Real financial wellness tips given by real people

How does Groupon work: ways to save

How does Groupon work, and how can you use it to get the best savings on things you want or need? Here are some tips for ways to make the most of this popular money-saving platform. How does Groupon work? Groupon is a digital marketplace that helps local businesses bring in new customers through special …

All about the 2024 Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is designed to benefit low to moderate-income workers. And, honestly, it can be a saving grace. Even though it takes a little extra work and effort, IT IS WORTH IT. You could get thousands more on your refund or get a major tax break—cha-ching.  It was created back in …

The basics of the 2024 tax season

It might seem like you just finished doing your 2023 taxes, but guess what? The 2024 tax season is here! You may have already started pulling together everything you need—all the records of your income and other taxable events from 2023. If you haven’t, now is the perfect time to start. Either way, here’s what …

Tax brackets: how they work

Tax brackets are no fun because they are a scale that represents how much of our hard-earned money the government is going to take from our paycheck. On top of that, they’re kind of hard to understand on the surface. But with a good explanation, they’re not all that confusing. Here’s how they work. Tax …

Best ways to save money in college

College is a transformative period in one’s life, but it often comes with financial challenges. Balancing tuition, living expenses, and personal costs can be daunting, making it crucial to adopt effective money-saving strategies. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways for college students to save money without compromising their academic and personal …

Should you refinance a car loan?

Refinancing a car loan can be a strategic financial move that offers the potential for cost savings and improved loan terms. However, whether or not to refinance depends on various factors and individual circumstances. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of refinancing a car loan to help you make an informed decision. …

How much money do I need to retire?

Retirement planning is an important part of financial well-being, requiring careful consideration and strategic decision-making. One of the most common questions people ask is, “How much money do I need to retire?” The answer is complex and varies based on several things, including lifestyle, expenses, and retirement goals. Here’s how to figure out how much …

Best credit cards for college students

College life often marks the beginning of financial independence for students, and a responsible approach to credit can set the stage for a strong financial future. Obtaining a credit card as a student is sometimes a little challenging—especially if you’re under 21. That’s mostly because students usually don’t have an income or credit history. If …

Five best credit cards for families

Choosing the right credit card is a big decision for families. It can impact everything from day-to-day expenses to long-term financial goals. The best credit cards for families have rewards, benefits, and features that fit their needs. These types of cards generally require a credit score of 690 or higher. Often other factors are considered …

Car maintenance you can do yourself to save money

Owning a car comes with quite a few expenses, but there are ways to cut costs without risk of blowing a gasket or getting stuck on the side of the road.One way is doing some of the simpler maintenance tasks yourself. This can save you money, keep your car in good running condition, and avoid …

Is a flexible spending account worth it?

A Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is a financial tool offered by many employers that allows employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover eligible healthcare expenses. While FSAs offer tax advantages, the decision to participate depends on individual circumstances and healthcare needs. In this article, we’ll explore the features of FSAs, their benefits, and considerations …

2024 side hustle tax guide

Side hustles are a popular way to earn extra income, and more Americans are taking advantage of them than ever. But do you have to pay taxes on this side gig income? Yes, in many cases you do. Here’s what you need to know. Types of side hustles There are all sorts of different side …