Sorry to be MIA....
(not that anyone is reading this, but still...I vowed to keep it going)
But I was SICK! SICK! SICK! Laid out flat on the couch for 4 days! Ugh! It was awful! I could barely walk the dog to the corner of the street to 'take care of business'.
BUT I'm better. AND, I started my new job this week! So, I've been BUSY! And SO TIRED! Between the cold and working 5 jobs, ugh.... I need a nap!So, since I'm exhausted, I'm not going to go "deep" on this one. But I wanted to check-in and make sure to post something... So, I'm going to talk about "savings".
You are thinking, "SAVING??? I HAVE NO MONEY?! HOW CAN I SAVE?" But re-read it... I'm talking about "Savings"... as in a savings account.
There are a couple of really good ones out there, but my favorite account is ING Direct.
They post interest monthly, so you can actually see your interest being earned - regardless of how small it is, the constant "reminder" is good!
Their interest is WAY more than a brick & mortar bank (they are primarily online) so, while it is still practically nothing right now, it's still MUCH more than you would get at your traditional bank.
And, yes, I checked them out - fully FDIC insured. They offer IRAs also (just basic ones), and a few mortgages (short term).
So, you still say that you have no money, but what about for a few weeks out of the month? Do you have money that you could move in there for two weeks and then move back to pay your bills? Now, with ING, be careful b/c it takes 3 days to transfer and a week to be available to get it back, BUT, you can always open an ING checking account and then, you can pay your bills from there too.
Again, be careful with their "availability" timeline, but even if you are just tucking away your money that you will use to pay your property taxes, you may as well earn a couple of bucks on it...
Good luck!
Friday, March 23, 2012
Monday, March 19, 2012
Keeping current is one thing...
I like to keep current on news and events. But I do NOT have time to read the paper. And I see so many people in the same position - they NEVER read it. It sits piling up in front of their house for 4-5 days until they finally bring them all in and put them immediately, unopened, unread - straight into the recycle bin.
Now, if you are a big coupon user (which I am) and you ALWAYS go through the Sunday paper and get the coupons and you USE them also, then maybe keep your weekend subscription, but better yet, stop and JUST pick up the Sunday paper!
My neighbor has been out of work for almost 2 years, but still has the paper delivered. And they sit for DAYS in front of her house. I look at it every morning as I'm walking the dog and think, "What a waste of money!"
Cancel the paper if you don't have time! You can read the news online, on your phone, or watch it on tv. You can set up news alerts to come via emial if something important is going on.
Of course, if you LOVE sitting and reading the paper - then keep it. We need to have that ONE "splurg" thing that makes us happy - even if we are "as broke as a joke!"
Now, if you are a big coupon user (which I am) and you ALWAYS go through the Sunday paper and get the coupons and you USE them also, then maybe keep your weekend subscription, but better yet, stop and JUST pick up the Sunday paper!
My neighbor has been out of work for almost 2 years, but still has the paper delivered. And they sit for DAYS in front of her house. I look at it every morning as I'm walking the dog and think, "What a waste of money!"
Cancel the paper if you don't have time! You can read the news online, on your phone, or watch it on tv. You can set up news alerts to come via emial if something important is going on.
Of course, if you LOVE sitting and reading the paper - then keep it. We need to have that ONE "splurg" thing that makes us happy - even if we are "as broke as a joke!"
Sunday, March 18, 2012
And then there were five...
I GOT THE JOB!!!
Well, I got TWO jobs this week!
I have to look back to see if I told you about the first - a 2 afternoon/week Personal Assistant Job... it doesn't pay much, but it's something. And the guy THINKS he's super organized but he makes everything so incredibly complicated that he gets so bogged down and then forgets to do stuff... like pay his rent or send his daughter a birthday card. The guy could use a simple "Perpetual Calendar" to organize his whole life, but instead has books and books with tabs and indexes and procedures that are just not necessary for one guy running a small business out of his apartment.... But hey, if he wants 6 hours a week of bogged-downness at his expense, that's his choice. Hopefully one day, he will allow me to change it.
And then today, I received an email that I got a 2-3 day per week (16-24 hr) "REAL" job! For a real company, with an office, and an IT guy, and set days and hours... And decent money! Not like I used to make, but I've been out of the corporate world for almost 10 years. And, it's part-time. I'm not naiive enough to think that a part-time position would pay NEARLY what a full time position would.
So, now
I made a chart to keep it all straight, but it should work. PRAY that my car doesn't break down or I'm SCREWED!
And one last thing, I caught a NASTY cold and have been flat on my back for 2 days, so I need to hurry up and get rid of this thing ASAP! Going to the Minute Clinic at CVS tomorrow for an antibiotic, becuase Zicam, Vitamin C, and Decongestant alone aren't doing enough! BAD TIMING!
Well, I got TWO jobs this week!
I have to look back to see if I told you about the first - a 2 afternoon/week Personal Assistant Job... it doesn't pay much, but it's something. And the guy THINKS he's super organized but he makes everything so incredibly complicated that he gets so bogged down and then forgets to do stuff... like pay his rent or send his daughter a birthday card. The guy could use a simple "Perpetual Calendar" to organize his whole life, but instead has books and books with tabs and indexes and procedures that are just not necessary for one guy running a small business out of his apartment.... But hey, if he wants 6 hours a week of bogged-downness at his expense, that's his choice. Hopefully one day, he will allow me to change it.
And then today, I received an email that I got a 2-3 day per week (16-24 hr) "REAL" job! For a real company, with an office, and an IT guy, and set days and hours... And decent money! Not like I used to make, but I've been out of the corporate world for almost 10 years. And, it's part-time. I'm not naiive enough to think that a part-time position would pay NEARLY what a full time position would.
So, now
- I own and work at my store
- I manage a condo for a friend
- I'm a personal assistant to a scientist 1-2 half days/wk
- I'm a personal assistant to a stock trader 2-3 half days/wk
- I'm the office manager/accountant for that company 2-3 full days/wk
I made a chart to keep it all straight, but it should work. PRAY that my car doesn't break down or I'm SCREWED!
And one last thing, I caught a NASTY cold and have been flat on my back for 2 days, so I need to hurry up and get rid of this thing ASAP! Going to the Minute Clinic at CVS tomorrow for an antibiotic, becuase Zicam, Vitamin C, and Decongestant alone aren't doing enough! BAD TIMING!
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Taking it easy today...
Ok, I've been sharing a lot of "heavy" advice. I was trying to get out some of the biggest earning/savings items first, but I'm going to take this was easy.
It's not going to save you a million dollars, but it will save you some money, be healthy for you, and is good for the environment.
How much water do you drink every day? You are supposed to drink 1.0 liter for every 50lbs of weight (according to my chiropractor).
But, are you grabbing those 16.9oz single serving water bottles every morning on your way out the door?
I totally stopped doing that. As of the day that I'm writing this, Ralph's has an ad for their water $3.77 for a 32 case of 16.9oz water bottles. Plus CRV (there's no tax on water bottles). CRV in California is 5¢ on bottles less than 24oz. So, that is $5.37 per case of no-name-brand water. Maybe you grab two per day? Or three? And are they half drank and then thrown away? It is so much waste!
First of all, you should be recycling. BUT, we don't get the full value of the CRV back. And if you are grabbing sodas instead of waters, the soda IS taxed and therefore the CRV is taxed! Yup - they tax you on that - did you know that? You don't get the tax back on the redemption.
So, I started buying one 1.5 liter water bottles and then at night, I empty what's left over, clean it, and refill it with fresh, filtered water from my refrigerator. You can fill it at night and put it in the fridge to be nice and chilled the next morning.
After maybe a month or two, I retire that bottle to the recycle bin and get a new one.
I always have fresh water. I am WAY up on my water intake. And I'm saving a little money - I never need to stop an buy a water because I ran out.
Having trouble filling the water bottle from the refrigerator spout? Use a funnel. I keep it in the drawer closest to the fridge. It's just fresh clean water so it doesn't need to be washed - it can just be tossed back in the drawer.
It's not going to save you a million dollars, but it will save you some money, be healthy for you, and is good for the environment.
How much water do you drink every day? You are supposed to drink 1.0 liter for every 50lbs of weight (according to my chiropractor).
But, are you grabbing those 16.9oz single serving water bottles every morning on your way out the door?
I totally stopped doing that. As of the day that I'm writing this, Ralph's has an ad for their water $3.77 for a 32 case of 16.9oz water bottles. Plus CRV (there's no tax on water bottles). CRV in California is 5¢ on bottles less than 24oz. So, that is $5.37 per case of no-name-brand water. Maybe you grab two per day? Or three? And are they half drank and then thrown away? It is so much waste!
First of all, you should be recycling. BUT, we don't get the full value of the CRV back. And if you are grabbing sodas instead of waters, the soda IS taxed and therefore the CRV is taxed! Yup - they tax you on that - did you know that? You don't get the tax back on the redemption.
So, I started buying one 1.5 liter water bottles and then at night, I empty what's left over, clean it, and refill it with fresh, filtered water from my refrigerator. You can fill it at night and put it in the fridge to be nice and chilled the next morning.
After maybe a month or two, I retire that bottle to the recycle bin and get a new one.
I always have fresh water. I am WAY up on my water intake. And I'm saving a little money - I never need to stop an buy a water because I ran out.
Having trouble filling the water bottle from the refrigerator spout? Use a funnel. I keep it in the drawer closest to the fridge. It's just fresh clean water so it doesn't need to be washed - it can just be tossed back in the drawer.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Girls Just Want To Have FUN!!!
Ok. So, we are broke. NO money. So, no fun, right?
WRONG!!!
You will go crazy! You will be mean or sad or horrible and boring and just not good.
You can NOT just go home every day and watch TV. You can't have cold cereal for breakfast, PB&J for lunch and Ramon noodles for dinner for your ENTIRE LIFE! You would simply die of boredom, if the salt from the Ramon noodles didn't get you first!
But, we have to be smart. So, here's a couple of thoughts.
AND REMEMBER! If you are tipping on a "deal' or coupon, you tip the waitstaff on the FULL VALUE of the meal before the coupon, NOT on what you paid! Be cool about it.
SIDEBAR: I have reminders set in my phone to go off 30 days before one expires so that I get the full value out of it. And space these out so that you don't use them all up at once and then have nothing. Pace yourself!
BIG NOTE: Before buying from an online company that you have never heard of, try looking it up on SiteJabber.com first! We bought a deal from a company and it turned out to be no good and when we looked on SiteJabber there were TONS of reviews about that website and how it screwed it's customers. So, check there before using some new website that you've never heard of before.
WRONG!!!
You will go crazy! You will be mean or sad or horrible and boring and just not good.
You can NOT just go home every day and watch TV. You can't have cold cereal for breakfast, PB&J for lunch and Ramon noodles for dinner for your ENTIRE LIFE! You would simply die of boredom, if the salt from the Ramon noodles didn't get you first!
But, we have to be smart. So, here's a couple of thoughts.
- I ♥LOVE♥ wine! But wine is EX-PEN-SIVE!!! But "Two Buck Chuck" (Charles Shaw at Trader Joe's) is, as the name implies, $2 a bottle! And it's decent! Some of the varieties have won awards! So, don't buy a $10 bottle of wine, buy a $2 bottle of wine. And that goes for kind of everything. Do you REALLY need that name brand?
- I like dining out! So, look for Groupons, Living Social Deals, etc for restaurants that you KNOW you like! Those website only run deals that are AT LEAST 50% off. Now, don't take a chance on some random or terribly expensive place, but the pizza/pasta place up the street did an online deal and I got $30 worth of food & drink for $15 (read the fine print before purchasing). And, in the state of California (not true everywhere) the amount you pay (the $15 in this case) NEVER EXPIRES! It's illegal for it to expire! So, you don't lose anything.
- Gift Card Promotions. More and more restaurants are doing promotional gift cards at the holidays where you buy a $100 gift card and you get a promotional one for $25 or whatever. If you are going to eat there anyway and it's not uber expensive, why not? You CANNOT sit at home every night - you'll go crazy! Now, again, in California, since the early 90's, a gift card cannot expire. **BUT** a "promotional gift card" CAN expire! So, use that promo one first and before the expiration date!
- Do you have a smart phone? Look for Facebook and Yelp "Check in Deals". Our favorite Sushi place, Poway Sushi Lounge, where we get our annual holiday Promo gift certificates, ALSO has a check-in deal on Facebook for free garlic edamame! YUM!
AND REMEMBER! If you are tipping on a "deal' or coupon, you tip the waitstaff on the FULL VALUE of the meal before the coupon, NOT on what you paid! Be cool about it.
SIDEBAR: I have reminders set in my phone to go off 30 days before one expires so that I get the full value out of it. And space these out so that you don't use them all up at once and then have nothing. Pace yourself!
BIG NOTE: Before buying from an online company that you have never heard of, try looking it up on SiteJabber.com first! We bought a deal from a company and it turned out to be no good and when we looked on SiteJabber there were TONS of reviews about that website and how it screwed it's customers. So, check there before using some new website that you've never heard of before.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
SIDEBAR: Interview update
So, today was interesting.
I started my day off by having a gal come by the store to look at some fixtures. she ended up buy more than she initially stated she was interested in. YAY!
Then, we had this CUTE, older guy come in. He came in to tell us about a project he had had the staff work on before and he was returning to tell us HOW PLEASED he was. Well, he continued to tell me the he is a Dr and that he helps "at risk youth" and he went on about what he did and this idea he had... he wanted to be able to hand out, essentially, a business card with a special message from him, and i had the products and i pulled them and told him how to do it and his look went blank... "I suppose someone at Kinko's could do this for me..." and i was thinking about ALL that they would charge him and we had NO customers in the store (did i mention that the economy has made our business SLOW!???!) and he was so sweet, and..........
I volunteered to do it all for him. he broke out his credit card. if the first print had worked, i was going to charge him for the paper: $0.92.
But it didn't work. So, i told him i was going to take it home and print it and that I'd have it back tomorrow. (still quoted the $0.92). he pulled out a $10 bill and said, "have a glass of wine on me". i jokingly replied, "ahhh! you've got my number there!". We finalized everything and he asked, "what kind of wine do you drink?" I said, "I'm a Pinot Grigio girl, all of the way!" He said, "I think I have a couple of bottles of that".
He was adorable. I was SO happy to help him! I LOST money on the transaction b/c our printers at the store demolished the paper I was trying to print on. (same exact style is here at home but it works FINE! WHATEVER!). But he is helping kids, and I put forth good Karma into the world.
Then, I had switched shifts with someone so that I could go to my interview this morning... Well, after the fixture people and the guy, I WAS RUNNING LATE! I couldn't believe it! I built in 2 hours to get home (6 miles/15 minutes-ish) change my clothes (10 minutes max!), bleach teeth while doing other stuff, add warpaint aka makeup (5 minutes? 10?), print my references on "good" paper (5 minutes MAX), grab a bit to eat (10 minutes?), brush teeth (5 minutes) and head out the door. It was 30 minutes away, so:
15+10+10+5+10+5= 55 minutes prep and then it's only 30 minutes away so, I'd be there 35 minutes early.
NOPE!
had to stop at the bank. +5
drive home was hampered by stop lights +5
neighbor unexpectedly cornered me to say she is moving to OREGON! +10
had to run back by the store b/c an item for my PA client arrived +10
now, I'm only 5 minutes early and i don't know where to park!
thankfully, i was able to "go faster than was projected by gps" (i don't want to say that i was speeding and have some authority give me a ticket) and somehow i made up some ground, but wow.... it was a harrowing day!
AND,
my interview went for nearly 4 hours so after a while, i started to fret about being parked in a "2 hour zone". Thankfully, no ticket.
of course, after 4 hours, it would be nice to confidentially state that i have the job, but i cannot. it's still up in the air.
I did call the new personal assistant guy and I'm going to start with him on Friday.
I made a chart to keep current on when I am where - no joke. That's how complicated my life/work schedule has gotten.....
{sigh}
I started my day off by having a gal come by the store to look at some fixtures. she ended up buy more than she initially stated she was interested in. YAY!
Then, we had this CUTE, older guy come in. He came in to tell us about a project he had had the staff work on before and he was returning to tell us HOW PLEASED he was. Well, he continued to tell me the he is a Dr and that he helps "at risk youth" and he went on about what he did and this idea he had... he wanted to be able to hand out, essentially, a business card with a special message from him, and i had the products and i pulled them and told him how to do it and his look went blank... "I suppose someone at Kinko's could do this for me..." and i was thinking about ALL that they would charge him and we had NO customers in the store (did i mention that the economy has made our business SLOW!???!) and he was so sweet, and..........
I volunteered to do it all for him. he broke out his credit card. if the first print had worked, i was going to charge him for the paper: $0.92.
But it didn't work. So, i told him i was going to take it home and print it and that I'd have it back tomorrow. (still quoted the $0.92). he pulled out a $10 bill and said, "have a glass of wine on me". i jokingly replied, "ahhh! you've got my number there!". We finalized everything and he asked, "what kind of wine do you drink?" I said, "I'm a Pinot Grigio girl, all of the way!" He said, "I think I have a couple of bottles of that".
He was adorable. I was SO happy to help him! I LOST money on the transaction b/c our printers at the store demolished the paper I was trying to print on. (same exact style is here at home but it works FINE! WHATEVER!). But he is helping kids, and I put forth good Karma into the world.
Then, I had switched shifts with someone so that I could go to my interview this morning... Well, after the fixture people and the guy, I WAS RUNNING LATE! I couldn't believe it! I built in 2 hours to get home (6 miles/15 minutes-ish) change my clothes (10 minutes max!), bleach teeth while doing other stuff, add warpaint aka makeup (5 minutes? 10?), print my references on "good" paper (5 minutes MAX), grab a bit to eat (10 minutes?), brush teeth (5 minutes) and head out the door. It was 30 minutes away, so:
15+10+10+5+10+5= 55 minutes prep and then it's only 30 minutes away so, I'd be there 35 minutes early.
NOPE!
had to stop at the bank. +5
drive home was hampered by stop lights +5
neighbor unexpectedly cornered me to say she is moving to OREGON! +10
had to run back by the store b/c an item for my PA client arrived +10
now, I'm only 5 minutes early and i don't know where to park!
thankfully, i was able to "go faster than was projected by gps" (i don't want to say that i was speeding and have some authority give me a ticket) and somehow i made up some ground, but wow.... it was a harrowing day!
AND,
my interview went for nearly 4 hours so after a while, i started to fret about being parked in a "2 hour zone". Thankfully, no ticket.
of course, after 4 hours, it would be nice to confidentially state that i have the job, but i cannot. it's still up in the air.
I did call the new personal assistant guy and I'm going to start with him on Friday.
I made a chart to keep current on when I am where - no joke. That's how complicated my life/work schedule has gotten.....
{sigh}
I need a raise!
Well, don't we all?!!!
But there was something that I read online the other day, I found QUITE interesting! And I'm not certain how it would work, but I thought I would share it just in case...
It was an article about avoiding paying income tax. Sounds intriguing right?
Well, it wasn't as juicy as I had hoped, but one thing that they did say, was about getting a raise from your company.
We all want more money, right? Maybe you are up for a promotion or pay increase, but the money isn't a lot or so much is coming out in taxes that it doesn't trickle down into your pocket....
How about: instead of asking your boss for a raise, ask for better health insurance coverage? Especially if you are going to the doctor a lot, have diabetes, have young children, are thinking about getting pregnant, have teens who need braces, etc.
Can your employer give you a better insurance plan that will decrease the amount that you spend monthly/annually at the doctor/dentist?
I don't know how feasible it is. It's a whole Human Resources thing, but the guy writing the article mentioned it and I found it very interesting! Maybe it's very tricky, but it's worth a shot!
Btw, the employer wins, too. By not paying you more payroll, they save on employer taxes and worker's compensation insurance (Paid by the employer based on how much income they pay at straight time) and you are a happier employee!
And maybe, by suggesting it to your boss that it's a win-win for both parties, that he will see you as being an "outside of the box" thinker, or as a "team player" and you'll get the promotion, the raise, AND the better benefits!!!! :)
But there was something that I read online the other day, I found QUITE interesting! And I'm not certain how it would work, but I thought I would share it just in case...
It was an article about avoiding paying income tax. Sounds intriguing right?
Well, it wasn't as juicy as I had hoped, but one thing that they did say, was about getting a raise from your company.
We all want more money, right? Maybe you are up for a promotion or pay increase, but the money isn't a lot or so much is coming out in taxes that it doesn't trickle down into your pocket....
How about: instead of asking your boss for a raise, ask for better health insurance coverage? Especially if you are going to the doctor a lot, have diabetes, have young children, are thinking about getting pregnant, have teens who need braces, etc.
Can your employer give you a better insurance plan that will decrease the amount that you spend monthly/annually at the doctor/dentist?
I don't know how feasible it is. It's a whole Human Resources thing, but the guy writing the article mentioned it and I found it very interesting! Maybe it's very tricky, but it's worth a shot!
Btw, the employer wins, too. By not paying you more payroll, they save on employer taxes and worker's compensation insurance (Paid by the employer based on how much income they pay at straight time) and you are a happier employee!
And maybe, by suggesting it to your boss that it's a win-win for both parties, that he will see you as being an "outside of the box" thinker, or as a "team player" and you'll get the promotion, the raise, AND the better benefits!!!! :)
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
SIDEBAR: Interview is tomorrow!
I switched my schedule at my store so that I could go. I 'm SO thankful that my staff is so helpful and supportive!
The interview is at 2pm tomorrow. I'm excited and terribly nervous about it. I have a FULL PAGE of references to offer. I bought a new skirt to wear. And my car is getting new brakes today (had to scrape up for that one, but my neighbor's having it done at his work, so I'm getting a good price, and I know I won't get screwed).
If I get this job, I will:
And, even with all of that, it will take quite a while to get caught up. Creditors are calling and they are starting to be MEAN! :(
Pray for me tomorrow at 2pm!
The interview is at 2pm tomorrow. I'm excited and terribly nervous about it. I have a FULL PAGE of references to offer. I bought a new skirt to wear. And my car is getting new brakes today (had to scrape up for that one, but my neighbor's having it done at his work, so I'm getting a good price, and I know I won't get screwed).
If I get this job, I will:
- work at my store 3 mornings a week
- work as a personal assistant for one guy 2 afternoons a week
- work as a personal assistant for a different guy 1 evening a week
- work for this company 2-3 days a week (hopefully 3)
- and have music/dance rehearsal one night a week
- plus manage my friend's condo
And, even with all of that, it will take quite a while to get caught up. Creditors are calling and they are starting to be MEAN! :(
Pray for me tomorrow at 2pm!
Don't cut off your nose to spite your face!
I pay about $93 a month for my cell phone - I have an iPhone.
I ♥ my iPhone!!!
We are in a serious and committed relationship!!
So, I could never get rid of it.
And, I'm sure that you can't either. And that's totally fine! I don't want you to!
But you might be thinking that you can change your plan to save money.... That's an idea that I flirted with, but I'm getting close to running out of minutes these days (too many business phone calls), so I decided against it.
And I just heard on NPR an article about cell phone plans and data usage and I found out something VERY interesting which solidified my position:
If you have an unlimited Data Plan, they said that the cell phone companies are getting rid of those! Data usage is WAY higher than they ever expected and they are charging mega bucks for new plans and still limiting the data usage!
So, my unlimited data and unlimited texting, but only 450 cell phone minutes plan for $93 including taxes per month, I can't get that deal anymore.
It's early in the morning and I don't think I'm being as clear as I could be....
Don't go willy-nilly changing your cell phone plan to a lesser plan so that you can save a few pennies today if you are going to need that unlimited plan later!
If you save $10 a month now to spend $35 a month next year, you are behind. So, in this instance, I'm telling you to NOT save money. Stick it out. Pay the bill. And save in the long run.
Now, you can always check with your provider. Maybe they have other deals. And things could change. But my 18 month old plan is looking pretty good these days! I'm locked in at these pretty good prices.
Incidentally, same with my cable/internet/phone plan at home. I signed up for a bundle a couple of years ago. I saved money at the time because I switched my home phone (which was WAY too expensive!) and went to unlimited home calling, plus got two dvr's and a regular cable box, the highest speed internet, and the whole thing changed the bill maybe $50 more a month (for more services and then I canceled my home phone which was about $40/month).
Well, a while ago, I called to see what I could do and it was practically nothing because I was still within the contract period. But, I was able to cancel the 2nd phone line, and return the plain cable box, and lowered my internet speed, and I saved a bit.
But my phone and two DVRs and internet were still bundled and I was thinking that two DVR cable boxes was excessive and a luxury that I just didn't need. So I called Time Warner Cable again. They told me that because I did that bundle when I did, that I'm grandfathered into a program that is so low that if they remove BOTH DVR's, I'd actually pay MORE!
So, again, "don't cut off your nose to spite your face", meaning, choose WISELY which services you are going to cancel. Sometimes, you should just keep them.
Incidentally, if I didn't need internet at home for work maybe I would cancel it because I have my iPhone, but I have a website to maintain and business banking, etc that I need to do. So, I sadly pay the bill every month (but am thankful that it is WAY less than it used to be!!!). And I keep the home phone because it's a flat rate for unlimited minutes and remember that I'm close to running out of minutes on my cell phone.
I ♥ my iPhone!!!
We are in a serious and committed relationship!!
So, I could never get rid of it.
And, I'm sure that you can't either. And that's totally fine! I don't want you to!
But you might be thinking that you can change your plan to save money.... That's an idea that I flirted with, but I'm getting close to running out of minutes these days (too many business phone calls), so I decided against it.
And I just heard on NPR an article about cell phone plans and data usage and I found out something VERY interesting which solidified my position:
If you have an unlimited Data Plan, they said that the cell phone companies are getting rid of those! Data usage is WAY higher than they ever expected and they are charging mega bucks for new plans and still limiting the data usage!
So, my unlimited data and unlimited texting, but only 450 cell phone minutes plan for $93 including taxes per month, I can't get that deal anymore.
It's early in the morning and I don't think I'm being as clear as I could be....
Don't go willy-nilly changing your cell phone plan to a lesser plan so that you can save a few pennies today if you are going to need that unlimited plan later!
If you save $10 a month now to spend $35 a month next year, you are behind. So, in this instance, I'm telling you to NOT save money. Stick it out. Pay the bill. And save in the long run.
Now, you can always check with your provider. Maybe they have other deals. And things could change. But my 18 month old plan is looking pretty good these days! I'm locked in at these pretty good prices.
Incidentally, same with my cable/internet/phone plan at home. I signed up for a bundle a couple of years ago. I saved money at the time because I switched my home phone (which was WAY too expensive!) and went to unlimited home calling, plus got two dvr's and a regular cable box, the highest speed internet, and the whole thing changed the bill maybe $50 more a month (for more services and then I canceled my home phone which was about $40/month).
Well, a while ago, I called to see what I could do and it was practically nothing because I was still within the contract period. But, I was able to cancel the 2nd phone line, and return the plain cable box, and lowered my internet speed, and I saved a bit.
But my phone and two DVRs and internet were still bundled and I was thinking that two DVR cable boxes was excessive and a luxury that I just didn't need. So I called Time Warner Cable again. They told me that because I did that bundle when I did, that I'm grandfathered into a program that is so low that if they remove BOTH DVR's, I'd actually pay MORE!
So, again, "don't cut off your nose to spite your face", meaning, choose WISELY which services you are going to cancel. Sometimes, you should just keep them.
Incidentally, if I didn't need internet at home for work maybe I would cancel it because I have my iPhone, but I have a website to maintain and business banking, etc that I need to do. So, I sadly pay the bill every month (but am thankful that it is WAY less than it used to be!!!). And I keep the home phone because it's a flat rate for unlimited minutes and remember that I'm close to running out of minutes on my cell phone.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Cash is King!
Or is it?
Cash can hurt you. Stay with me for a minute. This is some: "I don't want to get audited" advice...
So, I've already talked about several ways to get cash (aside from a job):
So, that seems good, right? We get cash. We are happy. We pay our bills. Then our 'vendors' are happy. Win-Win. Right?
WRONG!
Or, should I say, "Not always".
My "wonderful" (<-- that is sarcasm) ex husband got me not only a full-bankruptcy, but a Federal Tax audit about 12 years ago.
One of the issues was money deposited into my bank account. I had to go through every single deposit that went into my personal bank account for two years. EVERY PENNY! I had to say exactly where the money came from, and if I didn't know exactly, they deemed it to be taxable income, made me pay taxes on it, plus a penalty for not filing it and for being late! It came up to about $27k. Nice, eh?! UGH! I hate that man!
And, my Godmother had the same type of issue happen to her. They owned two properties that were back-to-back. Her mother lived in one of them. When her mother died, her boss offered to rent the house and use it for business purposes. However, her boss had my Godmother pay for all expenses and then he reimbursed her. She had so much cash going through her bank account that the IRS stuck their nose in. She got a federal tax audit off of it too.
And, it doesn't matter how legitimate you are, they are going to find some reason to fine you.
So, a couple of pieces of "free advice":
And remember: The IRS is watching!!!
(CYA = Cover Your A$$!!)
Cash can hurt you. Stay with me for a minute. This is some: "I don't want to get audited" advice...
So, I've already talked about several ways to get cash (aside from a job):
- Recycling bottles & cans
- Cashing in credit card rewards points
- Asking family for help
- Have a Garage Sale
So, that seems good, right? We get cash. We are happy. We pay our bills. Then our 'vendors' are happy. Win-Win. Right?
WRONG!
Or, should I say, "Not always".
My "wonderful" (<-- that is sarcasm) ex husband got me not only a full-bankruptcy, but a Federal Tax audit about 12 years ago.
One of the issues was money deposited into my bank account. I had to go through every single deposit that went into my personal bank account for two years. EVERY PENNY! I had to say exactly where the money came from, and if I didn't know exactly, they deemed it to be taxable income, made me pay taxes on it, plus a penalty for not filing it and for being late! It came up to about $27k. Nice, eh?! UGH! I hate that man!
And, my Godmother had the same type of issue happen to her. They owned two properties that were back-to-back. Her mother lived in one of them. When her mother died, her boss offered to rent the house and use it for business purposes. However, her boss had my Godmother pay for all expenses and then he reimbursed her. She had so much cash going through her bank account that the IRS stuck their nose in. She got a federal tax audit off of it too.
And, it doesn't matter how legitimate you are, they are going to find some reason to fine you.
So, a couple of pieces of "free advice":
- If you get cash from something that you aren't going to report on your taxes, if you can, don't deposit it to your bank account. Use it for gas, car repairs, groceries, etc. Use it for something that is not entirely trackable.
- Don't deposit cash that is not received from your W-2 or 1099 work.
- If you do deposit cash that is legitimately received but isn't taxable income (such as recycling, or reselling merchandise through a garage sale) KEEP NOTES! Where did the money come from? Keep receipts from Recycling. Keep a copy of the advertisement for the garage sale - or a picture of your sale of stuff with customers in the mix.
- One more thing, banks have started CHARGING for depositing too much cash - so there is one more reason to be cautious! The amount tends to be high, but still. Check out the "fine print" in your banking agreement before putting a bunch of cash in your account.
And remember: The IRS is watching!!!
CYA, my friends!
(CYA = Cover Your A$$!!)
Sunday, March 11, 2012
SIDEBAR: INTERVIEW!!
Yes, I had an interview, but first, I don't know why but my post didn't post at 6am... hummm... Not sure why it chose 4:31pm to finally post either! I had it ready for several days. Well, it's out there now.
But, back to the interview. It was this evening. I just got home a little bit ago. It's for a Personal Assistant position. He was nice, but I don't think he knows what he wants and I think he REALLY thinks it won't work. I suspect it is that he is cautious with his money and doesn't want to spend money that will be wasted. I also think he is worried about being misled. He seemed to keep challenging me to backup my statements.
So.... in the interest of being truly honest with him, I told him that I had another job interview scheduled. He seemed pissed at first: "Then why have you let me go on about this?" or something. I told him that I truly believed I could add both positions. He wants me to call him after my other interview.
Truly, I *DO* think I can add both, still work at my store, still keep my other client, be off nights (except Sunday nights during Football season - my one client). AND, I can still sing and dance with my music group on Tuesday nights. And still have Saturday afternoons and most of Sunday to be with the love of my life (he lives in LA so those are our usual times anyway).
Well, this might have been too much information, but I'm eager, excited, anxious, worried, confident, nervous, and all other emotions! I wonder if I'll be able to sleep tonight!
But, back to the interview. It was this evening. I just got home a little bit ago. It's for a Personal Assistant position. He was nice, but I don't think he knows what he wants and I think he REALLY thinks it won't work. I suspect it is that he is cautious with his money and doesn't want to spend money that will be wasted. I also think he is worried about being misled. He seemed to keep challenging me to backup my statements.
So.... in the interest of being truly honest with him, I told him that I had another job interview scheduled. He seemed pissed at first: "Then why have you let me go on about this?" or something. I told him that I truly believed I could add both positions. He wants me to call him after my other interview.
Truly, I *DO* think I can add both, still work at my store, still keep my other client, be off nights (except Sunday nights during Football season - my one client). AND, I can still sing and dance with my music group on Tuesday nights. And still have Saturday afternoons and most of Sunday to be with the love of my life (he lives in LA so those are our usual times anyway).
Well, this might have been too much information, but I'm eager, excited, anxious, worried, confident, nervous, and all other emotions! I wonder if I'll be able to sleep tonight!
My neighbor used to be a hairdresser
Can you barter for something?
Honestly, my neighbor told me that she used to be a hairdresser. Maybe she'd like a little extra cash and have some "girl time" and she would charge me less than the salon.
OR, does she need her lawn cut? Her car washed? Watch/walk her dog? SOMETHING! Or maybe she's always loved that spare Bistro table and chairs that I have in your garage. Maybe that's worth a cut and a color?
It's worth it to ask! You NEVER KNOW!!
Actually, I have been having my hair cut and colored by a friend in exchange for stuff for probably two years. It used to cost between $135-$190 each time to have my hair cut and colored at the salon I went to! I can't even believe that I paid that! And that was 3-4 times a YEAR!!! I am SHOCKED at how much I paid! I now pay $20 cash (the color and foils costs something so I give her a small amount of cash to cover that), plus whatever we exchange.
Now, keep in mind, the government does NOT like bartering. Why? Because they don't get a "piece of the action"! Where are the taxes on bartering? NO WHERE! (Another part of the beauty of it!). At least in CA, there isn't sales tax on services, but technically there should be some income tax in there somewhere. And if we are bartering for products, then there should be sales tax. And THE GOVERNMENT WANTS IT! So, just FYI, it's not entirely legal unless you go through a "bartering company" and they take care of taxes.
BUT, what the government doesn't know won't hurt you. (hopefully!)
So, just remember, I'm not telling you to break the law or violate anything. I'm just saying that it's something to think about.
Honestly, my neighbor told me that she used to be a hairdresser. Maybe she'd like a little extra cash and have some "girl time" and she would charge me less than the salon.
OR, does she need her lawn cut? Her car washed? Watch/walk her dog? SOMETHING! Or maybe she's always loved that spare Bistro table and chairs that I have in your garage. Maybe that's worth a cut and a color?
It's worth it to ask! You NEVER KNOW!!
Actually, I have been having my hair cut and colored by a friend in exchange for stuff for probably two years. It used to cost between $135-$190 each time to have my hair cut and colored at the salon I went to! I can't even believe that I paid that! And that was 3-4 times a YEAR!!! I am SHOCKED at how much I paid! I now pay $20 cash (the color and foils costs something so I give her a small amount of cash to cover that), plus whatever we exchange.
Now, keep in mind, the government does NOT like bartering. Why? Because they don't get a "piece of the action"! Where are the taxes on bartering? NO WHERE! (Another part of the beauty of it!). At least in CA, there isn't sales tax on services, but technically there should be some income tax in there somewhere. And if we are bartering for products, then there should be sales tax. And THE GOVERNMENT WANTS IT! So, just FYI, it's not entirely legal unless you go through a "bartering company" and they take care of taxes.
BUT, what the government doesn't know won't hurt you. (hopefully!)
So, just remember, I'm not telling you to break the law or violate anything. I'm just saying that it's something to think about.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
How to kill a Saturday morning: Garage Sale!
Yes, those dreaded two words. But you HAVE to do it! There are tons of household items that I used to donate to charity. That was back when I had the "luxury" to do it and take the tax write off. I have SO MUCH loss roll over that I'm not going to need those tax write offs for a very long time!
So, I apologize to those charities and to those who are worse off than me, but I've GOT to try to sell it!
We have been going through closets and drawers and cupboards and the garage and just finding all kinds of things that we aren't using and don't "need". So many kitchen items, and things that were given to me as gifts that, I'm sorry, I will never use!
My community has two big community garage sales every year and one of them is coming up, and we are going to be ready!!
We've got it all planned out:
Now, here's something else I'm planning...
So, I apologize to those charities and to those who are worse off than me, but I've GOT to try to sell it!
We have been going through closets and drawers and cupboards and the garage and just finding all kinds of things that we aren't using and don't "need". So many kitchen items, and things that were given to me as gifts that, I'm sorry, I will never use!
My community has two big community garage sales every year and one of them is coming up, and we are going to be ready!!
We've got it all planned out:
- We've already started pulling stuff out and putting them in boxes in the spare bedroom and the garage so that we aren't scrambling last minute.
- As time gets closer, I'll contact my HOA to get parking passes so that we can park on the street for the week proceeding and make sure that the garage is READY so we can just open the door that morning and GO! (we aren't allowed to park on the street outside of our homes - long story!)
- I'll advertise on my facebook account for everyone to tell their friends. It's free and why not? I'm not telling them how broke I am just by announcing a garage sale!
- And I'll enlist my neighbors to share the facebook posts. They like me (at least, I believe they do! lol) and will want to help.
- I'll do an ad on Craig's List. Not sure if it's free or not. But I know that posting for a job is only $25 so if it's even that much, I'd be fine with it.
- I'll put a few flyers around - including one at the Starbucks up the street.
Now, here's something else I'm planning...
- Buy water bottles at Costco and sell them for a small profit. It will help my bottom line; it will make my garage sale a little more "friendly"; and everything that I buy at Costco, because I have the executive membership, I get 2% back annually.
- We're going to borrow a popcorn machine from a friend. It's one of those "old fashioned stand up ones" that Costco had a few years back. Popcorn is CHEAP and it's easy to make. We'll sell that for a quarter a bag. Or maybe give that for free, but sell the water (if you have one, you have to have the other!). Again, set our garage sale apart from the rest.
- ALSO, I'm going to take an "interest" list for people who liked my garage sale. Remember, the community is having two of them. And I actually will be moving out of town in probably a year when I get married, so I'll "need" to have another one. It's easy to email a large group of people and say, "Hey, remember me? You liked the last one and I'm having another!" I'll put a disclaimer at the bottom of the sheet that the email address will not be sold and will be used for notifying of another future garage sale. But hey, it's worth a shot! I have a BUNCH of good stuff up for grabs!
Friday, March 9, 2012
OMG! OMG! OMG!!!
I posted my availability to be a Personal Assistant (to a 2nd client) on Craig's List last night and was contacted today! Well, actually, I received two replies - one from a creepy guy - DISCARD! And then one from a legitimate business man. We are tentatively going to meet Monday.
BUT, I also sent my "Corporate" resume to a new post on Craig's List. I sent it at 4pm and got a reply shortly afterward asking for salary history, salary requirements, and to expand on my knowledge of their industry. This would be a GOOD ONE! I'm nervous though! As I hit "send" to reply my heart was beating out of my chest!! I hope that I answered well and that they will contact me Monday.... I guess I better pick out a couple of good outfits for a "formal" interview...
BUT, I also sent my "Corporate" resume to a new post on Craig's List. I sent it at 4pm and got a reply shortly afterward asking for salary history, salary requirements, and to expand on my knowledge of their industry. This would be a GOOD ONE! I'm nervous though! As I hit "send" to reply my heart was beating out of my chest!! I hope that I answered well and that they will contact me Monday.... I guess I better pick out a couple of good outfits for a "formal" interview...
There are two things in life you can't avoid: Death and Taxes
And Property Taxes are included!
UGH!!! In So Cal they are HORRIBLE!!! They are SO high!
But, of course, my Dad lives in Upstate NY and theirs is even WORSE! I can't believe the percentage of Property Taxes they pay!
Anyway, we are going through a "Recession" (ummmm.... "Depression"?? "Quagmire"???? I don't know, but recession sounds just way too soft!)
Ok - I digress...
If your property taxes are based on a value of your home and it is WAY off base, you can ask the County of San Diego for a property tax reassessment!
At least here in SD: every time that a home sells, the property taxes are automatically reassessed at the sale price. So, if they used to be based on $125,000 but you paid $450,000, your property taxes will be based on the $450,000 value.
Well, that makes sense. Obviously, the "going rate" for your home is $450k so that's what the property taxes should be based on.
AND, every year, the county "assumes" that the value has increased. I can't remember the percentage but it's 1 or 2% I think. So every year, your property taxes increase slightly because the assumption is that your home has increased in value.
But wait a minute.
I own a home that I bought in 2003 (before the bubble) and my property taxes increased and increased and now, my home is worth LESS than I paid!!!
***SOOO*** I contacted the county and applied for a property tax reassessment. It's fairly routine (especially right now during this nightmare economy). I think there is a form that you fill out and return and they do "comps" in your area. Now, before going through all of this, check what price your taxes are based on and then check your neighborhood comps and BE SURE that your neighborhood market is lower than your tax base.
Check: Zillow.com (or the app) for current comps. Choose the "Find Homes" section. Enter your address and it will give your neighborhood and your home.
Check: your tax bill for the base value of your taxes. In San Diego County the website is: http://www.sdtreastax.com/.
Again: this is NOT tax advice!
OH! Another note! When I applied for my property tax reduction, there was some option for applying for a refund for a previous period. I goofed it up and didn't get it, but don't do what I did! Follow up and get that refund!
UGH!!! In So Cal they are HORRIBLE!!! They are SO high!
But, of course, my Dad lives in Upstate NY and theirs is even WORSE! I can't believe the percentage of Property Taxes they pay!
Anyway, we are going through a "Recession" (ummmm.... "Depression"?? "Quagmire"???? I don't know, but recession sounds just way too soft!)
Ok - I digress...
If your property taxes are based on a value of your home and it is WAY off base, you can ask the County of San Diego for a property tax reassessment!
At least here in SD: every time that a home sells, the property taxes are automatically reassessed at the sale price. So, if they used to be based on $125,000 but you paid $450,000, your property taxes will be based on the $450,000 value.
Well, that makes sense. Obviously, the "going rate" for your home is $450k so that's what the property taxes should be based on.
AND, every year, the county "assumes" that the value has increased. I can't remember the percentage but it's 1 or 2% I think. So every year, your property taxes increase slightly because the assumption is that your home has increased in value.
But wait a minute.
I own a home that I bought in 2003 (before the bubble) and my property taxes increased and increased and now, my home is worth LESS than I paid!!!
***SOOO*** I contacted the county and applied for a property tax reassessment. It's fairly routine (especially right now during this nightmare economy). I think there is a form that you fill out and return and they do "comps" in your area. Now, before going through all of this, check what price your taxes are based on and then check your neighborhood comps and BE SURE that your neighborhood market is lower than your tax base.
Check: Zillow.com (or the app) for current comps. Choose the "Find Homes" section. Enter your address and it will give your neighborhood and your home.
Check: your tax bill for the base value of your taxes. In San Diego County the website is: http://www.sdtreastax.com/.
Again: this is NOT tax advice!
OH! Another note! When I applied for my property tax reduction, there was some option for applying for a refund for a previous period. I goofed it up and didn't get it, but don't do what I did! Follow up and get that refund!
Thursday, March 8, 2012
SIDEBAR: Continued Job Search
Well, I'm getting a bit more "aggressive".
I posted my Personal Assistant availability on Craig's List in the "Resumes" section. I am a little nervous about meeting some random person to work in their home. There are several people out there who state that they are looking for PA jobs.
NONE OF THEM said anything about requiring references for THEM or anything. I took a chance and posted that a "Background Check or Personal References" would be required.
I don't know...
I posted my Personal Assistant availability on Craig's List in the "Resumes" section. I am a little nervous about meeting some random person to work in their home. There are several people out there who state that they are looking for PA jobs.
NONE OF THEM said anything about requiring references for THEM or anything. I took a chance and posted that a "Background Check or Personal References" would be required.
I don't know...
You can pick your nose, but you can't pick your relatives....
BUT, maybe your relatives can help you!
Have you asked your family for help yet?
I did. Now, it was great. Unfortunately, since this economy has just gotten worse and worse for me, it didn't end up resolving the problem because I'm back where I was - I've used up all of the money I was lent, I'm still broke and I owe seemingly everyone.
BUT, my sister has a great deal of money set aside. And she trusts and loves me. So she lent me some money.
Of course, I owe her, but it's at a FAR lessor rate than the bank was going to charge. And she and I worked out an "open ended" deal. She doesn't need the money so "at some point" I'll pay her back. And I'll pay her more than her money market was paying, but less than a credit card finance rate or whatever. So maybe 5 or 6%.
Now, your family may not be as "easy" but you might ask them. MAKE SURE that they can be without the money for several years b/c this thing is not going to end tomorrow, but you might want to ask...
(No one knows better than I, how hard it is to swallow that pride, but I did it. Twice actually. Suck it up and do it!)
Have you asked your family for help yet?
I did. Now, it was great. Unfortunately, since this economy has just gotten worse and worse for me, it didn't end up resolving the problem because I'm back where I was - I've used up all of the money I was lent, I'm still broke and I owe seemingly everyone.
BUT, my sister has a great deal of money set aside. And she trusts and loves me. So she lent me some money.
Of course, I owe her, but it's at a FAR lessor rate than the bank was going to charge. And she and I worked out an "open ended" deal. She doesn't need the money so "at some point" I'll pay her back. And I'll pay her more than her money market was paying, but less than a credit card finance rate or whatever. So maybe 5 or 6%.
Now, your family may not be as "easy" but you might ask them. MAKE SURE that they can be without the money for several years b/c this thing is not going to end tomorrow, but you might want to ask...
(No one knows better than I, how hard it is to swallow that pride, but I did it. Twice actually. Suck it up and do it!)
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
SIDEBAR: Another job application
Another "perfect" job is available. The price is right, too. I mean, it's not what I make per hour as a personal assistant, but it would be more consistent work. It's 16-24 hours a week in an office in La Jolla working as a bookkeeper. Since I used to be a Corporate Controller in my "last life", this would be EASY (not that I wouldn't work hard, I would. I guess I just mean that "I can do this!")
Hoping! Hoping! Hoping!!
The interesting thing has been that for ALL of the jobs that I have applied (Maybe 10 so far?) I don't even get a response of: "We received your resume" or "The position has been filled." There is ZERO communication! Total Radio Silence! It's disheartening because I don't even really know if they received my resume.... {sigh}...
Well, I better stop writing here and start creating an award-winning cover letter!
Hoping! Hoping! Hoping!!
The interesting thing has been that for ALL of the jobs that I have applied (Maybe 10 so far?) I don't even get a response of: "We received your resume" or "The position has been filled." There is ZERO communication! Total Radio Silence! It's disheartening because I don't even really know if they received my resume.... {sigh}...
Well, I better stop writing here and start creating an award-winning cover letter!
GOSH GAS HAS GOTTEN EXPENSIVE LATELY!
I can't believe how expensive gas has gotten lately! And I am saddled with a 2006 (so, not the newest, best gas vehicle) that is a V8... ugh! Filling the tank is a KILLER!
I still remember my first tank of California Gas back in 1991 was $1.149 for PREMIUM! I WISH!!!!
So, if you catch the wind that the gas prices are going up, FILL THE TANK. You'll save money in the long run.
But, the topic today is a website (and smartphone app) called Gas Buddy.
http://www.gasbuddy.com/ or the app.
And, the difference between cash and credit is usually between 4¢ and 7¢ per gallon. That means, I save between $70 and $124 per year by paying with cash. (Plus, I'm not paying finance charges on it, since all of my credit cards are carrying balances right now... {sigh} )
Also, this app helps you to pay attention to if gas is staying flat, going up, or going down...
Shop your gas wisely!!!!
I still remember my first tank of California Gas back in 1991 was $1.149 for PREMIUM! I WISH!!!!
So, if you catch the wind that the gas prices are going up, FILL THE TANK. You'll save money in the long run.
But, the topic today is a website (and smartphone app) called Gas Buddy.
http://www.gasbuddy.com/ or the app.
Three points on this topic.
- You can search for the cheapest gas around you. If you are traveling somewhere and have a full or partial tank now, you can plan where you will stop to get the best prices.
- Gas Stations have started charging different prices for cash versus credit. Now, I don't know how old YOU are, but I remember that when I was a kid, they did the same thing! They stopped it in the 80's or 90's. But they have recently brought it back in FULL FORCE! So pay cash and save!
And we're going to talk about cash later, so keep this in mind... - On Gas Buddy - you can "report" current gas prices and get "points". every reporting gets you 150 points. You can get credit for 5 reports per day (but you can report as much as you wish). For every 1,000 points, you can get 1 ticket for a drawing (you need to "submit" for the ticket, but it's easy). Every week they run the drawing and you can win $200 in free gas! Just for reporting the gas price at the station where you stand and wait for the tank to be full. EASY!
And it's legit. They show you the names, dates, and pictures of winners. And this is a long shot, but hey - what else are you doing while you wait for your tank to get full?
At the time that I'm writing this, the cheapest price reported in my area is $4.21 per gallon. The most expensive reported is $4.53 (only 4.9 miles away!). That's a 32¢ per gallon savings! I have a 17 gallon tank. I fill up at least twice a week (because of that horrible gas mileage!). Just by buying at the lower price versus the higher price, I'll save $565.76 in a year!
And, the difference between cash and credit is usually between 4¢ and 7¢ per gallon. That means, I save between $70 and $124 per year by paying with cash. (Plus, I'm not paying finance charges on it, since all of my credit cards are carrying balances right now... {sigh} )
Also, this app helps you to pay attention to if gas is staying flat, going up, or going down...
Shop your gas wisely!!!!
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Credit Cards
This is not your "standard" Credit Card advice. Of course, you don't want to use credit if you have cash. You don't want to pay high finance charges. You should never spend more than you can afford. Pay your balance in full every month... If you are running a balance, pay down the highest interest rate first, yada... yada... yada...
But, I'm beyond that "spending more than I can afford" because I can't afford hardly ANYTHING!
But, something to look into: your rewards program!
My sister has a Capital One card, but didn't realize that she had like a BILLION points and that those points have CASH VALUE!!!!
Yup! With most cards, you can get actual cash money for those points!!!
You just go online and look at your rewards program and you can cash them in. Now, double check because all plans work differently and you want to be smart about it. Some of them are not a 1-for-1 reward. For instance, one of my cards will give you $50 for 7,500 points (0.0066¢ per point), but $100 for 12,000 points (0.0083¢ per point). If you are in this position and are close to the "12,000 point" level, hang on a little bit if you can. Do it smart! Get the most money for those points.
But most of those rewards cards, you can get cash or statement credit. Watch out with the statement credit that it is going to get credited in time for (or will count as) your payment on your card. But if you are over your limit because your interest charges posted, you might want to use that to get you under your limit and help salvage your credit report a bit.
And, keep in mind the rewards plan when closing cards or using cards. If you can get 1% back on one card and nothing back on the other... if all other factors are the same (interest, credit limit, ease of use) but the rewards program is way better on one than the other, then it's an easy decision.
One more quicky little note, and this is probably not going to make me sound like a very good person, but if you are planning to file bankruptcy, cash in every penny of your rewards first or you will lose it!
Now, as a small business owner, I can tell you that "on the other end" of the argument, I HATE THESE CARDS because those rewards payments are being passed through to us business owners. The better the rewards program, the more that the business owner pays to accept your credit card during a transaction. So, if you have a friend who owns a small business, pay cash to him ALWAYS!
But, I'm beyond that "spending more than I can afford" because I can't afford hardly ANYTHING!
But, something to look into: your rewards program!
My sister has a Capital One card, but didn't realize that she had like a BILLION points and that those points have CASH VALUE!!!!
Yup! With most cards, you can get actual cash money for those points!!!
You just go online and look at your rewards program and you can cash them in. Now, double check because all plans work differently and you want to be smart about it. Some of them are not a 1-for-1 reward. For instance, one of my cards will give you $50 for 7,500 points (0.0066¢ per point), but $100 for 12,000 points (0.0083¢ per point). If you are in this position and are close to the "12,000 point" level, hang on a little bit if you can. Do it smart! Get the most money for those points.
But most of those rewards cards, you can get cash or statement credit. Watch out with the statement credit that it is going to get credited in time for (or will count as) your payment on your card. But if you are over your limit because your interest charges posted, you might want to use that to get you under your limit and help salvage your credit report a bit.
And, keep in mind the rewards plan when closing cards or using cards. If you can get 1% back on one card and nothing back on the other... if all other factors are the same (interest, credit limit, ease of use) but the rewards program is way better on one than the other, then it's an easy decision.
One more quicky little note, and this is probably not going to make me sound like a very good person, but if you are planning to file bankruptcy, cash in every penny of your rewards first or you will lose it!
Now, as a small business owner, I can tell you that "on the other end" of the argument, I HATE THESE CARDS because those rewards payments are being passed through to us business owners. The better the rewards program, the more that the business owner pays to accept your credit card during a transaction. So, if you have a friend who owns a small business, pay cash to him ALWAYS!
Monday, March 5, 2012
More on Insurance - fun! fun! fun!
Well, I called Liberty Mutual - they are my insurance company for my home, my car, and my life insurance. I asked if there was ANYTHING I could do to reduce my costs.
They already know how broke I am because, remember, I took a loan off of my life insurance policy already.
Well, they have a new deductible amount on cars - so I went from a $500 deductible to a $600 deductible (Fingers crossed for no accidents!). Of course, then my policy renewed and the cost went up, so it was actually a wash. I think I'm paying an extra $2.30 per month. BUT I found out that there was a questionaire about my driving habits and I didn't see it so apparently that caused some of the increase. I had it emailed and have filled it out and am crossing my fingers on that one.
BUT! That's not actually my topic! I live in So Cal - you ALL know that we have earthquakes! And my Godmother had EXTENSIVE damaged caused to her West Los Angeles home after the 1994 Northridge earthquake. And I had always heard (jokingly-ish), that if your house collapsed because of an earthquake, and you don't have earthquake insurance, to set it on fire and collect the fire policy because otherwise, YOU'LL GET NOTHING! So, I got earthquake insurance and have had it for years.
Well, I spoke with the insurance agent and she said that I was paying kind of a lot for a very "watered down policy" and that the deductible was 15% so I really would get nothing anyway.
CANCEL!!!
I cancelled it in January. My policy year wasn't quite up yet, so I'm expecting a small refund (probably $10 or $15), but that is $92 that I won't be paying this month to renew the policy!
Either way, call your insurance company and see if there is any way to REASONABLY reduce your coverage while maintaining your safety net but reducing your expenses.
As always: This is NOT insurance advice and I am not a licensed insurance person. This is just me typing and you reading.
Update: After submitting that updated insurance mileage form and increasing my deductible, my insurance will be - almost exactly what it was last year. So a little less than they had sent in the first email, but not really different than I was paying before. You should shop around. I have, but because we lost a lot of homes in the 2007 wildfires out here, my zip code has apparently REALLY high car insurance rates even though i'm a "safe driver" with "multiple policies". I called everyone. They were all right in the same range. If I move or get married (being single is apparently a "no-no" in the insurance world) my insurance will go down. So, soon. Not soon enough, but soon.
They already know how broke I am because, remember, I took a loan off of my life insurance policy already.
Well, they have a new deductible amount on cars - so I went from a $500 deductible to a $600 deductible (Fingers crossed for no accidents!). Of course, then my policy renewed and the cost went up, so it was actually a wash. I think I'm paying an extra $2.30 per month. BUT I found out that there was a questionaire about my driving habits and I didn't see it so apparently that caused some of the increase. I had it emailed and have filled it out and am crossing my fingers on that one.
BUT! That's not actually my topic! I live in So Cal - you ALL know that we have earthquakes! And my Godmother had EXTENSIVE damaged caused to her West Los Angeles home after the 1994 Northridge earthquake. And I had always heard (jokingly-ish), that if your house collapsed because of an earthquake, and you don't have earthquake insurance, to set it on fire and collect the fire policy because otherwise, YOU'LL GET NOTHING! So, I got earthquake insurance and have had it for years.
Well, I spoke with the insurance agent and she said that I was paying kind of a lot for a very "watered down policy" and that the deductible was 15% so I really would get nothing anyway.
CANCEL!!!
I cancelled it in January. My policy year wasn't quite up yet, so I'm expecting a small refund (probably $10 or $15), but that is $92 that I won't be paying this month to renew the policy!
Either way, call your insurance company and see if there is any way to REASONABLY reduce your coverage while maintaining your safety net but reducing your expenses.
As always: This is NOT insurance advice and I am not a licensed insurance person. This is just me typing and you reading.
Update: After submitting that updated insurance mileage form and increasing my deductible, my insurance will be - almost exactly what it was last year. So a little less than they had sent in the first email, but not really different than I was paying before. You should shop around. I have, but because we lost a lot of homes in the 2007 wildfires out here, my zip code has apparently REALLY high car insurance rates even though i'm a "safe driver" with "multiple policies". I called everyone. They were all right in the same range. If I move or get married (being single is apparently a "no-no" in the insurance world) my insurance will go down. So, soon. Not soon enough, but soon.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
SIDEBAR: Another one
I just found another 2-3 day a week housekeeper/personal assistant job on Craig's List. I've inquired to see if it is still available.
KEEP CROSSING THOSE FINGERS!
KEEP CROSSING THOSE FINGERS!
Incidentally....
I'm brand new to Blogger so I'm still trying to figure it out, so pardon me if this isn't the most sophisticated blog... I'm trying to educate myself on this....
Recycling - It's good for the Earth and good for your pocketbook!
This might sound dumb, but I get a lot of extra cash by recycling bottles and cans!
In California, you pay on every bottle and can that has "fizz"; plus water bottles. And I think some others. Not wine bottles. And you, as a California resident, are entitled to get that back when you recycle them through an approved center.
Now, let's be clear - I do NOT dig through garbage cans to get them! I'm broke, but I just can't go that far -- NOT saying anything against people who do! I admire their ability to do that! Before I was in this position, I forbade my staff from putting bottles and cans in the garbage and put a special can out behind our building with them in it so that the locals coming around could grab them easily.
Anyway, I now take all of the bottles and cans from my store.
Does your office have a recycle program? If not, ask if it's ok to put a recycle can at your work and tell them that you'll take them weekly and recycle them. BE DILIGENT! You don't want them to stop allowing you to do it. Take them every Friday afternoon, even if you can't recycle them that weekend.
Also, if I see one while I'm walking the dog, I pick it up - it's good for the environment and it helps my bottom line.
I probably earn between $15 and $30 per month in recycling. So that is $180-$360 per year. DEFINITELY worth my time!
In California, you pay on every bottle and can that has "fizz"; plus water bottles. And I think some others. Not wine bottles. And you, as a California resident, are entitled to get that back when you recycle them through an approved center.
Now, let's be clear - I do NOT dig through garbage cans to get them! I'm broke, but I just can't go that far -- NOT saying anything against people who do! I admire their ability to do that! Before I was in this position, I forbade my staff from putting bottles and cans in the garbage and put a special can out behind our building with them in it so that the locals coming around could grab them easily.
Anyway, I now take all of the bottles and cans from my store.
Does your office have a recycle program? If not, ask if it's ok to put a recycle can at your work and tell them that you'll take them weekly and recycle them. BE DILIGENT! You don't want them to stop allowing you to do it. Take them every Friday afternoon, even if you can't recycle them that weekend.
Also, if I see one while I'm walking the dog, I pick it up - it's good for the environment and it helps my bottom line.
I probably earn between $15 and $30 per month in recycling. So that is $180-$360 per year. DEFINITELY worth my time!
Saturday, March 3, 2012
SIDEBAR: Another Job Application
I submitted my resume for another part-time job today. I would be a perfect fit! Not sure if the position is still open or not - it was on Craig's List and about a week old.
And they don't state what their budget is for the position. I NEED to make much more than minimum wage - or I would just work at my store (and put an employee out of a job - which I hate to do).
It's working as an Office Manager/Accountant for a small construction business in the town where my store is. I used to be a Corporate Controller (accountant - high up), I have lots of office skills, and it's close to me, so if they needed something last minute, I would be near by. Plus, two different jobs I've had have been in the Construction industry, so I have industry experience.
And it's 2-3 days per week, 10-15 hours. It would fit in PERFECTLY!!
FINGERS CROSSED (again!)
And they don't state what their budget is for the position. I NEED to make much more than minimum wage - or I would just work at my store (and put an employee out of a job - which I hate to do).
It's working as an Office Manager/Accountant for a small construction business in the town where my store is. I used to be a Corporate Controller (accountant - high up), I have lots of office skills, and it's close to me, so if they needed something last minute, I would be near by. Plus, two different jobs I've had have been in the Construction industry, so I have industry experience.
And it's 2-3 days per week, 10-15 hours. It would fit in PERFECTLY!!
FINGERS CROSSED (again!)
SDG&E (or any Gas & Electric Company)
So, many people think that living in San Diego means that we have practically no electric bill. I mean, we don't have crazy winter snow storms or hot, sticky, humid summers. BUT, we *DO* have weather! And, we have a appliances! And electric out here is NOT cheap! Nothing is!
So, I contacted the electric company and told them that I had had a SEVERE reduction in my income.
This was one of the EASIEST things that I have done to save money! They said they could automatically reduce my bill by up to 35%.
My total spent in 2010 went from an average of $85 per month to a little more than $65 per month - and that's with rising power costs and having two people in the house instead of one.
Signing up was easy the first year; and they just sent me a form that I had to fill out to continue for a 2nd year. It was simple, one page, sign your name, done!
You have to have a low income: less than $31,800 for 1-2 people for SDG&E for 2012, but I, sadly, qualified!
And, of course, I'm frugal with my electric, but that's another story. We'll talk about that at another time, but if you haven't contacted your electric company yet - DO IT NOW! It's so simple!
Now, don't bother calling the Water Authority - they have NO program! And neither does the Garbage Company - and getting smaller cans doesn't make a difference - it's the same price regardless. But you can see if your Garbage company has a different price for garbage versus garbage+recycle.
SDG&E's program is called "CARE" and their number is 800-560-5551. Or you can email them at billdiscount@sdge.com.
So, I contacted the electric company and told them that I had had a SEVERE reduction in my income.
This was one of the EASIEST things that I have done to save money! They said they could automatically reduce my bill by up to 35%.
My total spent in 2010 went from an average of $85 per month to a little more than $65 per month - and that's with rising power costs and having two people in the house instead of one.
Signing up was easy the first year; and they just sent me a form that I had to fill out to continue for a 2nd year. It was simple, one page, sign your name, done!
You have to have a low income: less than $31,800 for 1-2 people for SDG&E for 2012, but I, sadly, qualified!
And, of course, I'm frugal with my electric, but that's another story. We'll talk about that at another time, but if you haven't contacted your electric company yet - DO IT NOW! It's so simple!
Now, don't bother calling the Water Authority - they have NO program! And neither does the Garbage Company - and getting smaller cans doesn't make a difference - it's the same price regardless. But you can see if your Garbage company has a different price for garbage versus garbage+recycle.
SDG&E's program is called "CARE" and their number is 800-560-5551. Or you can email them at billdiscount@sdge.com.
Friday, March 2, 2012
SIDEBAR: How I spent my morning...
Just a side note from the regular blogging....
I had horrible insomnia last night - I don't think I'm reaching if I say that it's probably stress related - so I did some searching around for jobs.
I applied for a housekeeping job one day a week.
Remember that I own a small business, so I can't get another full time job without hiring and training someone at the store, and we haven't had any good candidates, plus, that is expensive to do, and I'll be moving in about a year, so I don't want to apply like I'm going to be there forever.
Anyway, this housekeeping job is one day a week. The money sounds pretty good. It's a bit of a drive, but for a full 8 hour day, it would be worth it.
I don't actually have housekeeper experience, except that I clean my own house, so, cross your fingers that I hear back from them!
I had horrible insomnia last night - I don't think I'm reaching if I say that it's probably stress related - so I did some searching around for jobs.
I applied for a housekeeping job one day a week.
Remember that I own a small business, so I can't get another full time job without hiring and training someone at the store, and we haven't had any good candidates, plus, that is expensive to do, and I'll be moving in about a year, so I don't want to apply like I'm going to be there forever.
Anyway, this housekeeping job is one day a week. The money sounds pretty good. It's a bit of a drive, but for a full 8 hour day, it would be worth it.
I don't actually have housekeeper experience, except that I clean my own house, so, cross your fingers that I hear back from them!
Wow! You are getting a HUGE tax refund!..... WHY?
I hear so many people BRAGGING about how much money they are getting back in their tax refund and I am STUNNED! I don't think it's anything to brag about! You are essentially putting all of that money in a 0.0% interest savings account.
Now, remember, this is NOT about financial management! If you have money but can't manage it and can't control yourself about spending, then you have a different issue!
But, if you get a HUGE tax refund annually but are working hard and cautious with your cash, then you should consider changing your withholding on your income tax forms (W-4).
PLEASE NOTE! THIS IS NOT TAX ADVICE! I'm not licensed to provide you with tax advice. Consult a CPA for that. This is just me writing and you reading.
You can increase your deductions on your W-4 to reduce the amount of state and federal income tax withheld each check. (and, many don't realize this, but you can claim one number for state and a different for federal).
It is not the easiest thing to calculate, but here is an example...
If you are single, paid bi-weekly (every other week), and are paid a gross salary of $1,350 (so about $35,100) per year, and you claim ONE deduction, your Federal Income Tax withheld is $162.39 per check. Same person who claims 9 withholdings, the amount is $74.69.
So, the person claiming 9 takes home an extra $2,280.20 every year! So, if your numbers are similar to this, and your Federal Tax Refund is over $2,300 every year, you might consider changing your withholdings to 9 (or whatever makes sense) and use that savings to pay down a credit card (or, buy groceries - depending on how bad things are!).
And that's JUST on the Federal side... consider the State side too!
Again, NOT tax advice!
Oh - btw - if you took this money and put it in a simple interest bearing account at 1%, you'd earn over $12 in the year. Now, that is not a lot, but it's better than $0! And stay tuned because I'll be sharing with you about a type of bank account you might want to look into!
And don't go and do something stupid like change your withholding and buy a new car - that's not the point!
Here is the online site to 2012's Federal calculation information. Their description is complicated, but they give you an example and if you can figure it out and come to the same answer, then you know how it works.
It's here: http://www.irs.gov/publications/p15/ar02.html#en_US_2012_publink1000202367
Look for Table 5. Percentage Method-2012 Amount for One Withholding Allowance.
It's maybe 2/3 of the way down.
(can't figure it out? just email me. I'm happy to help)
Another thing that is NOT TAX ADVICE is, don't go over 9 withholdings. Your employer needs to report you if you do and, can you say "audit"?????
Just don't do it. Don't be greedy.
Now, remember, this is NOT about financial management! If you have money but can't manage it and can't control yourself about spending, then you have a different issue!
But, if you get a HUGE tax refund annually but are working hard and cautious with your cash, then you should consider changing your withholding on your income tax forms (W-4).
PLEASE NOTE! THIS IS NOT TAX ADVICE! I'm not licensed to provide you with tax advice. Consult a CPA for that. This is just me writing and you reading.
You can increase your deductions on your W-4 to reduce the amount of state and federal income tax withheld each check. (and, many don't realize this, but you can claim one number for state and a different for federal).
It is not the easiest thing to calculate, but here is an example...
If you are single, paid bi-weekly (every other week), and are paid a gross salary of $1,350 (so about $35,100) per year, and you claim ONE deduction, your Federal Income Tax withheld is $162.39 per check. Same person who claims 9 withholdings, the amount is $74.69.
So, the person claiming 9 takes home an extra $2,280.20 every year! So, if your numbers are similar to this, and your Federal Tax Refund is over $2,300 every year, you might consider changing your withholdings to 9 (or whatever makes sense) and use that savings to pay down a credit card (or, buy groceries - depending on how bad things are!).
And that's JUST on the Federal side... consider the State side too!
Again, NOT tax advice!
Oh - btw - if you took this money and put it in a simple interest bearing account at 1%, you'd earn over $12 in the year. Now, that is not a lot, but it's better than $0! And stay tuned because I'll be sharing with you about a type of bank account you might want to look into!
And don't go and do something stupid like change your withholding and buy a new car - that's not the point!
Here is the online site to 2012's Federal calculation information. Their description is complicated, but they give you an example and if you can figure it out and come to the same answer, then you know how it works.
It's here: http://www.irs.gov/publications/p15/ar02.html#en_US_2012_publink1000202367
Look for Table 5. Percentage Method-2012 Amount for One Withholding Allowance.
It's maybe 2/3 of the way down.
(can't figure it out? just email me. I'm happy to help)
Another thing that is NOT TAX ADVICE is, don't go over 9 withholdings. Your employer needs to report you if you do and, can you say "audit"?????
Just don't do it. Don't be greedy.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
SIDEBAR: I hope someone reads this...
Just a quick sidebar here... I just started this blog yesterday. So, I know that I'm not going to IMMEDIATELY have a million followers. But I've started a BILLION blogs and never followed through with a single one!
I'm actually very excited about this one!
I have a list of 34 topics (you've already seen two of them) and again, I JUST started this! I only had the idea 2 days ago!
I've got it set for 6am every day and I have posts already scheduled through 3/11.
So, since no one is reading this blog (yet?) I am merely posting this as sort of a "notation" of where I'm at at this point... I hope that some day I can look back at this post and LAUGH at the idea that no one was reading...
Fingers crossed!
I'm actually very excited about this one!
I have a list of 34 topics (you've already seen two of them) and again, I JUST started this! I only had the idea 2 days ago!
I've got it set for 6am every day and I have posts already scheduled through 3/11.
So, since no one is reading this blog (yet?) I am merely posting this as sort of a "notation" of where I'm at at this point... I hope that some day I can look back at this post and LAUGH at the idea that no one was reading...
Fingers crossed!
Life Insurance
I own a small business, so I really thought it was important that I have Life Insurance in case something happened to me. I didn't want my 75 year old father stuck trying to unwind everything from 3,000 miles away (he lives in NY state). So, I took out a $250k policy several years ago.
First of all, most Life Insurance policies have a cash value. So, I took a loan off of mine. I only got $3,114 but that felt like the world at the time! Your policy is then reduced by that amount. And they "request" that you pay it back, but you don't need to. But I needed the money so it was a good option! If you have a Life Insurance policy and are as desperate as I am, you can consider taking out a loan off of it. Ask your insurance person about it for details.
Well, I had planned to repay it and keep the policy, but I heard a financial article on NPR and the gal suggested that the ONLY reason to have a Life Insurance policy that you pay for, is having a small business, or are single and have very young children. She had a whole argument about why you wouldn't need it otherwise and it sounded VERY reasonable. And a woman who had called in about it had been paying on her life insurance policy for YEARS and YEARS and it had VERY little cash value. I was stunned!
I still have my business, so I'm not going to cancel the policy yet, but when the business closes, I WILL CANCEL IMMEDIATELY!!
I HATE making the payment these days! If I could cancel my policy, I would! I would save $1,690 per year! I COULD SURE USE IT TOO!
But, if you have a Life Insurance policy that you are paying on, you might consider cancelling it. Get any cash value out and move on! If your employer is paying for it, then the gal said to keep it, and WHY NOT?! If they want to pay for it, SURE!
DISCLAIMER! DISCLAIMER! DISCLAIMER! Before doing anything, consult a professional! I'm not a licensed insurance agent and this is not insurance advice!
First of all, most Life Insurance policies have a cash value. So, I took a loan off of mine. I only got $3,114 but that felt like the world at the time! Your policy is then reduced by that amount. And they "request" that you pay it back, but you don't need to. But I needed the money so it was a good option! If you have a Life Insurance policy and are as desperate as I am, you can consider taking out a loan off of it. Ask your insurance person about it for details.
Well, I had planned to repay it and keep the policy, but I heard a financial article on NPR and the gal suggested that the ONLY reason to have a Life Insurance policy that you pay for, is having a small business, or are single and have very young children. She had a whole argument about why you wouldn't need it otherwise and it sounded VERY reasonable. And a woman who had called in about it had been paying on her life insurance policy for YEARS and YEARS and it had VERY little cash value. I was stunned!
I still have my business, so I'm not going to cancel the policy yet, but when the business closes, I WILL CANCEL IMMEDIATELY!!
I HATE making the payment these days! If I could cancel my policy, I would! I would save $1,690 per year! I COULD SURE USE IT TOO!
But, if you have a Life Insurance policy that you are paying on, you might consider cancelling it. Get any cash value out and move on! If your employer is paying for it, then the gal said to keep it, and WHY NOT?! If they want to pay for it, SURE!
DISCLAIMER! DISCLAIMER! DISCLAIMER! Before doing anything, consult a professional! I'm not a licensed insurance agent and this is not insurance advice!
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