With all this talk about a possible new recession on the horizon, watching your finances has become even more important. The great thing about learning to watch your spending is that once times get better you will have developed the discipline to ensure you can weather just about any financial storm.
There's nothing more we want than to be able to efficiently manage our money. After all, the money that we want to manage is money that is oftentimes, hard earned. This is where a budget comes in. A budget executed properly, should help you see where your money is going, get more utility out of every buck, and help you save some extra for future use.
The first smart secret to a budget is to set a goal. What do you want to achieve? Do you want to correctly appropriate your income into bills payments? Do you want to put an amount aside for a big purchase or a huge investment? By having a goal, you will be able to shape your budget to best serve your interests.
Secondly, you would want to take note of where your money usually goes. This includes bills, major but regular purchases (like grocery costs, healthcare costs, and the like), and everyday miscellaneous purchases. Only when you list down where you know your money usually goes will you be able to identify which expenses you can do without. Once you've identified these regular expenditures, take into consideration what you can cut back on. How much do you spend on your daily caffeine fix in the morning? How much do you spend on newspaper deliveries to your front door? The measly $2 or $5 of these small purchases cumulatively translates to more than $3600 a year! Instead of buying your expensive latte or reading the newspaper on print, put aside the amount you would usually pay for these small routine purchases in a small container. You will be surprised at how much you're saving out of your older budget.
Being indebted is a vicious cycle on its own. You're talking about continuous payments, not to mention huge interest rates. The best way to deal with this is to pay the minimum on all of your debts in order to avoid paying extraneous late fees. Whatever cash excesses you may have, you can opt to add on to the payments you make in your biggest debt. This way, you are concentrated on getting the biggest debts first that cost you the greatest interest rates. Doing this progressively, you'll be amazed at how much you'll get off your huge debts.
The last and most important step is to jot down the amount you earn the sum you spend. You can make use of computer cash management programs, or make database sheets of your own. Make a system that works for you and will help you keep track of your monthly budgeting progress.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html
******************************************************************
Showing posts with label Saving Money. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Saving Money. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Living Well Through Better Budgeting
In these down economic times, when jobs are uncertain, businesses unstable and credit is all but impossible to obtain, one has to really be careful and watch their pennies. When one is unsure of the financial future, one needs to be aware of where their money is going. For that one needs to sit down and work out a budget.
A budget is basically a money plan, outlining your financial goals. Having a budget, you can well establish and regulate funds, set and achieve your financial objectives, and make advance decisions as to how you want your finances to function well for you.
The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs.
Simply put, budgeting means an estimation of monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills.
The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your spending patterns, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting.
For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income.
Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.
The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor.
Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.
Here are tips on how to budget:
1. Have good sense of money management. Your attitude is essential. Reach an agreement and compromise and know the significance of reducing expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice.
2. Plan your situation. Make a listing with your earnings to one side and your overheads on the other side.
3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list.
4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, play with the kids at the beach or at the park.
Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is readily available to everyone. Consider it, and benefit from it.
One can still live very well without spending a lot of money if you are smart about it.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html
******************************************************************
A budget is basically a money plan, outlining your financial goals. Having a budget, you can well establish and regulate funds, set and achieve your financial objectives, and make advance decisions as to how you want your finances to function well for you.
The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs.
Simply put, budgeting means an estimation of monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills.
The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your spending patterns, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting.
For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income.
Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.
The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor.
Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.
Here are tips on how to budget:
1. Have good sense of money management. Your attitude is essential. Reach an agreement and compromise and know the significance of reducing expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice.
2. Plan your situation. Make a listing with your earnings to one side and your overheads on the other side.
3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list.
4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, play with the kids at the beach or at the park.
Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is readily available to everyone. Consider it, and benefit from it.
One can still live very well without spending a lot of money if you are smart about it.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html
******************************************************************
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Bundle Up To Increase Your Profits
Everyday we are hit by numerous messages from the cable, satellite and phone companies about bundling their services to save money. But if you check the fine details it is all about making profits for the respective companies. But, you ask can you use this same strategy to increase your own sales, and therefore your own profits?
Why not!
An effective way to increase your profits and sales is to bundle many products or services together into one package. This gives people more reasons to buy your products and services. People also have come to believe package deals are a better value. You want all the products or services to be closely related. For example: if you're selling a computer you could add in software, hardware, computer furniture, etc.
There are many ways to go about choosing the right products or services to bundle into one package. You could survey your customers and see what products or services they would like you to offer in the future. Spy on your competition and see what products and services they're offering or not offering. If you would like to, bundle unrelated products or services together, ask your customers which ones would be of interest to them.
Bundling can also increase your target markets which in return would give you a larger audience to sell your products and services. For example: if you're selling a baseball magazine you could add a free baseball when someone buys a subscription. You're now targeting people who want the baseball magazine and those that want to play baseball out in the yard. Some people buy a package deal just to get one of the products.
There are many sources where you can find products and services to create a package deal. You can buy them from wholesalers or drop shippers. You can buy the reproduction/resell rights to other people's products. Team-up with your competition to create a package deal. You could joint venture or cross promotion deal with other businesses. You could also create your own products and services. Be creative!
Come back next time for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in your marketing and sales efforts as you learn to live the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
********************************************************************
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Fast easy resources to help you with your marketing, save a tree by not wasting paper, be environmentally correct and have some fun and learn something to boot!
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Monday, July 18, 2011
How to Save Money for Tuition Fees
Ah the summer is half over and it is time for parents and children to start thinking about getting back to school. If you haven't thought, well just go into any store and they'll remind you all right with all their special sales on school supplies. For those with younger children going to public schools one doesn't think much about it, as the cost of the schooling is taken care of by the local government. But what if you want your child to go to college? When is it too soon to start planning for their education? How does one start? Read on if you can't answer those questions.
As soon as their child is born, parents can start saving up for their children’s college education.
With tuition fees climbing up yearly, it is better to have a sound financial plan so that it would not be difficult for you to send your kids off to college when they grow up.
Aside from the cash that you have saved yourself, here are the top 3 sources that can help you get your kids through college:
1. Scholarship grants
2. Part-time jobs
3. Financial aids
These are good alternative sources for your children to start off on their college education.
But as a parent, you would not want to fall in those long lines for financial aid or let your child work himself to death just to have money for tuition and other expenses.
Here are some ways on how you can have a jump start at shaving off those hard-earned bucks for your child’s college education:
1. The earlier, the better.
Start investing your money as soon as your child is born.
First, put the savings or investments under your name.
Later on, decide whether you want to transfer the account to your child’s name by the time he or she turns 15. This way, you will have minimal taxes, if at all.
However, you need to be careful when transferring account names.
Some states require a total turnover of funds once your child turns 18 or 21. This is also ineffective if, in the future, you apply for financial aid.
Also remember that tuition fees 10 or 15 years from now may double or even triple the current rates.
2. Establish a trust fund for your child.
This is a very wise plan for a child’s parents or relatives to invest in.
A trust fund is similar to a time-deposit where the money will be given to your child after a certain number of years.
After the designated time, the fund may be received in one lump sum or through an installment basis.
When building up a trust fund, check out details like the interest rates, taxes and withdrawal restrictions.
All in all, you need to approximate the costs of tuition fees, dorm room, meals, books, and other expenses that may come up.
Make sure that you invest money wisely as your child grows.
By the time that there are only two or three years to go before you send your son or daughter off to college, "lock" an ample amount of the funds by investing them in low-risk bonds to ensure that you will get to have enough for them to start their college education.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
As soon as their child is born, parents can start saving up for their children’s college education.
With tuition fees climbing up yearly, it is better to have a sound financial plan so that it would not be difficult for you to send your kids off to college when they grow up.
Aside from the cash that you have saved yourself, here are the top 3 sources that can help you get your kids through college:
1. Scholarship grants
2. Part-time jobs
3. Financial aids
These are good alternative sources for your children to start off on their college education.
But as a parent, you would not want to fall in those long lines for financial aid or let your child work himself to death just to have money for tuition and other expenses.
Here are some ways on how you can have a jump start at shaving off those hard-earned bucks for your child’s college education:
1. The earlier, the better.
Start investing your money as soon as your child is born.
First, put the savings or investments under your name.
Later on, decide whether you want to transfer the account to your child’s name by the time he or she turns 15. This way, you will have minimal taxes, if at all.
However, you need to be careful when transferring account names.
Some states require a total turnover of funds once your child turns 18 or 21. This is also ineffective if, in the future, you apply for financial aid.
Also remember that tuition fees 10 or 15 years from now may double or even triple the current rates.
2. Establish a trust fund for your child.
This is a very wise plan for a child’s parents or relatives to invest in.
A trust fund is similar to a time-deposit where the money will be given to your child after a certain number of years.
After the designated time, the fund may be received in one lump sum or through an installment basis.
When building up a trust fund, check out details like the interest rates, taxes and withdrawal restrictions.
All in all, you need to approximate the costs of tuition fees, dorm room, meals, books, and other expenses that may come up.
Make sure that you invest money wisely as your child grows.
By the time that there are only two or three years to go before you send your son or daughter off to college, "lock" an ample amount of the funds by investing them in low-risk bonds to ensure that you will get to have enough for them to start their college education.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Vacationing With The Family Without Breaking The Bank.
Ah yes the vacation season is upon us and people are taking the family out to broaden their minds and horizons. It was always an interesting time back when I was younger and we would pack up the family every summer and either head to the mountains or visit the maternal grandparents in Florida (depending upon who chose the vacation that year). Traveling can be fun for the whole family, but alas can also be very expensive. Here are a few ideas you can use to have fun and not over spend while doing so.
Traveling as a family can really add to the costs. Children are often charged a lot more than seems fair and the overall price of a family holiday can soon get out of hand by the time you factor in all of the food and activities.
Family Camps
An increasingly popular choice for families is the family camp. Accommodation varies with everything from a basic tent to well equipped log cabins with all of the modern facilities that you would expect in a large hotel.
YMCA offer a range of camps such as the Snow Mountain Ranch in Colorado that spans 5,100 acres and can host 2,500 people in cabins. Activities are available for children aged 3 and over including skiing, climbing and riding. Adults can enjoy use of the gym and health center or simply enjoy a bit of quiet time while the children are being tired out!
Money Saving Booking Tips
When you are booking with children it is really important to get to know what deals are available. Some companies offer children’s prices right up to 16 years old, others start to charge full price at age 3. Depending on the age of your children, one company may prove substantially cheaper for the same holiday.
Consider your sleeping arrangements carefully. Some hotels will offer adjoining rooms, others will have family rooms that sleep children as well as adults. Most hotels will not allow young children in their own room, so bear this in mind when booking.
If you have more than two children you may find that an apartment offers better value for money and more usable space. A two or three bedroom cottage will often be a lot cheaper than two or three rooms in a hotel.
Use the children as a means of negotiation. For example, ask for a discount on their air fare or accommodation or ask for free entrance to an activity while you are booking.
Keeping a Lid on Spending Money
Traveling with children can be expensive when you add up the costs of activities, food and children’s clubs if they are available. If you are working to a budget then it may well be worth considering an all-inclusive holiday resort. Although these are normally more expensive to book initially, it is easier to anticipate your spending in advance. As meals and drinks are included you will not have to worry about the constant demands from the children for soda!
Find out how much children’s clubs will cost and when they are available, prices can vary substantially, so do your homework if you are not to get stung with a large bill at the end of the holiday.
It may even be worth traveling with another family with children of a similar age, as the adults can then take it in turns to child mind, meaning that everyone gets a break and the children have friends to play with! Also the bigger the group the bigger the discounts, normally, so even if you do not want to spend the whole time with another family, you can still benefit from booking together.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Traveling as a family can really add to the costs. Children are often charged a lot more than seems fair and the overall price of a family holiday can soon get out of hand by the time you factor in all of the food and activities.
Family Camps
An increasingly popular choice for families is the family camp. Accommodation varies with everything from a basic tent to well equipped log cabins with all of the modern facilities that you would expect in a large hotel.
YMCA offer a range of camps such as the Snow Mountain Ranch in Colorado that spans 5,100 acres and can host 2,500 people in cabins. Activities are available for children aged 3 and over including skiing, climbing and riding. Adults can enjoy use of the gym and health center or simply enjoy a bit of quiet time while the children are being tired out!
Money Saving Booking Tips
When you are booking with children it is really important to get to know what deals are available. Some companies offer children’s prices right up to 16 years old, others start to charge full price at age 3. Depending on the age of your children, one company may prove substantially cheaper for the same holiday.
Consider your sleeping arrangements carefully. Some hotels will offer adjoining rooms, others will have family rooms that sleep children as well as adults. Most hotels will not allow young children in their own room, so bear this in mind when booking.
If you have more than two children you may find that an apartment offers better value for money and more usable space. A two or three bedroom cottage will often be a lot cheaper than two or three rooms in a hotel.
Use the children as a means of negotiation. For example, ask for a discount on their air fare or accommodation or ask for free entrance to an activity while you are booking.
Keeping a Lid on Spending Money
Traveling with children can be expensive when you add up the costs of activities, food and children’s clubs if they are available. If you are working to a budget then it may well be worth considering an all-inclusive holiday resort. Although these are normally more expensive to book initially, it is easier to anticipate your spending in advance. As meals and drinks are included you will not have to worry about the constant demands from the children for soda!
Find out how much children’s clubs will cost and when they are available, prices can vary substantially, so do your homework if you are not to get stung with a large bill at the end of the holiday.
It may even be worth traveling with another family with children of a similar age, as the adults can then take it in turns to child mind, meaning that everyone gets a break and the children have friends to play with! Also the bigger the group the bigger the discounts, normally, so even if you do not want to spend the whole time with another family, you can still benefit from booking together.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Saving Money While Still Having Fun On Your Vacation
Summer is here and again it is time when most people take their family vacations. The kids are out of school and of course it is expected of the parents to use their vacation time then. In these tough and uncertain times (have there ever been easy and certain economic times? I didn't think so either) saving money once you reach your destination is easy if you know some simple tricks. Plus you'll have more money to spend.
When traveling independently you will almost always do better in terms of price and quality if you veer away from the traditional places to eat and shops that the guide books mention. Going off the beaten track can mean you pick up a real bargain.
Restaurants
Follow the locals; if you head for a tourist orientated restaurant or shop you will find that the prices are substantially higher and often the food is not of the same quality.
Another good tip is to visit the local market where the locals shop. Not only will you get fresh products at good prices but you will also enjoy the experience of mixing with the locals. Ask those around you where to go, after all, it is the locals that are best placed to tell you where to go for a good deal!
A good way of working out whether a restaurant is geared towards tourists or locals is to see when it is at its busiest. Tourists tend to eat a lot earlier than the locals in most foreign countries. Any restaurant that is empty until around 9pm and then fills up is probably frequented by locals.
Car Rental
When it comes to rental cars the costs can vary widely and it really pays to shop around. Sometimes you will be offered good deals as part of your hotel stay or airfare, consider these as combination deals will also be a lot cheaper than you could get on your own.
Booking car rental when you have reached your destination is normally cheaper than reserving in advance if you have not got a good combination deal.
Make sure that you have suitable insurance, as any accident could make a huge dent in your holiday budget! There are good ways to save money, but insurance is not an area that you should scrimp on.
Always select the smallest car that is suitable for your needs, this will be cheaper and will cost less in gas. There is also a reasonable chance that you will be upgraded for free. If you are feeling bold, it is worth asking at the counter if there is any chance of a free upgrade, you never know your luck!
If you are booking car hire from a distance, look at the costs of car hire from the airport as well as from the city that you are staying in. Car hire companies will pay more to have an airport franchise and you may find this reflected in the prices that you are quoted.
Always fill up the gas before you get back to the car rental office. Car rental companies will charge well over the odds for any extra gas that they need to replace on your behalf so take the time to tank up before you get back if you do not want a large bill at the end.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
When traveling independently you will almost always do better in terms of price and quality if you veer away from the traditional places to eat and shops that the guide books mention. Going off the beaten track can mean you pick up a real bargain.
Restaurants
Follow the locals; if you head for a tourist orientated restaurant or shop you will find that the prices are substantially higher and often the food is not of the same quality.
Another good tip is to visit the local market where the locals shop. Not only will you get fresh products at good prices but you will also enjoy the experience of mixing with the locals. Ask those around you where to go, after all, it is the locals that are best placed to tell you where to go for a good deal!
A good way of working out whether a restaurant is geared towards tourists or locals is to see when it is at its busiest. Tourists tend to eat a lot earlier than the locals in most foreign countries. Any restaurant that is empty until around 9pm and then fills up is probably frequented by locals.
Car Rental
When it comes to rental cars the costs can vary widely and it really pays to shop around. Sometimes you will be offered good deals as part of your hotel stay or airfare, consider these as combination deals will also be a lot cheaper than you could get on your own.
Booking car rental when you have reached your destination is normally cheaper than reserving in advance if you have not got a good combination deal.
Make sure that you have suitable insurance, as any accident could make a huge dent in your holiday budget! There are good ways to save money, but insurance is not an area that you should scrimp on.
Always select the smallest car that is suitable for your needs, this will be cheaper and will cost less in gas. There is also a reasonable chance that you will be upgraded for free. If you are feeling bold, it is worth asking at the counter if there is any chance of a free upgrade, you never know your luck!
If you are booking car hire from a distance, look at the costs of car hire from the airport as well as from the city that you are staying in. Car hire companies will pay more to have an airport franchise and you may find this reflected in the prices that you are quoted.
Always fill up the gas before you get back to the car rental office. Car rental companies will charge well over the odds for any extra gas that they need to replace on your behalf so take the time to tank up before you get back if you do not want a large bill at the end.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
OFFLINE GAMBLING...For richer or poorer
We have all heard about how Online Poker and other Online casino sites are riff with scams and illegal actions. And with the recent crackdown by the federal Government on Online Poker Sites, gamblers have been turning back to the old stand by, Offline gambling to get their action fix. The problem is though that scams and ripoffs aren't limited to online sites alone.
Gambling is very popular, from way back when, and more so today. It is a scam itself. In fact the oldest form known. Not only a scam, but very deceptive. Statistics show that about six percent of adults that are involved in gambling are severely addicted to such a "past time" as they call it. People who are hooked on gambling have the urge to bet on almost anything. From horses, cards, and the casino. The number doesn't end there. It continues to expand.
Casino scams are everywhere. High payouts and promising winnings are put up in huge slogans thereby attracting people who want to earn money the fast, easy and enjoyable way. A fact is gamblers waste a lot of their time, in the hope of winning. So they don't give up easily.
Studies show that gambling problems can easily occur in individuals with no self control. It is necessary for one to identify if he has problems, so it can be identified and acted upon promptly.
Here are some questions one should ask to detect if there is a problem:
* After gambling, when you lose money, be it a small or a large amount, do regret it, or feel resentment?
* When you win, do you have a strong desire to win more, therefore you want to go back?
* When you lose, do you feel a need to go back very soon?
* Do you spend a lot of time gambling, usually longer than what you planned?
*If you have problems, do you gamble to forget them?
* Are you spending more time gambling than with work?
*Do you not stop until your very last dollar is taken up?
*Do arguments take place between you and your family as a result of your need to gamble?
*To finance your gambling, do you borrow money from friends or associates?
Gambling addiction can be destructive. Family, friends and your reputation are at risk. It is a condition often times ignored. There are escape gamblers that affect seventy five percent of women from their thirties and up. Usually the reasons for gambling is to escape from the emotional pain that they are in, being bored, lonely, depressed or that they make gambling their hobby or past time. These types of addiction can be cured in three to six months.
The action gambler is much more difficult to deal. Most are men, where gambling for them creates ecstasy like a drug addition. This is much harder to cure, since the individual will deny the fact, when confronted. They will typically not stop until left with nothing, financially.
As gambling creates a lot of scams, it is a fact that still more and more are drawn to it. The primary reason is to win a huge amount of money. But then comes in the most lethal of reasons -- that of feeling a certain euphoria. Scams or no scams, an individual still continues to gamble and is a reason why offline gambling still thrives today.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Gambling is very popular, from way back when, and more so today. It is a scam itself. In fact the oldest form known. Not only a scam, but very deceptive. Statistics show that about six percent of adults that are involved in gambling are severely addicted to such a "past time" as they call it. People who are hooked on gambling have the urge to bet on almost anything. From horses, cards, and the casino. The number doesn't end there. It continues to expand.
Casino scams are everywhere. High payouts and promising winnings are put up in huge slogans thereby attracting people who want to earn money the fast, easy and enjoyable way. A fact is gamblers waste a lot of their time, in the hope of winning. So they don't give up easily.
Studies show that gambling problems can easily occur in individuals with no self control. It is necessary for one to identify if he has problems, so it can be identified and acted upon promptly.
Here are some questions one should ask to detect if there is a problem:
* After gambling, when you lose money, be it a small or a large amount, do regret it, or feel resentment?
* When you win, do you have a strong desire to win more, therefore you want to go back?
* When you lose, do you feel a need to go back very soon?
* Do you spend a lot of time gambling, usually longer than what you planned?
*If you have problems, do you gamble to forget them?
* Are you spending more time gambling than with work?
*Do you not stop until your very last dollar is taken up?
*Do arguments take place between you and your family as a result of your need to gamble?
*To finance your gambling, do you borrow money from friends or associates?
Gambling addiction can be destructive. Family, friends and your reputation are at risk. It is a condition often times ignored. There are escape gamblers that affect seventy five percent of women from their thirties and up. Usually the reasons for gambling is to escape from the emotional pain that they are in, being bored, lonely, depressed or that they make gambling their hobby or past time. These types of addiction can be cured in three to six months.
The action gambler is much more difficult to deal. Most are men, where gambling for them creates ecstasy like a drug addition. This is much harder to cure, since the individual will deny the fact, when confronted. They will typically not stop until left with nothing, financially.
As gambling creates a lot of scams, it is a fact that still more and more are drawn to it. The primary reason is to win a huge amount of money. But then comes in the most lethal of reasons -- that of feeling a certain euphoria. Scams or no scams, an individual still continues to gamble and is a reason why offline gambling still thrives today.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
How to Tell When Gambling Becomes a Vice
AH the lure of easy money. Or maybe it is just a way to feel thrills without risking one's life. Whatever the reason hundreds of millions of people across the globe participate in some sort of gambling. Whether it is just a few nickels in a slot machine or it's hundreds of thousands on on football game, it all adds up to big business. The question is, when does it cross the line from passive entertainment to full blown addiction.
At first, gambling would be a choice of those looking for excitement or challenge, but it would have a very high possibility that one would get hooked, crave for more and get addicted to it. Gambling as a vice would not be that far.
There are different effects caused by gambling, the degree of these effects matter on the length of the time one engages on it. Well, there are people who engage on it without any dash of negative effects or consequences but we could hide the reality which shows that majority of the people who are into gambling are bombarded by various problems in the area of economic security, family issues, community crimes, psychological issues and more.
Economic security
With the urge to win prizes and try their luck, gamblers do not stop betting and venturing on their luck. As proved by studies, in general, those who are poor are the ones who are fond of betting and gambling. This leads to the poor people’s incurring of more debts as they are not really of the capacity to gamble for a long time.
Family issues
Since gambling becomes a vice or an addiction, it would be a subject of arguments for couples. There are studies in the US which clearly shows that there are numbers of wives and husbands being abused by pathological gambling spouses. Communities with casinos are more prone to crimes that affect or involve the family.
Community Crimes
There are a lot of crimes and fraudulent activities that are being caused by gambling. Records would show that in areas where gambling is accessible, crime rates also balloons compared to those where gambling is not around.
Psychological issues
More studies show that there is a great percentage that suicide would be committed by pathological gamblers. Due to the yearning for luck and triumph, once failure bites, depression follows the soonest.
These are just some of the negative effects of gambling to people. Do you choose to be a victim?
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and
receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html">http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
At first, gambling would be a choice of those looking for excitement or challenge, but it would have a very high possibility that one would get hooked, crave for more and get addicted to it. Gambling as a vice would not be that far.
There are different effects caused by gambling, the degree of these effects matter on the length of the time one engages on it. Well, there are people who engage on it without any dash of negative effects or consequences but we could hide the reality which shows that majority of the people who are into gambling are bombarded by various problems in the area of economic security, family issues, community crimes, psychological issues and more.
Economic security
With the urge to win prizes and try their luck, gamblers do not stop betting and venturing on their luck. As proved by studies, in general, those who are poor are the ones who are fond of betting and gambling. This leads to the poor people’s incurring of more debts as they are not really of the capacity to gamble for a long time.
Family issues
Since gambling becomes a vice or an addiction, it would be a subject of arguments for couples. There are studies in the US which clearly shows that there are numbers of wives and husbands being abused by pathological gambling spouses. Communities with casinos are more prone to crimes that affect or involve the family.
Community Crimes
There are a lot of crimes and fraudulent activities that are being caused by gambling. Records would show that in areas where gambling is accessible, crime rates also balloons compared to those where gambling is not around.
Psychological issues
More studies show that there is a great percentage that suicide would be committed by pathological gamblers. Due to the yearning for luck and triumph, once failure bites, depression follows the soonest.
These are just some of the negative effects of gambling to people. Do you choose to be a victim?
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.
Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and
receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html">http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
How To Stay On Target With Your Family Budget
In these economic (or any economic times really) the secret to financial independence and peace of mind is to watch how one spends their money. People who spend recklessly in good times are hurt when there is a downturn or emergency situation crop up. But financially smart people prepare a budget and stick to it no matter what the economic times are, and when emergencies hit they are better off to weather the storm.
The always ever increasing cost of living in today's society, wherever you may be, has made budgeting a priority among families. In today's inflationary world, nothing is more important than knowing how to wisely spend the income that you get.
Financial problems usually arise due to lack of proper budgeting skills, or failure to keep to the proposed budget. No matter how much income you may have, it is still important to keep track of your assets and liabilities, your earnings and expenses.
It is ironic but a person who earns thousands will have the same problems with the person who earns by the hundreds. Most often, different kinds of people, with diverse income levels, have budgeting problems. Others who may have been successful in making a budget, usually fail to keep within such a budget.
A budget refers to a financial plan, taking the incoming and outgoing monetary resources into consideration. A good budget should not only mean a balance or equity between income and expenditures. It also means lesser expenses, and making an allowance for savings.
If you earn a thousand dollars per month, you should map out all the necessary expenses you will have to incur during the month such as payment for your house, food and transportation. Of course, this is presuming that your tax liabilities have already been settled. What remains after you deduct your total expenses from your income is your savings.
What you do with your savings will make a difference later on, when the need arises. You can choose to keep your savings in a piggy bank or place it in a bank where there is minimum interest rate but at least your money is safe from you and from intruders. With a bigger savings, you can get the services of a financial adviser who can give you higher-yielding investment options
Here are tips to make sure that you keep within the family budget:
1. Maintain a logbook where you can list your income and expense account on a weekly or monthly schedule.
2. Buy your groceries at one time. To do this, make a list of all the things that you would need for your target period and purchase them at one time. Sometimes, there are discounts if you buy by the dozen so take advantage of this.
3. Avoid going to the supermarket and shops if you do not need to buy necessary items. This will keep you from making unnecessary purchases and keep you from straying away from your budget.
4.Think twice before you buy something. By doing this, you will realize that it is not really a necessity but a whim.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
The always ever increasing cost of living in today's society, wherever you may be, has made budgeting a priority among families. In today's inflationary world, nothing is more important than knowing how to wisely spend the income that you get.
Financial problems usually arise due to lack of proper budgeting skills, or failure to keep to the proposed budget. No matter how much income you may have, it is still important to keep track of your assets and liabilities, your earnings and expenses.
It is ironic but a person who earns thousands will have the same problems with the person who earns by the hundreds. Most often, different kinds of people, with diverse income levels, have budgeting problems. Others who may have been successful in making a budget, usually fail to keep within such a budget.
A budget refers to a financial plan, taking the incoming and outgoing monetary resources into consideration. A good budget should not only mean a balance or equity between income and expenditures. It also means lesser expenses, and making an allowance for savings.
If you earn a thousand dollars per month, you should map out all the necessary expenses you will have to incur during the month such as payment for your house, food and transportation. Of course, this is presuming that your tax liabilities have already been settled. What remains after you deduct your total expenses from your income is your savings.
What you do with your savings will make a difference later on, when the need arises. You can choose to keep your savings in a piggy bank or place it in a bank where there is minimum interest rate but at least your money is safe from you and from intruders. With a bigger savings, you can get the services of a financial adviser who can give you higher-yielding investment options
Here are tips to make sure that you keep within the family budget:
1. Maintain a logbook where you can list your income and expense account on a weekly or monthly schedule.
2. Buy your groceries at one time. To do this, make a list of all the things that you would need for your target period and purchase them at one time. Sometimes, there are discounts if you buy by the dozen so take advantage of this.
3. Avoid going to the supermarket and shops if you do not need to buy necessary items. This will keep you from making unnecessary purchases and keep you from straying away from your budget.
4.Think twice before you buy something. By doing this, you will realize that it is not really a necessity but a whim.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Monday, April 25, 2011
Plan Your vacation and Save Money While Having Fun
Ah Spring time is here and many of us are already looking forward to summer and the vacation season. In these tough economic times everyone is looking for ways to save money without sacrificing fun and adventure. It is easy to do with the proper prior planning.
Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!
Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.
Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially.
There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:
Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?
Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?
Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?
Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?
Firstly, if you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.
If you are planning on creating your own package then you need to be aware that you are taking multiple gambles. For example, you need to consider your airfare, hotels and transport. Whilst you may get an excellent last minute flight, you may not be so lucky when it comes to the hotel or car hire. In fact, you may find that paying a premium for other parts of your holiday will end up out-weighing any last minute savings you have made.
As a general rule, if you are looking to go on a specific holiday, a cruise, for example, with a specific company or a destination that is only offered by a few operators, you may find that last minute bargains are simply not available. Cruising is a classic example of this. A cruise line will offer holidays for a certain price, whilst they may offer their holidays through different agents who may individually offer discounts, the actual price of the cruise is likely to remain very similar no matter who you go to for your price.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!
Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.
Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially.
There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:
Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?
Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?
Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?
Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?
Firstly, if you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.
If you are planning on creating your own package then you need to be aware that you are taking multiple gambles. For example, you need to consider your airfare, hotels and transport. Whilst you may get an excellent last minute flight, you may not be so lucky when it comes to the hotel or car hire. In fact, you may find that paying a premium for other parts of your holiday will end up out-weighing any last minute savings you have made.
As a general rule, if you are looking to go on a specific holiday, a cruise, for example, with a specific company or a destination that is only offered by a few operators, you may find that last minute bargains are simply not available. Cruising is a classic example of this. A cruise line will offer holidays for a certain price, whilst they may offer their holidays through different agents who may individually offer discounts, the actual price of the cruise is likely to remain very similar no matter who you go to for your price.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Saving Money Through Self-Discipline
A great way to save money is to be aware of the fact that one has the power to define the state of his finances specifically through a conscious effort of disciplining the way one spends and controlling one's expenditures.
Self-discipline will most definitely be the key to reducing one's debts therefore increasing the possibility of growing one's savings. And in the long run, improve one's standard of living.
According to money management book author Robert Hastings, "Undisciplined money, usually spells undisciplined person". Therefore, if one notices how his hard-earned money seems to slip away so darned easy, then it is about time that he rethinks his ways and try to discipline his unpleasant spending habits.
One of the essential keys to successful money management, specifically saving money is to possess proper attitude. Self-discipline is at the topmost of this proper attitudes list, of course.
Only with self-discipline that people recognize that they do have the freedom and power to do the right thing over doing as their impulses dictate.
Sounds complicated? Well, not really. Knowing fully the fantastic rewards of disciplined money in a disciplined person's hands should be motivation enough for one to do all that is humanly possible to achieve that elusive financial stability everyone hopes for.
Here are some helpful money saving tips.
1. Realize that the most convenient method of building one's wealth is through saving money. Money is the only sensible material to save.
2. Focus expenditures on the things one needs. Live day-by-day knowing that you have enough.
3. Avoid buying on impulse. Take your time when buying, especially the expensive items. If you really need it, it would most definitely not slip your mind. Otherwise, if you go along forgetting all about it, then it isn't really worth the money you have to spend on it at all.
4. Credit card debts hold the number one slot as the cause for financial drains these days. Control your spending by using your credit cards less. Or for unavoidable circumstances when you really have to use the credit card, consider using the ones that charge less interest. Then dump the high interest ones for good.
No matter how you look at it, saving money is so easy to do. A little bit of imagination, some creativity and a lot of self-discipline will take you a long way in keeping hold of your hard-earned money.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html
******************************************************************
Self-discipline will most definitely be the key to reducing one's debts therefore increasing the possibility of growing one's savings. And in the long run, improve one's standard of living.
According to money management book author Robert Hastings, "Undisciplined money, usually spells undisciplined person". Therefore, if one notices how his hard-earned money seems to slip away so darned easy, then it is about time that he rethinks his ways and try to discipline his unpleasant spending habits.
One of the essential keys to successful money management, specifically saving money is to possess proper attitude. Self-discipline is at the topmost of this proper attitudes list, of course.
Only with self-discipline that people recognize that they do have the freedom and power to do the right thing over doing as their impulses dictate.
Sounds complicated? Well, not really. Knowing fully the fantastic rewards of disciplined money in a disciplined person's hands should be motivation enough for one to do all that is humanly possible to achieve that elusive financial stability everyone hopes for.
Here are some helpful money saving tips.
1. Realize that the most convenient method of building one's wealth is through saving money. Money is the only sensible material to save.
2. Focus expenditures on the things one needs. Live day-by-day knowing that you have enough.
3. Avoid buying on impulse. Take your time when buying, especially the expensive items. If you really need it, it would most definitely not slip your mind. Otherwise, if you go along forgetting all about it, then it isn't really worth the money you have to spend on it at all.
4. Credit card debts hold the number one slot as the cause for financial drains these days. Control your spending by using your credit cards less. Or for unavoidable circumstances when you really have to use the credit card, consider using the ones that charge less interest. Then dump the high interest ones for good.
No matter how you look at it, saving money is so easy to do. A little bit of imagination, some creativity and a lot of self-discipline will take you a long way in keeping hold of your hard-earned money.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html
******************************************************************
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Saving Money: It's Your Future, Live It Your Way
Are you tired of stressing out over never having money when you really need it? Well that is what saving is for. If you want to live comfortably in the future you really need to start by doing something about it now.
Saving has always been a way of life for people who believed on its power. These people know that they have to save more money in order to create a more established future.
However, as time goes by, more and more people find it hard to save money. They contend that saving is no longer a way of life but a resolution that they have to strictly adhere to just to salt away some amount of money.
Some people even insist that it is no longer possible for a person to save more money because most of them are already living paycheck to paycheck. With all the high-prices of commodities these days, saving more money is no longer workable.
But the point is that people can indeed save more.
How? Here is a list of some modern ways that will let you save more money:
1. Save some percentage from your salary
Most money-savers automatically take at least 30% from their salary and save them into their savings account. The basic concept here is that most of us spend whatever amount we have on our paycheck, and maybe even more. If you are able to limit that amount, your expenses will unexplainably get smaller.
2. Pay everything in cash
Credit cards had always been a way of life for most consumers. The problem is that they become so comfortable with it that they tend to spend everything on credit. In fact, statistics show that the average family has an average outstanding balance on their credit cards amounting to $7,000. And they even pay almost $1,000 in each year just on the interest charges alone.
Hence, because of this comfortable shopping, they forget to keep track of their expenses and accumulate more payables than what they can afford to pay.
3. Set goals
Create goals that you really want and not be fickle-minded about it. If there's a certain amount involved, be specific with the amount, like saying “I will save $5,000 in a year and not around $5,000.”
Try to set your goals based on your priorities. Have a period for every goal.
4. Check your company's retirement plan
With your employer plan such as the 401(k) or the 403(b), you can definitely save more money for the future. Here, your company will deduct a percentage of your salary from each paycheck and invest the amount in your choice of instruments—mainly mutual funds.
The bottom line is that saving is not just a way of life or a resolution. It's the ultimate gratification that you get as a fruit of your labor.
It is never too late to start, so start today and stop your worry about tomorrow.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html
******************************************************************
Saving has always been a way of life for people who believed on its power. These people know that they have to save more money in order to create a more established future.
However, as time goes by, more and more people find it hard to save money. They contend that saving is no longer a way of life but a resolution that they have to strictly adhere to just to salt away some amount of money.
Some people even insist that it is no longer possible for a person to save more money because most of them are already living paycheck to paycheck. With all the high-prices of commodities these days, saving more money is no longer workable.
But the point is that people can indeed save more.
How? Here is a list of some modern ways that will let you save more money:
1. Save some percentage from your salary
Most money-savers automatically take at least 30% from their salary and save them into their savings account. The basic concept here is that most of us spend whatever amount we have on our paycheck, and maybe even more. If you are able to limit that amount, your expenses will unexplainably get smaller.
2. Pay everything in cash
Credit cards had always been a way of life for most consumers. The problem is that they become so comfortable with it that they tend to spend everything on credit. In fact, statistics show that the average family has an average outstanding balance on their credit cards amounting to $7,000. And they even pay almost $1,000 in each year just on the interest charges alone.
Hence, because of this comfortable shopping, they forget to keep track of their expenses and accumulate more payables than what they can afford to pay.
3. Set goals
Create goals that you really want and not be fickle-minded about it. If there's a certain amount involved, be specific with the amount, like saying “I will save $5,000 in a year and not around $5,000.”
Try to set your goals based on your priorities. Have a period for every goal.
4. Check your company's retirement plan
With your employer plan such as the 401(k) or the 403(b), you can definitely save more money for the future. Here, your company will deduct a percentage of your salary from each paycheck and invest the amount in your choice of instruments—mainly mutual funds.
The bottom line is that saving is not just a way of life or a resolution. It's the ultimate gratification that you get as a fruit of your labor.
It is never too late to start, so start today and stop your worry about tomorrow.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html
******************************************************************
Monday, October 4, 2010
Using A Mortgage Calculator: Don't Do the Math Yourself
The residential real estate and housing crises have bottomed out and are starting to rebound. The economy is starting to come around and people are once again, albeit slowly, to buying houses. This means getting a mortgage. If you are in the market and don't want to get caught up in the problems of overextending yourself, or to see if you are getting the best deal you should consider using a Mortgage Calculator.
When considering a mortgage loan, knowing how much money you have and will have and how much you are willing to pay for the loan including the interest and principal is very, very important. To help you decide on projecting how much you will be paying bi-weekly or monthly, depending on the payment term you choose for the entire loan period of your mortgage, various mortgage calculators are available.
These mortgage calculators are categorized into 15 classifications depending on the type of mortgage you want and the terms in interests and principal you want to apply. These classifications for mortgage calculators are the following:
a. Mortgage calculator to determine a borrowers ability to afford a house. This type of calculator can be classified into two. There is a mortgage calculator that determines if a borrower can afford a house and mortgage calculator to help the borrower determine if it is better for him to make a small down payment or no down payment at all or save up first, then make a bigger down payment later on.
b. Mortgage calculator for consolidating non-mortgage debt. There are three types of calculators under these. The first one is used for borrowers who want to consider merging non-mortgage debt in their bought mortgage. The second type of mortgage calculator is for those who want to consider refinancing their mortgage by cash-out or by taking another mortgage. The third kind is for borrowers who already have 2 mortgages for a particular loan and are considering other options to help pay off the 1st mortgage.
c. Mortgage calculator to determine the monthly payments of their mortgage. The types of mortgage calculator to be used will depend on the terms you choose. There is a mortgage calculator for fixed rate mortgages, adjustable rate mortgages without negative amortizations, adjustable rate mortgages with negative amortizations, adjustable rate mortgages with flexible amortizations and mortgage payments with temporary buy downs.
d. Mortgage calculator to determine how much interest borrowers can save should he decide to pay an additional amount for the principal value during payment. The mortgage calculator varies depending on the number of payments a borrower is willing to give. These are extra monthly payments, bi-weekly payments applied monthly, bi-weekly payments applied bi-weekly and extra monthly payments to be paid in a specific period.
e. Mortgage calculator to determine if refinancing a mortgage will reduce its cost. This type of mortgage calculator can be applied to a borrower who wants to refinance a mortgage or 2 mortgages. Other calculators are used to determine if refinancing one mortgage into two can reduce costs while others are used to determine if cash-out refinancing is better than deciding to take on a second mortgage.
f. Mortgage calculator for determining the length of time borrowers have to pay insurance premiums applied to their mortgage.
g. Mortgage calculator to determine amortizations. There are 2 kinds of these. One determines the savings a borrower can have on his tax on the interests and the second mortgage calculator determines the appreciation of property being mortgaged.
h. Mortgage calculator to compare two mortgages. These are different types of calculators that compare the various mortgages that include amortizations and non-amortizations, government and non-government loans, fixed rate and adjustable interests.
i. Mortgage calculator to compute points and fees in a mortgage. The calculator is used to determine the rate of return of ARMs (Adjustable Rate Mortgages) and FRMs (Flexible Rate Mortgages) and the amount that can be saved or lost by using paying points for interest reduction on FRMs.
j. Mortgage calculator for determining amounts to be paid for a mortgage insurance and down payment
k. Mortgage calculator to determine the feasibility of having a mortgage loan in a shorter term.
These mortgage calculators and other various mortgage calculators are available for use in the Internet. Most banks and mortgage companies have interactive pages in their websites where you can do your calculations online. Aside from these, other sites give free downloads of their loan calculators.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html
******************************************************************
When considering a mortgage loan, knowing how much money you have and will have and how much you are willing to pay for the loan including the interest and principal is very, very important. To help you decide on projecting how much you will be paying bi-weekly or monthly, depending on the payment term you choose for the entire loan period of your mortgage, various mortgage calculators are available.
These mortgage calculators are categorized into 15 classifications depending on the type of mortgage you want and the terms in interests and principal you want to apply. These classifications for mortgage calculators are the following:
a. Mortgage calculator to determine a borrowers ability to afford a house. This type of calculator can be classified into two. There is a mortgage calculator that determines if a borrower can afford a house and mortgage calculator to help the borrower determine if it is better for him to make a small down payment or no down payment at all or save up first, then make a bigger down payment later on.
b. Mortgage calculator for consolidating non-mortgage debt. There are three types of calculators under these. The first one is used for borrowers who want to consider merging non-mortgage debt in their bought mortgage. The second type of mortgage calculator is for those who want to consider refinancing their mortgage by cash-out or by taking another mortgage. The third kind is for borrowers who already have 2 mortgages for a particular loan and are considering other options to help pay off the 1st mortgage.
c. Mortgage calculator to determine the monthly payments of their mortgage. The types of mortgage calculator to be used will depend on the terms you choose. There is a mortgage calculator for fixed rate mortgages, adjustable rate mortgages without negative amortizations, adjustable rate mortgages with negative amortizations, adjustable rate mortgages with flexible amortizations and mortgage payments with temporary buy downs.
d. Mortgage calculator to determine how much interest borrowers can save should he decide to pay an additional amount for the principal value during payment. The mortgage calculator varies depending on the number of payments a borrower is willing to give. These are extra monthly payments, bi-weekly payments applied monthly, bi-weekly payments applied bi-weekly and extra monthly payments to be paid in a specific period.
e. Mortgage calculator to determine if refinancing a mortgage will reduce its cost. This type of mortgage calculator can be applied to a borrower who wants to refinance a mortgage or 2 mortgages. Other calculators are used to determine if refinancing one mortgage into two can reduce costs while others are used to determine if cash-out refinancing is better than deciding to take on a second mortgage.
f. Mortgage calculator for determining the length of time borrowers have to pay insurance premiums applied to their mortgage.
g. Mortgage calculator to determine amortizations. There are 2 kinds of these. One determines the savings a borrower can have on his tax on the interests and the second mortgage calculator determines the appreciation of property being mortgaged.
h. Mortgage calculator to compare two mortgages. These are different types of calculators that compare the various mortgages that include amortizations and non-amortizations, government and non-government loans, fixed rate and adjustable interests.
i. Mortgage calculator to compute points and fees in a mortgage. The calculator is used to determine the rate of return of ARMs (Adjustable Rate Mortgages) and FRMs (Flexible Rate Mortgages) and the amount that can be saved or lost by using paying points for interest reduction on FRMs.
j. Mortgage calculator for determining amounts to be paid for a mortgage insurance and down payment
k. Mortgage calculator to determine the feasibility of having a mortgage loan in a shorter term.
These mortgage calculators and other various mortgage calculators are available for use in the Internet. Most banks and mortgage companies have interactive pages in their websites where you can do your calculations online. Aside from these, other sites give free downloads of their loan calculators.
Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html
******************************************************************
Monday, October 20, 2008
Easy Money-Saving Techniques
One of the most obvious and easy ways to save some extra cash is to change some of the way you use products and items in your everyday life. The key is to make minor changes. You don't have to go overboard to save money, just use some common sense and old fashioned imagination.
For instance, always buy the cheapest hand soap you can find. The quality doesn’t necessarily go up with the price and you can use it in place of ‘bath soap.’
Always use the whole product. Turn bottles upside down and drain to get the last bit from them. Tear open sugar and flour sacks to get everything; squeeze or cut open tubes to use it all before running out to buy more. You’ll be surprised at how much there really is left!
Also, never use more than you need. Just because it says on the box that you need a full cup, doesn’t mean that you really do it need it. Half a measure of laundry detergent and a half teaspoon of dish soap are examples of what are usually enough, rather than what the manufacturer says.
To save some cash, you can use some of the things in your house in some unique ways. Instead of spending lots of money on the fancy floor cleaners, try using ammonia. It does a great job, and you can use plain water in between times. If your furniture needs some polishing, mix equal parts of white vinegar and vegetable oil and rub on the furniture. Buff with a cloth until it shines.
For a freezer bag, use empty chip bags and close with masking taps. Also try a bowl with a lid, such as a margarine tub.
If your skin is feeling a little dry, there are several substitutes for expensive lotion. Petroleum jelly rubbed into your hands at night after a warm water soak, mayonnaise (rinse w/ cold water after), or any other oil based food. Just be sure to put it on immediately after your hands have been in water.
To save some money on laundry, dissolve a bar of hand soap in water to replace laundry detergent. Add three gallons of hot water, mix thoroughly and add a cup of washing soda.
Sure, these are small changes, but added up, they can put some extra change into your pocket throughout the year!
Hey we're all in this together, and I'm pulling for you. For more tips, check back weekly.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
For instance, always buy the cheapest hand soap you can find. The quality doesn’t necessarily go up with the price and you can use it in place of ‘bath soap.’
Always use the whole product. Turn bottles upside down and drain to get the last bit from them. Tear open sugar and flour sacks to get everything; squeeze or cut open tubes to use it all before running out to buy more. You’ll be surprised at how much there really is left!
Also, never use more than you need. Just because it says on the box that you need a full cup, doesn’t mean that you really do it need it. Half a measure of laundry detergent and a half teaspoon of dish soap are examples of what are usually enough, rather than what the manufacturer says.
To save some cash, you can use some of the things in your house in some unique ways. Instead of spending lots of money on the fancy floor cleaners, try using ammonia. It does a great job, and you can use plain water in between times. If your furniture needs some polishing, mix equal parts of white vinegar and vegetable oil and rub on the furniture. Buff with a cloth until it shines.
For a freezer bag, use empty chip bags and close with masking taps. Also try a bowl with a lid, such as a margarine tub.
If your skin is feeling a little dry, there are several substitutes for expensive lotion. Petroleum jelly rubbed into your hands at night after a warm water soak, mayonnaise (rinse w/ cold water after), or any other oil based food. Just be sure to put it on immediately after your hands have been in water.
To save some money on laundry, dissolve a bar of hand soap in water to replace laundry detergent. Add three gallons of hot water, mix thoroughly and add a cup of washing soda.
Sure, these are small changes, but added up, they can put some extra change into your pocket throughout the year!
Hey we're all in this together, and I'm pulling for you. For more tips, check back weekly.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
LAST DITCH METHOD TO STOP YOUR CREDITORS COLD!
Wipe Out Your Debts!
If you're afraid to answer the phone because your creditors have been calling every night; and you're worried that one of them is going to call your boss and tell him you're a deadbeat; and just trying to pay off your bills leaves you almost nothing for food - it time you thought about bankruptcy!
With a small amount of money, a lawyer (and even he's not necessary a lot of the time), and a careful evaluation of your assets (what you own) and your liabilities (what you owe), you too can make a new start with the help of the Federal and State bankruptcy laws. But don't rush into this without carefully
determining which is the right way for you, for there are several different ways to stop your creditors cold, and choosing the wrong way can result in your losing much more than you might otherwise have to.
Straight Bankruptcy Usually Costs Less, and It's Quick!
If you have very few assets, and lots of debt, and not enough income to pay the debts off, even on an extended plan (more about that later), then you will probably have to file straight bankruptcy. You must file the proper forms (or "schedules") which you can purchase from any really good office supply
stationery store in your nearest city, especially one in a district where there are lawyers' offices.
Bankruptcy is not a very complicated court action, so don't be too afraid of it. You will need to know which district you live in for Federal Court purposes; look in the telephone (white pages) under U.S. Government - Courts, and locate the U.S. District Court in your nearest city. Probably that court has
jurisdiction; but check this out by phoning the Clerk of the Court and asking him, giving him you home address. You will have to fill out several "schedules" or lists of your creditors: creditors having priority, creditors having security, and creditors having unsecured claims without priority. You must
list every creditor, for any one that is not listed can still sue you and collect, even after the bankruptcy! If you don't know if a debt is secured (backed up by a related asset, like refrigerator bought on an instalment loan) or unsecured (made only on your personal reputation, with no related asset), ask the creditor. Include as a creditor the name of anyone for whom you co-signed a loan or note, and anyone who co-signed for you.
What Will You Have Left?
Will you be put out in the cold without food, clothing and a house to live in after your creditors get paid? Not at all - because most State bankruptcy laws allow some of your assets to be "exempt" from being used to pay your creditors! You must check the specific laws of your State, but usually, the house you live in, the tools of your trade, your personal clothes (within reasonable limits) and certain specific basic home furnishings are all not taken away from you. In fact, in this totally absurd world we live in, many States now permit you to also keep your TV set(!), because, apparently, they regard it as a necessity for life!
Where to File
Once you have all the forms filled out and notarized, bring them to the Clerk of the U.S. District Court in your district, along with $50. You don't have to notify your creditors - the Clerk does that, while also reminding them that now that you have filed bankruptcy papers, they may not press you for any more money, but may come to your hearing.
Usually your creditors don't show up, since by that time you have filed bankruptcy, you have very few nonexempt assets left that they are interested in. Whatever assets you do have that are not exempt (if any) must be sold under the Court's supervision. Any money thus realized is added to whatever cash
you may have had at the time you filed (if any) and the total amount (which might be, and often is, as low as $50 or $750 is divided up by the trustee appointed at your hearing and your creditors get paid on a pro rata (proportional) basis to the amount you owe them. If your assets add up to an amount that,
for example, only allows each creditor 3 1/2 cents for every dollar of debt you owed them, then that 3 1/2 cents is all he gets!
About three months after you have filed, you adjudged "bankrupt". and you can start over again to incur, pay bills and establish a new credit record. Be careful, however, about talking to your old credits at this time. They may offer to help you out by extending new credit, and manoeuvre you into
signing "reaffirmation" of your old debt! Ready anything you sign very closely, and don't agree to repay any debt that you have already discharged through your bankruptcy!
Lawyers for Complications
There are some people who should definitely hire a lawyer to help them through their bankruptcies, especially people who have assets like real estate that they want, somehow, to keep. Aside from real estate, if you have been accused by any creditor of fraud, you should also have a lawyer handle your case. If you decide you don't need a lawyer to handle your bankruptcy, you are still responsible for filling out all of the forms accurately and completely, and every bit as carefully as if a lawyer had done them. Leaving out a creditor's address from a schedule, or forgetting a loan you co-signed can bring lawsuits against you even after your bankruptcy. So be careful, and if you find the bankruptcy process is too complicated, do see a lawyer!
Keeping Your Assets Instead
If you've fallen behind in paying your bills, but you don't want to declare straight bankruptcy, you may want to clean up your financial mess instead through Chapter XIII of the Federal Bankruptcy Laws. Also known as the Wage Earner Plan, Chapter XIII differs from straight bankruptcy in two most important ways: you must pay off the entire amount of your debts (no 10 cents on a dollar here), and within a 3 year period. but the good part is you are not declared "bankrupt", so no one ever knows that you needed relief under any part of the Federal Bankruptcy Acts.
The major advantage of the Wage Earner Plan, besides not being recorded permanently on your credit record, is that you get to keep all your assets, exempt and non-exempt alike (assuming you still have any left!). This is quite important, if, for example, you have a good paid-up car, or expensive household furnishings or a boat or other valuable assets that you want to keep. Under Chapter XIII, you can get your current debts "stretched out" to three years, which may well result in lower total monthly payments than you are currently paying, and as long as you pay off your debts in accordance with the agreement files with the Court, month by month, no creditor will be able to sue you to try to seize any other of your assets, and force their public sale at disadvantageous prices.
Even if they have begin to sue you, once you file for relief under the Bankruptcy Act, either under Chapter XIII or under Chapter XI, straight voluntary bankruptcy, they can't touch you! They are immediately restricted to getting from you only what the referee or trustee will give them and that only after the court proceedings have been completed. Often, if the creditor threatens to sue you, the most effective thing you can do to stop him (besides paying the debt!) is to tell him frankly that, if he sues you, you have no other recourse than to declare bankruptcy. This will often make your creditor willing to negotiate the debt, and you may be able to satisfy him by paying the debt back, but over a longer period of time (with smaller monthly payments) than you originally contracted for. Creditors know well that if you file bankruptcy, the chance of their getting payment in full on their overdue account is very low, so it is in their interest to try to ease your credit burden at least for a while.
Make Yourself "Judgment-Proof"
If a creditor goes ahead and sues you, and gets a judgment against you, he can then get a court order directing the sheriff to seize your personal property, sell it and pay the creditor the amount of your debt. However, if you have no valuable assets, there is nothing for the sheriff to seize, and you are what is generally called "judgment proof", or in other words, can't be made to pay the debt. Because they know this is likely to happen, street-smart debtors often hide their possessions, or move them out-of-state, before the sheriff (or marshal) arrives. This is, of course, illegal. The creditor's next move is to
try to "garnishee your wages, which he does by getting a court order directing your employer to set aside part of your wages or salary every pay period and turn the amount over to him. However, he can only do this if he knows, or can find out, where you work. But even if your wages are garnisheed, there are limits on what a creditor can take! Laws vary from State to State. In some states wages cannot be garnisheed at all while in others only small amounts are exempt from garnishment.
If you have no job, and no visible assets, or you live in a State where your wages cannot be garnisheed, your creditors actually have very few ways of ever collecting on that judgment!
Harassment and Other Creditor Tools
Before your situation gets bad enough to need bankruptcy relief, and before your creditors actually sue you, they will try to make you pay up using informal techniques, rather than formal court orders, as this is far less expensive and time-consuming. First among these informal attempts may be turning their bills over to a collection agency which may then begin harassment, by calling you often and at odd hours by telephone, by trying to talk to your employer about your debts, and/or by threatening you with legal actions, etc. Many of these techniques that they use are illegal!
Yes, a creditor or agency can write you letters, call once a day seeking payment, try to bring legal action against you, but he is forbidden by law to harass you or invade your privacy, or use deceptive means to get you to pay your bills. He may not use foul and abusive language over the telephone, tell anyone beside you the reason for his phone call, insist on payment for a product or service that you claim to have a legitimate grievance about, nor issue false threats (such as saying that he is going to drag you into court to collect $35, when in fact his agency's policy is not to file suit on accounts of less than $100, because of the high legal costs involved). He may not inconvenience you (by calling you at work when you are not easily able to receive calls), or invade your privacy (telling your employer or your neighbor that he is trying to collect a debt from you).
There are books that provide detailed additional information on personal bankruptcy, and include sample letters with which you can try to arrange "stretch-outs" on your own with your creditors before bankruptcy is necessary. Some include sample bankruptcy forms filled out that you can use as a model. Since the accurate filing of all your debts and assets is so important, it's a good idea to follow their detailed instructions closely, with or without a lawyer, so that once you get your creditors off you back, they stay off!
I hope this article was of use to you and you are able to use this information wisely. Remember that any action on your part needs some deep thought and should not be rushed into lightly.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
If you're afraid to answer the phone because your creditors have been calling every night; and you're worried that one of them is going to call your boss and tell him you're a deadbeat; and just trying to pay off your bills leaves you almost nothing for food - it time you thought about bankruptcy!
With a small amount of money, a lawyer (and even he's not necessary a lot of the time), and a careful evaluation of your assets (what you own) and your liabilities (what you owe), you too can make a new start with the help of the Federal and State bankruptcy laws. But don't rush into this without carefully
determining which is the right way for you, for there are several different ways to stop your creditors cold, and choosing the wrong way can result in your losing much more than you might otherwise have to.
Straight Bankruptcy Usually Costs Less, and It's Quick!
If you have very few assets, and lots of debt, and not enough income to pay the debts off, even on an extended plan (more about that later), then you will probably have to file straight bankruptcy. You must file the proper forms (or "schedules") which you can purchase from any really good office supply
stationery store in your nearest city, especially one in a district where there are lawyers' offices.
Bankruptcy is not a very complicated court action, so don't be too afraid of it. You will need to know which district you live in for Federal Court purposes; look in the telephone (white pages) under U.S. Government - Courts, and locate the U.S. District Court in your nearest city. Probably that court has
jurisdiction; but check this out by phoning the Clerk of the Court and asking him, giving him you home address. You will have to fill out several "schedules" or lists of your creditors: creditors having priority, creditors having security, and creditors having unsecured claims without priority. You must
list every creditor, for any one that is not listed can still sue you and collect, even after the bankruptcy! If you don't know if a debt is secured (backed up by a related asset, like refrigerator bought on an instalment loan) or unsecured (made only on your personal reputation, with no related asset), ask the creditor. Include as a creditor the name of anyone for whom you co-signed a loan or note, and anyone who co-signed for you.
What Will You Have Left?
Will you be put out in the cold without food, clothing and a house to live in after your creditors get paid? Not at all - because most State bankruptcy laws allow some of your assets to be "exempt" from being used to pay your creditors! You must check the specific laws of your State, but usually, the house you live in, the tools of your trade, your personal clothes (within reasonable limits) and certain specific basic home furnishings are all not taken away from you. In fact, in this totally absurd world we live in, many States now permit you to also keep your TV set(!), because, apparently, they regard it as a necessity for life!
Where to File
Once you have all the forms filled out and notarized, bring them to the Clerk of the U.S. District Court in your district, along with $50. You don't have to notify your creditors - the Clerk does that, while also reminding them that now that you have filed bankruptcy papers, they may not press you for any more money, but may come to your hearing.
Usually your creditors don't show up, since by that time you have filed bankruptcy, you have very few nonexempt assets left that they are interested in. Whatever assets you do have that are not exempt (if any) must be sold under the Court's supervision. Any money thus realized is added to whatever cash
you may have had at the time you filed (if any) and the total amount (which might be, and often is, as low as $50 or $750 is divided up by the trustee appointed at your hearing and your creditors get paid on a pro rata (proportional) basis to the amount you owe them. If your assets add up to an amount that,
for example, only allows each creditor 3 1/2 cents for every dollar of debt you owed them, then that 3 1/2 cents is all he gets!
About three months after you have filed, you adjudged "bankrupt". and you can start over again to incur, pay bills and establish a new credit record. Be careful, however, about talking to your old credits at this time. They may offer to help you out by extending new credit, and manoeuvre you into
signing "reaffirmation" of your old debt! Ready anything you sign very closely, and don't agree to repay any debt that you have already discharged through your bankruptcy!
Lawyers for Complications
There are some people who should definitely hire a lawyer to help them through their bankruptcies, especially people who have assets like real estate that they want, somehow, to keep. Aside from real estate, if you have been accused by any creditor of fraud, you should also have a lawyer handle your case. If you decide you don't need a lawyer to handle your bankruptcy, you are still responsible for filling out all of the forms accurately and completely, and every bit as carefully as if a lawyer had done them. Leaving out a creditor's address from a schedule, or forgetting a loan you co-signed can bring lawsuits against you even after your bankruptcy. So be careful, and if you find the bankruptcy process is too complicated, do see a lawyer!
Keeping Your Assets Instead
If you've fallen behind in paying your bills, but you don't want to declare straight bankruptcy, you may want to clean up your financial mess instead through Chapter XIII of the Federal Bankruptcy Laws. Also known as the Wage Earner Plan, Chapter XIII differs from straight bankruptcy in two most important ways: you must pay off the entire amount of your debts (no 10 cents on a dollar here), and within a 3 year period. but the good part is you are not declared "bankrupt", so no one ever knows that you needed relief under any part of the Federal Bankruptcy Acts.
The major advantage of the Wage Earner Plan, besides not being recorded permanently on your credit record, is that you get to keep all your assets, exempt and non-exempt alike (assuming you still have any left!). This is quite important, if, for example, you have a good paid-up car, or expensive household furnishings or a boat or other valuable assets that you want to keep. Under Chapter XIII, you can get your current debts "stretched out" to three years, which may well result in lower total monthly payments than you are currently paying, and as long as you pay off your debts in accordance with the agreement files with the Court, month by month, no creditor will be able to sue you to try to seize any other of your assets, and force their public sale at disadvantageous prices.
Even if they have begin to sue you, once you file for relief under the Bankruptcy Act, either under Chapter XIII or under Chapter XI, straight voluntary bankruptcy, they can't touch you! They are immediately restricted to getting from you only what the referee or trustee will give them and that only after the court proceedings have been completed. Often, if the creditor threatens to sue you, the most effective thing you can do to stop him (besides paying the debt!) is to tell him frankly that, if he sues you, you have no other recourse than to declare bankruptcy. This will often make your creditor willing to negotiate the debt, and you may be able to satisfy him by paying the debt back, but over a longer period of time (with smaller monthly payments) than you originally contracted for. Creditors know well that if you file bankruptcy, the chance of their getting payment in full on their overdue account is very low, so it is in their interest to try to ease your credit burden at least for a while.
Make Yourself "Judgment-Proof"
If a creditor goes ahead and sues you, and gets a judgment against you, he can then get a court order directing the sheriff to seize your personal property, sell it and pay the creditor the amount of your debt. However, if you have no valuable assets, there is nothing for the sheriff to seize, and you are what is generally called "judgment proof", or in other words, can't be made to pay the debt. Because they know this is likely to happen, street-smart debtors often hide their possessions, or move them out-of-state, before the sheriff (or marshal) arrives. This is, of course, illegal. The creditor's next move is to
try to "garnishee your wages, which he does by getting a court order directing your employer to set aside part of your wages or salary every pay period and turn the amount over to him. However, he can only do this if he knows, or can find out, where you work. But even if your wages are garnisheed, there are limits on what a creditor can take! Laws vary from State to State. In some states wages cannot be garnisheed at all while in others only small amounts are exempt from garnishment.
If you have no job, and no visible assets, or you live in a State where your wages cannot be garnisheed, your creditors actually have very few ways of ever collecting on that judgment!
Harassment and Other Creditor Tools
Before your situation gets bad enough to need bankruptcy relief, and before your creditors actually sue you, they will try to make you pay up using informal techniques, rather than formal court orders, as this is far less expensive and time-consuming. First among these informal attempts may be turning their bills over to a collection agency which may then begin harassment, by calling you often and at odd hours by telephone, by trying to talk to your employer about your debts, and/or by threatening you with legal actions, etc. Many of these techniques that they use are illegal!
Yes, a creditor or agency can write you letters, call once a day seeking payment, try to bring legal action against you, but he is forbidden by law to harass you or invade your privacy, or use deceptive means to get you to pay your bills. He may not use foul and abusive language over the telephone, tell anyone beside you the reason for his phone call, insist on payment for a product or service that you claim to have a legitimate grievance about, nor issue false threats (such as saying that he is going to drag you into court to collect $35, when in fact his agency's policy is not to file suit on accounts of less than $100, because of the high legal costs involved). He may not inconvenience you (by calling you at work when you are not easily able to receive calls), or invade your privacy (telling your employer or your neighbor that he is trying to collect a debt from you).
There are books that provide detailed additional information on personal bankruptcy, and include sample letters with which you can try to arrange "stretch-outs" on your own with your creditors before bankruptcy is necessary. Some include sample bankruptcy forms filled out that you can use as a model. Since the accurate filing of all your debts and assets is so important, it's a good idea to follow their detailed instructions closely, with or without a lawyer, so that once you get your creditors off you back, they stay off!
I hope this article was of use to you and you are able to use this information wisely. Remember that any action on your part needs some deep thought and should not be rushed into lightly.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Monday, May 12, 2008
THE 10 BEST WAYS YOU CAN HIDE YOUR VALUABLES
Hiding your life's treasures under your pillow or mattress won't
safeguard them from a thief. However, this doesn't mean that a
safety deposit box at your bank is the only place for them.
In fact, the traditional approach of keeping one's valuables in
the home is an excellent idea, provided they are hidden in
really secret places.
The ten following ideas of where to locate a secret compartment
will offer maximum security. The first five, because they do
require some construction to the house, are better for people
who own their own homes. The second five ideas can be
effectively used by apartment dwellers or renters.
1. WALLS
- because walls are hollow, there can be hidden space behind
every wall in every room.
- the ideal spots are behind solid, fixed items, like coat racks,
or boards along closet walls supporting the clothes hanging pole.
- remove the attachment and hollow out a compartment.
- make sure you camouflage your handiwork well.
2. BEAMS
- ceiling and wall beams are popular architectural features in
homes.
- make one of the false beams (one which doesn't offer much
support) moveable, and hollow an opening out of its top or back
side.
3. BASEBOARDS
- one of the easiest-to-construct compartments is one behind a
baseboard. These strips of wood that run along your walls next
to the floor are so common, no thief would give them a second
glance.
- choose a short section of board, and carefully pry it away
from the wall with a crowbar.
- now hollow out a hole, and replace the baseboard.
4. PANELING
- wall paneling offers a method of opening large areas of dead
space
- your best choice is behind actual boards nailed to the wall
individually, not behind the four-by-eight sheets.
5. MIRRORS
- for a compartment offering little depth, but a large area of
space, you can construct a hollow right behind a full-length
mirror on your closet door.
- hollow out your compartment, then mount your mirror with
sliding tabs.
6. FURNITURE
- complicated secret spaces built into furniture have for
centuries been favorites.
- a simple approach is to remove the molding of a table or desk,
and make a hollow.
7. BOOKCASE
- a common source of easily overlooked space is found at the base
of a bookcase. The lowest shelf is usually raised above the
ground level several inches, and this space is enclosed with a
base-molding.
- if you can make the lowest shelf removable, you can attach your
valuables to the underside of this shelf by means of magnets.
8. LIGHT SWITCH
- an easy and highly deceptive secret space can be constructed
behind an electric outlet plate or light switch plate.
- make sure the electricity is shut off when you remove the plate
to construct your hollow.
9. HOUSEPLANTS
- secret compartments can be constructed in the base of your
plant pots: this will be especially effective if you have lots
of plants.
- seal your valuables well in plastic if they can be
water-damaged.
10. BURIED TREASURE
- finally, don't overlook the oldest hiding technique in history,
of burying your valuables underground.
- make sure you have an accurate map of where your treasure is
buried.
For maximum security in hiding your valuables in your own home,
make sure your craftsmanship is flawless. And don't reveal your
hiding place to anyone out of your own family.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
safeguard them from a thief. However, this doesn't mean that a
safety deposit box at your bank is the only place for them.
In fact, the traditional approach of keeping one's valuables in
the home is an excellent idea, provided they are hidden in
really secret places.
The ten following ideas of where to locate a secret compartment
will offer maximum security. The first five, because they do
require some construction to the house, are better for people
who own their own homes. The second five ideas can be
effectively used by apartment dwellers or renters.
1. WALLS
- because walls are hollow, there can be hidden space behind
every wall in every room.
- the ideal spots are behind solid, fixed items, like coat racks,
or boards along closet walls supporting the clothes hanging pole.
- remove the attachment and hollow out a compartment.
- make sure you camouflage your handiwork well.
2. BEAMS
- ceiling and wall beams are popular architectural features in
homes.
- make one of the false beams (one which doesn't offer much
support) moveable, and hollow an opening out of its top or back
side.
3. BASEBOARDS
- one of the easiest-to-construct compartments is one behind a
baseboard. These strips of wood that run along your walls next
to the floor are so common, no thief would give them a second
glance.
- choose a short section of board, and carefully pry it away
from the wall with a crowbar.
- now hollow out a hole, and replace the baseboard.
4. PANELING
- wall paneling offers a method of opening large areas of dead
space
- your best choice is behind actual boards nailed to the wall
individually, not behind the four-by-eight sheets.
5. MIRRORS
- for a compartment offering little depth, but a large area of
space, you can construct a hollow right behind a full-length
mirror on your closet door.
- hollow out your compartment, then mount your mirror with
sliding tabs.
6. FURNITURE
- complicated secret spaces built into furniture have for
centuries been favorites.
- a simple approach is to remove the molding of a table or desk,
and make a hollow.
7. BOOKCASE
- a common source of easily overlooked space is found at the base
of a bookcase. The lowest shelf is usually raised above the
ground level several inches, and this space is enclosed with a
base-molding.
- if you can make the lowest shelf removable, you can attach your
valuables to the underside of this shelf by means of magnets.
8. LIGHT SWITCH
- an easy and highly deceptive secret space can be constructed
behind an electric outlet plate or light switch plate.
- make sure the electricity is shut off when you remove the plate
to construct your hollow.
9. HOUSEPLANTS
- secret compartments can be constructed in the base of your
plant pots: this will be especially effective if you have lots
of plants.
- seal your valuables well in plastic if they can be
water-damaged.
10. BURIED TREASURE
- finally, don't overlook the oldest hiding technique in history,
of burying your valuables underground.
- make sure you have an accurate map of where your treasure is
buried.
For maximum security in hiding your valuables in your own home,
make sure your craftsmanship is flawless. And don't reveal your
hiding place to anyone out of your own family.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Friday, May 2, 2008
More Than One Way to Recycle Old Newspapers
You ever wonder why some people just seem to hold onto their old newspapers and never seem to throw any of them away? Why don't they just recycle them and be good citizens? Well maybe they are recycling them, but not in an overtly obvious way.
Here are 80 uses for that old newspaper:
1. use as umbrella when caught in rain
2. protect car seats from muddy or wet clothing
3. spread over outdoor benches to protect clothing
4. put into loose shoes to tighten
5. stuff in leather shoes to preserve shape
6. stuff in wet shoes overnight to dry and deorderize
7. crumple and place in suitcase for couple of weeks to remove
stale odors
8. use as mat when polishing shoes
9. stuff hats to keep their shape
10. stuff leather handbags in storage
11. wrap around candle bottoms so they'll fit holders tighter
12. store records between sheets
13. use as padding under a table cloth
14. cover store windows when remodeling
15. cover furniture when away on vacation
16. cover furniture when sanding or painting
17. spread on floor underneath rug when shampooing
18. dampen and spread over window-panes before painting
19. use to dry and polish window after washing
20. dampen a bit and use to clean typewriter keys
21. make a hat when painting
22. fold to make a sheath for a knife
23. place in closed windows to eliminate wind rattle
24. stuff under doors and in cracks to stop cold wind from
coming in
25. use as a bounce reflector when taking flash photographs or
use to reflect sunlight into shadow areas.
26. place a sheet in jar tops to tighten loose lids
27. make unusual lamp shades
28. make dress patterns
29. protect table when children are painting or gluing
30. use as wallpaper for a doll house
31. make paper chains
32. make paper dolls
33. make paper mache handicrafts
34. make kites
35. make party hats
36. occupy children by letting them color and paint the cartoons
37. make a child's play tent
38. use to raise height of child at table
39. use as a stepstool
40. cut out articles and make a scrap book on a specific
subject of interest to you.
41. emergency pot holder
42. use to remove heavy grease from oven
43. emergency dust pan
44. roll, secure in middle with elastic and fringe one end to
use to get rid of cobwebs
45. start fires
46. use as a fan to make fires burn better
47. sharpen pencils by rubbing the point on newspaper
48. muffle a loud alarm clock
49. muffle the sound of a typewriter by using as a mat
underneath
50. place under heavy objects on wooden tables
51. spread out between garden rows to discourage weeds
52. use to wrap green tomatoes to ripen
53. cover plants during a frost
54. use as a knee pad when gardening or scrubbing floors
55. roll and use as a funnel
56. roll and use as a torch
57. roll and use as a megaphone outdoors
58. use folded sheets as a fan to keep cool
59. use as sun shade at spectator events
60. use as a mat for wet darkroom photographs
61. shred and stuff in vases to help support fresh flowers
62. put under car wheels when stuck in snow, mud or sand
63. line storage boxes
64. line bottom of bird cage
65. line shelves
66. line waste baskets
67. line a pet's sleeping box
68. swat flies with rolled up sheets
69. use to wipe paint brushes
70. use as mat for wet, muddy boots
71. shred and use for packing breakables
72. wrap and store Christmas tree ornaments
73. wrap around ice cream to keep frozen
74. roll around baby bottle to insulate
75. use as a blotter
76. put inside coat for emergency warmth
77. place on top of snow with bird feed on it
78. place on windshield to prevent icing
79. make a litter bag for your car
80. crumple (no colors) and place in plastic containers to
eliminate odors
Recycling means more than just putting things in a bin and forgetting about them. It is amazing how much money you can save by just being a bit creative with the materials at your disposal (sorry about the pun......no I'm not!).
Mahalo
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Here are 80 uses for that old newspaper:
1. use as umbrella when caught in rain
2. protect car seats from muddy or wet clothing
3. spread over outdoor benches to protect clothing
4. put into loose shoes to tighten
5. stuff in leather shoes to preserve shape
6. stuff in wet shoes overnight to dry and deorderize
7. crumple and place in suitcase for couple of weeks to remove
stale odors
8. use as mat when polishing shoes
9. stuff hats to keep their shape
10. stuff leather handbags in storage
11. wrap around candle bottoms so they'll fit holders tighter
12. store records between sheets
13. use as padding under a table cloth
14. cover store windows when remodeling
15. cover furniture when away on vacation
16. cover furniture when sanding or painting
17. spread on floor underneath rug when shampooing
18. dampen and spread over window-panes before painting
19. use to dry and polish window after washing
20. dampen a bit and use to clean typewriter keys
21. make a hat when painting
22. fold to make a sheath for a knife
23. place in closed windows to eliminate wind rattle
24. stuff under doors and in cracks to stop cold wind from
coming in
25. use as a bounce reflector when taking flash photographs or
use to reflect sunlight into shadow areas.
26. place a sheet in jar tops to tighten loose lids
27. make unusual lamp shades
28. make dress patterns
29. protect table when children are painting or gluing
30. use as wallpaper for a doll house
31. make paper chains
32. make paper dolls
33. make paper mache handicrafts
34. make kites
35. make party hats
36. occupy children by letting them color and paint the cartoons
37. make a child's play tent
38. use to raise height of child at table
39. use as a stepstool
40. cut out articles and make a scrap book on a specific
subject of interest to you.
41. emergency pot holder
42. use to remove heavy grease from oven
43. emergency dust pan
44. roll, secure in middle with elastic and fringe one end to
use to get rid of cobwebs
45. start fires
46. use as a fan to make fires burn better
47. sharpen pencils by rubbing the point on newspaper
48. muffle a loud alarm clock
49. muffle the sound of a typewriter by using as a mat
underneath
50. place under heavy objects on wooden tables
51. spread out between garden rows to discourage weeds
52. use to wrap green tomatoes to ripen
53. cover plants during a frost
54. use as a knee pad when gardening or scrubbing floors
55. roll and use as a funnel
56. roll and use as a torch
57. roll and use as a megaphone outdoors
58. use folded sheets as a fan to keep cool
59. use as sun shade at spectator events
60. use as a mat for wet darkroom photographs
61. shred and stuff in vases to help support fresh flowers
62. put under car wheels when stuck in snow, mud or sand
63. line storage boxes
64. line bottom of bird cage
65. line shelves
66. line waste baskets
67. line a pet's sleeping box
68. swat flies with rolled up sheets
69. use to wipe paint brushes
70. use as mat for wet, muddy boots
71. shred and use for packing breakables
72. wrap and store Christmas tree ornaments
73. wrap around ice cream to keep frozen
74. roll around baby bottle to insulate
75. use as a blotter
76. put inside coat for emergency warmth
77. place on top of snow with bird feed on it
78. place on windshield to prevent icing
79. make a litter bag for your car
80. crumple (no colors) and place in plastic containers to
eliminate odors
Recycling means more than just putting things in a bin and forgetting about them. It is amazing how much money you can save by just being a bit creative with the materials at your disposal (sorry about the pun......no I'm not!).
Mahalo
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Saturday, April 26, 2008
64 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR CAR LAST LONGER
In down time we all have to look for ways to stretch our money and make ends meet. One of the biggest expenses people have is fixing their cars. Here are things to do to save money, time and energy so that your car lasts longer and runs at peak efficiency. Oh yea these things also have a big impact on your fuel mileage as well.
Every 2 weeks or 3,000 miles:
1. Check engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant.
Once a month or 1,000 miles:
2. Check tire pressure - with tire gauge.
3. Check transmission fluid.
4. Check brake fluid.
5. Wax car (to protect finish).
6. Check belts and hoses.
Every 3 months or 3,000 miles:
7. Change oil and oil filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
8. Lubricate chassis.
9. Check transmission fluid.
10. Check all drive belts (fan belts) frayed or cracked belts.
Every 6 months or 6,000 miles:
11. Change oil and filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
12. Inspect suspension.
13. Rotate tires.
Every 12 months or 12,000 miles:
14. Flush radiator, replace anti-freeze, check air conditioning
system.
15. Replace air filters.
16. Lubricate chassis.
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.
17. Replace spark plugs (30,000 miles average suggested for
unleaded gas) and PC valve.
18. Change automatic transmission fluid, filter and pan gasket.
19. Inspect brake linings.
Every 3 years or 30,000 miles:
20. Check and test ignition wires (replace if needed).
21. Test cooling system and heating hoses (replace if needed).
22. Check drive belts (replace if needed).
23. Replace fluid in differential and manual transmission.
Every 50,000 miles.
24. Check brake shoes (replace if needed)
25. If you have a major repair to do, it's wise to get at least 3 estimates, if possible, before you decide.
26. Read and follow your car owner's manual - it's your car's bible for making your car last longer.
27. Whether you are a man, woman, boy or girl, learn to do some routine maintenance on your car yourself. A multitude of books, videos, magazines and classes are available at your local
library that will teach you for free if you don't know. Learn how to check your own oil, transmission fluid, tire pressure and coolant, etc.
28. If you find a good mechanic who you can trust, stick with him even if his prices are a bit higher - all things being equal. You'll always save time, money and aggravation in the long run.
29. Don't race or gun your engine when you start it up. Accelerate slowly and smoothly when your engine is cold.
30. Avoid burning rubber - it places excessive wear on the transmission, rear end, not to mention your tires.
31. An international tire company estimated that 33% of all tires on the road are under-inflated (low air). Under-inflated tires wear out quicker and have a tendency to blow out easier.
32. A garaged car lasts longer. A car port is next best, and a car cover is a distant third.
33. Avoid jackrabbit starts and stops. Stop and accelerate gradually.
34. Avoid tailgating, tire squealing turns, flying over speed bumps, pot holes and revving your engine.
35. When possible, avoid driving your car during rush hour stop and go traffic periods.
36. Keep front-end aligned, for longer tire life and better gas mileage.
37. Make sure you get promised repairs in writing including how much it will cost.
38. Avoid car dealers except to have highly specialized repairs done that can't be done properly anywhere else.
39. It's hard to be overcharged when you get three estimates before you have the work done.
40. Beware: Cheapest is not always the best. Normally, the best mechanics with the best equipment and training cost more.
41. Often mechanics that charge extremely low prices have inferior
or out-dated equipment, little to no formal training or are under-insured.
42. Complex electrical problems are so involved that serious electrical work should be done in an "Auto Electric" shop. They have the equipment, tool and training to do the job more efficiently than the average mechanic.
43. If your car has "Cruise Control" use it. Using cruise control will save you 5% to 10% of a gallon of gas on long trips.
44. Avoid constantly pressing and releasing the accelerator when driving. This practice not only wastes fuel, but it puts excessive wear on the drive train of your car.
45. Don't ride your brake pedal, this wears out your brake linings pre-maturely, and wastes fuel.
46. Driving with your windows all the way down at higher speeds, will waste 10% more gallons of gasoline than driving with them closed.
47. Research by a major car manufacturer has revealed that neglect of proper routine maintenance is the number one reason for the enormous increase in car repairs being required.
48. Tires purchased at department stores such as Sears, Wal-Mart, K-Mart etc., can be an excellent value because many are made by leading tire manufacturers. For a list of what manufacturer makes which tires for what department store, write to: Tire Information Center, P.O. Box 677, Syosset, NY 11791
49. When purchasing or changing tires, make sure you have them spin balanced.
50. Avoid cleaning your windshield with a dry rag or towel. Always dampen with water or some other cleaning liquid. Dry towels grind and scratch your windshield hindering your visibility.
51. Avoid turning on the car air-conditioning while running at highway speeds as this tends to put an immediate heavy load on your compressor and clutch. This could cause excessive wear and tear on these components. Instead turn your air conditioner on at car speeds below 25 to 30 m.p.h. This helps to preserve your expensive compressor.
52. Try to avoid running your car with the tank low on gas. Keeping a low tank of gas increases the chance of dirt, water/moisture and rust forming in your fuel system. Keeping a full tank decreases the chance of dirt and other foreign matter forming in your fuel system.
53. Tires driven at 70 m.p.h. wear out almost twice as fast as cars that go 50 m.p.h.
54. A government study has confirmed, the top three causes of car breakdowns while on the road are: (a) running out of gas (b) tire troubles (c) cooling system problems (overheating)
55. The best as well as the easiest ways to find a good car repair shop is by recommendation or referrals from satisfied customers.
56. To work on a late model computer-controlled engines, make sure the shop you choose has the equipment to handle computer-electric service/repair. Sophisticated diagnostic equipment is a must.
57. To choose the right repair shop for you, it's wise to have a small or minor maintenance or repair job done first to see how the repair shop and mechanic treat you and your car.
58. Give detailed description of your car's problem when you take it in for repairs. The more you can describe what your car is doing or not doing (thumping, squealing, clacking sound, etc.) the faster and less it will cost for your mechanic to fix it.
59. When in doubt about the cost of a repair or a mechanic's honesty get a second opinion. This is one of the best ways to protect yourself from being ripped-off until you can find a permanent repair shop.
60. Regular oil changes are the most important thing you can do to protect your engine and make it last longer.
61. If you have a manual transmission, down shift to slow your car down instead of using your brakes. This will save wear and tear on your braking system.
62. Each time you have your engine oil checked, have your transmission fluid checked also.
63. Protect your car's interior and make it last longer - park your car in the shade or place a windshield guard or cover in the windshield.
64. If you spill something inside your car, clean it up immediately before it dries. Delaying even 30 minutes can sometimes leave a permanent stain or spot. NOTE: To better protect your car seats have them treated with scotchguard.
NOTE: According to current auto insurance statistics, the average U.S. car's useful life is 10 years or 100,000 miles. By following proper preventative maintenance you can often double your car's useful life, and spend less time visiting your local mechanic.
Here you go, save money and enjoy your life better by spending less time with a broken down auto.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Every 2 weeks or 3,000 miles:
1. Check engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant.
Once a month or 1,000 miles:
2. Check tire pressure - with tire gauge.
3. Check transmission fluid.
4. Check brake fluid.
5. Wax car (to protect finish).
6. Check belts and hoses.
Every 3 months or 3,000 miles:
7. Change oil and oil filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
8. Lubricate chassis.
9. Check transmission fluid.
10. Check all drive belts (fan belts) frayed or cracked belts.
Every 6 months or 6,000 miles:
11. Change oil and filter (every 6 months or 3,000 miles).
12. Inspect suspension.
13. Rotate tires.
Every 12 months or 12,000 miles:
14. Flush radiator, replace anti-freeze, check air conditioning
system.
15. Replace air filters.
16. Lubricate chassis.
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.
17. Replace spark plugs (30,000 miles average suggested for
unleaded gas) and PC valve.
18. Change automatic transmission fluid, filter and pan gasket.
19. Inspect brake linings.
Every 3 years or 30,000 miles:
20. Check and test ignition wires (replace if needed).
21. Test cooling system and heating hoses (replace if needed).
22. Check drive belts (replace if needed).
23. Replace fluid in differential and manual transmission.
Every 50,000 miles.
24. Check brake shoes (replace if needed)
25. If you have a major repair to do, it's wise to get at least 3 estimates, if possible, before you decide.
26. Read and follow your car owner's manual - it's your car's bible for making your car last longer.
27. Whether you are a man, woman, boy or girl, learn to do some routine maintenance on your car yourself. A multitude of books, videos, magazines and classes are available at your local
library that will teach you for free if you don't know. Learn how to check your own oil, transmission fluid, tire pressure and coolant, etc.
28. If you find a good mechanic who you can trust, stick with him even if his prices are a bit higher - all things being equal. You'll always save time, money and aggravation in the long run.
29. Don't race or gun your engine when you start it up. Accelerate slowly and smoothly when your engine is cold.
30. Avoid burning rubber - it places excessive wear on the transmission, rear end, not to mention your tires.
31. An international tire company estimated that 33% of all tires on the road are under-inflated (low air). Under-inflated tires wear out quicker and have a tendency to blow out easier.
32. A garaged car lasts longer. A car port is next best, and a car cover is a distant third.
33. Avoid jackrabbit starts and stops. Stop and accelerate gradually.
34. Avoid tailgating, tire squealing turns, flying over speed bumps, pot holes and revving your engine.
35. When possible, avoid driving your car during rush hour stop and go traffic periods.
36. Keep front-end aligned, for longer tire life and better gas mileage.
37. Make sure you get promised repairs in writing including how much it will cost.
38. Avoid car dealers except to have highly specialized repairs done that can't be done properly anywhere else.
39. It's hard to be overcharged when you get three estimates before you have the work done.
40. Beware: Cheapest is not always the best. Normally, the best mechanics with the best equipment and training cost more.
41. Often mechanics that charge extremely low prices have inferior
or out-dated equipment, little to no formal training or are under-insured.
42. Complex electrical problems are so involved that serious electrical work should be done in an "Auto Electric" shop. They have the equipment, tool and training to do the job more efficiently than the average mechanic.
43. If your car has "Cruise Control" use it. Using cruise control will save you 5% to 10% of a gallon of gas on long trips.
44. Avoid constantly pressing and releasing the accelerator when driving. This practice not only wastes fuel, but it puts excessive wear on the drive train of your car.
45. Don't ride your brake pedal, this wears out your brake linings pre-maturely, and wastes fuel.
46. Driving with your windows all the way down at higher speeds, will waste 10% more gallons of gasoline than driving with them closed.
47. Research by a major car manufacturer has revealed that neglect of proper routine maintenance is the number one reason for the enormous increase in car repairs being required.
48. Tires purchased at department stores such as Sears, Wal-Mart, K-Mart etc., can be an excellent value because many are made by leading tire manufacturers. For a list of what manufacturer makes which tires for what department store, write to: Tire Information Center, P.O. Box 677, Syosset, NY 11791
49. When purchasing or changing tires, make sure you have them spin balanced.
50. Avoid cleaning your windshield with a dry rag or towel. Always dampen with water or some other cleaning liquid. Dry towels grind and scratch your windshield hindering your visibility.
51. Avoid turning on the car air-conditioning while running at highway speeds as this tends to put an immediate heavy load on your compressor and clutch. This could cause excessive wear and tear on these components. Instead turn your air conditioner on at car speeds below 25 to 30 m.p.h. This helps to preserve your expensive compressor.
52. Try to avoid running your car with the tank low on gas. Keeping a low tank of gas increases the chance of dirt, water/moisture and rust forming in your fuel system. Keeping a full tank decreases the chance of dirt and other foreign matter forming in your fuel system.
53. Tires driven at 70 m.p.h. wear out almost twice as fast as cars that go 50 m.p.h.
54. A government study has confirmed, the top three causes of car breakdowns while on the road are: (a) running out of gas (b) tire troubles (c) cooling system problems (overheating)
55. The best as well as the easiest ways to find a good car repair shop is by recommendation or referrals from satisfied customers.
56. To work on a late model computer-controlled engines, make sure the shop you choose has the equipment to handle computer-electric service/repair. Sophisticated diagnostic equipment is a must.
57. To choose the right repair shop for you, it's wise to have a small or minor maintenance or repair job done first to see how the repair shop and mechanic treat you and your car.
58. Give detailed description of your car's problem when you take it in for repairs. The more you can describe what your car is doing or not doing (thumping, squealing, clacking sound, etc.) the faster and less it will cost for your mechanic to fix it.
59. When in doubt about the cost of a repair or a mechanic's honesty get a second opinion. This is one of the best ways to protect yourself from being ripped-off until you can find a permanent repair shop.
60. Regular oil changes are the most important thing you can do to protect your engine and make it last longer.
61. If you have a manual transmission, down shift to slow your car down instead of using your brakes. This will save wear and tear on your braking system.
62. Each time you have your engine oil checked, have your transmission fluid checked also.
63. Protect your car's interior and make it last longer - park your car in the shade or place a windshield guard or cover in the windshield.
64. If you spill something inside your car, clean it up immediately before it dries. Delaying even 30 minutes can sometimes leave a permanent stain or spot. NOTE: To better protect your car seats have them treated with scotchguard.
NOTE: According to current auto insurance statistics, the average U.S. car's useful life is 10 years or 100,000 miles. By following proper preventative maintenance you can often double your car's useful life, and spend less time visiting your local mechanic.
Here you go, save money and enjoy your life better by spending less time with a broken down auto.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
How To Properly Use Debt Reduction Consolidation Services
Whether it be for education, for our first house, or for repairs, we all incur a heavy debt load from loans at some point in our lives. This debt needs to be repaid and that’s when we collect information on the best possible deal, which will ultimately burden us the least.
Debt reduction services provide detailed counseling on debt management and credit education. These services aim at teaching people how to attain and maintain a debt free life. This is done by suggesting which debt programs to go for or when and what is the smartest way to take a loan and what repayment structure a given consumer should follow.
Bear in mind that people providing this help are not the sales department; they are financial professionals. Their debt reduction techniques are much more aggressive than any other and are completely different than debt consolidation strategies.
Bankruptcy chapter 7 and debt settlement are two major ways to eliminate debts. This ensures debt reduction in overall amount as well as quick repayment. In bankruptcy, you plead to the judge to supervise the liquidation of your left over assets to repay creditors.
Most of the times, the bankrupt party is left with nothing but exempt property, which leaves nothing for creditors to recover. Hence, the amount of payments, the date, and time is up to the judge. He will also dispense of the bankrupt party's belongings.
However, it is important to note that chapter seven is only possible under strict conditions. There is a good chance you may be ineligible. If you are, you should consider debt settlement.
Debt settlement on the other hand has been around for a while. The mission is to consolidate the debt amount altogether by 40% or more, reducing the principle amount by 40%, which means you pay only 60%. Consolidation services can save you up to 30%-45% of what you owe, but it can’t exceed the three-year limit.
Make it a top priority to eradicate your unsecured debt as well, when you opt for consumer credit counseling. Get rid of your debt today by signing with the right debt company.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Debt reduction services provide detailed counseling on debt management and credit education. These services aim at teaching people how to attain and maintain a debt free life. This is done by suggesting which debt programs to go for or when and what is the smartest way to take a loan and what repayment structure a given consumer should follow.
Bear in mind that people providing this help are not the sales department; they are financial professionals. Their debt reduction techniques are much more aggressive than any other and are completely different than debt consolidation strategies.
Bankruptcy chapter 7 and debt settlement are two major ways to eliminate debts. This ensures debt reduction in overall amount as well as quick repayment. In bankruptcy, you plead to the judge to supervise the liquidation of your left over assets to repay creditors.
Most of the times, the bankrupt party is left with nothing but exempt property, which leaves nothing for creditors to recover. Hence, the amount of payments, the date, and time is up to the judge. He will also dispense of the bankrupt party's belongings.
However, it is important to note that chapter seven is only possible under strict conditions. There is a good chance you may be ineligible. If you are, you should consider debt settlement.
Debt settlement on the other hand has been around for a while. The mission is to consolidate the debt amount altogether by 40% or more, reducing the principle amount by 40%, which means you pay only 60%. Consolidation services can save you up to 30%-45% of what you owe, but it can’t exceed the three-year limit.
Make it a top priority to eradicate your unsecured debt as well, when you opt for consumer credit counseling. Get rid of your debt today by signing with the right debt company.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
The How To's of Better Budgeting
To live the good life on limited resources, one must learn to budget wisely. A budget is nothing more than basically a monetary plan, outlining your financial goals. Having a budget, you can well establish and regulate funds, set and achieve your financial objectives, and make advance decisions as to how you want your finances to function well for you.
The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs. Simply put, budgeting means estimating monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills, and figuring out what you need so you don't have to worry about money.
The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your “spending patterns”, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting. Use a computer program (there are a lot of good Open Source Programs you can find using your favorite search engine) or a paper ledger (a notebook would work as well) to track your spending for a month or two to discover these patterns.
For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income.
Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.
The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor. Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.
Here are tips on how to make a budget that you can live with:
1. Adopt a good sense of money management. Your attitude is essential in anything you do. Reach an agreement with yourself, and make intelligent compromises and know the importance of reducing unnecessary expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice but will be good for you in the future.
2. Plan out your financial situation. Make a list of your income to one side and your fixed expenses on the other side. Then subtract out a percentage of the difference and make that your monthly savings for emergency purposes. The rest is what you can use for "luxury items".
3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list. Do you really need to buy those DVD's, CD's or video games? Couldn't you get them from the library for free?
4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, or being the life of the party, learn to enjoy simpler pleasures.
Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is can be used easily by everyone. Consider making one, sticking to it, and benefit from eh fruits of your savings.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs. Simply put, budgeting means estimating monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills, and figuring out what you need so you don't have to worry about money.
The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your “spending patterns”, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting. Use a computer program (there are a lot of good Open Source Programs you can find using your favorite search engine) or a paper ledger (a notebook would work as well) to track your spending for a month or two to discover these patterns.
For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income.
Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.
The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor. Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.
Here are tips on how to make a budget that you can live with:
1. Adopt a good sense of money management. Your attitude is essential in anything you do. Reach an agreement with yourself, and make intelligent compromises and know the importance of reducing unnecessary expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice but will be good for you in the future.
2. Plan out your financial situation. Make a list of your income to one side and your fixed expenses on the other side. Then subtract out a percentage of the difference and make that your monthly savings for emergency purposes. The rest is what you can use for "luxury items".
3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list. Do you really need to buy those DVD's, CD's or video games? Couldn't you get them from the library for free?
4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, or being the life of the party, learn to enjoy simpler pleasures.
Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is can be used easily by everyone. Consider making one, sticking to it, and benefit from eh fruits of your savings.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?
Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”.
For more information:
http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html
******************************************************************
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