AMP UP $ WITH APPS
Now I would like to know how many of you woman use apps to balance the checkbook, house accounts, finances, and personal information?
As I look at the apps in my phone I see there is so many how do you know which works the best. The thought of downloading app after app until I find one that works for me is overwhelming.
There is:
- Quick Book
- Acorn
- Mint
- Yahoo Finance
- Mobill Budget Planner
- Financial Calculator
- Finance
- Money Manager Expense and Budget
- Financial Times
- Expense Manager
- Easy Home Finan
- Prism Bills and Personal Fiance
- AndorMoney
- Wallet
These apps are both for android and ios. This is just a few the list goes on. What happens if one is to download all of these add your personal information and non of them work? I'd like to hear from other woman and find out what works for you and what doesn't. drop me an email or tweet me what you like about your app and why. Thanks.
As usual please read the disclaimer on the Text page. When you know which one saves money, keeps me in budget, doesn't allow me to waste money on silly things let me know, helps me purchase a house, keeps my finances private, protects me against robbers, theft and anything that will harm me, and occasionally, throws out the trash and cleans the house. Leave a comment.
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Thank you!
Wallet Knowledge for the Single Man
in January 2017
Hi there, Readers;
I was employed by a hotel for a while. I have to admit I learned so much about money. How to carry it and what is important when traveling. Most of all I learned all the different types of wallets.
I know you are probably laughing at me. However, it is one thing I am still not completely savvy about. Wallets as they are called. Electronic, business, or physical there is a whole new verity that comes into reality each year.
As I spent my time checking in people and checking out people I was blessed with many people who travel constantly for business. Some of them I would call friends, mainly they were thee ones who came in for business, once or twice a month. Hotels call them the regulars. They are the bread and butter, so to speak of the hotel industry. In this electronic world with electronic wallets, keys, doors, windows and the fast pace of life. Travelers still don't trust just one method of carrying their money.
Old school hotels you would check in fill out a form that included your license plate number, your personal address and you'd pay cash. Today, most people do this over internet. Regulars have an account with the chain of hotel of choice and get prizes and rewards for their stay. Therefore, you can have a food treat when you register or check in or you can just take the points. The points equal free nights stay at other hotels around the world. Keys of yesteryear are now consider a plastic card with a microchip that can open the room door. It is always advised that you don't keep these next to your phone. I still don't totally understand how they work, what I do understand is they create a conflict with one another. I also can explain some hotels have virtual keys, where you check in with an app. You have to look it up within your membership and upon check in. Virtual check in or e-check in means that you are arriving and would like the hotel company to know. Once that is done your credit card will be charge are there are no refunds. You will still have to present identification upon check in. This saves time at check in. It is purely a customer preference. However, in talking with them this is what I found out.
Wallet Tips While Traveling
1. Shop for pricing online before making your reservation. The company price isn't always the best however if your company is paying for it, they can bill them directly saving you the hassle of having to put your credit card information on the reservation. You can always call the number on the membership card and negotiate the price. Be sure to take a screenshot of the price you where quote. In case you have to prove it.
2. When traveling it is best to be secure. We use to carry a thing called "Traveler's Checks". It is advice to carry more than one form of payment. Cash, Check, Credit card.
3. My travelers informed me that not all places accept Apple Pay, Pay, or PayPal. It is always best to carry more than a virtual credit card.
3. Don't take all your credit cards. I had one gentleman who was carrying all his credit cards with him and he had so many that when he lost one, he had to trace back every place he visited and which credit card he used where. Complicated for sure. It took him most of the night trying to figure it out. The next morning he had an early morning business meeting and he was exhausted, frustrated, tried and not in the best of mood. Success knocks in many ways. Overall he did the best he could. It took a lot out of him. The thing is the check in person can't help you with the details of tracing your steps, we can only do so much. Keep your travel credit cards to a minimum and know the balance.
4. Keep your wallet organized. I can't say this enough. I like the next person enjoy the luxury of a computerized world. However, depending on your business you might need to have personal paper receipts. There companies or app like Concur where you can take a photo of the receipt and file it away. However, I am still a believer in paper receipts only because they work when the battery on the computer or phone run out. I recommend having a place to place your receipts in your wallet at the end of the day one can US Mail them to your business or US Mail to your house. All hotels offer US Postal service pick up. I did check Concur and it seems to be a very useful tool for those who travel. Don't want to US Mail then, place them in a pocket in your luggage after each day. Make it a habit.
5. Before your trip, verify what company uses what? Not all business take American Express, or debit cards, others might take only American Express, while still others only take Master Card and Visa. It really is the personal choice of the business. Hotels in the US I believe will take all of them. What I did find out. some take cash and others are credit card only.
6. When shopping for a wallet. Be practical. Think of what you need and what you will use each pocket for. Make sure it has a place for your passport, paper money and change. Card slots enough for the credit cards you need and small enough to keep save on your being. What one man sees as a wallet another might see as a cash register. Be safe and happy travels.
Disclaimer: Please see disclaimer in the contact area. I was not paid to endorse any company listed here. It is my opinion based on several conversations from people I met in and research. My opinion are subject to change. Click on the link if you want more information about the companies mentioned.
Hi there, Reader;
I read this article thought it was worth sharing. I believe it's from Credit.Com . I am not nor have I ever been given products or services from this business it is published here because I thought it was sound advice.
MONEY
January 15, 2017 4:02 pm
There are lots of little steps you can take over the course of 2017 that, in tandem, can lead to ultimate financial balance.
We get it: Money resolutions can feel like a lost cause, especially if you’re already drowning in debt or saddled with uber-bad credit. But if the fear of falling short is stopping you from even attempting to reach any financial goals, well, it may be time to think smaller. There are lots of little steps you can take over the course of 2017 that, in tandem, can lead to ultimate financial balance.
Here are 50 ways to give your finances a fresh start this year.
1. Do your taxes ASAP
You’ll want to avoid taxpayer identity theft, which can delay a much-needed refund. Plus, an early refund can bolster your financial situation.
2. Auto-save
Jumpstart your emergency fund by setting up an automatic deposit or transfer into a savings account each month.
3. Give cash a try
If you’re prone to overspending on credit or debit, spend a week or two keeping only cash in your wallet. You can’t overspend cash — once it’s gone, it’s gone.
4. Ask for a raise
If you have a performance review coming up, or the opportunity to ask for a raise, now’s the time to take stock of your professional value and put together a pitch for better compensation.
5. Check your credit scores
You can’t know what to improve if you don’t know where you stand. You can get two free credit scores, updated every 14 days, on Credit.com.
6. Spring-clean your credit report
Do a major audit by pulling your free annual credit reports via AnnualCreditReport.com and dispute any errors you find with the credit bureau(s) in question. (You can go here to learn how.)
7. Re-evaluate your savings strategy
See if you can maximize your savings by opening an account with a higher annual percentage yield (APY) than your current one or consider a savings vehicle, like a money market fund or a Certificate of Deposit (CD).
8. Move
While it can cost a lot at first, moving can be a long-term money-saving strategy. A good rule of thumb is to keep your housing expenses below 30% (or, ideally, less than 25%) of your income. Do the math and a little research to see if you can do better than your current rent payment. Make sure you factor any the expense of any increase in commute times to make sure it really would be a financially beneficial move.
9. Ask for a lower credit card APR
If you’re paying high interest on your credit card, see if you can’t talk it down. By negotiating down your annual percentage rate (APR), you could save serious money.
10. Get a balance transfer credit card
Look into moving high-interest credit card debt onto a new card touting a low-to-no introductory APR for the rest of the year (or longer). Note: Most issuers charge a balance-transfer fee.
11. Prioritize payments
Our favorite way to pay down multiple credit cards? Put as much money as you can toward the balance with the highest APR, while paying the minimum on your other plastic. That way, you’ll save on interest charges.
12. Consider a credit-builder loan …
If your credit is shot, which would increase your APRs, one way you can start to rebuild your payment history is with a credit-builder loan. You can look into credit-builder loans at your local bank or credit union.
13. … or a secured credit card
Secured credit cards, which require an upfront deposit that serves as your credit limit, are designed specifically for people who need to build or fix their credit. You can find our picks for the best secured credit cards here.
14. Figure out where the ‘right’ ATMs are
Every time you use an out-of-network ATM, you’re paying money to use your own money. Cutting back on those fees can really help you save in the long run.
15. Simply review your budget
How often do you look over your budget? If it’s been a while, start the year off fresh with a budget more customized to where you (and your finances) are today.
16. Scour your credit card statements
You could spot areas where you’re overspending. Plus, you’ll want to be on the lookout for fraud or billing errors.
17. Try a budgeting app
There are a lot of free ones out there that can track your spending, point out what expenses are really draining your bank account and alert you when you’re about to go overboard.
18. Eat at home
Dining out too often can put a serious strain on your wallet. Try cooking at home just a few times a week, and you’re sure to free up some money you can use to pay down debts or put into a savings account.
19. Plan your meals
Better yet, try planning out your meals several days or a week in advance, and set aside time to shop for and prepare them. This minimizes the chance you’ll dine out, which is generally more expensive than home-cooked food.
20. Cancel memberships
If you’re not using your streaming account, or don’t use it that often, go ahead and cancel it. You can always renew later if you decide you miss it, and you’ll free up money each month.
21. Review your transportation situation
Can you begin biking to work or ride with a friend to cut gas expenses? Perhaps walking to work a few times a week could help you save on bus fare.
22. Invest
If you haven’t already started putting money aside for retirement, this may be the year to start doing so. Added bonus: If your company matches any investments you make, it’s like getting free money for those golden years.
23. Look into a rewards credit card
If you charge a lot and pay those balances off in full, but only have a standard credit card, you may be losing out on rewards for your spending. Check your credit scores and see what types of cards you’d qualify for. You may even be able to get a rewards card that doesn’t have an annual fee.
24. Evaluate your rewards credit card
Already have a rewards credit card? Now may be the time to look at it and see what perks it’s offering you. Does your credit card reward you most for money you spend at the gas station? That’s great if you drive a lot, but if you’re taking public transportation or walking, there may be a better rewards credit card out there for you.
25. Negotiate with your creditors
If you’ve got outstanding debts, see if the creditor or collector will agree to a payment plan. (You can find tips for negotiating with creditors here.)
26. Clip coupons
Yes, it’s old-fashioned, but those weekly circulars from your local grocery store, and coupons from newspapers, mailers and sites like Coupon.com can really add up, especially if you hit double- or triple-coupon days.
27. Pay off a loan
If you’re nearing the end of your loan term, whether it’s for a car, student loan or something else, consider paying it off if you have the cash. You’ll cut out the interest you would’ve paid and, chances are, you’re paying more in interest for the loans than you’re making on the money if you leave it in your savings account until the bill comes due.
28. Review your insurance policies
It’s a good idea to review your insurance policies — whether it’s your home insurance, car insurance or any other type — to see if you’re still getting the coverage you need. Then, take that information and shop around to make sure you’re getting the best price available.
29. Ask more questions
Personal finance can be really confusing, so don’t be embarrassed if you don’t understand some of the concepts — even the seemingly basic ones. Commit to learning more about things like how credit works, your options for retirement planning or smart ways to use your credit card.
30. Set calendar reminders
Putting bill due dates in a digital calendar and setting up notifications will help you remember to pay things on time and save you the hassle of late-payment fees or damaged credit.
31. Set a savings goal
Think back on what you wanted to do last year but couldn’t afford. Was it a vacation? Buying holiday gifts? Build an emergency savings? Figure out how much you want to save, when you want to save it by and how much you have to set aside each month to reach that goal. Then do it.
32. Give up your vices or guilty pleasures
Do you put too many dollars toward dining out? Perhaps you spent too much on alcohol or cigarettes? Consider giving up these things (or at least cutting back on them) and using the excess cash to pay down debts, build up an emergency fund or save for a big ticket item.
33. Sell stuff you don’t need
Take a look around the house and see if there’s anything you’re not using. By selling your unwanted items, you can free up money to put toward your savings or paying down credit card debt.
34. Change your passwords
Protect financial accounts by changing up those access digits, especially if you’re using any of the worst passwords from 2015.
35. Comparison shop
Want to score a great deal? Search online and shop around to find the best deals on products. You don’t have to settle for the first deal you see.
36. Consult a professional
If your money situation is complex, a visit with a certified financial planner, credit counselor or certified public accountant may be worthwhile.
37. Turn your hobby into cash
Websites like Etsy have made it possible for thousands of people to sell their wares with little or no investment beyond the craft itself. So, if you make your own candles, scented soaps or other artisinal wares, consider setting up a shop.
38. Fill a piggy bank
At the end of every day, drop your loose change into a jar or other vessel — it doesn’t have to be a piggy bank per se — and do it every day. One of our editors tried this last year and had $285 in change by the end of it. That’s a nice dinner out, and then some.
39. Cut water costs
If you don’t already have low-flow shower heads and toilets, consider getting them. New toilets can be expensive, but you can cheat by filling a liter bottle with water and then dropping it in the tank so you don’t use as much water each time you flush.
40. Buy generic brands
Why pay full price for name brands when generics work just as well? Get in the habit of buying these, at least some of the time, and your wallet is sure to get fatter.
41. Make shopping lists
An easy way to save money is by making a shopping list before you hit the stores. Stick to it, especially if you’re shopping when you’re hungry, and you’ll avoid buying items you just don’t need.
42. Refinance
If your credit has improved, see if you can qualify for a lower-rate on a mortgage, auto loan or private student loan, for instance. Just be sure to account for any fees associated with refinancing before you go ahead and do so.
43. Make your home energy efficient
It may cost more upfront, but little upgrades like installing a programmable thermostat can help you cut down your energy costs. You can find more ideas for making your home energy-efficient on EnergyStar.gov.
44. Use the library
If you buy a lot of books or music, try borrowing it from the library instead. As long as you avoid late return fees, you’ll end up saving a considerable amount of money.
45. Consolidate your credit card debt
Look into getting a personal loan, or debt consolidation loan, to consolidate debts you’re carrying on multiple credit cards. Depending on your credit, you may be able to secure a lower rate.
46. Live below your means
Spending less than you earn on a regular basis is one way to ensure you always have an emergency fund on hand. Borrowing less than you need — or at least not over-borrowing — will save you big on interest.
47. Reevaluate your tax withholding
Sure, a big tax refund is nice, but it indicates you were paying the government too much all year. Consider changing your withholding specification on your W-4 to get more money back on each paycheck.
48. Wait a day before buying
If you’re prone to impulse-shopping, institute a one-day waiting period before buying. That’ll give you time to evaluate if the purchase is a want or a need.
49. Pay your credit card more than once a month
Link your debit card account to your credit card account and then make a habit of paying down your balances once a week — or at least twice a month. That’ll help you avoid spending more than what’s in your bank account.
50. Skip the trip
Sure, an expensive vacation seems like a necessity, but, if finances are tight this year, opt for a staycation or an affordable road trip instead.
More from Credit.com
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How to Fix Your Credit
What is a Good Credit Score?
This article originally appeared on Credit.com.
Credit.com is the only company of its kind to be founded and run by leading credit experts including journalists, authors and consumer advocates. We're committed to helping consumers understand and master the confusing world of credit and improve their financial standing by recommending products and actions that are in their best interest..
Before Get Married Talk Money:
Hi there,
Your a single man thinking of marriage having to deal with finances to the first time. You don't want her know what you have or don't have. However, you want to know what she has and doesn't have. How do I spy on her finances or bring up the subject without offending her?
Let's face it if it offends you, it offends her. If you think talking about money is forbidden then it is. If you think you will succeed then you will. Either way it is something you both should agree with. My best suggestion is to just tell her, I am a person that believes in talking about finances is that okay with you. If she offends then you have to explain it is a reality of any marriage and if she can't talk to you without offending then your marriage is already in trouble before it starts.
Before I take on clients I make sure they have a financial budget. It is fun to try to stay within budget. My suggestion to a the couple is to sit down with his | her fiance and discuss their fiances. Each person should fill out separate financial budget sheets and then get together to plan their wedding budget. This way you know you will know how much financial security or debt you will be marring.
Here is a link to financial statement: Print one out for both of you and get real about what you are doing.
Personal Financial Statement Link:
http://www.hrdc.org/html/HRFC/HRFC_documents/Personal_Financial_Statement.pdf
There is a Wedding Budget Worksheet on the website: http://www.mkpurediamondevents.com
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