Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Decoding Bargain Holiday Packages

Ah January, that long month after a festive holiday season that turns to the blahs, especially here in the northern climes with the subzero temperatures and blowing snow. So to keep ourselves sane and to get through the workday we turn to planning vacations. However in this economic clime one has to budget smartly, so a lot of people turn to the old standby “Package Holidays” to save money.

Package holidays are simply holidays where the travel operator offers the whole trip, including the flights, hotels and in some cases the transport when you arrive at your destination. Bearing this in mind, a lot of the tips for getting cheap flights will be the same as they are for package holidays. Having said this, there are some specific ways of bagging a package holiday bargain.

The reason that many tour operators offer such cheap deals for packages is because they buy a certain number of flights and hotel rooms which they then try and sell throughout the year. By definition, they will have more possible holidays during peak season, but then there will also be greater demand meaning that the bargains may not be what you would hope.

Last minute package holidays are readily available if you are not fussy about destination and can wait until the very last minute. If you simply want somewhere hot, tomorrow, you will almost certainly bag a bargain; if you want a specific type of destination or resort then you may find that you are not able to get that last minute deal.

Optional extras are big business for package tour operators and they will often make most of their profit from these extras such as insurance, excursions and transport at your destination. Whilst these will often be available elsewhere cheaper, you may find that purchasing these from your package holiday operator will allow you to negotiate a discount on your holiday. You may even be able to get a ‘free’ extra if you agree to book on the spot.

Another thing to bear in mind is that accommodation is not the expensive part of the package and you will sometimes find that a package holiday to a particular destination will end up as a cheaper alternative to trying to book flights on their own. Last minute package deals are often so cheap that you can take the point of view that even if you hate the accommodation you can always phone around for your chosen hotel. On a similar note, the best bargains are often those that are classified as ‘allocation on arrival’. This simply means that you will be allocated accommodation when you arrive.

Some operators offer a halfway option where you will be told the resort, the type of hotel or the grade but the final selection will be done when you arrive.

Sure these might sound a bit cheesy, but if you want to go to an unfamiliar destination, this could be your best option to travel. Once there, you can freelance as you wish.

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.

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Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Does The IRS Owe You Money?

Unclaimed IRS refunds:



Within the past few years, the IRS had over 88,000 income tax refund checks totaling more $75 million returned undeliverable. That is an average of more than $750 per return went undelivereable due to unreported changes of name or address or due to a marriage, death or divorce. Could one of those undeliveed income tax refund checks belong to you?

Actually that is nothing, small potatoes, additionly, each year approximately $450 million dollars in IRS refund checks are delivered but are uncashed. That totals over one half a billion dollars annually in unclaimed Internal Revenue Service (IRS) funds. Now if you think the IRS owes you money, you can call their toll-free assistance line at 1-800-829-1040 or visit their web site at http://www.irs.gov/. However, if you have had dealings with the IRS before, you know navigating that bureaucracy can be somewhat daunting.



According to the Internal Revenue Service, there is more than $2 billion in unclaimed refunds awaiting over 1.7 million people who failed to file an income tax return in the past few years. Unfortunately there is a statue of limitation on collecting late filed IRS refund checks. In order to collect the money, a return must be filed with the IRS office no later than three years following the year in which the return was due to have been filed. The IRS estimates that about half of those who could claim refunds would receive on average of $600 or more. Some individuals may have had taxes withheld from their wages, but had too little income to require filing a tax return.



In cases where a return was not filed, the law provides most taxpayers with a three-year window of opportunity for claiming a refund. If no return is filed to claim the refund within three years, the money becomes property of the U.S. Treasury. For 2006 returns, the window closed on April 15, 2010. The law requires that these returns be properly addressed, postmarked and mailed by that date. There is no penalty assessed by the IRS for filing a late return qualifying for a refund.



Accessing database and information that contain the 100,000's of unclaimed or undeliverable IRS refunds from the past 3 years is something you can do yourself if you have the time and knowledge. If you do not, we can aid you with resources that offer access to these refunds for many localized regions to assist you.


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.


======================================================

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Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Giving and Spreading Joy Without Breaking The Bank.

Yes the Holiday Season is upon us and everyone is in good cheer and merriment abounds. Howeevr with the economy in the dumps, the question is if there is a way to give quality and meaningful gifts without breaking the bank? Yes, to see how, read on....

Everyday we are assaulted by Specials and commercial messages that tell us we need to spend, spend, spend to make our loved ones love us back. Materialism is the message of the advertisers and if they are to be believed (NOT!) that is the meaning of the season.

Ah but intelligent people know better, but still we are ingrained that the season does require the exchanging or giving of gifts, no matter which Holiday you are celebrating (Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus). And of course one must give in order to receive.

Ah but what do good budget conscience people do when money is tight or not in abundance? Well that is what thrift shops and flea markets are for. Yes if you are smart and discerning you can find wonderful gifts at places like the goodwill, Salvation Army and other similar stores.

Most of these stores I have gone through have aisles and aisles of toys, electronics, books, and knick knacks to rival any boutique one finds in the malls. Depending upon the area you live, there are usually dozens of sports related memorabilia from Jerseys, hats all the way to clocks and videos of one's favorite teams.

Baby clothes are another item that is in abundance and one can find a wonderful selection, just take care and a god look as sometimes things get by with nasty stains. But usually those items are rejected at the inspection phase before making it out to the sales floor.

It is amazing how many rare books I have come across in my ventures. One of my favorites is a History of World War I published in 1919, a year after the war was over. It included commentary from General Pershing, and a few other dignitaries of the day. Of course the language used to describe the vanquished nations was a bit harsh, but it reflected the feelings of the age. It always fascinates me to read old books and I get a good laugh at the peculiarities of the language and thoughts of the times (I am sure someone in the future is going to be repeating this about the foolishness of our beliefs and political/editorial writings as well).

Other great items I have found include old videos, cassettes, LP's and CD's that have enhanced my collections. If you have a person on your list that is into these it is amazing the treasure store of classic media that awaits. Of course you might have to go to the electronics section and pick up a VCR, Record Player or Cassette tape player to go along, but it will be worth it to see the joy in their faces of a memory long forgotten revealed.

Camera buffs will also be amazed at what ends up in these stores. I have a nice collection of old cameras and other photography equipment that still work (but finding film for a Kodak Brownie is difficult) and are basically collectors items.

Computer equipment is another matter, and usually the monitors and boxes are obsolete and unless someone is a die hard collector, or a nostalgic gamer, they are pretty much not worth anything. However one can still get a decent smaller printer for those occasional letters etc. Heck I have an older Okidata Laser printer that I picked up for $10 that still works beautifully.

One thing to be wary of, if not avoided) is Women's Clothing. The speed at which women's fashions go out of style is mind boggling, and unless you find a rare coat or hat that your loved one has been pining for and can't be found anymore, then I would avoid it like the plague.

All in all Holiday Shopping doesn't have to break one's budget if done right and one shop's smart. One can save money without being a “Scrooge” and still be a hero on the appointed day of gift giving. Oh and while you're at it you just might find something special for yourself as a reward for your intelligence and generosity.

So get out there and remember, it's not what you buy, but how you buy it that counts.

We're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.

Mahalo



======================================================

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Thursday, December 3, 2009

Finding Your Missing Funds and long-lost Money

Are you owed money by the state or any other financial institution? If you are not sure, how does one go about finding out if they are? How does one make a claim? Read on for more information and a special offer for a manual that will show you how to recover your lost property.



According to one state, it's inhabitants are owed more than $110 million by the state treasury's unclaimed property department. Unclaimed finances can be easily obtained from the state holding it. The only way to know if you are beholden money is to learn the proper ways to perform a thorough search and explore all possible claims.



Unclaimed property (sometimes referred to as abandoned) refers to accounts in financial institutions and companies that have had no activity generated or contact with the owner for one year or a longer period. Common forms of unclaimed property include savings or checking accounts, stocks, uncashed dividends or payroll checks, refunds, traveler's checks, trust distributions, unredeemed money orders or gift certificates (in some states), insurance payments or refunds and life insurance policies, annuities, certificates of deposit, customer over payments, utility security deposits, mineral royalty payments, and contents of safe deposit boxes.





When it comes to returning unclaimed estates to its inhabitants, the state doesn't do such a great job of reuniting these funds with their rightful owners. Many states and federal unclaimed property divisions are drastically understaffed. This restricts their abilities to regularly update there records and proactively pursue property owners. Some states are now beginning to pass laws by which assets left unclaimed after a specific number of years, that is in their custody, will not longer be claimable by the owner. It will become the property of the State. Previously there was no statute of limitation on unclaimed property. In the majority of the states that statute still stands, however, it is quickly changing. The rules concerning tangible belongings left in an abandoned Safe Deposit Box is also changing. Now, in most States, it is to be auctioned off and the proceeds credited in the owner's name. The proceeds amount may not be listed in the database until after the auction. Some states do pay interest on the money if the property was originally an interest bearing instrument. You must check with your individual state and find out what their procedures are.



Isn't it time you checked to see if you have unclaimed money due you? You can do it yourself, if you know how.



For those that can't or don't want to take on the task themselves, there are companies that will do the searching for you. Sometimes called heir finders or asset locators, the firms help reunite owners with their property for a fee.



Be sure you are dealing with a reputable company. One way to tell is legitimate companies will never ask for payment before the property is returned to the rightful owner and whatever they charge is generally a percentage of the money to be returned, not a flat fee. Also, if the company contacted you, before requesting you sign anything, they will be able to identify the property and verify that it's yours.



I am sure as you read you have some question regarding the validity of the amount of unclaimed money and property available; Could some of this be yours? Most likely it is. Are you interested in finding out for sure?


Property is considered abandoned if there has been no activity on it for more than three years. There are nearly half a trillion dollars in undeclared estates and lost money waiting for you in your state war chest There is a opportunity that some of it belongs to you. You and many many others have an interest in what happens to all of this lost money. Are you going to receive your inheritance or be a loser and refuse to do something with the multitude of the services that your state offers? Are you going to claim your lost money?


Look below for a special deal on a manual that will show you how to claim your money, and start a business to help others do the same.

Come back next time for more tricks, tips 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.


======================================================

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Wednesday, November 11, 2009

How to Spot Gambling Scams

Gambling can be fun if done right and in moderation. The problem is some people don't know how to moderate themselves and lose their perspective on the situation. This leaves them open to all kinds of gambling scams.

With the advent of technological advancements, people can find ways on how to do things differently. The problem is that some of these things do more harm than good.

One of the greatest problems brought about by technology these days are the scams. This is because with high-tech gadgets, most scammers can easily identify the information that they need so as to get hold of a person's bank account, credit card, etc.

One great example of scams is those that are used in gambling. These fraudulent activities are so prevalent in gambling, especially online-gambling because a lot of people want to earn money. They are so hooked up with earning money that they tend to neglect areas that need careful analysis.

People who fall easily as prey are those who are vulnerable to ads that states about easy money, sure win, or higher chances of winning.

However, there are still ways to deal with these problems. The bottom line is to identify which gambling activity is fraudulent or not.


Here's how:

1. People should learn to assess things whenever somebody is pushy about a certain thing. Chances are, if they are so pushy, they want to get what they want whatever the case may be. It's like giving their victim a now or never ultimatum. If a certain gambling activity claims it can't wait until the next day, chances are, that activity is a scam.

2. Surveys show that when a certain gambling activity is offering lots of money in a short span of time for just a small fee, there is a higher probability that it is a scam. The bottom line is that, if it looks and sounds too good to be true, chances are it is a scam.

3. If certain rules and regulations are too vague to be understood, chances are it may be a scam. This is because scammers will usually not lay down all the facts. They have hidden agendas or costs that will reap more money once they get their victim on the hook.

4. A gambling deal that would offer something for nothing is definitely a scam. In most cases, people get something without giving in return at first. What's more, they even give people a money-back guarantee, which may sound so enticing but all the more it is just like that, an enticement. So, for people who fall to these kinds of situations, it would be better to be wary next time around. As they say, a person will never know what a scam is unless he knows how to spot one.


Remember this is your money and your life. Gambling can be fun in a controlled and safe environment. Just be careful not to get too into it that you lose your perspective, your money and your life.


Comeback next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in living the Champagne life on a Beer budget. We're all inthis together, and I'm pulling for ya.

Mahalo.

======================================================

It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!



Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health?



Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?



"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.



Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:



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================================================================

Friday, October 23, 2009

Gambling What is The Social Cost?

Luck, this is not just a word but a belief for most people. These people come from different walks of life and in this world of material struggle, who would not be lured by the glitter of money? Indeed, people are now ready to grab whatever chance that is being served to them. This pushes them to gamble.

Gambling is popular all over the world. It comes in various ways and means. To mention one of the most popular forms, it is lottery. For some people, this is the remedy but the hidden fact is that it is a big blow to the society especially to those who are poor and disadvantaged.

According to recent studies, majority of those who try their luck and gamble are people from the poverty line. Of course, the reason is too obvious. With the current social problems that deprive them from having the means to improve their way of living, they resort to what is the easiest for them.

This action leads to worse outcomes. Poor as they are, they are bound to have more debts and the more they yearn to try their luck, the more these debts would kill their lives gradually.

Another thing is that gambling becomes a vice. How does it happen? As shown by statistics in the United States, when these poor and less educated people win even just a mere amount of prizes, they would crave for more and eventually gamble more.

When this happens, all the other social issues like the role of these gamblers in their families would definitely be bruised. When the family is affected, the whole society follows.

There are numerous books and writings such that of Boydon Cole and Sidney Margolius, “When You Gamble--You Risk More Than Your Money” it is stated here how a family is being torn by gambling as an addiction. Gambling once it becomes an addiction would never lead you to goodness. It could be as worst as breaking your family, committing a crime or ending up bankrupt.

As gambling diminishes your social worth as a person, as a citizen, the whole society is greatly affected.


Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for ya.

Mahalo.

======================================================

It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!



Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health?



Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?



"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.



Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:



http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html





===============================================================

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

OFFLINE GAMBLING- The real Scam Of The Century

Ah the lure of easy money, the thrill of the game, the adrenaline rush of the hunt. Yes all these are the thrills of gambling, legally or illegally whether offline or online. The consequences of out of control illegal gambling are well known and drastic, but what of the consequences when legal gambling gets out of control?

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.

One needs to be honest with oneself and stop this terrible disease from ruining your life and that of your family and friends before it is too late.

Come back next week 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 ya.

Mahalo.

======================================================
It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!

Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health?

Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?

"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.

Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:

http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html


================================================================