YOUTUBE VIDEO: Quicken Tutorial: “Bill Pay” vs the Bill Module
In this video, I will discuss the distinction between Quicken BillPay, an additional, extra-paid feature, and the BillPay module, which is just part of the software.
The Why and How (and How Long) of Keeping Credit Card Statements
In 2024, statistics show that nearly a third of card-holders have been hit by credit card fraud. With the average American making 23 card transactions each month (that's over 200…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Financial Planning Thoughts for Gen Xers
In this video, I discuss how Gen Xers can simultaneously balance the financial pressures of supporting aging parents, children, and themselves. I share budgeting strategies and emphasize the importance of…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: 29 Great Movies About Money
In this video, I list a bunch of great films that are, in one way or another, about MONEY! When you have BIG money goals, it helps to watch films…
401(k) Vesting Explained: Don’t Leave Your Free Money Behind
In 2024, the average employer 401(k) match reached $3,500 annually, yet an estimated 23% of employees forfeit their match by leaving jobs before becoming fully vested. That's nearly $800 million…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Quicken for Mac Tutorial: Settings Overview
Learn how to navigate Quicken for Mac with this tutorial on settings overview. I'll explain which settings should be turned on or off and WHY to help you understand the…
Comparing 15-Year vs 30-Year Mortgages for Homebuyers
Choosing between a 15-year and 30-year mortgage might seem like a simple numbers game, but this decision can dramatically shape your financial future. As a financial advisor who's helped countless…
Today’s Mortgage Rates and Home Ownership Decisions
The mortgage rate landscape in 2025 represents one of the most complex environments for homebuyers in recent memory. The Federal Reserve's recent 50 basis point rate cut signals a potential…
How to File Your California Statement of Information (Without Overthinking It)
If you just formed an LLC or Corporation in California (or you're a few years into running one), there's this little thing called a "Statement of Information" you need to…
7 Smart Ways to Boost Your Holiday Budget
The average American spends over $1,000 during the holiday season, creating financial stress for many households. While planning ahead is ideal, there are still effective strategies to build your holiday…
Why Home Ownership Still Makes Sense in Today’s Market
In today's housing market, aspiring homeowners face a challenging reality: the median home price has nearly doubled in the last decade, while interest rates continue to fluctuate dramatically. This leaves…
Moving Budget Tips: How to Save Thousands on Your Next Move
When I moved from California to Austin, I learned an expensive $12,000 lesson about moving costs. Like many people, I opted for what seemed easiest – a full-service moving company…
The Secret to Financial Growth: Best Saving Strategies Explained
In 2024, the average American spends nearly $3,381 each year (roughly $282/ month) on impulsive purchases, reveals a survey by Capital One. Unplanned spending thus makes up a staggering 21%…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Small Business Financing Secrets (Loans, Credit & Leases OH MY!)
Looking for small business financing options? This video highlights 5 main financing methods AND how they affect your credit. We'll go into detail on SBA loans, working capital loans, revolving…
3 Proven Ways to Qualify for a Mortgage with Low Income
"Your income is too low for mortgage qualification." These words have crushed the homeownership dreams of countless aspiring buyers. But here's what traditional lenders won't tell you: there are proven…
W4 vs W2 vs W9 vs 1099 Tax Forms: What Are the Differences?
W4, W2, W9, and 1099 are all tax forms, but they serve very different purposes. Let's compare. W4 vs W2 vs W9 vs 1099 Summary FormW-4W-2W-91099What It's ForTells your employer…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Financial Crimes Network (FinCEN): Beneficial Ownership Information Filing Walk-thru
In this video, I will walk you through filling out this new Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Beneficial Ownership form that you must fill out if you have an entity like…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: How to Create and Manage Your Business (Properly) – 11 Steps
Whether you're setting up a new business or want to incorporate yourself to save money, this video will guide you through 11 essential steps. I'll cover everything you need to…
All You Need to Know about Subprime Personal Loans
Kate’s 540 credit score was holding her back. After losing her job during the pandemic and dealing with an auto accident that required major repairs to her car, she struggled…
Easy Guide to The What, When, Why & How of Bookkeeping and Accounting
In a recent study, the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) discovered that nearly 60% of Americans feel overwhelmed at the thought of managing their finances. Deciding whom to turn to…
Smart Savings Strategy: Multiple Retirement Accounts
Smart Savings Strategy: Multiple Retirement Accounts Consider that, if you have an annual income in the range of $65,000 to $70,000, proper structuring of your retirement accounts can easily save…
Master Money Management: Simple Tips For Achieving Your Goals
A 2024 survey found that one out of two Americans (51%) do not think they will have enough money saved when the time comes to retire. What's more, the deficit…
What Every New Entrepreneur Should Know About Business Finances
Imagine starting your dream business—an innovative idea, a clear vision, and all the passion to bring it to life. But as exciting as this venture is, your success depends on…
Are CDs a Smart Choice for Retirement Planning?
That’s the power of compounding. And it doesn’t even need you to make high-stakes investments. Certificates of deposit (CDs) combine the power of compounding with guaranteed returns, offering a secure…
Retiring in Scottsdale AZ: Pros, Cons, Costs & More 2024
You're teeing off at a world-class golf course as the sun rises over the Sonoran Desert, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. Is this a vacation fantasy…
How Risk Averse Are You? A Guide to Smarter Investing
First it was cryptocurrencies, then meme stocks, then NFTs. Back in 2021 it felt like everyone was taking enormous risks in the hopes of striking it rich. But even though…
Personal Capital Review 2024: Pros, Cons and Features
If you're looking for a tool that will give you Wall Street-like returns (without requiring you to live in New York), consider using Personal Capital. Created in 2009, Personal Capital…
Acorns vs Robinhood, Webull & M1 Finance: Best App in 2024
Are you looking to up your investing game? Do you want the stock market to make your money work for you? Are you sick and tired of sitting on the…
S Corp Filing Requirements by State: 2025 Update, 50 States
If you currently are a freelancer, sole proprietor, or independent contractor, you very likely could see some great tax benefits by switching to an INC or LLC that files its…
Retiring to Jupiter FL? 13 Facts to Know Before You Go
Jupiter, Florida: where golf courses outnumber traffic lights, and the Atlantic Ocean serves as your morning coffee backdrop. Tellingly, IRS data shows Jupiter's population growing 1.5 times faster than it's…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Investing for Beginners: Understanding Risk Tolerance!
In this investing for beginners video, I'll demystify risk tolerance and help you understand why it is KEY to understanding how to invest in the market. I define risk tolerance…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: How to Start an S Corp with Bizee (Formerly Incfile)
Learn how to start an s corp using Bizee (formerly Incfile) in this easy step-by-step tutorial. I'll reveal why I use Bizee, and clarify the most confusing aspects of the…
60k a Year Is How Much an Hour? (And How Do I Budget for That Salary?)
60k a year is how much an hour? And how do you budget for a 60k salary? Let's find out. If you're a high school teacher, public relations specialist, zoologist,…
Retiring to Winter Haven: Pros, Cons & Costs in 2024
Imagine reeling in a trophy bass on a misty morning, then unwinding with lakeside yoga at sunset - not on vacation, but every day of your retirement. In Winter Haven,…
Renting vs Owning: Why Owning Your Home Is a Smart Move
Are you pondering the very often debated topic of renting vs owning a home? Well apparently so are a lot of people these days. I don't know about you, but…
Personal Finance 101: How Do You Do Personal Bookkeeping?
Let’s be honest: earning six figures doesn’t guarantee financial independence. Too many households making $100k or more are still living paycheck to paycheck. The missing link isn’t income. It’s control.…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Personal Finance 101: What Crucial Info Do We Get From Bookkeeping?
In this video, I'll answer another of the top questions new clients always want to know: What crucial information do we get from bookkeeping?" Throughout my years as a business…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Personal Finance 101: Why is Personal Bookkeeping So Important?
In this video, I'll answer 1 of the top questions new clients always want to know: Why is personal bookkeeping so important?" During my 25 years as a business owner…
HCOL vs LCOL: Should You Move to a Top 10 High Cost City?
HCOL vs LCOL: Should You Move to a Top 10 High Cost City? was written by Courtney Luke and originally appeared on Arrest Your Debt. It has been republished with…
Understanding the 1031 Exchange Timeline and Rules
A 1031 exchange timeline is worth investigating and enduring the hassle of abiding by. Here's why... When you sell an investment property at a profit, you typically have to pay…
Solo 401k vs SEP IRA: Best Retirement Plan for Self-Employed
Self-employment can offer an excellent work-life balance, as well as other freedoms and lifestyle benefits! Hahaha...wasn't that funny. Seriously though, self-employment will likely be the cause of you working 80…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: 3 Top Questions New Clients Ask About Bookkeeping and Quicken
In this video, I'll answer the 3 questions new clients always want to know: 1. "Why is personal bookkeeping so important?" 2. "What information can we learn from bookkeeping?" and…
Retiring in Panama City Beach FL? What You Should Know 2024
Sipping a margarita while watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico sounds dreamy, yet it's absolutely real for retirees in Panama City Beach. But here's the million-dollar question:…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Top 5 Personal Bookkeeping Software (And Why Quicken is MY Pick!)
In this video, I'll compare the top 5 personal bookkeeping software options, including Quicken (Quicken Classic and Quicken Simplifi), Mint, RoundAbout, YNAB, and Empower (formerly Personal Capital). Then I'll reveal…
Adobe vs Avid vs BlackMagic vs Mac: Top Video Editors for 2024
Adobe vs Avid vs BlackMagic vs Mac ...which one is best? With the abundance of websites and social media these days, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle. Videos…
Why Retirees Love Greenville, SC (And Why You Might Not)
Picture this: You're strolling down a charming Main Street, sipping locally roasted coffee, while the Blue Ridge Mountains paint a stunning backdrop. Welcome to Greenville, SC - a retiree's paradise…
MPI Account: The Golden Retirement Plan or Risky Gamble?
An MPI (Maximum Premium Indexing) account combines life insurance and a retirement plan. It's pitched as having the ability to compound your wealth at a higher-than-average rate while protecting your…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Cryptocurrency for Beginners: Is the New Bull Market Here?
Are we officially in the next crypto bull market (as of March 2024)? In this cryptocurrency for beginners video, we'll examine charts on https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/bitcoin/ and discuss the rising trends. If…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Cryptocurrency for Beginners: Confusing Key Terms Explained!
In this cryptocurrency for beginners video, we'll clear up the confusion surrounding the terms "cryptocurrency" vs. "digital currency," "coins" vs. "altcoins," and "blockchain." Some of these terms are used interchangeably…
Best Business Credit Cards That Don’t Impact Personal Credit
If you’re a business owner of any type, then you should have a business credit card. It’s a great tool to help with day-to-day operations, manage cash flow, and even…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Cryptocurrency for Beginners: Altcoins & Web3
In this cryptocurrency for beginners video, we'll explore the evolution of Bitcoin, and the creation of the Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon blockchains. This brief history will help demystify these key…
Big Picture Investing 101: Why You Should Care in 2024
If you have been poking around my blog, you’ve probably figured out that my ultimate goal is to help you reach some version of "financial independence" (or even just plain…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Cryptocurrency for Beginners: Bitcoin and Blockchain
In this cryptocurrency for beginners video, I'll introduce you to Bitcoin! When it was created between 2008 and 2009, Bitcoin was worth next to nothing. Currently, the highest price paid…
Personal Budget Categories: How to Decide + Free Template (GSheets & Excel)
Do you want to maximize your income and invest your savings in order to increase your net worth and maybe even retire early? Well then, it all starts with a…
Retiring in Flagstaff AZ: Pros, Cons, Costs & More, 2024
Would you be surprised to find that Americans looking for retirement destinations search for Flagstaff, Arizona, more than 33,000 times each year? (2024 Semrush search volume data) That’s not a…
17 Mindset Differences: How the Rich Think vs The Poor
I hate to put things in terms of the rich vs poor, but when it comes to amassing and keeping money, wealthy people do think inherently differently from poor people.…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: Top 12 Investing Terms For Beginners!
In this video, I am going to run through a glossary of common investing terms. I cover the following terms; stocks, bonds, EFTs, mutual funds, REITs, market index, risk tolerance,…
10 Effective Ways to Avoid Software License Compliance Risks
10 Ways How To Avoid Software License Compliance Risks was written for Playlouder by a contributing author. Please note that contributing opinions are that of the author. They are not…
6 Digital Solutions to Streamline Recruiting and Hiring
6 Ways to Digitize Recruiting and Hiring Processes was written for Playlouder by a contributing author. Please note that contributing opinions are that of the author. They are not always…
Top Inverse ETFs to Short the Market (& Come Out On Top)
ETFs That Short the Market was written by Jeff Fang of Financial Pupil. Jeff is a Harvard 2025 student who is passionate about learning, living, and sharing all things personal…
Independent Contractor VS Employee: The Smart Guide for Wealth Builders
If you’re building wealth through a business, side venture, or investments, the line between an independent contractor and an employee isn’t just a legal formality. It’s a decision that shapes…
PODCAST: Wellness Mama, Working Toward Financial Independence and Time Freedom With Joe DiSanto
Today we’re talking about an often overlooked aspect of health, which is financial health. Statistically, financial woes are one of the top five stressors for many Americans. And we know…
What Is Voluntary Life Insurance?
Voluntary life insurance is a type of coverage that is typically offered through an employer as part of a voluntary benefits package. It’s a choice-driven model where individuals personally select…
10 Important Factors to Consider Before House Flipping
10 Things To Consider Before Flipping A House was written by Wulfrost and originally appeared on UpNest and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. It has been…
YOUTUBE VIDEO: How to Invest in Stocks for Beginners (7 Modern Approaches)
In this "How to Invest in Stocks for Beginners" video, I'll give an overview of the 7 modern methods or philosophies of investing that you should understand when investing money…
The Best Way to Invest in the Stock Market for Beginners
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btIUCgka0rk In 2024, the S&P 500 delivered an average annual return of 10.47% — far outpacing the 0.55% interest most savings accounts offer. That’s the difference between growing your…
How Much Money Should I Have Saved by 30 (and 40 and 50)?
As the American workforce ages, it's common to think about how much money you've set aside for retirement. You may also wonder if you've saved enough to leave the workforce,…
Best Time to Get Life Insurance by Age: Rates Analyzed
Life Insurance Rates By Age was written for Playlouder by a contributing author. Please note that contributing opinions are that of the author. They are not always in strict alignment…
6 Top Benefits of 3D Visualization in Real Estate Marketing
Real estate deals can live or die based on a first impression. That’s why powerhouse real estate professionals are leveraging innovative tools like 3D visualization and rendering to gain a…
Personal Bookkeeping Mastery: Budgeting, Tracking, Tools, and Techniques
According to a survey published in 2024 by leading financial analyst The Motley Fool, nearly 91 million Americans say that they’d have a hard time raising $400 in a pinch.…
Quickbooks vs Freshbooks, Xero & Quicken: What to Use in 2024
If you are just starting a business, or even if you've been in business for a while, you need to compare QuickBooks vs Freshbooks vs Xero vs Quicken Home &…
Navigating Your Business Journey with a Business Coach and Mentor
Embarking on a business venture can be an intimidating journey. While your innovative ideas hold the potential to revolutionize industries, the absence of strategic planning and the support of a…
How Do Credit Cards Work
Credit cards are convenient for consumers who want to make purchases without cash. However, there can be hidden costs to using credit cards. Cardholders must understand how credit cards function…
Startup Stars: 14 Most Fascinating Industries for Entrepreneurs
Thinking of starting your own business but not sure where to start? We've scoured Reddit to bring you insider views from those who've turned their unique visions into thriving businesses.…
How to Set Up A CA EDD Employer Tax ID Number
If you're planning to run payroll in California, even just to pay yourself through your S-Corp, you’ll need a CA Employer Account Number from the Employment Development Department (EDD). It’s…
Easy-to-Follow Gusto Setup Walk-Through Updated for 2024
If you're running an S-Corp and paying yourself a salary, payroll isn’t optional, it’s required. Gusto makes it simple, especially for solo owners who want to stay compliant, minimize admin,…
Pairs Trading for Newbies
Pairs trading is a strategy that involves buying one stock and simultaneously selling another stock. Pairs trading aims to profit from the spread between the two stocks (i.e., their price…
How to Save for Retirement (9 Practical Tips)
Retirement is a well-deserved period that brings an opportunity to loosen up after a busy career. However, this dream can turn into a nightmare without proper financial planning. Here are…
7 Actionable Tips for Ensuring Your Bitcoin and Crypto Wallet Security
As cryptocurrencies become more popular, related scams are also on the rise. Crypto wallet attackers and scammers use tricks like phishing emails and social engineering to target unprotected crypto wallets.…
Tips For Starting A New Business
Tips For Starting A New Business was written for Playlouder by a contributing author. Please note that contributing opinions are that of the author. They are not always in strict alignment…
What Bank Does Cash App Use?
What Bank Does Cash App Use? was written by Latoyia Downs and originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Latoyia is a travel enthusiast and founder of the travel blog, The Impulse…
Is Your Ice Cream Cart for Sale Because of Off-Season Slump?
Have the low profits of your ice cream business in winter months caused you to give up and list your ice cream cart for sale? Don’t throw in the towel…
10 Best Things to Splurge On: Here’s What Women Confessed
Whether you live frugally by choice or necessity, there are always things you will want to splurge on. On an online forum, a group of women shares all the purchases…
12 Of The Best Side Hustles that Pay Weekly
In today’s fast-paced world, side hustles have become the go-to for many looking to earn a little extra cash without ditching their full-time job. You can earn a handsome amount…
9 Great Part Time Jobs for Teens in 2023
Below are several jobs for teens, as recommended by people on an online job forum. Teenagers can gain independence, financial responsibility, and essential life skills through the experience of earning…
10 Unique Luxury Escapes in the USA
Looking for a unique Luxury escape here in the US? Check out this collection of outstanding options. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or family fun, tons of great resorts…
10 Best Tips for Saving Money at the Grocery Store
This list is an eye-opener for shopping smart and saving money at the grocery store. With so much financial stress, it's good to save when and where you can, and…
Small Business Ideas That Can Be Very Profitable
Are you wondering if starting a new business is a good idea? The pandemic drove thousands of companies all over the world to their knees. This left entrepreneurs wondering if…
Elevate Your Career: Discover Lucrative Product Tester Jobs and Work-From-Home Opportunities
Elevate Your Career: Discover Lucrative Product Tester Jobs and Work-From-Home Opportunities was written by Jeff Fang and originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Jeff is a pupil of life and…
How To Ask For A Raise: Strategizing Your Approach To Success
How to ask for a raise? The hesitation to request a raise, even when warranted, is often due to underlying anxiety. This apprehension may arise from feeling it's too big…
Square Payroll vs Gusto Payroll vs ADP: Choosing The Best Payroll Software
In 2023 alone, the IRS collected approximately $8.6 billion in penalties on incorrectly filed employment taxes. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that an SMB with roughly 100 employees…
Average Net Worth By Age (Spoiler Alert: We Need To Do Better!)
Curious about how your finances stack up with others your age? We've analyzed the 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF) to give you a clear picture of the average net…
Average Income by Age (For the Whole Family, Before Taxes)!
Wondering how your earnings compare to others in your age bracket? We've sifted through the 2019 Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF) to break it down for you. Let's…
10 Worst Ways to Make Extra Money in 2023: Don’t Try Them
In the digital age, making money has become easier than ever. There are endless ways to make extra money with just a click of a button! However, amidst such moneymaking…
7 Awesome Personal Finance Books That Will Increase Your Wealth (and Improve Your Life)
Almost 37% of Americans making under $50,000 a year, and another 18% earning between $50,000 and $74,000, don't have enough savings for emergencies. That's bad! If your money situation also…
12 Strange Interview Questions That Will Leave You Scratching Your Head
Interviewing for possible jobs is stressful and grueling. Some people even train for interviews to raise their likelihood of landing the job. But all that preparation cannot circumvent that some…
Top 10 Wealthiest Actors in the World
Getting rich and famous is the ultimate dream for many. The entertainment industry has created numerous opportunities for actors to achieve this dream and become multi-millionaires. Let’s take a look…
10 Of The Dumbest Purchases People Regretted Immediately (But Were Also Kinda Funny:)
What are the dumbest purchases you have ever made? Well, I have made my share of idiotic investments. For example, I accepted a "free tablet" from my cell phone carrier…
10 Clever Ways to Save Money: Start Today
Saving money is a goal for many people, but it can often feel daunting and overwhelming. The good news is that many small habits can help you save money over…