How to Re-Imagine Your Disposable Income During a Recession
The biggest threat to your finances during a recession is a reduction or loss of income. Seemingly disposable income now may be a lifeline to keep you from eviction, foreclosure, or repossession. So if you’re doing okay right now, it’s a good time to fortify your financial foundation. If anything in your financial picture changes,…
Read MoreWhat Is a Recession and How Do I Prepare for One?
The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) is the organization that decides if the US is in a recession. They define a recession as “a significant decline in economic activity that is spread across the economy and lasts more than a few months.” So, what the heck does this mean? In a recession, companies are…
Read More5 Tips to Stay Out of Debt on Black Friday
Your No-Debt Black Friday Survival Guide As a veteran, I often get eye rolls from my kids when I use military analogies to describe events. But as a financial coach, I can’t help but see Black Friday as an epic battle. You’re knee-deep in the trenches of holiday shopping goals and you’re experiencing the rapid…
Read MoreHow Much Should I Save Monthly if I’m in Debt?
Saving money is always a priority, but the amount you save depends on your other goals, such as paying off debt. A rule of thumb is to save at least $1,000 to cover emergency expenses. Consider labeling your emergency account, “Debt-Proof Insurance.” The title is a reminder that the account exists to keep you out…
Read MoreAll the Resources You Should Know About for Parenting During COVID-19
The COVID-19 quarantine turned millions of people into instant home-school parents with little time to prepare. Luckily, many organizations recognize the strain this has put on parents’ finances. There are lots of resources parents can use to ease this financial burden: Free or Reduced Cost Internet Resources Here are some options that you should check…
Read MoreGame Plan for Starting a Small Business
When I first became a financial planner, my specialty was small business owners. I also headed my local Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business committee. Over the years, I received a lot of excellent business advice. Below are the top five most impactful business tips I’ve heard: Get your personal financial house in order If you…
Read MoreHow to Make a Budget for Your Family During COVID-19
“How can you budget your money when you have the same amount coming in as you did before, but now you have everyone at home using more electricity, gas, and water and eating more food?” Submitted by Kelly B. A budget is nothing more than deciding how you will spend money before you get it.…
Read MoreHow do I know what is a “need” and what is a “want”?
Just seeing the word “budget” can give some people a headache. Instead of reaching for a bottle of aspirin, I suggest changing the way you think of a budget. A budget is a tool that helps you use money so that you reach your goals. You control what you spend money on and how much…
Read MoreIf I receive unemployment insurance, are my benefits taxable?
Unemployment benefits are taxable income. They are subject to federal and state taxes (if your state taxes income). You can choose to withhold 10% in federal taxes from your benefits by completing a W-4V and giving the form to your unemployment office. Some states automatically withhold taxes; some states do not. Go to your state’s…
Read MoreShould I defer payments on my bills?
The pros and cons of deferring payments during the COVID-19 crisis As you look for help to make ends meet, you may be looking at the increasing amount of creditors offering the ability to delay payments. It’s great companies are taking quick action to help with the financial impact of COVID-19. But proceed with caution…
Read More