifts to holiday hosting must-haves. And that doesn't stop at items to check off your holiday list. While you're comparison gift shopping, check out the latest discounted deals from phone providers like Straight Talk Wireless, a no-contract carrier from Verizon. In fact, Straight Talk is now offering 6 months of free service with the purchase of the Samsung Galaxy A13 and one month of the Straight Talk Silver. This deal can help you stay connected with far-flung family and friends throughout the holiday season and beyond, for a lot less. Plus, it’s available exclusively through Walmart, so you can get all your other holiday shopping done, too.

3. Maximize rewards and loyalty programs — smartly

If you frequently shop from one store or brand, or if your credit cards offer cash back rewards for purchases, first make sure it's something you really want to buy before signing on. Loyalty programs are great and can save you money, as long as it's something you know will make a great gift for someone on your list.

"Choose programs and memberships that don't cost anything up front," Khalfani-Cox advises, "so you'll be a lot merrier when you take advantage of the savings!"

4. Always read the fine print

No matter what you're purchasing — but especially for high-priced or tech products — look out for hidden fees or costs. Read carefully to know what you're signing up for, whether that's a protection plan or autopay you may not need or want, and what the store's policies are.

"When you're spending your hard-earned money, you'll want to be sure you know the store's policies for returning items, or if they offer a price-match guarantee if you see the same item for less somewhere else," says Khalfani-Cox.

5. Gift experiences or home-made items

If you're looking to save money, consider gifting some people on your list a special homemade lunch at your home, a visit to a favorite local attraction together or home-baked goodies. For some gift recipients who are tough to shop for — or who don’t really want more "things" — a shared experience or heart-felt homemade present can be much more meaningful.

"The joy of the holiday season shouldn't come with mounting bills," Khalfani-Cox says. "With these tips, you can celebrate the spirit of the season with your loved ones — with less financial stress."

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4 Tips to Gift Safely and Avoid Gift Card Scams This Holiday Season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42447/ 240791042447 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:19:00 GMT (BPT) - Holiday spending is expected to reach record levels this year. While many families got an early start in October to land hot deals and avoid crowds, gift cards remain one of the hottest items toward the end of the season, landing in the top three gifting items heading into Super Saturday, according to the National Retail Federation.

In fact, U.S. consumers will spend about $300 on gift cards this year — up from $217 last year — according to the 2023 Deloitte holiday retail survey. But, as popular as gift cards are, experts warn that gift card scammers are getting more and more creative each year.

That’s why Walmart has compiled tips from experts across the industry on how to stay vigilant this holiday season. These include:

No legitimate business or government agency will ask you to buy a gift card as a form of payment

Gift card scammers often start with a call, text, email or social media message directing consumers to buy one or more pre-paid gift cards as a quick form of payment. They often play into emotions, telling victims there’s a problem with their Social Security, an emergency, a loved one is in trouble or they’ve won the lottery, for example.

Requests that claim to be from the government, tech support or a utility company are a red flag. No matter what they say, no legitimate business or government agency will ever ask consumers to buy a gift card as a form of payment, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Buy direct and keep receipts

Planning to buy a gift card? Purchase it directly from a trusted retailer or the business issuing them. If purchased in-store, ensure packaging hasn’t been tampered with. Still unsure? Check with a store associate. Many major retailers like Walmart train associates to identify gift card scams.

Report suspicious gift card requests

Report suspicious requests to gift card issuers right away. There should be instructions for how to do so on the back of the card. Always keep receipts, as they can come in handy when reporting gift card scams to the issuing company.

Many organizations like the FTC and AARP have fraud prevention helplines. Informing these organizations of suspicious experiences can help make a difference.

Stay informed and be vigilant

Being vigilant and keeping these tips in mind can keep customers from falling victim to costly gift card scams.

Such was the case recently when a local Minnesota police chief’s own family member almost fell prey to a scam but was thankfully thwarted by vigilant Walmart associates at two different stores when they refused to sell the would-be victim $4,000 in gift cards after identifying signs that she might be a victim of fraud.

As part of Walmart’s ongoing effort to help protect our customers, Walmart is donating $5 million in media to consumer groups that educate consumers on how to avoid becoming a victim of gift card fraud.

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Military families' financial challenges are unique. Here are tips to help. https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41109/ 233021041109 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 05:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Any family can experience financial hurdles, but military families may face unique challenges that set them apart from their civilian counterparts. From being remotely stationed with limited access to good paying jobs and childcare, to frequent moves that can make establishing consistent savings habits hard, military families' everyday realities can make financial security difficult in both the near and long-term.

Veteran Jeff Felton, a former Air Force Officer and Investment Advisory Representative at Prudential Financial, understands personally the financial hurdles military families can face. When he was exiting military service and deciding on a civilian career, Felton says he saw becoming a financial advisor as an opportunity to help himself and others gain financial confidence.

To help military families build financial habits today that will aid in securing their future, Felton offers the following tips.

1. Develop a savings habit, no matter how much

A common piece of financial advice is to save 10%-30% of your paycheck, but for families on a tight or single-earner budget, that may not be feasible. Felton says that shouldn’t be discouraging and suggests developing a simple savings habit. After ensuring family necessities are covered, set aside as much as you can each paycheck to begin building an emergency fund. The bigger the fund, the better (3 to 6 months' worth of expenses is ideal), but any amount can serve as a buffer against borrowing or going into debt when unplanned events, such as an emergency car repair or appliance replacement, happen.

2. Start saving for retirement today and be flexible

"If you haven’t already, it’s critical that you start saving now," says Felton. Working military spouses can have funds moved to a retirement account via payroll deduction and check to see if their employer offers a matching contribution benefit. Aim to have 10% of your salary allocated to your retirement savings account. If that’s not immediately possible for your family, start small and increase your contribution as you receive pay raises.

After 20 years of service, members of the military may be able to switch to a more self-directed savings plan, such as a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings and investment account for federal employees and uniformed service members. The plan offers a mutual fund option that allows participants greater investment flexibility.

3. Develop post-service skills

Plan for a future after the military by developing post-service skills for jobs with higher salaries. “The military provides many transferable skills to help you join the civilian workforce, and you can hone those skills and develop new ones by taking advantage of military educational resources such as Community College of the Air Force or American Military University,” says Felton.

To assist in covering the costs of higher education, GI Bill benefits can help military members pay for college, graduate school and training programs. Military spouses and children may also qualify for credits that can help offset training or higher education costs.

A resource for military families

Families can tap into programs for financial education and other money-smart resources. For example, Prudential Financial has partnered with Twelve Million Plus, a digital community from the company Instant Teams Marketplace, which provides a host of curated and local resources for the more than 12 million spouses of active and retired U.S. military members.

Through the partnership, Twelve Million Plus members have access to a range of resources to aid in improving their financial well-being, including the ability to connect online with an advisor and access to Prudential Stages for Retirement, the company’s online planning platform that helps people navigate more confidently through pivotal life stages.

Launched in January 2023, Prudential Stages for Retirement is a free tool that helps individuals benchmark their retirement readiness using a personalized retirement confidence score and provides access to tools that track how certain actions, like changing goals or their target retirement date, can affect their score. Twelve Million Plus members will also have access to Prudential’s financial education through online articles and videos as well as live seminars on different topics.

“Today, there are a lot more ways for military families to connect to financial tools and professional advice,” says Felton. “This partnership offers those resources in a supportive online community with people who understand each other’s challenges.”

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4 Money Lessons to Teach Kids During the Holidays https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42535/ 241341042535 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 15:01:00 GMT (BPT) - While it’s the most wonderful time of the year, holidays often come with a hefty price tag. Many find themselves preparing for an increase in spending during the holiday season, whether they’re creating a budget or setting aside funds throughout the year.

Managing finances during this time of year presents an opportunity to educate kids on the importance of understanding “wants” versus “needs” and how to manage their spending. By involving them in the budgeting and planning process, you can equip them with tools that can help pave the way for future financial success.

To help you get started, Chase rounded up their top tips for teaching your kids money lessons during the holidays.

1. Create a holiday budget

By the time you have a teenager, they likely have a list of people in their life they want to purchase gifts for. But even the smallest presents can add up, leaving little extra cash for fun activities with friends. Encourage your child to sit down and make a list of people they want to buy for, then set a spending limit for each person.

2. Monitor where their money goes

Another way to track spending is to set up a checking account with a debit card just for kids. Bank accounts like Chase First Banking, which is parent-owned and available for kids 6-18, offer parents and kids a shared journey toward financial understanding. Kids best learn money basics firsthand, and accounts like Chase First Banking allow parents to monitor their kid’s spending, set limits, track progress, receive alerts and more, all through the Chase Mobile app®.

While your kids may have a long list of gift requests this year, encourage them to break up their list into wants and needs, and really think about what they’re asking for. Is it something they can use for a long time? Is it something that will bring them closer to achieving a goal? Try to curb the idea that “more is better.” You can also take some time to research and compare prices, teaching them how to get the most bang for their buck.

3. Gift good money habits

Whether it be what or where they’re spending, their gifting budget, how much they’re earning or their savings goal, the holidays are full of opportunities to discuss good money habits. Opening a bank account is a great way to lay the financial groundwork by promoting saving and tracking their spending.

For your older ones, accounts like Chase High School CheckingSM is co-owned by the parent and designed for kids 13-17, and Chase College CheckingSM, for students 17-24, are great tools for your child to get a clearer picture of their financial life. They can track their finances with the Chase Mobile app, learn to save with automatic transfers to their Chase savings using Autosave, and handle splitting a gift or paying back family and friends with Zelle®.

4. Save what you don’t spend

Setting up a bank account can also help your kids learn the importance of saving for the future. While this season can be all about spending, it’s important to make sure you talk about saving. Autosave automates your savings by allowing you to choose when and how often you want to transfer money from your Chase checking account to your Chase savings. Even if your child is spending a little more during the holidays, make sure they still fit some savings into their budget.

While the holidays can be hectic, it’s one of the most opportune times to educate kids on crucial financial lessons. Using these four tips, you can help your child experience all the holiday magic without them breaking the bank. For more information and tips for setting up your child for financial success, visit chase.com/studentbanking.

Chase Mobile® app is available for select mobile devices. Message and data rates may apply.

Bank deposit accounts, such as checking and savings, are subject to approval.

Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

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Car buying made easy: 5 expert tips for 2024 https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42380/ 240491042380 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:13:00 GMT (BPT) - Are you planning to buy a car in 2024? Now is the time to do your homework and start shopping around so you can pick a vehicle that fits your needs without hurting your wallet.

For decades, most people followed a simple formula when they were ready to purchase a new vehicle — dealership, negotiate and purchase, drive off the lot. Today, there are a myriad of options available in the ever-evolving auto landscape that can leave drivers with a lot of questions.

Chase Auto wants to simplify car shopping, whether you’re a first-time or experienced car buyer. Here are the most important aspects of car buying that you should keep in mind when buying a car in 2024.

1. Set a realistic budget

Before you begin shopping, set a budget that you can stick to. Knowing how much you can afford, especially if you plan to pay for the car over time, will help you avoid stretching your finances.

When setting your budget, don't just look at a car's sticker price. Other auto expenses, like insurance, maintenance and fuel, can quickly add up. If you need help figuring out what you can realistically afford, use online tools like Chase's Auto Loan Calculator to estimate your monthly payments. You can also use a tool like Autosave, which allows you to automate transfers from your Chase checking to Chase savings, to create a car fund for your future purchase.

2. Shop for deals

When buying a car, timing is everything. If you can, wait until the end of the month, end of the model year or end of the calendar year when dealers are trying to meet quotas or clear out inventory for new models. Your patience may help you get your ideal car at a great price.

Don't forget to look for holiday sales! Christmas, New Year's, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth and Labor Day may yield great savings on this year's and next year's models.

Make sure you are considering multiple vehicles and shopping around at several dealerships to get the best price.

3. Take it for a spin

Once you've narrowed down the vehicles you're most excited about, schedule test drives to see how it looks and feels, and to make sure it fits your needs.

Schedule test drives of different vehicles within the same day or week so your impression of each is fresh in your memory. Keep your daily driving conditions in mind and try to simulate them during your test. For example, if you're a parent, bring a car seat to see how it fits.

After your test drive, make sure to ask about the warranties, fuel and maintenance requirements, extended test drives and the possibility of bringing the car to your own mechanic for a second opinion if buying pre-owned.

4. Weigh your financing options

Will you take out an auto loan or lease your car? Both financing options have their benefits. At the end of the day, it all comes down to which best fits your budget and lifestyle.

If you purchase your car using a loan, you don't have to worry about mileage limits, and you're free to customize the car. Once you pay it off, you own it outright. At Chase Auto, you can get pre-qualified for financing before even heading into the dealership. On the other hand, leasing typically has lower upfront costs than a loan payment. After the lease term, you can return, purchase or trade in your vehicle.

5. Consider electric

More and more major manufacturers are offering electric vehicles (EVs), so it’s a good idea to consider whether an EV fits your lifestyle. Cost, maintenance, range, and charging logistics are some key factors to think through.

Although the sticker price of an EV may be higher than that of a traditional gas vehicle, there are options to help offset the cost, such as federal and local tax incentives. Also, it typically costs less to charge your vehicle than to fill up a tank with gas[1]. It may be worth it to pay more upfront for possible long-term savings.

EVs typically require less maintenance than traditional cars. Also, EV batteries tend to be covered by 8- to 10-year warranties[2], outlasting the time most people own their cars. That said, EV tires degrade faster due to the weight of the battery, so keep that in mind when calculating the long-term costs of ownership.

Finally, consider how far you drive your car and if charging stations are nearby. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the range of an EV with a fully charged battery could be between 110 to 300 miles[3], but that number depends on the make and model as well as other factors like weather, traffic conditions and driving style. Also, when it comes to charging infrastructure, some cities and states may have more charging stations than others. Make sure to plan your trip ahead of time and map your route.

Ultimately, it is best to stay open to different options on the market. Research different vehicle options and financing programs, and make sure to shop at several dealerships so you can get a vehicle that’s a fit for you, your family and your budget in 2024.

To learn more about car shopping and financing, visit autofinance.chase.com.

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

This article is for educational purposes only and provides general auto information. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. Chase is not responsible for, and does not provide or endorse third party products, services or other content. For specific advice about your circumstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional.


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How new technology can improve your company's payroll processes https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41235/ 233471041235 Mon, 18 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Generative AI is in the news nearly every day, and currently the most talked about topic in the world of technology. According to Forbes, well over half (64%) of business owners think AI will help benefit relationships with their customers. If you run a small to mid-sized business, you may be wondering how the latest groundbreaking developments in AI technology could help you better manage your company. One area you may not have considered is your payroll system.

While you may know how time-consuming certain payroll tasks can be, it may not be clear to you how AI — specifically generative AI — could streamline these processes. Using AI could actually save time and money while improving the experience both for you or your staff who manage payroll, and the employees who rely on it.

What is generative AI?

This widely used subset of AI uses algorithms to produce new content, data or outputs autonomously, and can be "taught" how to automate a variety of complex systems. Generative AI is "trained" by being exposed to large datasets of existing examples. The AI model then analyzes data to identify patterns, correlations and structures.

Once trained, Generative AI uses these patterns to create original content while maintaining consistency with what it learned. Common generative AI examples include writing assistance, chatbots/online agents — and payroll processing.

AI-powered chat-based assistants are one versatile tool that can engage with customers and streamline interactions. GenAI-powered chatbots can comprehend and respond to customer questions in natural language, offering real-time support and assistance while freeing up human resources for more complex tasks.

But chatbots can do much more than just answer simple customer questions. Generative AI chatbots can also streamline vital HR and administrative duties such as a company's payroll and taxes. With Roll by ADP, you can also feel confident that there are guardrails in place to ensure safe interactions between users and their Gen AI features. Insights are drawn from ADP's deep knowledge database, so small business owners can seek personalized guidance on managing and growing their business through an intuitive, chat-based conversation right from Roll.

Here are a few ways automating payroll processes using AI can improve your business.

Ease of use for payroll admins

Which would you or your payroll administrator prefer: spending hours on spreadsheet formulas and manual calculations, or running payroll in under a minute?

If you think the latter, Roll by ADP offers AI-powered payroll solutions that let you run payroll from your pocket on any device, whenever it fits into your busy day. All you have to do is type the word "payroll" into Roll's payroll app for small business, and it will take you through the rest.

Simple user interface to answer employee questions

No matter the size of your business, employees always have questions about their pay, such as, "When is the next payday?" "Can I make changes to my withholding?" "How do I see when I'm getting a deposit?" "When was I last paid?" or "When will the money transfer into my account?" Using the AI-powered app makes it simple for employees to get these kinds of questions answered quickly, 24/7/365.

You or your payroll admin may also have questions, including: "How much did I pay employees in 2022?" "What information do you need for a new employee?" "Can I edit a payment I submitted?" or "How can I check the account that was set up for deposit?"

These and many more questions from employees and those running payroll can easily and quickly be answered using the Roll app.

Accurate processes — from payroll processing to compliance

Roll's powerful solutions are built on the foundation that innovation should simplify business operations. Their AI-powered payroll solutions integrate cutting-edge technology that doesn't just transform the way you pay your team — it changes the way your business thrives. Features include:

  • Automated payroll processing that swiftly calculates salaries, taxes and deductions.
  • Predictive insights allowing you to address potential issues before they snowball into bigger problems.
  • Personalized employee experiences that enhance transparency and trust.
  • Improved operational efficiency thanks to reduced administrative overheads.
  • Accurate compliance in line with ever-evolving regulations, drawn from ADP's deep knowledge database.

This payroll app is designed to be easy and seamless, so business owners can run payroll by just saying something like "Run my payroll."

"Roll is designed with a simple conversational user interface that's very intuitive, so you can run your payroll by just chatting with the app," said Roberto Masiero, senior vice president of Innovation at ADP. "GenAI came as a transformative technology that can make our products better, so every single area of ADP is being rethought. Everybody now has access to this ground-breaking technology."

Ready to make your payroll system easier to run? Sign up for a free trial today at RollByADP.com.

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5 energy-efficient home features guaranteed to help save you money https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41027/ 232741041027 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:37:41 GMT (BPT) - Imagine this — a home that is not only good for the planet but good for your wallet. That's the allure of energy-efficient homes. Home buyers today aren't just looking for a place to hang their hats. They're seeking sustainable sanctuaries that lessen their environmental impact. But the cherry on top? The potential for significant cost savings. This is especially true when it comes to homes built to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Zero Energy Ready Homes™ specifications. It's not just a purchase, it's a step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future.

Last year, the average residential electricity price increased more than 14% across the country, double the rate of American inflation. As a result, more than 20 million families in the U.S. struggled to pay their utility bills. Luckily, some home builders are designing certified Zero Energy Ready Homes with energy-efficient features that can help homeowners save money.

This year, Clayton, a national builder of attainable, single-family homes, launched its newest housing initiative, eBuilt™ homes, which are built to DOE Zero Energy Ready Home specifications and come equipped with dozens of energy-efficient features. eBuilt homes can save a homeowner up to 50% in annual energy costs(1) compared to a traditional off-site built home, allowing homeowners to potentially save thousands of dollars throughout their homeownership journey. Check out five important features of eBuilt homes that can help significantly lower homeowners' utility bills and environmental impact:

1. Tight thermal envelope with additional insulation

Heating and cooling a home year-round can cost a pretty penny. In a typical residence, as much as 40% of energy consumption costs can come from heating and cooling escaping through windows, doors and walls. eBuilt homes are designed with a tight thermal envelope, allowing the home to better manage and retain its temperature.

eBuilt homes have sealed ductwork, which helps prevent drafts, moisture and unwanted noise. All windows, vents, plumbing and electrical penetrations — even the recessed lighting — are tightly sealed. Together, these features contribute to the home’s energy efficiency.

2. Low-E windows

Low emissivity (low-e) windows with argon gas are in all Clayton eBuilt homes. Low-e windows allow less heat to enter and leave your home thanks to the microscopic thin coating that manages daylight transmittance. According to the DOE, low-e windows can reduce a home's energy loss by 30%-50%.(2) Paired with the thermal envelope with the home's added insulation and insulated exterior door, homeowners can expect to significantly cut their heating and cooling bills.

3. ecobee® smart thermostat

eBuilt homes also feature ecobee smart thermostats. According to ecobee, North American customers saved 26% on their heating and cooling costs by keeping their homes at a consistent temperature and minimizing the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures.

4. Energy-efficient water heating

For the average American household, water heating is the second largest expense on monthly utility payments, representing up to 18% of their utility bill. With energy-efficient water heating, homeowners can take a chunk off their monthly bills without reducing their hot water use.

All of Clayton's eBuilt homes feature a Rheem hybrid water heater, which uses less energy than a 100-watt light bulb.(3) That translates to as much as $359 in energy cost savings per year!

5. ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances

Clayton's eBuilt homes feature several enhancements that are ENERGY STAR®-certified, like dishwashers and refrigerators. A typical ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator uses less energy than a 60-watt light bulb, and freezers use 10% less energy than a new non-certified counterpart.

These are just five of the 25 enhancements that contribute to an eBuilt home's energy efficiency. In addition to the energy-efficient enhancements, eBuilt homes are built to accommodate a solar energy system if the homeowner chooses to add one after purchase. With the addition of solar panels, eBuilt homes can transform into a "net zero" home, which can offset up to 100% of its annual energy use by generating the power it consumes.

To learn more about the benefits of buying an eBuilt home, visit ClaytonHomes.com.

(1) ZERH Logo Use Guidelines (energy.gov)

(2) https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/window-types-and-technologies

(3) Compared to the energy needed to power a single 100-watt incandescent light bulb constantly for one year

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5 ways to save money on any home’s heat and air conditioning https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42596/ 241671042596 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - HVAC systems not only enhance home comfort but, when operating efficiently, can also contribute to cost savings. As colder temperatures begin to sweep the country, many homeowners are wondering how to best utilize their HVAC system to avoid costly heating bills. Similarly, these tips apply to warmer temperatures and savings on cooling bills.

Here are five strategic ways in which a home’s heating and air conditioning system can optimize the climate and serve as a savvy tool for trimming down home expenses. From smart usage practices to regular maintenance tips, these insights can help any homeowner’s HVAC system to last for years to come and provide additional comfort and savings.

Maximizing the efficiency of a home’s current system is key to ensuring it works optimally over the years while continuing to provide utility bill savings due to efficiencies.

Consider implementing the following strategies to minimize expenses with an existing HVAC system:

1. Enhance the home's weather resistance

The operational dynamics of an HVAC system are significantly influenced by how well the home functions. A well-functioning home correlates with an efficiently operating HVAC system. Weatherizing the home not only amplifies its overall effectiveness but also elevates comfort levels while reducing energy expenses.

Weatherization entails sealing all windows, doors, attics and basements to thwart heat loss. If the home has an older duct system, consider sealing it to prevent conditioned air leakage into unconditioned spaces, potentially leading to prolonged HVAC system operation. In regions with hot or warmer climates, installing blinds or solar shades can effectively mitigate the entry of the sun's heat, minimizing the reliance on air conditioning.

2. Regulate the home's humidity levels

Effectively managing the humidity within the home contributes to maintaining optimal comfort and reducing costs. During the winter, introducing humidity into the living space prevents dryness and also enhances comfort at lower temperatures. In the summer, maintaining lower humidity levels promotes comfort even at higher indoor temperatures. In both scenarios, controlling home humidity lessens the operational duration of the HVAC system required to sustain a comfortable environment.

3. Get smart about the thermostat

Take charge of temperature settings to suit your preferences, whether at home or away. Utilize solutions such as Rheem®’s EcoNet® Smart Thermostat that enable seamless temperature adjustments from any location. Leveraging geofencing technology, EcoNet intelligently detects the homeowners’ presence, adjusting the heating or cooling settings to maximize energy efficiency based on whether they are home or away.

4. Implement energy-efficient practices

Incorporate energy-conscious practices as part of a daily routine to optimize the efficiency of your HVAC system and achieve substantial long-term savings on home energy bills. Begin by ensuring that doors and windows are closed when the HVAC system is in operation, preventing the unnecessary loss of conditioned air and ensuring that the home maintains a consistent and comfortable temperature. Utilize ceiling fans strategically to enhance air circulation, promoting even distribution throughout the living space. These straightforward yet impactful habits collectively contribute to heightened energy efficiency, translating into tangible and lasting reductions in overall energy expenses.

5. Keep current with routine maintenance inspections.

Scheduled service checks guarantee the optimal and efficient operation of any HVAC system, simultaneously averting potential major issues that could jeopardize both efficiency and the overall health of the system. It is advisable to conduct maintenance checks at least bi-annually, ideally before the onset of significant heating and cooling seasons during the winter and summer.

Looking to do a complete overhaul and in search of an energy-efficient HVAC system but unsure where to begin? Explore leading HVACR manufacturer, Rheem's Sustainability Standouts for a comprehensive lineup of efficient solutions designed to ensure a comfortable home and efficiencies that provide long-term budget savings.

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How open communication and early planning can help create a seamless farm succession https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41222/ 233441041222 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 00:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The passing of the head of the family is an emotional event. Their passing has even larger implications when that transition also includes an agricultural business and decades of family tradition. By planning in advance for the farm's future, farmers can help protect their families' relationships, finances and legacy.

Cari Rincker is an Illinois attorney whose firm, Rincker Law, PLLC, specializes in helping families plan for farm succession. Coming from a farm family herself, Rincker's experience with farm succession issues is more than professional.

"My father is a farmer, and he's looking at gradually reducing the time he spends doing physical labor," she said. "So, as we go through that transition, we're starting to have more conversations about what's next."

Talking to a loved one about the farm's future can be difficult. However, such conversations lay the groundwork for a smoother transition from owners to successors.

"The law is one thing, but every family has its own dynamics," said Rincker. "When you're talking about money, business and family, a lot of raw emotions can come up. Balancing it all can be quite a dance."

The anatomy of a farm's future

Plotting a farm's future depends on three overlapping components: Estate, business and succession planning.

Estate planning may include making a will or trust to distribute assets to the intended beneficiaries, whether a farm-specific asset or a more standard personal inheritance.

"I recommend trusts," said Rincker. "Assets in a trust don't have to go through probate, so they pass to beneficiaries instantaneously. A trust is also private, so it never becomes public record."

Business planning includes designating the farm or ranch as a business entity, like a limited liability company or corporation, to help protect assets and reduce personal liability. Rincker points out that general partnerships and sole proprietorships don't protect the land or personal assets in a lawsuit.

Finally, succession planning spells out who will assume the farm's operation and in what roles, which helps transition management and knowledge.

"Succession planning is probably the most delicate aspect of a farm's future, but it's also the most important," said Rincker. "Without that, it doesn't matter how great your estate and business plans are. You won't succeed in passing the farm business to the next generation."

Because of the emotionally charged nature of farm succession planning, Rincker suggests having a neutral third party in the room — or on the video conference — to help soothe family tension.

Expect the unexpected

Passing on the family business may not always go as planned, so it's critical to have a backup plan. According to Andrew Branan, an attorney-turned-professor at North Carolina State University who focuses on farm succession planning, a succession plan must include how the farm will pass to the successors and what happens if it doesn't.

Both Rincker and Branan note that the planning components are living documents that should be reviewed and revised as necessary. They also recommend families gather information while the legal documents are in the works. Basic operation manuals, written procedures and redundancies in access to everything from building keys to account and policy numbers prepare heirs and employees for the future, including unforeseen events.

"Sometimes I get terrified thinking, 'If something happened to my father, am I going to be able to find the FSA numbers or get all the details in order to deal with the growing season?'" said Rincker.

She stresses that it's important to not let perfect get in the way of good.

"Just get something in place and then perfect it over time," said Rincker. "Even if you don't have a will or trust, there is still a plan, but it's a plan the law in your state has given you. I think we'd all rather have the autonomy to decide for ourselves how things will pass to the next generation."

To read more articles on planning for your farm’s future, visit SyngentaThrive.com.

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Preparing for El Nino’s Winter Weather https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41139/ 233081041139 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 11:01:01 GMT (BPT) - This winter is anticipated to be a significantly wet one due to the climate phenomenon known as El Niño. Developing over the summer, this year's El Niño event is forecasted to be notably strong and expected to intensify, increasing the likelihood of a wetter-than-average winter.

El Niño is a weather pattern characterized by abnormally warm ocean temperatures around the equator in the Pacific Ocean. For the United States, typical El Niño weather translates to an increase in rainfall for the South and West, increasing the potential for water damage and flooding in these areas.

"Water damage is one of the most common claims filed by homeowners and becomes a huge concern when dealing with these types of storms,” said Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims for Mercury Insurance. “The intensity of a storm can impact the structural integrity of houses and wreak absolute havoc on personal property.”

Homeowners insurance does not generally cover flood and mudslide damage, so property owners should do some research to find out if their home is located in a flood plain. If so, you may want to look into purchasing national flood insurance if you are in a high-risk area.

It's also crucial for homeowners to consider the increased precipitation risk factor in drought-stricken or wildfire-affected areas, due to their potential for mudslides and flash flooding.

“Homeowners need to regularly review their policies to ensure that their home care needs are met and familiarize themselves with what types of damages will be covered,” said Lee. "It's important to research on flood zones and potential mudslides in your area and talk to your insurance agent about your concerns and protection options.”

Knowing that there is a high probability for persistent rainfall this winter, homeowners should take preventative measures to protect themselves against damages that can occur. Lee suggests the following tips to help minimize water and wind damage to your home and property:

  • Sign up for severe weather alerts to stay informed on an El Niño weather-related event.
  • While the weather is dry, consider hiring a professional home inspector to evaluate your home. Homeowners insurance will not cover the cost of repairing pre-existing conditions, so cover your bases and address these issues before they lead to bigger problems.
  • Inspect window and door seals and make any necessary repairs to prevent potential water damage. Door seals should also be inspected. Strong winds can easily shatter glass, inviting debris and water into your home. Weak seals and small leaks can create bigger issues if the water gets into the walls.
  • Evaluate your roof. The roof of your home is an important barrier that protects your property from wind and rain. Walk through your home and check your ceilings and walls for any leaks, water rings or mold spots that might indicate possible roof damage and address any issues immediately. Have the exterior of your roof inspected for missing shingles, holes or weak spots by a licensed contractor.
  • Check gutters and downspouts and make sure they are clear of debris to maintain proper drainage.
  • Perform routine property maintenance like tree trimming and clearing away dead branches to mitigate roof and gutter damage from severe weather.
  • Keep an updated record of your personal property for insurance purposes.
  • If your home is situated in a flood plain, consider purchasing flood insurance.
  • Consider adding a standby or portable generator to help keep electricity on to run essential appliances, A/C and some lights.
  • Establish a family disaster plan and create emergency kits in case you need to evacuate in the event of severe weather conditions.
  • Regularly review your homeowner's insurance policy with your agent to understand what is covered.

Also consider joining your local community's resource group for additional support.

If your home sustains damage after a severe weather-related event, contact your insurance carrier or agent immediately and file a homeowners claim. If your property has sustained damage from a flood or mudflow and you have flood insurance, file a separate claim under your flood insurance. Evaluate and document all damages in the event that rain or wind causes destruction on your property to help the claim process move forward smoothly.

“Save yourself from any headache and hassle and make the necessary maintenance and repairs you need before inclement weather hits,” said Lee. “A few simple measures can reduce repair costs and may pay off big time in the long run.”

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How to plan an unforgettable weekend vacation for the whole family https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42452/ 240841042452 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Family vacations aren’t just a break from the daily grind or routine, they’re also an opportunity to enjoy fun experiences together to build connection and try new things to make memories that will last a lifetime. Has it been a while since your family’s had a vacation? It may be time to start planning a weekend getaway for 2024! While planning a vacation for the whole family is easier said than done, here are five tips to plan your next family getaway effortlessly.

1. Choose the right destination

Before you can truly start planning your weekend trip in earnest, you’ll need to pick a location. When picking a vacation destination, consider your method of travel and if stopovers are required, the distance, necessary visas, and paperwork, as well as your family’s preferred climate.

You’ll also need to take into account everyone’s interests. For example, if one or more of your family members has a passion for theater, pick a city with a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Or, for thrill seekers, choose a location with a theme park. Need a sunny, warm getaway from your home’s winter weather? Look for a beach resort. No matter where you choose to vacation, factoring in everyone’s preferences will ensure the destination has something for all.

2. Book family-friendly accommodations

Now that you know where you’re going, you’ll need to set up accommodations. It’s crucial to look for family-friendly hotels or resorts with plenty of amenities, including spacious rooms, kid-friendly activities, and maybe even a pool or playground. Always check online reviews to make sure that the accommodations listed on the hotel’s website meet travelers’ expectations.

Once you’ve chosen a hotel, don’t wait to book. Securing a room in advance removes the hassle and any last-minute scrambling during peak travel season.

Give yourself the flexibility of booking your family adventure your way by using Citi Travel with Booking.com. With a selection of 1.4 million hotels and hundreds of thousands of attractions, this convenient booking platform allows eligible Citi® cardmembers to book hotels, air travel, car rentals, and attractions all in one place. To learn more, please visit ThankYou.com.

3. Pack wisely

One way to reduce pre-travel stress is by packing efficiently for your vacation. Your luggage checklists should include weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, special items for planned activities, important travel documents like IDs, travel insurance, and essential medical information.

When traveling with little ones, you may need to tote bulky items, such as strollers, playpens, and bouncers. Consider popular baby equipment rental services that provide a hassle-free solution for travelers dealing with baggage restrictions.

4. Create an itinerary, but leave room for discovery

To make the most of your trip, build out a rough itinerary to hit your family’s priority events and attractions. Planning a mix of activities, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, as well as scheduled downtime will keep the vacation fresh and entertaining for everyone. Make sure to leave room to discover local spots along the way. When compiling your itinerary, make sure to research local attractions and purchase tickets in advance. If you have an eligible Citi® credit card, you can book attractions across the globe with the Citi Travel™ site. Heading to Chicago? Secure a reservation for the Chicago Architecture River Cruise. Dreaming of a long weekend in the Big Apple? Look into passes for the Manhattan Sky Tour and New York Helicopter Flight. Are you an outdoorsy group? The Grand Canyon Guided Tour would be a perfect addition. Wherever you roam, you can book your trip on the Citi Travel™ site and easily compare your options to find the perfect activities for your family.

5. Share responsibilities

You don’t have to (& shouldn’t!) do all the trip planning on your own. Before the trip, lighten the load by assigning responsibilities to each family member. Someone can be in charge of organizing the group to and from planned events, another can be responsible for always keeping snacks on hand, and another can keep everyone on track with the itinerary. This collaborative approach not only relieves any overwhelming stress, but also ensures everyone feels involved!

Are you ready to go on your next family vacation? Use these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to planning a trip your family will remember for years to come.

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Are you a money whisperer? New study reveals 6 in 10 Americans don’t talk about money https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41899/ 238091041899 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:39:00 GMT (BPT) - America, it’s time to have the money talk. According to research by Empower, a financial services company, 62% of people don't talk about money. Mum's the word with their family (63%), friends (75%) and even with their spouse/partner (46%), though millennials and Gen Z are twice as likely to say they're an "open book" compared to older generations (28% versus 13%). Many people would rather discuss politics (43%) and death (32%) than their finances (24%).

It may be costing them their dreams. A majority of people believe more candid "money talks" have the power to change the world: 66% remark that open conversations can help people build generational wealth, improve the gender wage gap (62%) and over half say that money conversations could improve workplace transparency (56%).

Carol Waddell, president of Empower Personal Wealth, says, "Conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, and open discussions about money can have a truly transformative effect on society. Our study shows people believe that clarity about their financial picture, talking to an advisor and financial education are key to achieving financial success.”

1. Growing up without money conversations

Don’t talk about money: that’s the message half (52%) of Americans hear, learning it’s impolite to talk about finances (26%), and certainly not what you earn (35%). The taboo prevails for nearly two-thirds (60%) of people who don’t feel comfortable on the topic.

Americans recall stowing away coins in a piggy bank (41%) but say many practical financial lessons weren’t discussed — like the importance of having an emergency fund (31%), building good credit (30%), and managing debt (27%) — as kids or adults. This might explain why Americans tend to clam up when the conversation turns to money. While many received an allowance (36%), the majority (68%) were never taught how to manage a budget. Nearly a quarter of Gen Zers (23%) grew up in a household with a swear jar teaching about money and manners — yet 79% of all people say they never spoke about how much is “needed” to be financially secure.

One in 5 (18%) Americans surveyed say they were raised with a YOLO money motto: “You only live once, so don’t worry too much about finances.” Despite the saying, more than a third (37%) say they regularly worry. That’s even higher for Gen Z and millennials (51% and 49%) and women, who are considerably more stressed about their personal finances than men (42% versus 33%).

2. Talking about money at work

Figuring out personal finance is intimidating and overwhelming for half of Americans (48%), and when it comes to managing their money, 39% say they don’t know where to start, including 41% of women and 37% of men. Compare that with sky-high confidence managing money at work: 73% feel at ease overseeing company budgets and the majority say they clearly understand their employer’s finances and performance (70%).

Reassuringly, people have a strong grasp on employer benefits like the availability of their company’s 401(k) plan (80%) and say they know how their pay raises work (77%). Advocating for themselves is where it gets tricky. One-third (33%) of people don’t feel comfortable asking for an increase. Men feel more comfortable asking for a pay raise than women (74% versus 59%). Better market data on compensation could potentially boost negotiation confidence and nearly half (49%) of survey respondents (and a majority of millennials, 69%, and Gen Z, 71%) believe discussing salaries can lead to better career opportunities.

Americans say they avoid uncomfortable money talk at work (68%), and more than half (56%) wish discussing salaries wasn’t taboo. Do you know how much your co-workers make? Just 19% of respondents say they’ve asked. But the workplace isn’t the only area Americans are staying quiet. People haven’t asked their friends (68%) or family (60%) either. Women are less comfortable talking about money with co-workers than men (36% women versus 50% men).

That said, people may not be as shy as expected: 58% of millennials and 53% of Gen Z (and 34% of Americans overall), would share their salary information on their LinkedIn.

What’s it amount to? According to 62% of respondents, open money conversations could solve the gender wage gap. Americans say greater wage transparency would motivate employees to work harder (50%) and help avoid miscommunications (60%).

3. Speak with an expert.

More than three-quarters (77%) of Americans want to see society take on more “money talks” about ways to save for the future (41%), money mistakes they’ve made (36%) and basic financial literacy (34%). A quarter want more discussions about how to negotiate (26%) and pay for big expenses (24%). Even more open dialogue about the emotional aspects of money would be helpful for 20% of respondents.

Ultimately, people believe more open conversations about money can have a truly transformative effect on society: 66% think it can help more people achieve financial freedom.

So, how does America get there? Respondents agree that clarity about their financial picture (40%), talking to an advisor (36%), and financial education (34%) are key to achieving financial success.

"In these challenging times, staying tight-lipped about money is something people can no longer afford. As part of our mission to advance financial freedom for all, we're here to help people speak up and take the next step for a brighter financial future," says Waddell.

If conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, it’s time to start speaking up.

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How the popularity of concert tours creates economic opportunities for Hosts https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41672/ 236391041672 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:01:00 GMT (BPT) - This past summer was a season of major concert tours, driven by renowned popstars and cultural icons like Queens Tay and Bey. From booming box office sales to sold-out arenas, 2023 summer concert tours inspired communities and boosted local economies across the globe.

For Airbnb hosts, the “shero” summer effect meant a boost in revenue. According to Airbnb, Hosts worldwide collectively generated $100 million over concert dates from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2023, including the day before each tour stop. Continuing concert tour trends could spell the perfect opportunity for Hosts to earn more in the coming year.

Global icons and their local impact

Across Europe and the U.S., Queen Tay and Bey’s concert tours ushered in hundreds of thousands of guest arrivals on the platform over the concert dates during the first half of this year. The megastars helped support local economies, and Airbnb Hosts experienced this boost firsthand.

Hosts in Europe earned more than $40 million and their U.S. counterparts earned over $62 million during the first half of this year. These earnings represent a 38% increase in collective Host earnings over concert dates from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2023, compared to the same dates from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2022.

These economic trends are likely to continue into 2024. The upcoming European leg of one of these stars’ tours prompted a remarkable surge in interest. Notably, there was a 1,000% spike in Airbnb searches based on the average increase in searches for concert tour cities from June 20 to June 26, 2023, compared with the week before the 2024 tour announcement.

Hosting fans, creating joy and increasing income

The shero summer doesn’t just mark a return to big events. The droves of fans flocking to these events show that people are excited to come together as a community to share their passion for music. With people feeling increasingly isolated and disconnected, Hosts on Airbnb are focusing on providing distinctive guest experiences to facilitate human connections, one superstar event at a time.

If you’re lucky enough to live in a Host city during the upcoming tour dates, there has never been a better time to join the growing community of Hosts on Airbnb. Based on the total earnings for new Hosts globally in 2022 who started hosting sometime between January and December 2022, new Hosts collectively earned over $5.5 billion in income from hosting on Airbnb. Also, many new Hosts are having great success securing bookings quickly. Half of the listings activated and booked in the third quarter of 2022 globally received their first booking within three days.

Becoming an Airbnb Host has never been easier. The introduction of Airbnb Setup connects new Hosts with Superhosts who can provide one-on-one guidance. The integrated platform also helps new hosts welcome an experienced guest for their first booking and receive specialized support from Airbnb Community Support agents in over 42 languages.

All Hosts also get even more AirCover, which provides top-to-bottom protection, guest identity verification, reservation screening and $3 million damage protection. Protection includes coverage for cars, boats, art and valuables.

Are you ready to become part of the collective joy of live entertainment and increase your own financial well-being? Visit Airbnb.com/Host to learn more about how you can become a Host.

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Homeownership Has Different Paths, Here’s How to Get Started https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42443/ 240761042443 Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - By Brian Walsh, “CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™”1, SoFi

Deciding to purchase a home, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer, is a big and exciting milestone. It will define your finances in the short- and long-term and will likely be the biggest purchase of your life, so it’s natural to want to make sure everything goes right — location, budgeting, credit profile, Realtor, and lender.

Now, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when preparing to buy a house, and everyone’s financial situation is different, but there are some good rules of thumb to follow as you develop your plan. That’s where I come in, to help ease some anxieties in the preparation process and to offer some helpful tips as your planning and path to homeownership begins.

Can I Afford to Buy a House?

Affordability is one of the main obstacles people face when deciding to purchase a house. Property values have substantially increased since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as buyers flocked to suburban settings and purchased new properties. Three years ago, interest rates were historically low, creating ideal conditions for some buyers to secure an affordable loan.

Since then, however, rates have risen as the Federal Reserve — the main federal government agency responsible for rate hikes — has sought to combat inflation, resulting in an increase in mortgage rates as well. For prospective first-time home buyers who are just now exploring homeownership, now is the ideal time to start creating a plan to put you on a path toward homeownership.

While saving toward your down payment fund may take time, here are some ways to help you get started:

If your timeline is under three years, consider a conservative investment portfolio, or maybe a high-yield savings account.

If your outlook is three to five years from now, consider a conservative or moderately conservative investment portfolio that can grow your money faster than a cash-based account.

If you’re anticipating buying a house in the next five to 10 years, consider a moderate or moderately aggressive investment portfolio that can yield higher returns in the long run.

Planning and budgeting will help create friendlier paths as you pursue homeownership.

Credit Score is Paramount

Your credit profile also plays an important role in your planning.

One of the best things to do ahead of a home purchase is to understand and build your credit score. Banks and lenders look at your credit score to determine your creditworthiness and to evaluate the risk associated with lending you money. Typically, the higher your credit score, the higher the chance that you will be able to lower your interest rate. Over the life of a loan — say 15, 20, or 30 years — this could potentially translate to thousands of dollars in savings. A lower rate will keep monthly payments lower or even provide the ability for you to pay back the loan faster.

As an example, let’s look at SoFi’s mortgage calculator: If you were to take out a mortgage on a $500,000 home after putting 20% down with an 8% interest rate on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage, your monthly payment would be $2,935 and you would pay $656,620 total with interest over the life of the loan.

If you were to take out that same loan with a 7% rate of interest, your monthly payment would be $2,661 and you’d pay $558,035 total with interest. The difference of 1% in interest results in almost $98,585 paid over time.

I’m Ready to Buy Now

Now, if you’ve saved enough and you’re comfortable with your credit score, and you’ve done your research, then it’s time to take the leap!

There are lots of programs out there, so be sure to do your research on which one is the right fit for you.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you have access to down payment assistance and flexible loan qualification requirements. Who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer? Someone purchasing their very first home, sure, but also someone who has not owned a principal residence in the past three years, as well as certain other groups. So check into whether you qualify.

First-time homebuyers may be able to get a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan, which can have a down payment as low as 3.5%. Some other lenders, like SoFi, also offer as little as 3%2 down for qualifying first-time homebuyers. You may have to pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI) or pay a mortgage insurance premium (MIP), as most lenders require one or the other when the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price.

Veterans, active military service members, National Guard and reservists, and surviving spouses also have flexible benefits when purchasing a home. If you fall into this category, then you can take out a VA loan that is backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and offered by private lenders. Because the VA guarantees a portion of the home loan, people in this category can qualify for perks like lower-interest rates, lower closing costs, no mortgage insurance, and no down payment requirement. Make sure your lender offers a VA loan if you decide to pursue this great benefit.

Hire a Good Real Estate Agent

A skilled real estate agent can help buyers locate their dream home, navigate negotiations, and wrap up all that tedious paperwork. An agent with a strong professional network and familiarity with the housing inventory where you’re hoping to buy may even get early word of so-called “whisper listings” — properties that are about to come on the market.

First-time home buyers may find an agent’s guidance to be especially helpful. Experienced buyers may find value in expert advice. (If you do feel confident you have the skills to go it alone, buying a house without a real estate agent is possible.)

Competition Promotes Additional Perks for Buyers

Lenders will compete for your business, so you have the upper hand. Do your research and see what additional perks the lender can give you as you decide on which one is best suited for you and your family. Excellent customer service is essential, so make sure your lender has a reputation of being available, has a rate lock, and an on-time closing guarantee offer. Additionally, it would be best if you select a lender that is able to give you a verified preapproval letter (more on this below).

Mortgage Preapproval

Unlike pre-qualification, which gives you a rough idea of how much money you can borrow, mortgage preapproval is a formal step, when a lender verifies your credit history, income, debt, and assets (so it helps to have your financial documents organized in advance).

This is when you’ll determine what kind of mortgage you want to take out. Will it be a fixed rate or an adjustable rate? How long a term?

A pre-approval letter, typically good for 90 days, states that a lender is tentatively willing to lend you a specific sum for a mortgage. A pre-approval may help your offer stand out since it shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer who has been vetted. That means you’re ready to act when you find your ideal home and agree on a price.

A pre-approval letter is not a guarantee, though. Final loan approval rests with mortgage underwriting.

Happy House Hunting

These tips aren’t meant to be comprehensive, but if you follow some of them, it will make the homebuying experience a little easier. When you’re ready to make your purchase, you’ll know.

Just be sure to consider all your options, including private lenders, and do your own research. Everyone has a different experience. Happy house hunting!

Brian leads advice and planning at SoFi, a personal finance company. In this role, he leads SoFi’s robo-advisor, develops the underlying logic for digital tools, leads the financial planning team, and serves as a spokesperson. Brian has his Ph.D. in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University and is a “CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™”. His insights have been featured in TODAY, CNBC, Forbes, the New York Times, WSJ, Fortune, and more. He also creates content delivered via webinars and social media platforms as ‘Dr. Money’.

DISCLOSURES

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Checking and Savings accounts are offered by SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated.

Loans originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). Equal Housing Lender.

Brokerage products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC.

Advisory services are offered through SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Information as of November 2023 and is subject to change.

1 Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.

2 SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming conventional home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

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Transforming the gift-giving game https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41238/ 233481041238 Mon, 04 Dec 2023 23:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In a world where toy trends seem to change faster than a child can unwrap a gift, parents, guardians and gift-givers are constantly on the lookout for the perfect present that will both excite and enrich a child’s life. According to Fidelity Investments’® 2023 Gifting Study, a surprising revelation has emerged: a significant majority of parents are not only open to but prefer contributions to their child’s college fund over traditional holiday gifts.

The study, which surveyed a diverse group of parents and guardians across the country, found that a staggering 79% of respondents would welcome contributions to their child’s college savings account in lieu of the usual array of toys and gadgets. Even more compelling, 2 in 3 would even prefer this forward-thinking approach to gift-giving. This sheds light on a growing awareness among parents about the long-term benefits of investing in their child’s education from an early age.

Gift-giving for kids has traditionally revolved around the latest toys, games and electronic devices. However, the rising cost of education has prompted a shift in parental priorities. Many parents are recognizing the importance of building a financial foundation for their child’s future, and what better way to do that than by contributing to a 529 college savings account?

Tony Durkan, vice president, head of 529 relationship management at Fidelity Investments, emphasizes the developmental benefits behind these trends. “Children often receive so much in the way of material possessions, but contributing to their education sends a powerful message about the value of long-term goals and planning for the future. It instills a sense of responsibility and demonstrates that education is a priority for the entire family.”

While traditional toys and games certainly have their place in a child’s life, the gift of education is timeless and enduring. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends now have an opportunity to contribute not only to the joy of the present moment but also to a child’s lifelong journey of learning and growth. Fidelity has an easy-to-use gifting tool that ensures a seamless experience and recent legislation has also made it even more flexible for friends and family to give to a 529 account without the worry of a child’s future education plan now that some funds can be transferred into retirement savings like a Roth IRA for that child.

So, with so many gifting occasions throughout the year, consider making a lasting impact with a gift that truly keeps on giving — a contribution to a child’s college fund. It’s a choice that resonates with the spirit of the season, embodying the essence of generosity, and a commitment to shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

For more information about the gifting study and 529 college savings accounts, visit Go.Fidelity.com/GiftingStudy23.

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Getting to the 'top' of energy and comfort issues https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41799/ 237411041799 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - While rising energy prices can lead to higher heating and cooling costs, any spike in energy bills should invite further investigation. If your home’s heating and cooling bills are higher than normal, checking with your neighbors to see if they’ve noticed similar cost increases is a good first step. If owners of similar sized homes in your area are not noticing higher utility bills, it may be time to take a closer look at specific aspects of your home’s heating and cooling system.

The individual components in a home’s HVAC system work together to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The furnace, air conditioner and thermostat are typically the most obvious parts of a system. However, other less visible elements, such as attic ductwork and insulation, also contribute to the HVAC system’s overall performance and energy efficiency.

The ductwork in a home’s attic distributes conditioned air to rooms throughout the home. Leaks in ductwork, loose joints or poor connections between ductwork components can allow conditioned air to escape into the attic before it reaches the intended part of the home. The amount of insulation in an attic also plays a role in comfort and energy efficiency. According to EnergyStar.gov, 9 out of 10 American homes are under-insulated.1 Sufficient levels of insulation help reduce heat transfer between the attic and living spaces in the home.

Warning signs of issues in the attic

What are some warning signs that a problem may be lurking in the attic? One tell-tale indicator that your home may have “attic issues” can be observed by simply looking at your home’s roof on a cold morning. If frost or a dusting of snow appears on the roofs of neighboring homes while your home’s roof is frost/snow free, this may be an indicator that your attic is under-insulated or that heated air is escaping attic ductwork and “heating” the roof deck so that frost/snow melts away.

Other signs of a problem with ductwork may be noticeable inside the home. Rooms that are consistently too warm or too cold, or that have a musty odor, may indicate compromised attic ductwork. An increased level of dust inside the home is another sign that ductwork may need attention. Leaks in attic ductwork can allow dust and various particulates inside the attic to enter ducts. Distributed throughout the home, these particulates can negatively affect air quality.

Detecting issues can inform solutions

While a frost-free roof on a frigid morning or torn ductwork is an obvious sign of a problem, attic ductwork issues are often hard to see by simply looking around the space. A contractor trained to inspect ductwork and assess insulation levels in the attic can identify issues that may reduce your comfort and lead to higher energy bills.

Training and tools play a crucial role in identifying problems in the attic. For example, Owens Corning equips Certified AirCare® Professionals with training and tools to assess attic insulation and ductwork. The information gathered through a thorough inspection can inform recommendations to support comfort and energy efficiency. An HVAC technician should include an attic inspection as part of routine maintenance visits as well as service calls. During the inspection, a technician should check ductwork for leaks and may use special thermal technology that visually shows where air is escaping from the ductwork.

A Certified AirCare® Professional also will measure attic insulation and advise you on the energy savings that could potentially be achieved by adding insulation to bring your home up to the levels recommended by energy codes for your home’s climate zone.* Today’s energy codes specify higher levels of insulation compared to homes built even a few decades ago.

It is important to remember that a higher energy bill does not necessarily indicate a problem with equipment. An inspection by a heating and cooling contractor who brings a system perspective to caring for a home’s air and the attic infrastructure that supports it can help improve a home’s comfort and energy efficiency season after season. To find a Certified AirCare Professional in your area, visit https://www.owenscorning.com/en-us/insulation/find-hvac-contractor.

*Energy savings may vary.

2023. Owens Corning. All rights reserved.

1 EnergyStar.gov – Why Seal and Insulate? https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/why_seal_and_insulate

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Lost your job? Don't lose your coverage: 5 tips for securing health insurance https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42278/ 239851042278 Wed, 29 Nov 2023 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - No one wants to lose their job. Not only does it impact your income, but losing your job often means losing access to your health insurance.

Maintaining medical, dental and vision insurance is critical for your health and well-being. If your employer-provided health insurance also includes coverage for your family, it’s doubly important to find out how to continue to access your health insurance coverage. Check out these five tips to help you along your health insurance journey post-job loss.

1. Talk with an expert

Insurance terminology and options are complex and can be confusing. That’s why it’s important to find an insurance expert or adviser who can guide you through the process. They’ll be able to look at your specific situation and provide guidance on the most cost-effective solution for your medical, dental and vision insurance needs.

2. Sign up for COBRA extended insurance coverage

You may be able to sign up for COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) extended insurance coverage after you lose your job so you can maintain your current health insurance plan. It will allow you to keep the same coverage provided by your former employer for up to 18 months.

A drawback to COBRA is that the premiums tend to be higher than what you paid during your employment. However, it is a great option and a safety net during your transition. The window for enrollment is typically 60 days, so don’t put off signing up for COBRA so you can continue to access your essential coverage.

3. Hit the marketplace

If you can’t afford COBRA or your former employer didn’t offer health insurance, it’s time to hit the Health Insurance Marketplace. As you shop, you’ll find many comprehensive health insurance plans that typically also include dental and vision options. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for a subsidized plan with reduced premium costs. Take your time, compare plans and talk with an expert to find a plan that fits your needs and finances.

4. Apply for Medicaid or Medicare

Your job loss may significantly reduce your income. If that’s the case, Medicaid may be a free or low-cost health insurance option for you and your family. Eligibility varies from state to state, so make sure to look at your state’s criteria to see if you qualify.

If you’re over 65, have qualifying disabilities or are currently receiving dialysis, you’re likely eligible for Medicare. This federal health insurance offers a few plan options. However, some don’t include dental and vision insurance, so you may need to purchase additional coverage.

5. Find standalone dental and vision insurance options

In cases where your health insurance options don’t offer dental and vision insurance, it’s a good idea to research and purchase standalone insurance for these needs. For example, a standalone option for vision care is VSP Vision Insurance, which provides a variety of vision insurance options to help complete your coverage.

VSP doesn’t have open enrollment or waiting periods, so you can purchase a vision insurance plan anytime after your job loss. VSP has the largest doctor network, so you can easily find an eye doctor near you and set up an eye exam. To find ways to save on your next eye exam with VSP vision insurance, visit VSP vision insurance.

Job loss can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you have to go without essential health insurance coverage. Using these five tips, you’ll be able to navigate the unknown to protect your health and the health of your loved ones.

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Can money buy happiness? More than half of Americans say yes in new study https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41902/ 238091041902 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 12:00:00 GMT (BPT) - How much money would make you happy? According to the average American, the price tag comes in around $1.2 million.

New research from Empower, a leader in financial planning, investing and advice, reveals 6 in 10 Americans believe money can buy happiness, though just 17% say financial contentment is about reaching a certain net worth. It turns out that a little goes a long way and incremental financial wins can make a massive impact on Americans' well-being.

"Every generation has grappled with questions of how to calculate financial happiness: hard work, a lot of planning, consistent savings, and even a little bit of luck, in just the right measures," says Carol Waddell, president of Empower Personal Wealth. "A spirit of financial confidence prevails, with 7 in 10 saying they have clear financial goals and Americans continue to envision a bright future."

The financials of happiness

While the study found that 7 in 10 Americans (71%) believe more money would solve most of their problems, for a third (32%) a relatively attainable gain of $15,000 would make a meaningful impact in their lives, boosting their feeling of financial happiness for six months. That number surges to 42% with a $25,000 gain, and just $5,000 would do it for 17%.

Indeed, happiness manifests in big and small ways. The majority of Americans say it's on-time bill payment (67%) and living debt-free (65%), while roughly half say it's the ability to afford small luxuries without guilt (54%) and home ownership (45%). Over half say their contentment can be found in spending on experiences with those they cherish (53%) and in optimism for what's next, including retiring on their own terms (37%).

Readying for retirement

Nearly three-quarters of Americans (73%) say they're currently experiencing financial stress, with today's economic pressures like inflation (81%), rising interest rates (66%) and student loans (32%) dampening their sense of prosperity. Half report carrying debt (54% overall, and 72% of Gen X) and nearly 4 in 10 (36%) say that they couldn't handle an unforeseen expense over $500 without real worry.

In the current financial environment, Americans now expect to retire three years later, at age 63. Those with a less detailed financial plan (or no plan at all) don't expect to clock out until age 70, five years later than planned.

For about 4 in 10 Americans (37%), and exactly half of Gen Xers, retiring by a certain age is the meaning of financial happiness. The majority (84%) are taking steps to reach this target, including putting more money into retirement savings (39%), short-term savings like a high-yield account (31%), and working with a financial advisor (26%). A quarter of savers (25%) are paying off debt more aggressively than they would otherwise and 22% are delaying a major purchase like a car.

The power of planning

The majority of Americans (73%) say a solid financial plan would bring them happiness, and they would like help to get there: 57% of Americans wish they would have gotten advice sooner. Nearly half of Americans (45%) say they haven’t gotten the financial advice they need, including 55% of Gen Zers and 57% of Millennials. But those who already have a plan are proof of its power: Americans with a more detailed financial plan are three times as likely as those with a less detailed plan to report greater happiness around financial freedom (75% versus 24%), their plans to achieve financial goals (78% versus 23%), and the overall state of their finances, such as their net worth and debt balances (73% versus 19%).

"The financial professionals at Empower combine the power of advice with technology to help Americans get on the path to financial freedom," explains Waddell. "With their financial goals in mind and a solid plan to reach them, savers can spend more time doing the things that make them happy — in their working years and beyond."

Access the full Financial Happiness report on The Currency™.

Methodology:
"Financial Happiness" survey of 2,034 Americans ages 18+ commissioned by Empower and fielded by The Harris Poll from August 7 to August 14, 2023.

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5 perfect wireless presents to gift your loved ones this holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40602/ 230031040602 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Wireless shopping can be difficult, confusing and stressful, whether you're shopping for your parents, kids, grandparents, yourself or anyone else on your list. This holiday season, Metro by T-Mobile makes it easy, simple and stress free to find the perfect wireless gifts for everyone on your list. Check out these five ideas for memorable tech gifts for your loved ones (and yourself!) this holiday season.

1. 5G your home internet

You don't have to break the bank to get your home internet connection. Right now, qualifying Affordable Connectivity Program customers who purchase any Metro phone plan can lock in 5G Home Internet for $20 a month with AutoPay. You won't have to worry about a contract, exploding bills or sneaky gotchas. You will need to purchase a modem, but it can be returned within 60 days if you're unhappy. This deal is available in select markets. Any questions, just ask!

2. Keeping in touch with loved ones: A tablet for grandparents or school kids at home or away

A tablet can bridge the generational gap and keep everyone from college kids to grandparents connected during the holidays and all year round. For grandparents, video calls give them a window into their grandkids' lives. For college students who are always on the go, it's a versatile gift that helps them stay organized and in touch with their families between classes or after a study session. Make sure to choose a user-friendly device with a large screen and clear visuals so everyone can stay connected with ease.

3. Gift your smart partner a smartwatch

For the special someone in your life who is tech-forward and values style, give them a sleek and sophisticated smartwatch. This wearable technology is not just an accessory. Your partner can track their health and fitness goals, receive notifications, manage calls, texts and emails, and even control supported smart home devices without even pulling their phone out of their pocket. Your partner will be incredibly grateful to receive this fashionable and functional gift this holiday season.

4. Treat yourself to trendy tech

Don't forget to give yourself something special this holiday. For example, now is the perfect time to upgrade your current smartphone. Use it to capture holiday memories, stay connected with friends and family, organize your day, stream music and videos, and enjoy apps that make life more convenient.

For instance, if you're not currently a Metro customer, you can treat yourself to a motorola razr. It’s under $100, the lowest price in prepaid. Just swing by your local Metro store, bring your digits and ID and sign up for our most popular plan today. You even get a $100 virtual prepaid Mastercard after the third monthly payment. So, it’s basically free. It’s the gift that keeps giving with no contract, credit check or other nasty surprises.

5. Surprise your tween with their first phone

Now that you've upgraded your phone consider passing it off to your tween, who no doubt has been begging for their first phone for quite a while. It will teach them responsibility, allow them to stay connected with you and their friends, and allow you to teach them safe and responsible phone use. They'll be surprised and delighted by this fun and practical gift.

Take your old phone to Metro and get one line of Unlimited 5G for $25. It’s $30 for the first month and then $25 a month every month after with Autopay. Just make sure to check your network compatibility and unlock your phone online before bringing it in-store.

These five wireless presents are thoughtful and useful gifts that can bring joy, convenience and connectivity to your loved ones during the holiday season. It’s wireless without the gotcha. To learn more about these offers and find your one-stop wireless gift shop near you, visit MetroByT-Mobile.com.

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New Year’s Resolution: Don’t Get Scammed! https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42497/ 241061042497 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 14:09:56 GMT (BPT) - These days, many Americans do a lot of their shopping and charitable giving online. That is why it’s important for consumers to be conscious of financial scams to protect their identities, bank accounts and monetary transactions. From check fraud and peer-to-peer digital payments (i.e., Zelle, Venmo, Paypal or CashApp) to imposters posing as representatives of banks, roughly three-quarters of Americans reported being targeted by scams last year.

The Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) recommends taking the following steps to minimize the possibility of falling victim yourself:

1. Be wary and slow down! Scammers sometimes send text messages or emails claiming to be a fraud alert from the app or your bank. If you don’t recognize the email or phone number, you should proceed with caution. Don’t open attachments or click links from unknown sources, even if they say they are coming from your bank. Like many online scams, scammers will sometimes offer products at unrealistic prices to trick consumers, so resist demands to act quickly.

2. Don’t give out personal information. If a text message asks you to provide any PINs, passwords, Social Security numbers, account information or any other sensitive information, it is likely a scam. Banks rarely ask for this information over the phone and will never ask for a one-time login code. If you have any suspicions, hang up and immediately call your bank.

3. Triple-check payments. And, if you are sending money over a payment app, check every number to ensure accuracy. Some apps prompt senders to verify the recipient’s phone number or otherwise verify their identity. While this is important, double-check the recipient’s account information before you click send. Instant payment apps act like cash, so treat it as such.

“Fraudsters and scammers are getting more sophisticated to trick consumers out of their own money. That’s why it’s so important to be mindful before making a payment to someone, providing any personal information, and especially before giving your bank information to anyone,” CBA President and CEO Lindsey Johnson said. “Please be vigilant and encourage others to do the same.”

The Consumer Bankers Association and its membership comprising the nation’s leading consumer retail banks encourage consumers to protect their own information and money to avoid falling victim to scams and fraud. More information can be found at www.consumerbankers.com.

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5 Tips for Making the Most of Holiday Deals on Tech https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42464/ 240911042464 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:15:00 GMT (BPT) - It’s the most anticipated shopping season of the year — and many people wait for months to score the best prices on a new smartphone, TV, speaker, watch or the latest high-tech gifts for loved ones.

“The holidays are about creating memories, but you want to do it without breaking the bank or going into debt,” says Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, author of the New York Times bestselling book Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom. “You can still embrace the spirit of the gifting season, connect with loved ones, and celebrate — all without financial stress.”

Khalfani-Cox, also known as The Money Coach, shares her best tips on shopping for tech gifts to ensure holiday cheers don’t become financial woes.

1. Shop around.

You don’t have to wait until Black Friday to get the best discounts on devices. Many retailers announce their sales ahead of time, so watch for flyers and emails from your favorite spots. If you have your eye on a certain item, check out prices at several places before you decide to make a purchase. If you’re shopping online, you can add an item to your cart before checking other sites. Then, if it ends up being a price you like, you can easily come back to your cart to place an order.

2. Choose the right phone plan or phone to save and connect.

The holidays are a time when you’re likely to make a lot more calls to family and friends. If a new smartphone is on your shopping list, a prepaid phone plan can help save money and give you more payment flexibility in addition to letting you easily stay in touch with loved ones. Prepaid wireless plans don’t require a contract or credit check, and there are no penalties. Straight Talk Wireless, the leading prepaid brand on America’s most-reliable 5G network1, offers plans that deliver more value and fit every budget. Sold exclusively at Walmart, all Straight Talk Unlimited Gold and Platinum plans include a Walmart+ membership at no extra cost, giving you extra benefits and savings — like early access to shopping deals and free deliveries — that are perfect for the holiday season. They’re also now offering the iPhone SE for just $49 in Walmart stores while supplies last.

And if you’re an Android fan, check out carriers like Total by Verizon. If you switch to Total by Verizon, you can get a free Samsung Galaxy A13 5G phone when you sign up for an Unlimited plan — which boasts four lines for $25/line with Auto Pay.

3. Beware of hidden fees and policies.

When shopping around for tech deals, always read the fine print, especially if you’re in the market for a new phone. Some wireless phone offerings have hidden fees and charges involved. Others may require you to sign up for autopay to get certain discounts. Watch out for these rules to save on unexpected costs.

If you’re shopping for other tech devices, be sure to know each store’s price-match and return policies. You’ll likely have a limited number of days to return items. You also don’t want to get stuck with a restocking fee if you end up wanting to return an item to the store.

4. Check your social apps.

The social media feeds of your favorite retailers often offer exclusive deals and promotions. Stores like to reward customers who follow and engage with their content with special alerts to Black Friday discounts and incentives on Facebook, Instagram or other platforms. If you’re active on social media, consider following along with your go-to brands during the holiday season for the latest deals.

5. Use loyalty programs.

Another way to get access to early sales, coupons and promotions is to join a store’s loyalty program through email or text. These programs are usually free to join and often offer additional incentives like free shipping or pick-up in store and rewards to use toward future purchases.

Make it a season of merriment by maximizing your budget for the holidays. Follow these tips to find shopping success on all your tech gifts and needs this year.

1 Most reliable 5G network based on more first place rankings in RootMetrics’ 5G data reliability assessments of 125 metro markets conducted in 1H 2022. Tested with best commercially available smartphones on three national mobile networks across all available network types. Your experiences may vary. RootMetrics rankings are not an endorsement of Verizon.

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Removing barriers of care for U.S. veterans who need surgery https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41954/ 238471041954 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - During the month of November, we honor our nation's veterans for their hard work and dedication to protect everyone's freedoms. It's also an important time to recognize their freedom and desire to live a high quality of life after their service is complete. To do this, veterans need access to the health care they have earned.

Veterans deserve safe and cost-effective health services

Ongoing health care provider shortages, coupled with an increasing number of veterans seeking care with new authorizations in the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, mean that wait times for procedures have increased. Some procedures may even require travel for veterans in rural areas who don’t have access to necessary anesthesia and pain management services at local U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities.

To address these, the VA is developing National Standards of Practice for many providers working in the VA that will ensure safety and access to care for veterans. This includes using clinical and scientific data to develop standards for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, also called CRNAs. Unfortunately, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) want to restrict CRNAs from providing direct care to patients. These organizations believe that anesthesia services can only be safely provided when a physician anesthesiologist is monitoring the case, often along with four to five other cases and often from outside the hospital.

However, the VA has stated that CRNAs provide safe and effective care, comparable to a physician anesthesiologist. Multiple independent studies have proven the safety of CRNA-only provided care. Patient satisfaction scores at some CRNA-only VA facilities are higher than average for VA facilities across the country, according to VA patient satisfaction data. In fact, a CRNA-only facility in Iowa was recently ranked among the top 25 in the nation.

"As we celebrate our veterans, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) calls on our anesthesia colleagues to work to ensure timely access to care for our veterans. We do not serve our veterans by maintaining models of care that no longer meet the needs of the VA," said Dru Riddle, PhD, DNP, CRNA, FAAN, AANA President and director of Clinical Education at Texas Christian University School of Nurse Anesthesia in Fort Worth, Texas.

Who are CRNAs?

CRNAs are board-certified advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia and related care to patients autonomously, and they are often the sole anesthesia providers delivering care to the military, rural and medically-underserved populations. Their advanced education and clinical expertise have proven time and again to be instrumental in delivering quality health care to patients.

CRNAs have the ability to work autonomously in the Army, Navy and Air Force, and are the predominant provider of anesthesia on forward surgical teams and in combat support hospitals. Yet, CRNAs who care for wounded soldiers on battlefields are not allowed the same autonomy when they safely and cost-effectively provide quality anesthesia care to veterans here at home.

“As a CRNA who has served as both the Anesthesia Element Team Lead over both physician anesthesiologists and CRNAs in the largest in-country medical facility in Afghanistan, and also as the sole anesthesia provider at a Special Forces Forward Operating Base, I know first-hand that unrivaled anesthesia care is provided by CRNAs without duplicative and unnecessary supervision,” said AANA President-elect Jan Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret) USAFR, NC, a retired colonel of the United States Air Force Reserve with 26 years of honorable service as a flight nurse, a CRNA, and a senior staff member for the Air Force Surgeon General.

For more information and to voice your opinion on the importance of access to CRNAs for veterans, visit AnesthesiaFacts.com.

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Are You Cyber-savvy this Holiday Shopping Season? https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40827/ 231401040827 Tue, 21 Nov 2023 15:49:00 GMT (BPT) - Would you leave the front door of your home unlocked at night? Probably not.

For the same reasons you secure the things most valuable inside your home, it has never been more important to lock down your online accounts. Whether it’s your bank account, 401(k), social media, email, or sensitive files stored in the cloud, it’s your responsibility to install the digital locks that will stop cybercriminals from stealing and profiting off your data.

The keys to securing your accounts and data are stronger passwords and authentication. Here are some essential cyber-savvy tips to get you through this holiday shopping season safely:

  • You lose when you reuse: Never use the same password across multiple accounts. If cybercriminals were to obtain your username and password, then they would likely try that same set of credentials on multiple sites. Avoid this type of cyberattack by using different passwords on all your accounts. Avoid the temptation to use one password for all your online shopping sites.
  • Password managers are your friend: Consider using a password manager. Most popular mobile devices and browsers have native password managers built into them, so using one has never been easier. Password managers automatically create unique and complex passwords and then securely store them, so you don’t have to memorize them.
  • Passphrases keep things simple: Passphrases are the strongest forms of passwords. While many online retailers require passwords to include uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, it’s the overall length of the password that makes it secure. An easy way to make your passwords longer is to use a string of words. Examples: “iheartholidayshopping” or “familytimeismyfavorite.”
  • Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA): Whenever an online service or app offers MFA, you should enable it to add an extra layer of protection against cybercriminals. MFA most often works by texting or emailing you a one-time passcode to sign into your account.
  • Use public devices with caution: If you need to use a public computer (e.g., at a customer service desk or the library), make sure you sign out of email, a retailer website or any other account you may have accessed.
  • Passwords are like toothbrushes: Don’t share your passwords with anyone, including a family member, your shopping buddy or even your boss. Also, never write down your passwords on a shopping flyer/list or let someone snoop over your shoulder when typing in a password. Always be on alert when standing in those long checkout lines and searching your phone for the next best deal.

According to the most recent Xfinity Cyber Health Report, 78% of respondents admitted to risky behaviors that open themselves up to attack, including reusing passwords across two or more platforms (56%), neglecting to install recommended software updates on smart devices (28%) or even sharing passwords with someone else (24%).

Shoppers are particularly vulnerable during the holiday season. Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday and general holiday shopping, you may be at risk of being lured by bargains and clicking on a fake ad, website or auction listing, where personal or financial information can be captured and stolen.

Guard against social engineering scams — phishing (email), smishing (SMS text) or vishing (voice calls) — this holiday season by following these cyber-savvy best practices:

  • Never share sensitive information over the phone: No matter how “official” the caller sounds, do not share your account information, credit card number, PIN or login credentials. Even if it’s a familiar number, use caution. Phone numbers can be spoofed to look like a call is coming from a legitimate source.
  • Always double-check web addresses: A website’s URL can tell you a lot about its security. When visiting a website, look for “https://” at the beginning of the web address, indicating that the data going to and coming from the website’s server is encrypted.
  • Scrutinize texts as you would emails: Never reply to an SMS/text message that you suspect might be fraudulent, and do not click on any suspicious links within a text message.

Preserve the magic of the season by keeping these cyber-savvy tips in mind. It’s a good idea to check in with your internet service provider to see what security solutions they offer for their home gateways. For example, Comcast’s xFi Advanced Security service protects millions of home users and can add safe browsing and data protection while on the go through xFi Complete. With the right tools and security habits, you can help protect yourself and shop safely this holiday season.

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Everything you need to know about maximizing rewards this holiday shopping season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42363/ 240331042363 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 23:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays are around the corner, and economic pressures are reshaping consumer behavior when it comes to shopping, buying gifts, and celebrating the season. In fact, a new survey from PayPal revealed 1 in 5 respondents are feeling anxious about holiday shopping this year. To help combat this anxiety, nearly half (49%) of people are planning to seek out promotions and deals as they shop for gifts1.

Savvy shoppers know that one of the best ways to stretch a gifting budget and cross everyone off your list is by maximizing the rewards and cashback you can receive from each purchase. In fact, one in four (26%) people surveyed said they plan to wait to buy a gift until they find the best sale or rewards and cashback offer. With holiday sales upon us, these tips will help you strategically earn and leverage rewards and cashback to become a smart holiday shopper.

1. Pile on the rewards

If you’re shopping, you should be earning rewards — plain and simple! If you’ve already been racking up rewards points during the year, the holiday season is a great time to use them. But if you don’t already use a rewards program, it’s not too late to start collecting and redeeming points for exclusive discounts and cash back offers.

You can earn PayPal Rewards by shopping cash back offers from thousands of stores in the PayPal app, or while you shop using the PayPal Honey shopping extension. Better yet, you can stack your rewards. Points earned in the PayPal app are in addition to the rewards earned with your preferred rewards-based credit or debit card when checking out with PayPal2. If you use the PayPal Cashback Mastercard®3, you'll earn 3% cash back in addition to rewards earned in the PayPal app when you use the card to check out, and 2% on all other purchases — with no cash back limits, no categories and no annual fee4. A smart shopping move, indeed.

2. Don’t leave cash back on the table

While you're on the hunt for the perfect gifts and deals, leaving cash back opportunities unclaimed is like walking away from free money. The beauty of cash back is that it provides you with real, tangible savings and better equips you to tick off names from your gift list without emptying your wallet. PayPal offers a one-stop shop for cash back convenience and makes it easy to maximize your cash back potential, making the most of your holiday budget.

You can shop exclusive cash back offers from your favorite stores in the PayPal app, on everything from beauty, to fashion, or the toys that are topping every kid’s wish list. Simply save the offers you’re interested in and they’ll be automatically applied when you check out with PayPal online. Even better, you can also stack credit card rewards on top of existing deals you find in the PayPal app. For example, if you shop with the PayPal Cashback Mastercard®, you’ll earn 3% cashback when checking out with PayPal in addition to what you gain from offers while shopping in the PayPal app.

Earning cashback is a great way to shop smarter and make the holiday season truly memorable.

3. Automate your deal searching

Don’t let the busyness of the season prevent you from scoring some of the best offers on your holiday shopping. Consumers often spend hours searching for discounts, when they could be out enjoying the holiday season. Consider adding the PayPal Honey shopping extension to your holiday shopping routine, which will automatically search for coupons and cashback deals to apply at checkout5.

Whether you’re looking for the latest tech gift for a gadget-obsessed teenager, new fashion for your best friend or booking a trip home for the holidays, the PayPal Honey shopping extension can save you time – and money – by searching millions of promo codes at thousands of sites in seconds and discovering cash back deals to take your holiday budget further.

4. Be sales savvy and price watch

Being a smart shopper isn’t just about finding the right gifts — it’s also about finding the right time to shop at the best price. Shopping around can help you score the best deals on gifts for the holidays, but with so much on your plate this season, it can be hard to find the time. Price trackers like the PayPal Honey Droplist feature can help.

PayPal Honey Droplist will monitor the price of an item you’re interested in and automatically notify you if the price drops — so you can hit buy at the right moment and snag the best discount. Plus, when you shop using PayPal Honey, you earn PayPal Rewards which can be converted to cash back.

In the past 12 months, PayPal has put more than $200 million back in customer pockets with cash back and offers6. Are you one of the savvy shoppers that took advantage of cash back and deals this year? If not, it’s never too late. Using these tips, you should be able to shop smarter, not harder, this year — so you can stretch your holiday budget and enjoy all the fun and festivities the season has to offer.

  1. PayPal Consumer Survey October 2023 (1,000 respondents).
  2. Subject to card issuer’s terms and conditions.
  3. Applications are subject to credit approval. The PayPal Cashback Mastercard is issued by Synchrony Bank pursuant to a license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Purchases are subject to credit approval, and the PayPal Cashback Mastercard must be used for payment. See Rewards Program Terms for details and restrictions.
  4. See Terms and Rates for New Accounts.
  5. Eligible items only. Redeem points for cash and other rewards. Requires account with PayPal in good standing. Terms and exclusions apply.
  6. Internal PayPal Data October 2023.
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Shop small, shop smart: How to gift something that means something https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42253/ 239711042253 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 18:01:00 GMT (BPT) - By Sarah Acton, Chief Marketing Officer at BILL

One of the best holiday gifts I have been given was a pair of earrings from a small women-owned shop near my home in Palo Alto, California. My husband gave them to me for Christmas many years ago, and every time I wear them, I am reminded of that wonderful feeling of opening them for the first time. The gift itself is small, but it holds such sentimental value to me because of who it came from, and also where it came from. Those earrings are one of a kind, crafted by a woman from a local community that I love.

We’re fast approaching the season of bright lights and dazzling marketing campaigns from large retailers, enticing people to ‘buy big’. In my career, I’ve led marketing teams for some of the biggest brands in the world, so I know these approaches well. But I’ve also run my own small business selling toys and children’s items, and now at BILL, I spend my days championing small and midsize businesses (SMBs). Which is why this year I’m looking at the holiday season through a different lens: how can we get more people to shop small?

Small businesses play a hugely important role in our holiday traditions. When you buy from a small business, you’re not just buying a ‘thing’. You’re buying a piece of a larger story, a testament to the grit and passion of its creators. When you choose a gift from a small business, you're not just purchasing a product; you're conveying a story, adding a personal touch that can't be replicated.

Buying from small businesses is not only an investment in a great gift – it’s also an investment in your local community. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities. They are the job creators and innovators. When local businesses are thriving, our local economies are too.

To celebrate and support these pillars of our community, we have curated a selection of small businesses for you to explore this holiday season. At BILL, we love to highlight our SMB customers and encourage everyone to shop small. Each of these businesses has a unique story to tell, a dream they are passionately pursuing. And as a token of our support for both these businesses and you, our customers, we're offering special codes from BILL, allowing you to save on each purchase.

Clothing and Accessories

Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover, established in 2013 by three women, is dedicated to crafting problem-solving bags for individuals seeking efficient and stylish solutions. Rooted in empathy and excellent design, the brand's commitment to enhancing lives aligns with their eco-conscious initiatives, employing non-toxic materials and implementing waste reduction strategies. Championing sustainability, they embrace animal-friendly practices and encourage eco-friendly fashion through resale options. Get 15% off first purchase with exclusive code BILL15.

Kizik

Kizik is a footwear brand redefining everyday comfort and style by revolutionizing shoe functionality. With a commitment to making life easier, their HandsFree Labs® technology eliminates the need for tying shoes, offering unparalleled convenience without compromising fashion. Backed by numerous patents, Kizik shoes seamlessly blend hands-free design with durable, high-quality materials, ensuring comfort and resilience for each step. Get 20% off with code BILL20.

Rhone

Rhone is a performance-driven clothing brand catering to an active lifestyle, inspiring progress and movement with each piece. Focused on versatility and integrity, their clothing is designed to empower individuals, never compromising on comfort and style. Their mission involves inspiring progress through honest storytelling and cause-based initiatives, fostering a supportive community where individuals share a common pursuit of advancement and wellness. Get 20% off with code BILL20.

Enso Rings

Enso Rings redefines traditional ring choices with their silicone bands, offering versatile, comfortable and safe alternatives for various lifestyles. Enso offers an array of styles, including their Elements collection infused with popular metals, delivering personalized, stylish rings mirroring precious metals' appearance while maintaining practicality. Get 20% off with code BILL20.

Home and Lifestyle

Cozy Earth

Cozy Earth embodies an ethos of continual quality improvement and purposeful design, crafting high-end, eco-friendly products. Committed to superior quality and backed by a lengthy warranty, Cozy Earth's focus on enhancing daily life through comfort and tranquility marks their dedication to responsible, superior and innovative production. Their signature breathable and durable fabrics offer a superior sleep experience, reflecting the brand's commitment to both luxury and responsibility. Get 35% off with code BILL35.

Caraway Home

Caraway is dedicated to revolutionizing home cooking through thoughtfully designed, non-toxic cookware. Their ceramic-coated aluminum products prioritize health and ease, with no harmful chemicals like PTFE or lead, promoting healthier cooking without compromising performance. Complementing any home, their high-quality, eco-friendly and ethically manufactured cookware supports sustainable practices, from production to packaging, ensuring a healthier kitchen and planet. Get 10% off with code bill10.

Impact Dog Crate

Impact Dog Crates is a team of devoted dog lovers committed to providing high-quality, protective dog products. Crafted with top-tier aluminum and powder-coated for safety and aesthetics, their crates are synonymous with durability, comfort and security. The company, based in the Pacific Northwest, focuses on environmentally friendly practices, ensuring quality products while being conscious of their environmental footprint. Get 15% off with code BILL.

Gardyn Inc

Gardyn is a pioneering company committed to revolutionizing the future of food. With cutting-edge technology, including LED lighting, hydroponic cultivation and artificial intelligence, they've redefined the way plants grow — producing an abundance of fresh, nutritious food in indoor vertical gardens. The company's goal is to provide accessible, harmonious and environmentally friendly solutions for the well-being of people and planet. Get $125 off your order with code BILLGIFT.

BrüMate

BrüMate is dedicated to elevating your drinking experience. Their range of products, from coolers to mugs, is designed to enhance every adventure with innovative, multi-functional, stylish drinkware. Committed to superior performance, unique designs and customer satisfaction, BrüMate's cause-driven ethos reflects its core belief in innovation and quality, striving to create a brand that's truly distinctive and forward-thinking. Get 10% off with code BILL10.

iRocker

iRocker is an outdoor gear brand driven by a passion for adventure. Since its inception in 2013, the brand has strived to provide reliable and high-quality paddle boards and water gear that fuel the desire for exploration and outdoor excitement. iRocker's vision is to transform outdoor experiences, aiming to create memories and stories that inspire a life of adventure and fun on the water. Get 10% off with code BILL10 for 10% off iROCKER and BLACKFIN Paddle Boards only. Offer does not apply to NAUTICAL paddle boards.

Wellness and Beauty

Sunwarrior

Sunwarrior is a brand dedicated to your nutritional journey, offering clean, plant-based supplements and proteins. Committed to quality, Sunwarrior provides GMO-free, soy-free, gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients that undergo rigorous testing. Their mission is to enhance your health and well-being through high-quality, organic products, ensuring the best building blocks for optimal body performance. Get 25% off with code BILL25.

Tower 28

Tower 28 is a cosmetics brand providing safe, fun makeup suitable for sensitive skin. The brand's name is inspired by a Los Angeles lifeguard tower, symbolizing safety, community and clean living. Committed to both skin safety and environmental conservation, Tower 28 uses at least 50% PCR plastic in its product packaging and donates 100% of its Earth Day profits to Heal the Bay, an organization dedicated to coastal and watershed cleanup in Los Angeles. Get 15% off with code 2023BILL15.

ElleVet Sciences

ElleVet is a pioneer in the pet health industry, initially sparked from a kitchen table conversation. Founded by Amanda and Christian, the company's journey led to groundbreaking CBD and CBDA products for animals. Their commitment to research and science-driven development culminated in the first clinical trial on dogs with joint discomfort, pioneering discoveries and the most downloaded research paper in their field. Get 10% off with code bill10.

Food and Beverage

Salsa Queen

Salsa Queen's origin is deeply rooted in family and perseverance. Beginning as a means of providing for seven children after the tragic loss of a young son, it embodies the founder's journey as a single mother. With a commitment represented in the founder legally adopting the name 'SalsaQueen', the brand's dedication to authenticity and bold flavors without preservatives or fillers has led to widespread success, reaching 1,500 stores across 30 states and shipping products nationwide. Get 20% off with code BILL.

Nossa Familia Coffee

Nossa Familia Coffee is a Portland-based roaster that embraces a legacy of coffee cultivation in Brazil since the 1890s. With a focus on creating positive relationships, ethical sourcing, and social and environmental responsibility, Nossa Familia brings exceptional farm-direct coffee from Brazil and various parts of the world. Get 15% off your order with code Bill15.

1911 Hard Cider

1911 traces its origins to Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards, founded in 1911 by George Skiff and Andrew Beak in Lafayette, New York. With a commitment to quality and innovation spanning over a century, the brand's products, including hard ciders, spirits and wines, are handcrafted and processed in-house, reflecting a heritage of small-batch beverages intended to honor the legacy of their forefathers. Get $25 online store credit when joining the 1911 Hard Cider Club.

Biscuit Love

Biscuit Love, founded by culinary school graduates Karl and Sarah Worley in 2012, began as an Airstream food truck and has evolved into a cherished family-owned restaurant. With its humble beginnings and just three menu items, the brand expanded into brick-and-mortar locations in Nashville's The Gulch area in 2015. Accompanied by jam or sausage gravy, these biscuits have become beloved nationwide. Get free shipping and $20 off your first order with code GOLDB3LLYIT.

Savannah Bee Company

Savannah Bee Co. operates with a profound commitment to bees, focusing on fostering healthy ecosystems and ensuring the prosperity of these vital pollinators. By providing hives, educating students and donating to local educational programs, they're dedicated to saving the bees and the planet, inviting customers to participate in this critical cause with every purchase. Get 20% sitewide with code BILL20.

To find more holiday gift ideas, check out the BILL Customer Gift Guide. As a champion of SMBs, we are passionate about supporting SMBs and committed to providing innovative and accessible solutions for our customers to automate their financial operations. When SMBs thrive, so do their communities. To learn more, visit Bill.com/Resources.

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Holiday Travel with Your Credit Card https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42501/ 241091042501 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:59:00 GMT (BPT) - The most wonderful time of the year is right around the corner! As we enter the holiday season, many people are prepping their Christmas plans and travel arrangements.

While it’s fun to go see family and friends, there are already plenty of costs that add up during this time of the year. The best gift of all is paying less for your travel. And thanks to credit card rewards, this is a possibility.

Vacation costs can pile up with airfare, hotels, car rentals, and more, but you can alleviate some of these costs with your credit card rewards. These programs allow you to make the most out of your travels. Rather than worrying about the price tag, you can focus on spending time with your loved ones during the holidays.

There are so many types of credit cards out there, so it’s important to look at the variety of rewards that different cards offer before you decide on which one to get. For instance, several credit cards offer signup bonuses, different earning rates, and redemption options by simply choosing the card. Signing up for a rewards credit card is an investment in yourself. Once you’ve signed up for the card, you can start utilizing all the great benefits!

Many different credit cards cater toward travel expenses and offer a long list of deals that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise. Not only can you use rewards points toward your flight, but there are also other travel perks with credit card rewards that you may not have even known about, such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, or baggage protection, to name a few.

Additionally, there is usually a list of hotels, car rentals, restaurants, and more that partner with these different rewards programs to give you access to low-rate stays and premium options for less. Depending on what you value as a traveler, there is a reward card to meet every consumer’s needs. If you haven’t already, take advantage of your credit card benefits, maximize the value of your travel rewards, and start packing for your holiday vacation!

Currently, proposed legislation could reduce credit card rewards programs, meaning consumers will no longer have access to travel benefits. Many people rely on these benefits and it’s important for these programs to continue so consumers and businesses can benefit for many holidays to come.

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Credit Cards Are a Win-Win for Small Businesses and Consumers https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42502/ 241091042502 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:37:00 GMT (BPT) - In our rapidly changing world, digital transactions are increasingly preferred, with more consumers opting for electronic payments, including contactless methods. Credit cards, a standard part of daily life, offer benefits to consumers while supporting small businesses. They serve as vital tools for managing costly expenses over time, addressing unforeseen financial needs, and establishing a positive credit history that can aid in securing loans for your first home or vehicle.

Here are a few key reasons credit cards are valuable for consumers and small businesses alike:

Credit Card Perks For Consumers:

  1. Customers Value Rewards: Credit cards offer different rewards programs, such as cash back, points, or miles. Many people rely on those travel rewards and cash back to plan more affordable vacations and unique experiences they otherwise might not be able to afford if they have to pay full price.
  2. Fraud Protection: Credit cards provide an additional level of protection against fraud that other payment options simply can’t offer, making them the preferred payment method for 79% of Americans for security reasons, according to a PYMNTS study. Purchases with a credit card are routed through secure payment networks with fraud prevention measures lined up to help eliminate data security risks. This makes credit cards not only the more convenient form of payment, but the safer option too.
  3. Customer Convenience: CNBC reported that the travel industry took a hit after the COVID-19 pandemic. So much so that many tourism and transportation rental companies have significantly reduced their fleet to avoid bankruptcy, creating limited stock for customers in need of rentals. Credit cards provide the convenience of pre-booking services like rental cars or hotel rooms, making them particularly advantageous for coordinating travel plans, with many hotels and tourism companies offering discounts and additional perks for credit card payments.
  4. Building A Secure Future: Credit cards allow consumers to build a solid credit foundation that will support the need to take out loans on the big purchases down the road, like buying a house or car.

Benefits for Small Businesses:

  1. Customer Convenience: People are more likely to have their credit card handy than to have exact cash for a purchase. Businesses that allow credit card transactions give customers the flexibility and freedom to pay their way, both in-store and online.
  2. Business Credit Cards Build Your Brand: A designated credit card for consumers can be a strategic tool for small businesses to attract and retain customers, foster loyalty, and provide insights into customer behavior. They can also drive customers to make larger purchases and increase overall sales.
  3. Enhanced Financial Control: Allowing credit card transactions may simplify expense tracking and financial management, helping small businesses maintain better control over their finances. Credit card payments can also improve a company’s cash flow by ensuring timely and secure transactions, reducing the risks associated with delayed or failed payments.

A proposed credit card routing bill, if enacted, could adversely affect small businesses and consumers, by potentially cutting rewards programs and reducing data security. It’s important to maintain the numerous advantages that credit cards provide to individuals. Credit cards are versatile tools that offer enhanced security and rewards for consumers while providing numerous benefits for small businesses, including customer convenience, brand enhancement, and improved financial control.

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3 Ways to Utilize Your Credit Card for Holiday Shopping https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42500/ 241091042500 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:41:00 GMT (BPT) - 'Tis the season to shop wisely, and your credit card can be a powerful tool in navigating the holiday spending landscape. Beyond being a convenient and safe payment method, credit cards offer many benefits for consumers to leverage during their holiday shopping. Whether you earn travel miles or cash-back rewards through your credit card, the holidays are a great time to maximize your credit spending while also ensuring financial responsibility. Take a look at the three best ways below to utilize your credit card during the festive shopping season.

1. Maximizing Credit Card Rewards

We’re sure you’ve heard of a multitude of options available in terms of rewards when applying for a credit card. Choosing a credit card that offers generous rewards for purchases allows you to gain points and miles, which can then be redeemed for discounts or freebies. These credit cards present a valuable opportunity to offset holiday expenses, effectively turning your spending into savings!

By strategically choosing when and where to use your card, you can maximize these rewards, ensuring you get the most value for every dollar spent. It's a smart and savvy way to make your holiday shopping not only enjoyable but financially rewarding.

If you’re planning to travel during the holidays, using a credit card that offers great miles is also extremely beneficial. Nowadays, many airlines and payment networks collaborate on co-branded credit cards that offer great perks. You can beat the holiday rush by having access to security lines and airport lounges.

2. Utilizing Cash-back to Your Advantage

Cash-back programs offered by credit cards allow shoppers to earn a percentage of their spending back in the form of real money or statement credits. Many co-branded credit cards today offer great cash back which can be a helpful tool to offset expensive costs. It’s also helpful to save the accumulated cash back over time, allowing it to grow and serve as a financial cushion or contribute toward larger financial goals. Choosing the right cash-back rewards program can help you save money and ensure your credit score stays high. Whether purchasing gifts, decorations, or holiday feasts, the cash back earned serves as a valuable bonus.

3. Building Your Credit

Building your credit by using a credit card during holiday shopping can be advantageous for consumers in several ways, such as improving your credit score, establishing a good credit history, and enhancing security measures.

Responsible credit card usage during the holiday season contributes positively to your credit history, demonstrating to creditors that you can manage credit responsibly. Timely payments on your credit card can boost your credit score over time, opening doors to better loan terms, lower interest rates, and increased financial flexibility in the future.

Credit cards often come with robust fraud protection measures. Using your credit card for holiday shopping can enhance security, and if unauthorized transactions occur, you are typically not held responsible for fraudulent charges.

Overall, the holidays are a great time to prioritize using your credit cards to ensure a financially rewarding and responsible experience. By maximizing your rewards and cash-back opportunities you can make larger purchases for your friends and family, while also building an effective credit history.

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