Getting a job offer is an exciting time, but you need to consider the full financial impact of a new position. Before You Accept a New Job Get over your fear of negotiating. Negotiating an employment offer is probably one of the highest paying activities you’re likely to ever to take part in. Consider that just a few minutes could result in thousands of dollars in additional income for many years to come.When was … Read More
Since the financial crisis in 2008, banks have really tightened their lending standards. It’s more difficult to borrow money — even for those with strong credit histories. But what do you do if you or someone close to you needs a loan? Many people are turning to friends and family to borrow funds. The Virginia Society of CPAs has put together the following tips to to take to prevent a loan from damaging a … Read More
If you’re like many people, you might spend time worrying about your finances: bills, debt, taxes, income, retirement, the list goes on. The problem is, worrying doesn’t fix the situation. It may motivate you to do something, but often it just adds to mental chaos or causes you to act out of fear, which can lead to poor decisions. It’s just a lousy place to be. So, how can you spend less time worrying … Read More
Here are a few of my favorite personal finance posts from around the web for the week ending March, 8, 2013. Okay, one goes back two weeks, but I thought you should still see it… Stock Market Highs and Your 401(k) from TheChicagoFinancialPlanner.com Shrink Your College Costs from GerriDetweiler.com How to Avoid Red Flag Home Office Deductions from DimeSpring.com Sandwich Generation Turns to Technology to Help Take Care of Aging Parents from TheWesterlySun.com Value Stocks and Dividends … Read More
I’m sure you’ve heard the financial advice, “Pay yourself first.” Many experts consider this to be one of the most important financial tips around. But let’s consider what this financial advice really means. It refers to the practice of saving some of your income before you pay any of your lifestyle bills. Ideally, the money would be taken out of your paycheck before you ever see it and deposited into either a savings or … Read More
Maybe you’ve wanted to change banks for some time now, or perhaps you’re in the process of making the switch. Many consumers feel that banks have become less hospitable in recent years, so you’re not alone if you feel it’s time to move on. Regardless of why you want to change banks, follow these tips to make a smooth transition: 1. Finding a new bank. It only makes sense to find a new bank … Read More
I hope you have had a good start to 2013! You may have noticed I haven’t made a post in the last few months. One reason I’ve been absent is my resistance to being another source of “New Year’s Resolution Noise.” Starting in early December and continuing through January, I was bombarded with email messages pushing me on how to “reinvent myself in 2013” or “start the new year with a new you,” or … Read More
Although you may not realize it, you have an emotional relationship with your finances. Think about it: when you get paid or spend money, how do you feel? An important aspect of living a secure, abundant financial life is having a thoughtful relationship with your money. Here are some tips you can use to start changing your relationship with money and live with intention: Adopt a “Start Today” attitude. Say to yourself, “Starting today, … Read More
I understand that staying up to date on your finances can be a challenge. Fortunately, though, you have access to your own personal credit report free of charge. This can be a great way to monitor and protect your financial identity while saving you money over the long run. Yet I still find many people aren’t doing it. Read on to learn the basics on why and how you should take advantage of this … Read More
Welcome to Speak of Money’s Blog Roundup for the week ending October 19, 2012. Posts this week cover a range of topics: from investment risk, to evaluating financial decisions, identity theft protection, and taxes. Q & A on 2013 Tax Changes from KeenerFinancial.com How and Why to Assess Your Economic Risk Tolerance from ObliviousInvestor.com (also check out his related post from the prior week: Risk Tolerance: Assessed Through Real World Experience) Should I Pay … Read More